Ufologia - No 09 - Juillet-Aout-Septembre 1977

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA
Issue: N°9
Date: July - August - September 1977
Publisher: Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques (CFRU)
Country: France
Language: French

Editorial Stance and Content

This issue of "UFOLOGIA" marks the ninth publication, demonstrating the magazine's commitment to its readers. The editorial highlights the ongoing challenge of understanding UFOs, positioning it as a global problem amidst other ecological and political crises. It emphasizes the need for serious, evidence-based ufology, distinguishing it from sensationalism. The magazine's expanded 30-page format is attributed to a rich program and the support of its subscribers and collaborators.

Key Articles and Features

"Les Dieux étaient-ils des Astronautes Extra-Terrestres?" - A Conference by Erich von Däniken

The magazine reports on a conference held in Sarrebruck, Germany, on March 23, 1977, by Erich von Däniken, coinciding with the release of his new book "Beweise" (PREUVES). The conference, attended by over 1000 people, focused on the theme of ancient astronauts. The report praises von Däniken's objectivity and precision, contrasting it with what is termed "deplorable subjectivity" in official explanations. Specific examples cited include the "cut" mountain of Samaipata in Bolivia, which von Däniken suggests is related to ancient legends of "gods," and the discovery of fossilized footprints in Antelope Springs, USA, dating back 500 million years, which he argues are evidence of advanced ancient civilizations.

"Les restes du satellite «Pageos»?" - The enigma of the sky of Thann

This section details recent UFO sightings in the Alsace region of France. Multiple witnesses reported observing luminous objects, including one described as a large, bright star of red-orange or white color. The article presents the "Pageos" satellite debris theory, suggesting these sightings might be fragments of the satellite that exploded in 1975. However, it also notes that some astronomers find this explanation unconvincing due to the object's extreme brightness.

"Des OVNI dans le ciel d'Alsace"

This article compiles several reports of UFO sightings in Alsace, France. It includes a photograph taken by M. Marcel Brangard of a bright, moving object. The sightings are discussed in the context of the "Pageos" satellite theory, but also acknowledge other explanations and the ongoing debate.

"OVNI au-dessus de Thann?"

A group of amateur astronomers in Mulhouse reported observing six unidentified flying objects above the Thann valley. One object was described as cigar-shaped and orange, while others were cubic.

"Premier congrès international sur les ovnis"

Announces the first international congress on UFOs to be held in Acapulco, Mexico, on April 19, featuring astronaut James McDewitt and the Prime Minister of Grenada, Sir Eric Gairy. The congress aims to explore the significance of UFOs rather than prove their existence.

"OVNI: Samedi soir, aussi.."

This report details a specific sighting on Saturday, March 19th, where four people in Rixheim observed a luminous point above Mulhouse. The object remained stationary for a period before moving and exhibiting intermittent flashes of light.

"Des escadrilles d'Ovni en Colombie"

Reports from two Bogota newspapers, "El Tiempo" and "El Bogotano," indicate a multiplication of UFO sightings in Colombia. The article mentions an Avianca plane crew's encounter with an object three times the size of their aircraft, moving erratically at high speed, accompanied by a white glow that turned red.

"NORVÈGE : chasse au sous-marin"

This brief report mentions Norwegian anti-submarine forces pursuing a mysterious submarine in the Tysfjord, possibly of Soviet "Whisky" type.

"Les OVNI, on en voit partout: des bananes, des cigares, des cubes..."

This section compiles various UFO sighting reports, including a resident of Sausheim who described seeing a luminous object resembling a "banana" and later a trapezoidal or triangular shape. Another report from Riedisheim describes a large white balloon-like object seen above ruins.

"OVNI dans le ciel mulhousien"

A reader reported seeing a triangular, slow-moving object over Mulhouse.

"Une pyramide immergée dans le triangle des Bermudes"

Reports the discovery of a 200-meter high pyramid in the Bermuda Triangle, suggesting the possibility of an ancient civilization.

"Archéologie - Le « Triangle des Bermudes »"

This section reiterates the discovery of a pyramid in the Bermuda Triangle, citing a Mexico announcement from April 2, 1977.

"Mystère au Mexique"

Details the discovery of strange drawings in caves in Baja California, Mexico, depicting tall human figures, animals, and unknown flying apparatuses, possibly from ancient civilizations.

"Etonnantes découvertes au cours de la «Croisière des sables»"

Describes a three-month expedition across the Sahara Desert, during which the team discovered Neolithic tools and mountain ranges not present on existing maps. They also found traces of a British army raid.

