Ufologia - No 37 - Janvier-Fevrier-Mars 1984

Magazine Overview

Title: Ufologia
Issue: No. 37
Date: January-March 1984
Publisher: Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques (CFRU)
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0399-8274

This issue of 'Ufologia' is a documentary and informational review dedicated to Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related questions. It emphasizes its independence and reliance on its team and collaborators. The magazine aims to provide objective information to the public, with all contributors being volunteers. It highlights its extensive international network of correspondents and investigators.

Key Articles and Content

The Spectacular Revelations of IRAS This article discusses the discoveries made by the IRAS (Infrared Astronomical Satellite), a joint program by the United States, Great Britain, and the Netherlands. Launched in January 1983, IRAS has detected new astronomical phenomena, including rings of stellar dust, unidentified celestial objects, and interstellar dust clouds. It has also identified over 200,000 sources of infrared radiation, some of which do not correspond to known celestial objects. Dutch astronomers, studying IRAS data, discovered three dust rings around the star Betelgeuse.

UFOs Filmed for the First Time Philippe Schneyder presented an exceptional documentary film about UFOs, shot on December 19-20, 1978, near the east coast of Jade Island. The film, reportedly shot by an Australian cameraman, captured a luminous mass that changed shape and color. American experts confirmed its authenticity, and New Zealand airport radars corroborated the UFO's presence. The article notes the unusual official silence and inaccessibility of Gendarmerie reports concerning these phenomena, suggesting a high level of government attention to the UFO issue. It also mentions a rumored secret regulation prohibiting American pilots from discussing UFOs.

UFOs in the Lorraine Sky This section compiles several UFO sightings reported in the Lorraine region of France during November 1983. On November 17th, multiple witnesses reported seeing luminous objects, described as fireballs or large, round, silent craft moving at low altitudes. The sightings occurred around the same time in different locations, including Amanvillers, Courcelles-sur-Nied, Magny, Valleroy, and near Mars-la-Tour. Gendarmerie units were investigating and requested observers to report their sightings.

UFO in Mulhouse A report from September 19, 1983, describes a luminous white ball, the size of an orange, seen hovering over Mulhouse for several minutes before disappearing.

Unidentified Malaise in Colombia Three women in Colombia reported being affected by radiation from a UFO that appeared near Malambo around 3 AM. The object stabilized a few meters above the ground, emitting a strong light before disappearing towards the sea.

"Abducted by a UFO"? A 22-year-old Chilean woman, Marisol Espinoza, claims her car was lifted by a powerful force from a hovering, round object with violet lights, and she was deposited near a ravine.

Mysterious Fireball An article from January 18, 1983, details the examination of the remains of a mysterious fireball that fell in a field in Reading, England. Scientists from the Ministry of the Interior investigated a cylindrical, calcined object with a metallic wire found at the impact site. A witness described the object as red, brilliant, and about thirty centimeters in diameter, setting the surrounding grass on fire. The intense heat suggests a nuclear fuel as a possible cause.

UFOs are Back in the Creuse On October 21, 1982, two luminous objects were seen in the sky over the Creuse region, moving from northwest to southeast. Witnesses described them as approximately 30 cm in diameter, leaving reddish trails. A similar object was observed in Siran, Cantal, moving from south to north.

The Sound of a UFO An industrialist in Bilbao, Spain, and his family reportedly recorded the sound of a UFO for thirty minutes. A UFO specialist stated that the sound resembled a boat engine and that the recording was being examined by frequency experts.

Editorial and Subscription Information

The magazine provides details on subscription conditions for France and abroad, including ordinary and support subscriptions. It also includes important notes for collaborators, emphasizing that submissions will be reviewed by the editorial team and should be typed on standard paper. Political, religious, or advertising content will be refused. The magazine also announces the release of a new CFRU metal insignia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, investigations, and the broader implications of these phenomena, including connections to astronomy, paranormal activity, and historical mysteries. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry and documentation, aiming to inform the public objectively about UFOs. The magazine positions itself as an independent platform for sharing research and observations, encouraging reader participation and contributions.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, dated July 1983, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related phenomena, particularly those reported in France. The cover story, 'ALERTE AUX OVNI !', highlights sightings by inhabitants and gendarmes in Avon (Seine-et-Marne) and near Fontainebleau.

