Ufologia - No 14 - Juillet-Aout-Septembre 1978

Magazine Overview

Title: ufologia
Issue: N°14
Date: July-August-September 1978
Publisher: CERCLE FRANCAIS DE RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES (CFRU)
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0399-8274

This issue of "ufologia" is a quarterly review dedicated to information and research on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. It is published by the French Circle of Ufological Research (CFRU), an independent organization relying on its subscribers and editorial team.

Action to Support

The editorial emphasizes the independent nature of "Ufologia," funded solely by its subscribers and collaborators. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to support the action of providing objective information to the public. All contributors are volunteers.

Information from All Directions

"Ufologia" leverages an international network of correspondent-investigators to publish detailed investigations (e.g., object landings, low-altitude flights, traces), develop hypotheses based on current knowledge, compile general catalogs of cases, explore links between paranormal phenomena (especially PSI) and ufology, and provide summaries on related fields like astronautics, astronomy, archaeology, exobiology, and lost civilizations. It also includes bibliographical references for further reading.

Subscription Conditions

Subscription rates are provided for France and abroad, with ordinary and "sponsorship" subscriptions available. Mail orders should be addressed to the CFRU headquarters in Forbach, France.

Note to Collaborators

The magazine welcomes contributions from readers. Submissions should ideally be typed on 210/297 paper. Collaborators are encouraged to illustrate their texts with sketches or photographs. Political, religious, or advertising content will be refused. Contributions are published under the author's responsibility.

Notes

Reproduction of excerpts is authorized with the title and address of the review. Readers are invited to become local correspondents by providing their contact information and the area they can monitor. Any observations should be sent in, with anonymity respected upon request. Articles must include their source and date. The bulletin is available free in exchange for other publications.

Editorial and Administrative Information

Pages 2 and 3 provide detailed administrative information about the CFRU, including its legal status as a non-profit association, its headquarters address, and various registration details with French authorities (Commission Paritaire, Dépôt Légal). It also lists the editorial team and international correspondents.

Editorial Team and Correspondents

Page 4 lists the editorial team of "Ufologia," headed by Director of Publication Francis Schaefer and Editor-in-Chief Roland Lienhardt. It also details international correspondents from Italy, Canada, USA, Argentina, England, Belgium, Switzerland, Sweden, Guadeloupe, Germany, and Japan. A regional network across France is also outlined, with contacts for various departments.

Table of Contents (Sommaire)

Issue N°14 includes articles on "SPACE: brief international news," "UFOLOGY: press echoes," "PARANORMAL: the Uruffe enigma," "SCIENTIFIC CONTROVERSY: test-tube babies," interviews with Steven Spielberg and Francis Schaefer, "ECOLOGY: various echoes," "NOTE: NASA and extra-terrestrial intelligence," and "UFOLOGY: UFO wave in New Zealand."

Remark

This issue is a "double publication" with issue 13. Informative communiqués from issue 13 are omitted to save space. The usual format will resume with issue 15. Despite inflation, subscription prices will remain unchanged until the following year.

For New Readers

Many new readers wish to complete their collections, but older issues are sold out. The possibility of re-editing past summaries is being considered.

Correction

A correction is noted for an article by JP. CANCEL in issue 13, page 6, regarding the phrase "NE S'APPUYER QUE SUR LA SCIENCE" (Rely only on science).

SPACE: Brief News

This section, curated by Roland Lienhardt, reports on various space and aviation news. The U.S. is initiating the production of "Cruis Missiles." French aerospace has recorded its 446,352nd rocket sale, and the ARIANE rocket program is moving forward with series production. West Germany is launching a new training aircraft, the "FANTRAINER," and the multi-role TORNADO combat aircraft is nearing operational status. Cooperation between France and Germany in aeronautics and space is increasing. The USSR is reportedly building a lighter space shuttle that will be refueled in orbit by the PROGRESS spacecraft. The U.S. is preparing a sophisticated Venus exploration mission with PIONEER VENUS 1 & 2, while the USSR is sending VENUS 11 & 12. The U.S. Space Shuttle flight is postponed to October 1979. NASA and Rockwell International are testing a prototype of a revolutionary remotely piloted aircraft, the "HIMAT." The USSR has launched its 1000th COSMOS satellite. South Africa is reportedly being overflown by Soviet METEOR satellites, possibly for surveillance of its nuclear bomb development. Space shuttle development is also underway in China, Japan, and France.