"UNE DÉCOUVERTE DE TAILLE"

Reports the discovery of a two-million-year-old "Homo Habilis" skull in South Africa, significant for demonstrating the presence of this early human ancestor in the region.

"U.R.S.S"

Mentions the discovery of an ancient city in Georgia, USSR, dating back approximately two thousand years, with a temple, palaces, and public baths.

"Le crâne d'un ichtyosaure découvert près du Havre"

Reports the discovery of a nearly intact skull of an ichthyosaur, a marine reptile from approximately 150 million years ago, found near Le Havre, France.

"OBJETS VOLANTS NON IDENTIFIES EN CHARENTE MARITIME"

This section details two specific UFO cases:

1. Le Cas de Dompierre: Observed in early October 1976, a round UFO with changing colors was seen near Dompierre sur Charente.
2. Le Cas de Gemozac: Observed on October 21, 1975, an oval, white, fluorescent UFO turned at a right angle and moved south.

"INCIDENT A LIEGE-LAVEU"

Reports an incident in Liege, Belgium, in July 1974, where a grey, blurry, near-spherical object was observed moving at approximately 30 km/h.

"OVNI A STOCKHOLM"

Describes a luminous phenomenon observed in Stockholm on April 5, 1977, described as a fireball with a tail.

"BOULE INCANDESCENTE A CHATEAUNEUF"

Reports a mysterious incandescent ball observed on August 1, 1976, near Châteauneuf, France, which caused minor disturbances.

"OVNIS A BURGOS, ESPAGNE"

Details a sighting on January 1, 1975, of a flattened cone-shaped craft with a yellow-white light, followed by two other objects.

"OVNI A MADRID"

Reports an enormous flying object observed in Madrid in September 1974, pursued by an Air Force pilot.

"ETATS-UNIS - Carter : CARTER A VU UN OVNI EN 1969"

Reveals that U.S. President Jimmy Carter reported seeing a "bright as the moon" object in 1969, and authorized its disclosure, suggesting a shift in political attitudes towards UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "UFOLOGIA" are UFO sightings, ancient astronaut theories, archaeological mysteries, and paranormal phenomena. The magazine maintains a stance of serious, objective investigation, aiming to inform the public about these complex subjects. It encourages reader contributions and emphasizes the importance of distinguishing credible research from sensationalism. The editorial highlights the global nature of the UFO problem and its potential connection to other planetary threats, advocating for a comprehensive and scientific approach to ufology.

This issue of "L'INSOLITE..." (Issue 8) from January 28, 1977, published by UFOLOGIA, explores a diverse range of topics from ancient mythology and historical figures to modern geopolitical concerns and unexplained phenomena.

L'Odyssée d'Ulysse: En Mer du Nord?

The issue begins with a report on a theory proposed by West German geodesy professor Bartholomaeus of Essen. He suggests that Ulysses' epic journey may have extended to the North Sea. Bartholomaeus supports his thesis by comparing topographical data with Homer's accounts, proposing that the island of the Phaeacians, previously identified as Corfu, could actually be Heligoland in the North Sea due to geographical similarities. He further posits that the legendary rocks of Scylla and Charybdis, often placed in the Strait of Messina, might correspond to the Strait of Gibraltar, citing the significant tidal difference there as evidence of Ulysses' passage into the Atlantic. According to this theory, Ulysses would have sailed to the Canary Islands, landed on Calypso's island (possibly the Azores), and then headed northeast to Heligoland.

Une Île de Plus

A brief report notes that Japan is closely monitoring a maritime area near Iwo Jima in the Western Pacific. Signs of submarine volcanic eruptions suggest the imminent formation of a new island. Japan hopes to be the first to discover it and claim sovereignty, adhering to international custom.

Les Assassins des Kennedy ont-ils agi sous hypnose ?

This section presents the hypothesis of American psychologist Dr. Schorr, who suggests that the assassins of John and Robert Kennedy might have acted under hypnosis. Dr. Schorr previously testified in the trial of Sirhan B. Sirhan, arguing that both Sirhan and Lee Harvey Oswald may have been hypnotized at the time of their respective crimes. He points to Oswald's participation in an experimental brain stimulation program in Minsk, USSR, in 1959 as potential evidence of him being "programmed" for assassination. Dr. Schorr also recalls the case of a Danish murderer who acted under prolonged hypnosis.

