Ufologia - No 25 - Janvier-Fevrier-Mars 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA
Issue: N° 25
Date: January - February - March 1981
Publisher: CERCLE FRANÇAIS DE RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES (CFRU)
Type: Documentary and Information Review of the French Circle of Ufological Research.

Editorial

"UFOLOGUES, CHAMELEONS AND INQUISITORS OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY"

Francis Schaefer, Director of Publication, opens the issue with an editorial criticizing what he terms the "zizanies orchestrated by the 'high priests' of the 'new wave'" in ufology. He laments that some publications, which he implies are attempting to debunk UFO phenomena, do so with "truncated elements" and "bad faith." He notes the irony that some of these "inquisitors" were once proponents of official scientific recognition for UFOs. Schaefer points to the magazine "SCIENCE & VIE" as an example, contrasting its 1974 and 1976 articles that treated UFOs seriously with its April 1980 article titled "OVNI: faith that comes from the void - GEPAN, so you are." He suggests this shift is opportunistic, driven by a changing public perception. He concludes by stating that ufologists should not engage in such polemics, as UFOs operate on a higher plane.

Articles

"Requiem pour une blague" by Jean SIDER

This extensive article by Jean Sider critically analyzes the work of Josiane and Jan d'Aigure, whom he labels "Nouveaux Inquisiteurs" (New Inquisitors). The d'Aigures have published a work that Sider characterizes as a "demolition" of the American UFO waves of 1896 and 1897. Sider argues that their work is a "huge joke" or a "gigantic burst of laughter" aimed at unsettling ufologists and forcing them out of their perceived "sterility."

Sider dedicates significant space to refuting the d'Aigures' arguments, which he claims are based on negative explanations and incomplete information. He meticulously examines their points, particularly concerning the history of aeronautics and the nature of "airships" during the period in question.

Key points of Sider's refutation include:

1. History of Aeronautics: Sider asserts that numerous professional historians have documented the development of aeronautics. He cites French and American experts who agree that Thomas Scott Baldwin was the first to build a truly functional dirigible in 1908, though he had earlier experimental craft. Sider dismisses the d'Aigures' reliance on sources that he suggests are not from authoritative historians.
2. Cited Aeronautical References: Sider categorizes the d'Aigures' examples of "airships" into several types:
* Spherical balloons: These are distinguished from cigar-shaped "airships."
* Aeroplanes: Sider notes that true aeroplanes did not exist at the time, with exceptions like Langley's experimental craft which had limited success.
* Utopian Projects: Projects that were never realized and likely would not have flown.
* Reasonable Projects: Projects that were not realized due to lack of funds or material issues.
* Realized Projects with Failures/Scams: Projects that were completed but failed or were fraudulent.
* Projects Conceived Abroad: Projects from other countries that were never realized in the USA.
Sider emphasizes that most of these examples fall outside the time frame of the UFO waves the d'Aigures are trying to debunk. He specifically points out that Carl Myers, who experimented with a dirigible in 1896, is not mentioned by the d'Aigures.
3. Case Selection for 1896-1897 Waves: Sider argues that the d'Aigures have selected an insufficient number of cases (around 18) from a much larger phenomenon (estimated at 450-500 observations) to support their "demolition" thesis. He claims these cases have been taken from French-language books, often with translation errors and reduced summaries.
4. Considerations on "Airships": Sider refutes the d'Aigures' assertion that "airships" were often depicted with wings. He states that very few European dirigibles had such appendices, and most US projects with wings were unrealized. He mentions historical projects with wings or propellers but stresses that these observations likely did not concern terrestrial technology.
5. Circulation of Information at the Time: Sider explains that information about airship sightings primarily reached urban areas, with rural areas having limited access to media. He notes that many newspapers were hostile to such reports, further limiting their impact.
6. Attitude of Pioneers: Sider strongly refutes the d'Aigures' claim that pioneers of aviation were clandestine. He argues that they actively sought publicity to secure funding and recognition, and that the idea of them disappearing without a trace after accidents is absurd.
7. References Consulted: Sider criticizes the d'Aigures for not consulting genuine historians, relying instead on popular magazines and books that may not offer accurate historical context, particularly regarding American aeronautics.