Reports of UFO Sightings

The magazine presents several detailed accounts of unidentified flying objects:

Avon and Fontainebleau Sightings

Residents and gendarmes in Avon reported seeing unidentified flying objects for two consecutive nights (July 15-16, 1983) above the forest of Fontainebleau. Gendarmes, using powerful binoculars, tracked the objects' movements at high altitude. The regularity of the appearances led to the dismissal of the balloon-sonde hypothesis. On the second night, July 16, the UFO was accompanied by a second object, moving in tandem.

Aveyron Sighting

On October 28, 1982, an object described as luminous and ovoid was reportedly seen by multiple people in the countryside of Aveyron, moving at high speed from southwest to northeast.

Mysterious 'Luminous Stick'

In January 1983, numerous gendarmeries in Western France were investigating reports of a mysterious 'luminous stick' object sighted between 8:05 and 8:10 AM. The phenomenon was observed by credible witnesses, and the GEPAN (Groupement d'études des phénomènes aérospatiaux non identifiés) was alerted. A dentist in Saint-Pois (La Manche) described seeing a burning object, red at one end and green at the other, descending vertically. Similar sightings were reported in Vendée, Loire-Atlantique, Maine-et-Loire, and Ille-et-Vilaine, with some witnesses describing a smaller object.

Haute-Marne Alleged Abduction

An inhabitant of Sommrecourt (Haute-Marne), Stefan GASPAROVIC, claimed to have been 'aspirated and transported' six kilometers by a luminous object on the night of July 17-18, 1983. He reported experiencing memory loss, vision problems, and bruises. He described seeing a glowing ball with a funnel-like shape and later felt a strong wind before being transported. His vehicle was found abandoned, door open, miles away.

Other Mentions

• A brief mention of a beige flying saucer sighted near Santiago, Chile, in 1979, with a humanoid figure.
• A report from the newspaper 'Républicain Lorrain' dated July 18, 1983, concerning the Avon sightings.
• An excerpt from 'La Montagne' dated October 30, 1982, about the 'luminous stick' phenomenon.
• An excerpt from 'La Montagne' dated January 27, 1983, also referencing the 'luminous stick'.
• A small advertisement seeking back issues of 'ECRAN FANTASTIQUE' and 'UFOLOGIA'.

Reader's Letter and Theories

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a letter from Madame Sabine VOLLMER, who responds to an article on ufology. She expresses her belief in the existence of UFOs and proposes personal theories:

• Materiality of UFOs: VOLLMER questions the materiality of 'flying saucers,' suggesting that what is perceived might be a 'cerebral impression' or a 'mode of unknown energy' that creates an illusion of reality.
• Memory and Genetics: She speculates about lost knowledge and genetic memory playing a role in our perception of phenomena.
• Energy and Waves: VOLLMER suggests that energies and waves might be lost in the atmosphere and then reconcentrate to project images or experiences, drawing parallels to dreams.
• Personal Experience: She recounts a dream from 1979 where she saw a beige flying saucer, which she later found a striking parallel to a reported sighting in Chile.

Broader Perspectives on Extraterrestrial Contact

The magazine also includes articles and reflections that broaden the discussion beyond simple UFO sightings:

• Historical Context: The issue references H.G. Wells' 'The War of the Worlds' to frame the historical context of extraterrestrial speculation, noting the shift from 'Selenites' to 'Extra-Terrestrials'.
• Francis Schaefer's Research: The work of Francis Schaefer on 'Science des Extra-Terrestres' is highlighted, praising his courage in exploring complex theories that go beyond simple explanations of alien visits.
• Aimé Michel's Ideas: The magazine expresses regret over the lack of current discussion on Aimé Michel's work, which emphasized an origin for UFOs that transcended human concepts and direct physical integration.
• Arthur C. Clarke's Views: Clarke's perspective from 'The Challenge of the Spaceship' is cited, suggesting that extraterrestrial visitors may have visited Earth numerous times throughout history.
• Alexandre Kazantsev's Hypothesis: Kazantsev is mentioned for his theories linking extraterrestrial visits to impressive archaeological vestiges, suggesting material intervention.
• Limitations of Human Senses: The article discusses the limitations of human senses (visual, infrared, ultraviolet) and the potential for future detection methods to supplement them.
• Mimicry Analogy: A fish shoal encountering a submarine is used as an analogy to explain how humans might perceive unknown phenomena, likening UFOs to an 'insolent whale' in the oceanic world.
• Silence of Space: The silence of space and its depths, as noted by Hubert Reeves, is mentioned as a source of inquiétude.
• Charles-Noël Martin's Inquiry: Martin's work on 'The Twenty Senses of Man Facing the Unknown' is referenced, particularly his chapter on life in space and the possibility of visits or colonization.
• Exobiological Research: The article suggests that research should move beyond 'flying saucers' towards exobiological research, focusing on less mutable terrains.
• Nomadic Extraterrestrials: The possibility of extraterrestrials being nomads in interstellar space, possessing technologies beyond human comprehension, is raised.