UFOs: News and Press Echoes

"Parisien" (February 24, 1978): Unidentified Flying Object Observed in the Midi-Pyrénées Region

Four witnesses in the Midi-Pyrénées region reported seeing a non-identified flying object. A pilot from Carcassonne described an orange "ball" with a green tail. An automobilist kilometers away observed the same phenomenon. In Pamiers, a factory supervisor reported seeing an elongated, flat object emitting a bright, bluish light, moving from east to west for 10-12 seconds. A witness near Toulouse also observed the object. The Pic du Midi observatory stated it was not in a position to direct observations towards the Toulouse region at that time.

"Républicain Lorrain" (February 25, 1978): Seven People Saw a 'UFO' in Champagne

Seven people in the Reims area reported seeing a UFO moving at high speed on a Tuesday evening. They described it as having an intense, neon-like white light and appearing to end in a fuse shape. The object moved from east to west and was surrounded by a green aura.

"Républicain Lorrain" (April 29, 1978): A UFO Observed Near Uzès

A UFO was observed near Uzès (Gard) on a Thursday evening, causing excitement. Numerous witnesses, including two gendarmes who filed a report, described the object as triangular, enormous, with a wingspan of nearly 200 meters. It had four flashing orange lights and made no noise. An investigation by the Nîmes association "Le Groupe de vérifications et d'études sur les OVNI" confirmed these details. The gendarmerie stated no helicopters were in the area. They are seeking a witness who was directly under the object.

"Républicain Lorrain" (May 3, 1978): The Uzès UFO: A 'Flying Banana'

This article clarifies that the object seen near Uzès was likely a "flying banana" (a type of aircraft) from a military exercise, not a UFO. The initial reports caused a stir, but subsequent investigation pointed to a military maneuver involving about fifteen aircraft.

UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects): An Appeal to Essonne Residents

The Essonne section of the CFRU is appealing to local residents for testimonies regarding UFO sightings. This follows the release of Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," for which Dr. Allen Hynek served as technical and scientific advisor. Hynek, who directs the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS) in the U.S., collaborates with the CFRU in France. The article encourages readers in Essonne to contact Christian Macó, the local CFRU representative, with any sightings. It also references previous mentions of the CFRU-Essonne section in "Ufologia" issues 11 and 12.

"L'Alsace" (February 15, 1978): A UFO in the Sky Above Bourtzwiller?

A 17-year-old electrician, Christian Ruppé, reported seeing a flying object in Mulhouse-Bourtzwiller. Initially mistaking it for an airplane, he later observed a flat object with two white headlights and a triangle in the middle, which hovered for about ten seconds before disappearing. Ruppé had previously reported seeing a similar triangular object in the same location three years prior.

"Républicain Lorrain" (May 2, 1978): The Uzès UFO: A 'Privileged' Witness Sought

This article reiterates the search for a witness to the Uzès UFO sighting. It details the object's description: enormous, triangular, with a wingspan of nearly 200 meters, four flashing orange lights, and silent operation. The investigation by the Nîmes association confirmed the details, and the gendarmerie ruled out helicopter activity. They are specifically looking for someone who was directly beneath the object.

"L'Alsace" (February 18, 1978): UFO Catchers

A Japanese radio station planned to illuminate Tokyo's sky with blue, white, and red lights in an attempt to attract UFOs. This initiative was linked to the release of Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." The station intended to broadcast live during the event, inviting witnesses to call in.

Parapsychology: Too Much Unexplainable...