Sider concludes that the d'Aigures' work is a "demolition" based on flawed arguments and selective evidence, and that their attempt to explain away historical UFO sightings is "absurd."

Other Content

• Table of Contents (Sommaire N°25): Lists articles such as "Requiem pour une blague," "OVNI dans le ciel des Antilles," "Croqueuse d'étoiles," and various reports and informational pieces.
• Subscription Information: Details on subscription conditions for France and abroad, with prices in French Francs (F).
• Notes for Collaborators: Guidelines for submitting articles, emphasizing typed submissions, illustrations, and the rejection of political, religious, or advertising content.
• Notes: Information on article reproduction, becoming a local correspondent, and the availability of the bulletin.
• CFRU Information: Details about the Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques, its legal status, and its regional network.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the history of aviation, and the methodology of ufological research. The editorial stance is one of defending the objective study of UFOs against what it perceives as biased or opportunistic debunking efforts. The magazine champions rigorous research and criticizes those who, in its view, distort evidence or shift their positions based on prevailing trends. There is a strong emphasis on historical accuracy and the importance of consulting credible sources, particularly in the context of analyzing past UFO waves and the development of early aviation.

This issue of UFOLOGIA magazine, identified as issue number 19, is a French publication focused on UFO phenomena and related topics. The content includes reports of recent sightings, historical cases, and theoretical discussions.

Conclusions on Historical Airship Theories

The concluding section of an article critiques theories suggesting that historical aerial phenomena were due to advanced inventions rather than natural occurrences or misidentifications. The author dismisses the 'd'Aigure' thesis as unsubstantiated and based on 'intellectual dishonesty,' arguing that it attempts to rewrite history to fit a narrative of advanced inventors who disappeared without a trace. The author expresses concern that such interpretations are not accepted by ufology enthusiasts and only serve to discredit those who propose them. The section also lists several references, primarily books on dirigibles and early aviation from the early 20th century, suggesting a historical context for the critique.

Historical Aeronautics Timeline

A chronological overview of US aeronautics up to 1900 is provided, detailing key events and figures such as Samuel King's grappling hook, J. Wise's spherical balloon flights, Thaddeus S.C. Iowe's use of balloons for the army, W. Donaldson's failed transatlantic flight, J.J. Montgomery's glider attempts, Samuel P. Langley's steam-powered aeroplanes, and the Wright brothers' early experiments with gliders. This timeline serves to contextualize the development of flight technology before the era of modern aviation.

UFO Sighting in the Antilles

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a UFO sighting that occurred on Wednesday, January 23rd, in Guadeloupe. Hundreds of residents across the island, from Grand-Bourg to Saint-Claude and Pointe-à-Pitre, witnessed an exceptional event. The phenomenon was first observed in Marie-Galante as a 'fireball' moving horizontally. Three meteorologists and an air traffic controller at Raizet airport also reported seeing a luminous object. One meteorologist, M. Tréber, described it as a round object with a long trail, initially mistaken for a Concorde. Another, M. Abouna, described it as a 'blue-green object' moving from south to north. The object's trajectory appears to have followed the eastern coast of Guadeloupe, passing over Saint-François, Sainte-Anne, Gosier, Pointe-à-Pitre, Abymes, Petit-Bourg, Capesterre Belle-Eau, and Saint-Claude. Max de Vipart, a meteorologist at sea near Ilet Fajou, observed two colored streaks moving in opposite directions, possibly mistaking a Boeing for the initial phenomenon before seeing the unidentified object. He estimated its altitude at 10,000 meters. While most witnesses reported a single luminous object, Max de Vipart's observation of two objects moving in opposite directions is noted. The article discusses the possibility of a Boeing aircraft signaling its position, but the unusual nature of the sightings leads to speculation about UFOs.

Scientific Explanations and Witness Accounts

The article explores potential explanations for the observed phenomena, including atmospheric conditions affecting the perceived color and appearance of objects. It also recounts an incident where a couple in Vieux-Habitant reported seeing a luminous object fall into the sea, described as red with a trail of all colors. The article includes a statement from technicians at the Raizet control tower affirming the existence of UFOs, and a seasoned air traffic controller from the Paris region recounts an incident in 1956 where unknown craft with exceptional speeds interfered with air traffic.