La Roumanie redécouvre Dracula, «héros national»

This article discusses the re-evaluation of Vlad Dracula in Romania, five centuries after his death. No longer solely a figure of folklore and Bram Stoker's vampire legend, Dracula is now being presented as a historical figure representing the authoritarian and centralizing reigns of the 15th century. Vlad Tèpes, who ruled Wallachia from 1456 to 1462, is being celebrated as a symbol of the fight against the Ottomans and for national unification. The article notes that his cruelty, including impalement and massacres, is acknowledged, but his role as a "great political man and an intransigent defender of the country's independence" is emphasized. The Romanian socialist government is actively promoting a tourist circuit based on Dracula's history, including reconstructed sites and locations mentioned in Bram Stoker's novel.

Un Cousin Russe pour "Nessie"?

This piece reports on the observations of M. Petchersky, a member of the Soviet Geographical Society, regarding a legend from Kazakhstan. Petchersky claims to have witnessed a creature with a dromedary's body and a serpent's head in Lake Kok Kol. He described seeing ripples, boilings, and then the emergence of a serpent-like head and part of a body, estimating the animal to be about fifteen meters long.

L'Épée de Damoclès

This lengthy section, authored by Francis Schaefer, explores the profound implications of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in the context of global security and the Cold War. Schaefer argues that the increasing sophistication of military defense systems, coupled with the potential for misidentification of UFOs as enemy aircraft or missiles, poses a significant threat to world peace. He cites the example of a radar detection of a high-speed object near a strategic missile base, which was identified as a potential UFO, and discusses how such incidents could trigger a nuclear conflict. The article touches upon the historical context of UFO sightings during World War II and the ongoing efforts by governments, particularly the US and USSR, to monitor and understand these phenomena. Schaefer also discusses the mysterious behavior of some satellites, which have inexplicably stopped functioning and then restarted, raising questions about their origins and potential interference. He highlights the growing concern about space warfare and the strategic importance of controlling outer space, noting the US plans to establish bases for reconnaissance satellites. The author concludes that the possibility of confusion between UFOs and military hardware is a grave concern, and governments cannot afford to ignore the "incomprehensible peregrinations of unidentified flying objects."

Key Incidents and Observations

• David Crash Incident: An officer at a strategic missile base detected a high-speed object on radar, which was identified as a potential UFO. The object changed course and disappeared.
• Joseph Pointner Observation: In June 1967, Joseph Pointner and his family observed a strange, bright, stationary object in the sky that later divided into luminous points and vanished.
• Vietnam Demilitarized Zone: Mysterious "unidentified aircraft" were reported in the DMZ in June 1968, prompting a high-level investigation that yielded no definitive results. Some hypotheses included Soviet aircraft or anti-aircraft balloons, but these were not confirmed.
• World War II Sightings: Several UFO sightings were reported during WWII, including silent UFOs, cylindrical objects moving at high speeds, and spherical objects observed during rocket launches.
• Homburg Incident (December 13, 1944): A witness described a luminous, oscillating disc that moved with astonishing speed and "trembled" before disappearing.
• Satellite Anomalies: Several US satellites, including ANNA and TELSTAR II, experienced sudden malfunctions followed by unexplained recoveries, leading to confusion and speculation about their cause.
• Orbital "Stranger": In July 1960, instruments indicated the presence of an "unknown" object in orbit alongside US and Soviet satellites, leading to speculation about a non-terrestrial presence.

UFOs and Military Technology

Schaefer emphasizes the critical need for military experts to possess accurate knowledge of UFO phenomena to avoid misinterpretations. He warns that any advancements derived from studying extraterrestrial technology, such as propulsion systems, could be weaponized, posing a significant threat to global security. The article also touches upon the development of advanced weaponry like laser beams and the potential for equipping US satellites with mini-computers for intruder detection.

Bloc-Notes-Ufologia

This section provides contact information for various regional UFO research sections across France, Canada, and Germany. It also includes listings for related publications and services, such as "UFO-QUEBEC," "OCTAZINE," "REQUIEM," "FREUNDE DER FANTASTIK," "FACETTES," "ASTROMETEOROLOGIE," "ASTROLABE," and "LIBRAIRE MUSEOGRAPHE." Additionally, it offers information for collectors and researchers interested in exchanging ideas and resources, including the "Répertoire EVA des Collectionneurs, Amateurs et Chercheurs."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of unexplained phenomena (UFOs, ancient myths) with geopolitical realities, particularly the Cold War and military technology. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFOs, emphasizing their potential impact on global security and advocating for a rational, scientific approach to their study, while cautioning against sensationalism and proselytism. The magazine aims to inform its readers about ongoing research, theories, and incidents related to ufology and its broader implications.