The Enigma of Uruffe: A Supernatural Death

This section details the case of a woman found carbonized in her apartment in Uruffe, France, in July 1977. The investigation ruled out accident, suicide, or murder. The hypothesis of spontaneous human combustion is presented as the only possible explanation, despite its difficulty to believe. The victim's body was severely burned, but her legs, covered by nylon stockings, remained intact. The apartment showed no signs of external heat source or fire damage beyond the immediate area of the body.

Spontaneous Combustion: Numerous Cases

The article discusses spontaneous human combustion (SHC) as a paranormal phenomenon. It notes that dozens of similar cases are estimated to occur worldwide each year, with 19 reported in Great Britain alone in 1958. Medical literature, even historical texts, mentions cases of inexplicable body calcination or sudden combustion. In some instances, only bones and ashes remain, with surrounding objects undamaged by fire, suggesting an extreme internal heat source.

Unexplained Phenomena

The origin of these paranormal phenomena remains unknown. While UFOs have been implicated, no proof exists. Some theories suggest psychic suicide in elderly, isolated individuals. Other hypotheses involve flame creatures or esoteric manifestations. Currently, no plausible scientific explanation exists, but the peculiar circumstances of SHC deaths continue to bring the issue to scientific attention.

Scientific Controversy: Test-Tube Babies in the USA

Scientists in an Uproar

A book titled "A Clone of Man" by David Rorvik claims that a laboratory-created baby, produced from a single male cell, was born in the USA and is now fourteen months old. The book asserts the baby is healthy and that the process was commissioned by a millionaire seeking a perfect replica of himself. Rorvik claims the author is a renowned American scientific writer and that the book is "absolutely true."

"Worse Than Hitler"

Scientists are skeptical, calling the book a hoax or, if true, the most dangerous medical experiment in history. They believe that if such an experiment were successful, it would have been widely reported. Dr. Liebe Cavalieri, a specialist in molecular biology, stated that the idea is "horrible" and should be "forbidden and stopped violently."

"Worse Than Hitler" (continued)

Dr. Bernard Talbot, a vice-director at the National Institute of Health, also suggested the book might be a hoax. Eight scientists working on cell transplantation agree that the story is improbable. They acknowledge the theoretical possibility of human cloning but find the lack of public information highly suspicious.

So Far, Only Frogs...

Geneticists explain that human cloning is extremely difficult, involving microscopic cell manipulation. The process would require isolating and implanting a donor's cell nucleus into a female egg cell from which the female characteristics have been removed. The cloned embryo would then develop in a matrix.

"Républ. Lor." (March 5, 1978): The article notes that, to date, only carrots, sea urchins, and frogs have been successfully cloned.

New York Review: Test-Tube Baby in the USA

A 14-month-old test-tube baby is reportedly living in the USA, according to "Publishers Weekly." The "New York Post" suggests the baby is a boy created from the genetic characteristics of a 60-year-old millionaire who desired an exact copy of himself. The method involved taking the nucleus from a human cell and placing it into an enucleated egg cell, which then divided to produce a complete being.

"Républ. Lor." (March 4, 1978): The book "A son Image, la copie d'un homme" by David Rorvik is due for publication in June.

Test-Tube Babies: Tomorrow or in Ten Years?

Two British doctors who perfected the test-tube baby technique are expected to publish their research soon. While a spokesperson confirmed the news, the doctors themselves declined to comment on a "Daily Mirror" report about a "miracle birth" in July. The technique involves fertilizing an egg outside the mother and then inserting it into the uterus for development.

The Problem of Nutrition

Professor Charles Douglas of Cambridge University highlighted the challenge of nourishing the embryo during the seven days it spends in the test tube before implantation. He expressed surprise at the "Daily Mirror" article, noting that while progress has been made, the timeline for the first successful birth remains uncertain.

Numerous Protests

Many researchers refuse to discuss these techniques, recalling theological condemnations of the process as a violation of natural law. In California and Australia, similar research has been abandoned. Professor Douglas Bevis of Leeds University halted his work after announcing in 1974 that three babies conceived outside the mother were alive and well, a claim met with skepticism by his peers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, scientific advancement, and the paranormal. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena and related mysteries, while maintaining a critical approach to scientific claims and encouraging reader participation. There is a clear emphasis on independent research and information dissemination, as highlighted by the support appeal for "Ufologia" itself. The magazine aims to cover a broad spectrum of topics, from space exploration to controversial scientific developments and unexplained events like spontaneous human combustion, reflecting a deep interest in the frontiers of knowledge and the unknown.