Organizations and Publications

• GESAG (Groupement pour l'Etude des Sciences d'Avant-Garde): Based in Bruges, Belgium, GESAG publishes a bulletin and can be contacted for information.
• GEPAN: The magazine notes that rumors of GEPAN's disappearance were unfounded but that the organization has undergone significant changes, including a change in director and integration into a CNES division, with a reduced staff.
• 'IDEES POUR TOUS': A publication from Anduze, France, offering a wide range of content, including news, opinions, and cultural exchanges.
• 'SCIENCE-FICTION' Magazine: A publication from Namur, Belgium, directed by Claude DUMONT, recommended for science fiction enthusiasts.

Historical Enigmas

• Toplitz Lake Legend: The article details the myth of Toplitz Lake in Austria, believed to be a hiding place for Nazi treasures. Research by the Max-Planck Institute has aimed to debunk this legend, finding no evidence of treasure but rather a unique underwater forest.
• The Death of Pope Jean-Paul I: The issue revisits the controversy surrounding the death of Pope Jean-Paul I, citing a Bulgarian publication ('POGLED') that questioned the official cause of death (heart attack) and alluded to potential poisoning. The article notes the Vatican's tradition of not performing autopsies on deceased popes and links the rumors to geopolitical tensions involving Bulgaria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the nature of extraterrestrial intelligence, and the limitations of human perception and scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging investigation into these phenomena while also presenting various theories and scientific perspectives. There is a clear emphasis on reporting witness accounts and exploring the psychological and philosophical implications of potential contact with non-human intelligence. The magazine also engages with historical mysteries and controversies, suggesting a broad interest in the unexplained.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, identified as issue number 21 and dated September 1978, is a French publication focusing on ufology, archaeology, parapsychology, and related phenomena. The cover prominently features an article titled "L'énigme sacrée : de sacrées hypothèses" (The Sacred Enigma: Sacred Hypotheses), suggesting a blend of religious, historical, and potentially controversial interpretations.

Article: The Sacred Enigma: Sacred Hypotheses

This extensive article explores the controversial hypothesis that Jesus Christ married Mary Magdalene and that their descendants, who allegedly fled to France, are linked to a 'sacred lineage.' This lineage is said to have influenced French history through figures like Clovis, Dagobert, and Godefroy de Bouillon, and is connected to secret societies such as the Cathars, Templars, Prieuré de Sion, Freemasons, and Rosicrucians. The authors, Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh, and Henry Lincoln, suggest that this lineage is the source of twelve prominent families, including the Habsburg-Lorraine and Luxembourg families. The hypothesis aims to explain obscure aspects of history and posits that the Prieuré de Sion, a powerful and well-resourced secret society, is working to reveal its objectives, which involve a descendant of Jesus.

The article acknowledges the potentially heretical nature of these claims, stating that a fully human Jesus might be more credible. It notes that the hypothesis has generated little media attention in France, possibly due to fear of controversy. The authors claim their conclusions form a 'highly plausible interpretation' of events that shaped Western consciousness and civilizations. The article details how the descendants of Jesus allegedly allied with the Merovingian royal line, and how subsequent dynasties, like the Carolingians, attempted to suppress this lineage. It also links the Grail romances and the Knights Templar to this narrative. By 1983, the article suggests, the Prieuré de Sion, comprised of influential members from diverse backgrounds, is actively pursuing its agenda, potentially through a descendant of Jesus.