This issue of "FLASH AVIONIQUE" (Issue 10, dated late September 1977) from publisher CFRU, a French publication, focuses on a diverse range of topics including space exploration, UFO reports, and scientific advancements. The cover story, "La boule mystérieuse n'est toujours pas identifiée" (The mysterious sphere is still unidentified), details an unusual discovery on a beach in Marie-Galante.

Space Exploration and Technology

The "BLOC-NOTES DE L'ESPACE" section provides updates on space programs:

• United States: NASA's 1978 budget includes a lunar orbital vehicle for polar cartography, to be supported by a small satellite. The US Air Force is set to receive its first cruise missiles in 1980. A 60-second test of the SPATIAL SHUTTLE's main engine was confirmed by President Jimmy Carter. The discovery of Uranus's 5 rings, made by NASA's VOLANT observatory flying at 12,000m, is also reported.
• China: The first flight of a Chinese cosmonaut is anticipated, likely using the CSS-X-3 rocket.
• USSR: Cosmonauts from Eastern Europe are expected to join Soviet missions in autumn 1978. The USSR has launched 900 "COSMOS" satellites to date. Two SSN8 strategic ballistic missiles were launched from a submarine in the Barents Sea, hitting a target 9200 km away.
• France: A seventh operational test of the SSBS rocket system was conducted at the Landes test center. The French SIGNE satellite is slated for launch in June 1977.
• Japan: Japan will supply a particle accelerator for the first USA-EUROPE "SPACELAB" mission. In the past 7 years, Japan has launched 10 satellites, with the latest in geostationary orbit.

Nuclear Propulsion in Space

The article "LA PROPULSION NUCLEAIRE DANS LE DOMAINE SPATIAL" (Nuclear Propulsion in Space) explains the principles of nuclear rocket engines. It details how liquid hydrogen circulates through a reactor, is heated to thousands of degrees, and then expelled at supersonic speeds for propulsion. The article highlights the efficiency of this method, offering twice the thrust per kilogram of combustible compared to conventional chemical rockets. It also touches upon potential radiation issues and the use of Uranium 235 as fuel, moderated by graphite.

UFO Reports and Investigations

Several UFO-related incidents are documented:

• Marie-Galante Incident: The cover story details the discovery of two mysterious, brilliant spherical objects on a beach. Divers recovered one half-sphere, which bore the inscription "H 476 A C". Despite efforts, the object remained unidentified, raising questions about official interest.
• Nancy Investigation: An inquiry into UFO observations near the Lycée Henri Poincaré in Nancy reports sightings on March 17th, April 9th, and April 12th, 1976. Witnesses described high-altitude, fast-moving objects, some shaped like cigars with metallic or yellow colors, and one with a red flashing light. The observations were brief, lasting only seconds to a minute. The report notes that a press mention of Soviet MIG 25s was officially denied.
• Uri Geller and the Bermuda Triangle: Uri Geller is reported to be participating in an expedition to the Bermuda Triangle, hoping to find evidence of a sunken civilization.

Parapsychology and the Unexplained

• Book Review: A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to promoting and reviewing Professor Hans Bender's book, "L'UNIVERS DE LA PARAPSYCHOLOGIE" (The Universe of Parapsychology). The review emphasizes the book's exploration of extrasensory perception (telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition) and psychokinesis, citing Bender's work at the Institute for Frontier Psychology in Germany. It highlights the book's comprehensive approach, integrating knowledge from psychology, biology, physics, and ethnology.
• Book Recommendations: A extensive list of recommended books on ufology and related subjects is provided, covering topics from ancient astronauts and mysteries of the past to extraterrestrial encounters and ancient civilizations.

Other Sections

• ECOLOGIE - ENVIRONNEMENT: A brief mention of solar-powered water heaters developed by young individuals, suggesting potential for future solar energy applications.
• New Books: A list of recently published books on topics like Incas, Lyonnais sorcery, extraterrestrial humanoids, and ancient Egyptian secrets is included.
• Reader Engagement: An appeal to readers to contribute to the "UFOLOGIA" press review section by sending in original newspaper clippings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the exploration of the unknown, particularly in the realms of ufology, space, and parapsychology. It presents a wide array of reported phenomena, from satellite launches and space technology to mysterious aerial objects and psychic abilities. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations and to contribute their own findings. The detailed listing of books suggests a commitment to providing resources for further study in these fields. The publication aims to broaden readers' perspectives on the world and human nature, as indicated by the review of Bender's book.