This issue of "L'ALSACE" from February 19, 1978, focuses heavily on the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and the broader topic of UFOs. It features an in-depth interview with director Steven Spielberg and a lengthy discussion with ufologist Francis Schaefer.

Steven Spielberg: "...Six humanoides congelés..."

The cover story highlights Steven Spielberg, discussing his film "Rencontres du troisième type" (Close Encounters of the Third Kind). Spielberg, then 31, is presented as a significant figure in new fantastic cinema, having previously directed "Duel" and "Sugarland Express." He expresses his belief that UFOs exist somewhere, though he requires more scientific proof than just testimonies. He touches on the film's themes, including government secrecy, drawing a parallel to Watergate, which he notes annoys Americans. Spielberg reveals he received no assistance from the US government or NASA for the film, with NASA reportedly concerned about public reaction. He mentions rumors of frozen humanoid bodies from a UFO crash in a Daytona base.

Spielberg explains the unique technology used in filming and the challenges it presented. He defends showing extraterrestrials, stating it was a way to counter Kubrick's "2001" and to depict them as described in numerous testimonies, emphasizing that UFO phenomena are not science fiction but scientific speculation. He notes that only intellectuals criticized the film's naivety. He chose François Truffaut to play Professor Lacombe because French people are more open to UFOs and because Truffaut has a look that suggests he can communicate with children and extraterrestrials. Spielberg sees the current trend of young directors making big-budget films as a continuation of a generational shift in Hollywood. He acknowledges "Close Encounters" as a major film but plans to return to simpler, smaller projects, including a film about adolescence in the US.

He also discusses the film's production, mentioning that NASA refused cooperation, citing concerns about the project's positivity and public perception. Spielberg believes the government is hiding information about UFOs, a sentiment amplified by Watergate. He finds it astonishing that people believe humanity is alone in the universe and asserts that testimonies of ET encounters are consistent. He also mentions that the film's special effects, by Douglas Trumbull, were fundamental and that an additional $10 million could have further highlighted the extraterrestrials' technological advancement.

Spielberg defends the film's ending, which features a "prodigious" saucer, stating that while some might label it as pure science fiction, it aims to bridge the gap between the general public and those initiated in ufology. He believes the film conveys a message about the UFO problem and that the purity of the humanoids in the final scenes is significant, as children are less mentally polluted than adults. He calls the film a "great communication of the Aquarian Age" and notes his lifelong interest in UFOs, recalling a 16-year-old film he made about scientists studying strange lights.

Interview with Francis Schaefer (CFRU)

This section features an extensive interview with Francis Schaefer, conducted by Nicolas LECAUSSE, focusing on the nature of UFO phenomena, witness manipulation, and the role of organizations like GEPAN. Schaefer, who has been involved in ufology for over twelve years, explains his systematic discretion in publishing, aiming to make "UFOLOGIA" a platform for diverse voices rather than a personal manifesto. He emphasizes the importance of openness and constructive criticism in ufological research.

Schaefer asserts his conviction in the physical reality of UFOs, citing radar detections and authenticated photographs. He dismisses theories reducing UFOs to hallucinations, pointing to cases involving energy radiation and physical transformations of the environment, such as the Ontario landing case in 1957. He also references the case of "Doctor X," examined by Aimé Michel, which involved a large UFO with strange, TV-like lines on its surface.

Regarding the absence of UFO photos in "UFOLOGIA," Schaefer explains that authentic photos are rare and require specialized equipment for verification. He also notes the difficulty in obtaining such documents and the need for constant vigilance against fraud.