The 'TANAMES' Incident

Another major report details an event on February 9, 1979, where fifty UFOs were allegedly observed surrounding the cargo ship 'TANAMES' for six hours as it approached Escombreras, Spain. The captain, M. José Luis Gonzales Rodriguez, provided a detailed account, describing lights resembling signal flares that changed position and were detected by radar, showing 'impressive flips.' He firmly believed they were UFOs, not a radar malfunction. The article contrasts this with an explanation from a brigade spokesperson, M. Alfonso Diez, who suggested the lights were part of a parachute demonstration for a radio program called 'Testigo Directo.' The captain's account is supported by other reports of intense UFO activity in the Murcia, Albacete, and Alicante regions around that time. The article poses several questions regarding the 'TANAMES' incident, including why parachutists would be dropped so far from shore and why neither the aircraft nor the boat that supposedly picked them up were detected by radar.

Astronomical Theories and Historical Observations

The magazine also touches upon astronomical topics, including the hypothetical planet Vulcan. It discusses historical observations and theories about Vulcan, a planet supposedly located closer to the Sun than Mercury, which was predicted by Urbain Le Verrier but never observed. The article mentions that sightings of a 'disk' were often dismissed as sunspots by experts. It also references other astronomical anomalies, such as dark clouds in the solar system and the 'Black Chevalier' satellite. The section includes notes on Le Verrier and a dictionary definition of Vulcan.

Other UFO Reports

Brief reports from various locations are included:

• Nîmes, France: A 'close encounter' on July 15, 1979, where a family reported seeing a large, luminous, rectangular object resembling a robot.
• Near Santiago, Chile: Reports of a fleet of UFOs seen while a fishing boat was found adrift without its crew.
• Montevideo, Uruguay: An account of two presumed extraterrestrials attacking a blacksmith and his wife on June 19, 1980.
• Flaxlanden, France: A couple observed a luminous object on the night of August 7, 1980.
• Argentina: Multiple UFO sightings reported on a Saturday evening in Buenos Aires and other locations, with some objects being photographed.
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: A mini-saucer reportedly attacked a fuel depot with a laser on June 18, 1980.
• Iran: Reports of UFOs in Azerbaijan, with the air force firing on one object.
• Oise, France: A luminous ball was observed on January 4, 1980.
• Spain: A UFO was regularly observed over an hermitage in Chiclana, Cadiz, for several evenings in January 1980.

Editorial and Advertising Content

The magazine also features sections for 'INFO-SERVICE,' providing contact information for related publications and clubs such as Perry Rhodan Magazin, Solaris, Messier (astronomy club), Idees Pour Tous, Aget-Service, and UFOLOGIA itself. Other sections include 'OCTA-MAGAZINE,' 'FACETTES,' 'UFO-QUEBEC,' 'ASTROLABE,' 'KELTIA,' 'BIBLIOMAX,' and 'LA NOUVELLE ERE,' which are presented as resources for enthusiasts of science fiction, ufology, astrology, and esoteric subjects. The issue concludes with a call to subscribe to UFOLOGIA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFOLOGIA are the reporting of contemporary UFO sightings from diverse geographical locations, the investigation of historical anomalous aerial phenomena, and the exploration of scientific and speculative theories related to extraterrestrial life and unexplained events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, presenting witness accounts and attempting to reconcile them with scientific explanations or historical context, while also critically examining unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear emphasis on providing detailed accounts and encouraging reader engagement through contact information for related publications and clubs.

This issue of "LES OVNI ET L'ASTRONAUTIQUE TERRIENNE" (UFOs and Terrestrial Astronautics), published by CFRU, focuses on the intersection of unidentified flying objects and space exploration. The magazine presents a collection of articles and reports that explore mysterious phenomena, alleged extraterrestrial interest in human technology, and a compilation of UFO sightings.

UFOs and Space Technology

The lead article highlights that UFOs seem more interested in our technology than in direct contact. It details how UFOs are observed closely monitoring our space program and even manipulating satellites and spacecraft. A specific focus is placed on the "SNAP" (Nuclear Auxiliary Energy System), an early Atomic Energy Commission project. The SNAP-10A system, the first terrestrial nuclear reactor in space, experienced an anomaly where it ceased communication for 40 hours before resuming, leading scientists to speculate about external interference. The article also notes that other US satellites have exhibited similar independent behavior, ceasing to function and then restarting without apparent reason. It cites the case of instruments left on the Moon by the Apollo 14 crew, which continued transmitting for years after their expected operational life.