Article: Rumors and Silences

This section addresses the authors' awareness of the potentially shocking nature of their 'Sacred Enigma' hypothesis. They believe that presenting Jesus as a fully human figure makes him more accessible and credible. They assert their intention was not to desecrate or diminish Jesus but to offer a new perspective. The authors are not accused of Machiavellianism, though they might have intended to create a literary or historical 'bomb.' The article mentions that the hypothesis was to be discussed on RTL on July 22nd.

Article: Waiting for Proof

This part highlights that the authors of 'The Sacred Enigma' cannot formally justify the veracity of their assertions. However, they are convinced that their conclusions weave a 'highly plausible interpretation' of events and individuals who marked Western consciousness and shaped cultures. The hypothesis suggests that Jesus' wife and children fled to France and joined a Jewish community. In the 5th century, their descendants allied with the Frankish royal line, leading to the Merovingian dynasty. After Dagobert's assassination, the Church supported the Carolingians, and efforts were made to eliminate Jesus' descendants, but in vain. The Carolingians legitimized their usurpation by marrying Merovingian princesses. Godefroy de Bouillon, an 'heir,' became king of Jerusalem in 1099. The Merovingians, once on the throne, encouraged allusions to their origins, explaining the Grail romances and their connection to the Knights Templar. The loss of the Holy Land in 1291 dashed their hopes, but over the centuries, the Merovingians attempted to reclaim their heritage through psychological manipulation, intrigues involving the Guise and Lorraine families, and dynastic alliances. In 1983, it is claimed that at least twelve families of Merovingian descent exist in England and Europe, including the Habsburg-Lorraine, Plantard de Saint-Clair, Luxembourg, Montesquiou, and Montpézat families. Their common link is the 'organism' of the Prieuré de Sion, a secret society with vast financial resources and influential members involved in global political, economic, artistic, and religious spheres. The article concludes that the time has come for the Prieuré de Sion to reveal its objectives, possessing a 'fabulous asset' and a 'unique heritage' – a descendant of Jesus – which needs to be proven.

Article: The 'Curse' of the Templars of Torchefélon

This article, extracted from "L'ALSACE" on May 29, 1983, discusses a series of misfortunes that befell three painters who attempted to organize a painting exhibition in a 11th-century Templar chapel in Torchefélon, Isère. Louis Chavrot, a decorator and landscape painter, conceived the idea. Shortly after preparing the site, Chavrot suffered a severe thigh injury, severing his femoral artery. His two friends, René Guignard and Pierre Faussard, also experienced serious health issues, including a high fever and severe financial problems, respectively. Faussard also suffered an eye infection of unknown origin. These incidents led the painters to cancel the exhibition, fearing a 'curse' or 'warning.'

A medium consulted by the locals suggested that the chapel is sacred and protected, and the misfortunes were a consequence of the 'mercantile' aspect of wanting to sell paintings there. The medium explained that the Templars imbued the chapel with their spirituality, and this accumulated energy could still affect those who desecrate the place. Historians note that the area is rich in Templar sites, considered miraculous springs, and megaliths. The Templars are believed to have been custodians of mysterious secrets inherited from the Druids and Benedictines, and are thought to have left esoteric messages in the region. The chapel, dedicated to Saint Roch, is located on a branch of a star whose center is in Morestel, a site with important Benedictine remains. The article concludes with the painters deciding to exhibit elsewhere, leaving behind only a sign stating the exhibition was canceled due to accidents and illnesses.

Article: Pope John Paul I and Patriarch Nikodim

This section recounts the events surrounding the election of Pope John Paul I on September 3, 1978, and his subsequent meeting with Patriarch Nikodim, head of the Orthodox Church in Moscow. Their cordial relationship was noted, but it tragically ended when Nikodim suffered a fatal attack while attempting to climb stairs after an elevator breakdown. Shortly thereafter, Pope John Paul I also died. The article highlights the extraordinary nature of these two deaths occurring so close together, likening it to a Shakespearean drama and noting that this 'unfortunate' September 1978 left a strong impression.