Schaefer addresses the concept of witness manipulation, suggesting that while human psychism might create illusions, it doesn't negate the reality of the phenomenon. He entertains the idea of multiple sources for UFOs, possibly involving parallel universes or dimensions, and acknowledges the complexity of the issue. He is critical of modern psychoanalysis's ability to understand the human unconscious in the context of potential extraterrestrial intrusion. He finds the idea of psychic intrusion conceivable, citing cases of selective paralysis that suggest a deep understanding of the human brain, though he admits explaining the complete mechanism is beyond current knowledge.

He expresses skepticism about archetype projection theories, stating that there is no concrete proof of witness influence on the phenomenon. Schaefer also critiques Carl Jung's qualifications to speak on UFOs, preferring Jacques Vallée's expertise. He advocates for adapting science to the current situation and operating with intuition, believing that the current UFO phenomenon supports his long-held principle of bringing light to overcome darkness.

Schaefer discusses the limitations of official commissions like GEPAN, questioning their true objectives. He believes that the problem of UFOs is complex, involving either an "extra-planetary" or a "meta-terrestrial" origin, making scientific methodology incredibly challenging. He highlights the financial and technical handicaps of private groups but stresses that their independence is crucial. He criticizes the commercialization of UFO research and the emergence of cult-like followings.

He dismisses Michel Monnerie's "And if UFOs didn't exist?" thesis as a form of modern snobbery, comparing it to Edward Condon's earlier reduction of UFOs to psychoses. Schaefer believes that research is ongoing and that no one has definitively "solved" the UFO puzzle. He finds the idea of a single, simple solution to be amusing and regrettable for the groups associated with such claims.

Schaefer considers Spielberg's film to be perfectly timed, aligning with the UN's official position on UFOs. He praises the film's technical achievements and its poignant, astonishing message, calling it a "warm message" that every Earthling should see. He notes J. Allen Hynek's contribution, which brought realism to the film's scenes. However, he expresses reservations about Spielberg's emphasis on government conspiracy, seeing it as a risky move. He also appreciates the film's use of "musical language" and synchronized light effects.

Regarding Richard Dreyfuss's performance, Schaefer notes his ability to imbue the character with soul. He questions Hynek's brief appearance, suggesting it might be a subtle jab at the US Air Force. He acknowledges that the film's ending might leave some viewers with a purely "SF" vision but argues that science fiction, in general, encourages critical thinking and an open mind. He believes "Close Encounters" appeals to both the general public seeking sensations and to those already interested in ufology, using humor and cinematic talent to converge towards ufological reality. He admits the possibility of telepathic sensitivity but questions whether a contact like the one depicted is realistic. He emphasizes that children, being less polluted by adult values, are more receptive to the film's message of wonder.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for the reality of UFO phenomena, presenting it as a serious subject for scientific inquiry rather than mere fantasy. Both Spielberg and Schaefer, despite their different approaches, underscore the importance of UFOs as a topic demanding attention. The magazine appears to support independent research and critical thinking, as evidenced by Schaefer's defense of private ufological groups and his skepticism towards purely official or overly simplistic explanations. There's a clear stance against government secrecy and a belief that information is being withheld from the public. The film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" is viewed not just as entertainment but as a significant cultural event that brings UFOs into mainstream consciousness, potentially fostering greater public interest and acceptance of the phenomenon.

This issue of ECOLOGIE magazine, identified as issue number 21 and volume 2, dated April 21, 1978, focuses on a range of ecological, environmental, and scientific topics. The cover prominently features the headline "La Terre-vaisseau spatial en difficulté" (Earth-spaceship in difficulty), suggesting a theme of planetary environmental crisis. The magazine is published by CFRU and originates from France.

The War of Commander Cousteau

This section details Commander Jacques-Yves Cousteau's campaign against pollution, particularly concerning the Mediterranean Sea. He argues for the advantages of solar energy over nuclear energy, both financially and ecologically. Cousteau, returning from a cruise aboard the "Calypso," describes the Mediterranean as 'sick' and facing problems, though he refrains from declaring it dead. His team conducted 135 measurement stations to analyze the basin's health. He distinguishes between 'quasi-definitive' pollutions, like heavy metals (mercury, chrome, copper), which take over a million years to dissipate, and microbiologically correctable pollutions. Cousteau expresses a shift in his views, now believing that ecologists can provide a necessary 'wake-up call' and stating he will support serious candidates. He also advocates for a crusade in favor of solar energy.