Alleged Alien Activity on the Moon

Another significant section, "LA LUNE N'A PAS TOUT REVELE: QUE S'Y PASSE-T-IL AU JUSTE ?..." (The Moon Has Not Revealed Everything: What Is Really Happening There?), presents claims by American scientists about the discovery of alien creatures on the Moon. The article refers to official NASA photographs showing their machines and work. An anonymous American astronomer suggests that the US government has suspended lunar exploration to avoid confrontation with these beings. Astronomer G.H. Leonard of Rockville is quoted as stating that traces of these objects are similar to those observed during UFO landings. Leonard, an amateur astronomer, has written a book, "IL Y A QUELQU'UN D'AUTRE SUR LA LUNE" (There Is Someone Else on the Moon), detailing his findings. He describes activities such as leveling crater walls, giant vehicles moving on the lunar surface, and excavation operations. He believes these aliens might be extracting necessary elements for their plans and suggests that seismic instruments on the Moon detect underground activity caused by their work. He also mentions "foreign devices," called "bourdons-X," which are over a mile long and work on lunar craters.

Global Predictions and Catastrophe

An article titled "LA PLANETE EN L'AN 2000: CATASTROPHIQUE" (Planet Earth in the Year 2000: Catastrophic) presents dire predictions from a report submitted to President Carter. This study, conducted by the State Department and the Council on Environmental Quality with input from eleven government agencies, forecasts widespread poverty, malnutrition, overpopulation, and shortages of food and water by the year 2000. The report projects a 50% increase in global population, with most growth in developing countries. It also anticipates a widening income gap between industrialized and developing nations, a 50% decrease in per capita oil resources, a 35% decrease in water resources, and a 47% decrease in timber resources. Furthermore, 15-20% of animal and plant species are expected to disappear by the end of the century. Food prices are predicted to rise by 95% and energy prices by 150%. The report concludes that the world in 2000 will be more overpopulated, polluted, ecologically unstable, and vulnerable. It emphasizes the need for international collaboration to address these challenges.

UFO Sightings Compilation

The issue includes a section titled "OBSERVATIONS UFOLOGIQUES (Condensé de presse)" (Ufological Observations - Press Summary), which compiles numerous UFO sightings from May to October 1979, across various locations including France (Châteauneuf-des-Prés, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Clermont, La Couronte, Belfort, Meillon, Seynod, St Lys, Mirebeau, Villeneuve-sur-Lot, Bérúges, Bruailles), Philippines (Manila, Legazpi), Mauritania (Nouakchott), Argentina (Mendoza), and Les Yvelines. These reports describe objects with various shapes, colors, and behaviors, often accompanied by unusual phenomena.

CFRU Activities and Publications

The magazine also features information about CFRU's activities. This includes a notice about an upcoming subscription price increase for "UFOLOGIA" due to inflation, and a call for renewals by March 31, 1981. It also announces a "5ème FOIRE DES COLLECTIONNEURS" (5th Collectors' Fair) in January 1981. An "ESPACE" section mentions the US plan to launch an unmanned spacecraft to Jupiter in 1984 and discusses the potential for gasoline on Titan, Saturn's moon, based on data from the Voyager 1 probe.

Investigator's Checklist and Book Reviews

A "Check-list de l'enquêteur" (Investigator's Check-list) is provided, offering a detailed guide for recording UFO observations, covering witness details, object characteristics, environmental conditions, and potential effects. The issue concludes with extensive "DOCUMENTATION BIBLIOGRAPHIQUE" (Bibliographical Documentation), listing numerous books related to UFOs, extraterrestrials, ancient mysteries, and parapsychology, with their authors and publishers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the pervasive presence and influence of UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena, their connection to space exploration and technology, and the potential for future global challenges. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and reporting on these subjects, encouraging detailed observation and documentation, while also acknowledging the scientific and governmental interest in these topics. The magazine aims to inform its readers about UFO sightings, alleged alien activities, and broader implications for humanity's understanding of the universe and its future.