The rumor suggested that the long-standing project of rapprochement between the Vatican and the Orthodox Church had failed due to these disappearances. This project had been in preparation for fifteen years. The arrival of John Paul II, described as a Pole with a strong personality, was seen as detrimental to this policy, as he was reportedly allergic to such rapprochement. He was also surrounded by about fifty compatriots, some with known ties to the anti-Soviet faction of the North American Church, led by Cardinal Krol. Krol later defended Mgr Marcinkus, the Vatican banker accused of transferring money to Poland through the banks Sindona and Calvi. The article implies that John Paul II, as the former Archbishop of Venice, was aware of Mgr Marcinkus's imprudent dealings in 1978, and perhaps Nikodim had even informed him. The text suggests that enemies of the new Pope deliberately portrayed him as simple-minded and overwhelmed by his duties, implying a psychological plot. His sudden death is presented as something that cannot be explained further.

Other Sections and Advertisements

AGET-SERVICE: An advertisement for a service that claims to find the impossible, offering numerous unusual and marginal announcements. A specimen can be obtained for 6 French Francs in stamps from "UFOLOGIA."

LE GEOS: This section offers a series of 12-slide color presentations on "THE HISTORY OF FLYING SAUCERS" with explanatory notes. Eight series are available, covering topics like the mystery of Baian Kara Oula, UFOs over Nice in 1608, extraterrestrials, and photos of UFOs. Prices range from 45 Francs for one series to 320 Francs for eight series. Orders are to be sent to M. Gérard LEBAT (GEOS) in St-Denis-Les-Rebais, France.

"MESSIER" ASTRO-CLUB: An invitation for amateur astronomers in the Moselle region (and elsewhere) to contact this club. Correspondence should be addressed to M. Patrick ROTH in Forbach, France.

LA NOUVELLE ERE: Described as an unusual, original, and apolitical publication, it offers many interesting items. A specimen is sent free to readers of "UFOLOGIA" upon request to M. A. GASTEBOIX in Martel/Cazillac, France.

"BIBLIOMAX": This service offers books, periodicals, documents, postcards, history, literature, occultism, and curiosities. Information is available by sending a stamped envelope and mentioning "UFOLOGIA."

DES AUTEURS EDITEURS ENVAHISSENT LA DEFENSE: Announcement of the 3rd Salon du Livre et de la Presse Méconnue (Unknown Press) taking place on February 25-26, 1984, at Salle de la Coupole in Paris.

CFRU Subscription Information: The CFRU (Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques) will limit correspondence regarding subscription renewals due to financial reasons. A red dot on page 3 indicates the end of a subscription, which comprises four issues. Retroactive mailings are also included.

DOCUMENTATION BIBLIOGRAPHIQUE: A comprehensive list of books related to UFOs, extraterrestrials, and related subjects, with publisher information. The CFRU emphasizes that recommending these books does not imply full approval of their content and warns against unauthorized sales.

"FACETTES": A publication that connects researchers and curious individuals, covering topics like history, language, toponymy, sciences, biographies, sports, and bizarre subjects. It also features a bibliography of less common books and a chronicle of periodicals. It is stated to be the only review entirely written by its readers. A specimen is available upon request.

L'EDITION A COMPTE D'AUTEUR: A guide on self-publishing books, including novels, memoirs, regional history, and research. It aims to help authors avoid pitfalls, understand legal aspects, and present their manuscripts effectively.

CARTES POSTALES & COLLECTIONS: A periodical dedicated to the collection of postcards, both old and modern. It is sold in kiosks for 10 francs and offers classified ads, buying and selling opportunities, exchanges, exhibitions, club meetings, and diverse information. A specimen can be obtained by writing to C.P.C. BP N°15, 95220 HERBLAY.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFOLOGIA are the intersection of religion, history, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine explores controversial hypotheses that challenge conventional historical and religious narratives, such as the 'Sacred Enigma' and the alleged 'curse' of the Templars. There is a strong emphasis on ufology, with a dedicated section for bibliographic documentation on the subject and a practical checklist for UFO investigators. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unusual claims, presenting various perspectives and encouraging readers to explore these topics further, while also providing resources for deeper study. The inclusion of advertisements for related publications and services suggests a commitment to fostering a community of interest in these subjects.