Un Minamata au Brésil?

This article raises concerns about a potential environmental disaster in Brazil, drawing parallels to the Minamata tragedy in Japan, where mercury pollution caused severe health problems and deaths. Thousands of animals on the Brazilian coast are reportedly dying, and the local population is experiencing indisposition. The article mentions the sinking of a ship, the 'Taquari,' in 1971 off the coast of Uruguay-Brazil, carrying 24 tons of mercury compounds, though the company denies this. Subsequent reports suggest the presence of other dangerous substances like propylene and ethylenimine, and more recently, methyl isocyanate, a toxic substance used as an insecticide, has been implicated.

Victims of French Nuclear Tests?

This report suggests that French citizens in Polynesia suffering from cancer and treated in New Zealand might be victims of French nuclear tests in the South Pacific. The New Zealand Ministry of Health confirmed treating 25 cancer patients but could not confirm or deny the claims due to a lack of information. The French embassy in Auckland dismissed these reports.

Debate: Oxygen and Depollution

An event organized by Air Liquide in Pont-à-Mousson discussed the use of oxygen in depollution processes for wastewater, drinking water, and surface water. Industrialists and representatives from local authorities attended. The presentation highlighted the effectiveness of oxygen in treating various pollutants, but questions were raised about the cost-effectiveness, particularly for sewage treatment plants. The debate centered on whether to expand existing facilities or build new ones.

Marseille: Pilot City for Solar Energy

This news brief announces the potential construction of a full-scale solar power plant in Saint-Chamas, near Marseille, France. The location offers several advantages, including proximity to E.D.F. infrastructure, research laboratories, and an international airport. The plant would have a power output of two megawatts.

Marseille: Solar Power Plant

Another report mentions the construction of the first French solar power plant, 'Themis,' in Targassonne, near Font-Romeu in the Pyrenees. This plant will use a tower design with hundreds of mirrors concentrating solar radiation onto a boiler at the top, with a power output of 2 MW.

Alert for Lead Emissions

An alert was issued in Hoboken, a working-class suburb of Antwerp, Belgium, due to strong lead emissions from a metallurgy plant. Several schools were evacuated, and the area was to be cleaned. This follows an incident in March where dozens of children were poisoned by lead emissions.

1978: International Year of Animal Rights

This section announces the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Animal Rights, to be declared on October 18th. The declaration aims to react against the large number of animals sacrificed daily worldwide for various purposes. It emphasizes the link between respect for animals and respect for humans and condemns abusive practices against animals.

Mexico, the Most Polluted City in the World

This article highlights Mexico City's severe pollution problem. The president of the Mexican Academy of Ecological Law stated that the city's 12 million inhabitants live in an almost unbreathable atmosphere, with vehicle emissions and industrial activity consuming oxygen equivalent to that of 1.5 billion people. Studies indicate that population density is five times the tolerable maximum, and pollution levels are 100 times higher than the minimum human tolerance. The article attributes this to vehicle emissions, industrial waste, and daily consumption of cigarettes. Noise pollution is also a significant issue. President Lopez Portillo has authorized a plan to reduce the population growth rate from 3.5% to 1% by the year 2000, aiming to alleviate unemployment, which affects 46% of the active population in Mexico City.

Oil Spill: Threatened Beaches

This report describes the ongoing efforts to clean up beaches in northern Brittany, France, affected by the Amoco Cadiz oil spill. Despite cleanup operations, winds are pushing mazout (oil residue) towards the coast. Small patches of oil have reached beaches previously unaffected. The article cites a study by the Oceanological Center of Brittany (C.O.B.) indicating that about 300 tons of oil have partially dissolved in the sea, a small fraction of the total spill. The oil has also caused the death of millions of shellfish and mollusks.

New Zealand: UFO Wave

This extensive section, written by Jean Sider based on information from Hamish McLean of the Aerial Phenomena Research Group in New Zealand, details a remarkable series of UFO observations that began in mid-autumn. The reports, spanning from October 1977 to December 1977, describe numerous sightings of unidentified objects, often disk-shaped, oval, or luminous, with varying colors and behaviors. Key locations include Waimata Valley, Gisborne, Matakana Island, and Youg Nicks Head. Specific incidents include:

• October 30, 1977: A family observed an object with red and white lights over Matakana Island, which hovered and then ascended rapidly.
• November 10, 1977: A blue, red, and green light source was seen in Waimata Valley.
• November 11, 1977: Witnesses reported an intense blue light from a falling object near the Orari River estuary, followed by a silent impact and a bright flash.
• November 21, 1977: A luminous source, described as a torch beam with yellow lights, moved slowly over Vaimata Valley.
• November 28, 1977: A circular object with strong luminosity was seen above Gisborne airport.
• November 29, 1977: An object resembling a melon hat, red and blue, landed in a Waimata Valley park, emitted a blue light beam, and then hovered.
• November 29, 1977: A bizarre luminous source changed course sharply and headed towards the sea near Youg Nicks Head.
• November 30, 1977: Hunters observed a red object moving silently at low altitude over Manders Road.
• December 2, 1977: A car was struck by intense white and blue-green light beams near Te-Karaka, causing damage.
• December 2, 1977: Four witnesses saw an erratic yellow luminous source over Waimata Valley.
• December 2, 1977: A farmer reported a saucer-shaped craft with bright openings near his stable.
• December 3, 1977: Four workers observed an object coming from the sea over Wainui beach.
• December 13, 1977: Two objects, one red and one white, were seen over Patutahi.
• January 1, 1978: Three objects (two red, one white) were observed over the east coast.
• January 15, 1978: Six witnesses saw a large, intensely red-orange object executing complex maneuvers over Greys Bush.
• January 17, 1978: A witness reported seeing a formation of 16 luminous engines in a cluster, arranged in two 'stages,' which then vanished.
• January 19, 1978: Multiple sightings of white and red objects were reported over Waimata Valley and Gisborne.
• January 21, 1978: A possible landing site was discovered in Waimata Valley, marked by a patch of burned, dehydrated vegetation in a bean shape.
• January 26, 1978: A red object was seen heading south towards Waimata Valley.

The article notes that many objects share similar shapes, colors, and dimensions, with approximate sizes of 5m high by 10m wide. The Waimata Valley area is highlighted as a significant location for these sightings.

NASA Publishes Book on Extraterrestrial Intelligence Research

This article reports on NASA's publication of a 276-page summary of findings from a group of 16 American scientists on methods for detecting potential radio signals from extraterrestrial intelligent life. The book, titled "The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence" (NASA SP-419), was edited by Professor Philip Morrison and Doctors John Billingham and John Wolfe. It covers consensus, colloquia, and complementary documents. Key conclusions from the SETI group include that a serious search for extraterrestrial intelligence is both opportune and feasible, and that a significant SETI program can be undertaken with modest resources. The article also mentions NASA's proposed budget of $2 million for fiscal year 1979 to initiate a SETI program using the Deep Space Network antennas in Goldstone, California, with research planned to begin in October 1978 and last for five years.

Documentation Bibliographique

This section provides a bibliography of books related to UFOs, extraterrestrial civilizations, and related phenomena, listing titles, authors, and publishers. It serves as a resource for readers interested in further research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are environmental crisis, pollution (air, water, and noise), the potential of alternative energy sources (solar), and the ongoing mystery of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). There is also a strong emphasis on scientific research, from ecological studies to space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of informing the public about these critical issues, encouraging critical thinking, and supporting the exploration of the unknown, while also acknowledging the potential for hoaxes and the need for rigorous verification, particularly in the context of UFO reports. The inclusion of a section on animal rights suggests a broader concern for life and well-being on Earth.