Ufologie Contact - Series Nouvelle - No 01 - sept 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIE CONTACT
Issue: N°1, Nouvelle Série
Date: September 1979
Publisher: SPEPSE
Country: France
Price: 5 F.

This inaugural issue of UFOLOGIE CONTACT, a quarterly publication, sets the stage for a new series dedicated to ufology, astronomy, astronautics, and cosmology. The magazine is produced voluntarily by members and correspondents of SPEPSE, with a commitment to rigorous research and objective analysis.

Editorial Stance and Content

The editorial stance, as articulated by R. BONNAVENTURE, emphasizes caution regarding eyewitness testimony in the absence of irrefutable proof. The publication aims to move beyond mere speculation towards more scientific inquiry. Future issues will feature in-depth articles, some drawn from the ASTRO-UFO group's liaison bulletin, covering topics such as astronomy and cosmology.

Key Articles and Themes

"LE MESSAGE...POUR CONVAINCRE ?" by R. BONNAVENTURE

This editorial piece, likely by the publication director, sets a critical tone. It suggests that in the absence of irrefutable evidence, eyewitness accounts should be treated with caution. The author notes the difficulty in extracting reliable information from simple facts when testimonies may be imprecise or influenced by external factors. The piece concludes with a somewhat dramatic statement about truth being liberating but potentially disastrous.

"NOTE DE LA REDACTION"

This note clarifies the editorial direction for upcoming issues, stating a focus on in-depth articles concerning astronomy, astronautics, and cosmology, with some content sourced from the ASTRO-UFO group's liaison bulletin. It specifically mentions an article by J.C. THOREL on the "HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSE" and provides contact information for further details on the ASTRO-UFO group.

"LA PHOTOGRAPHIE EN UFOLOGIE" by Michel MONNERIE

This is a significant article detailing the challenges and methodologies of using photographic evidence in ufological investigations. Michel MONNERIE, a member of the reading committee, reflects on his ten years of experience in research-oriented ufology. He contrasts speculative ufology with a more objective, scientific approach, which includes photographic analysis.

Challenges with Existing Photographs:

• Inaccessibility: Most well-known UFO photos are difficult to analyze because original negatives or prints are rarely available, and re-investigation is often impossible.
• "Pious Images": These widely distributed photos are considered "pious images" for ufophiles, lacking sufficient detail for rigorous study.

Proposed Approach:

• Systematic Surveillance: The author aimed to encourage systematic sky surveillance.
• Investigating Recent Photos: The focus should be on recent, verifiable photographs obtained by chance or during systematic observation.

Discouraging Results:

Despite perseverance, systematic photographic surveillance has yielded few unusual results and is largely abandoned. Many photos are dismissed as confusions, photographic defects, or misinterpretations.

The Importance of Context and Rigor:

MONNERIE stresses that photographs, while seemingly powerful "proof," are often submitted with insufficient context. The "document" is treated as self-sufficient, but the accompanying report is frequently superficial. He argues that a photograph isolated from its context is meaningless. The analyst must consider it not as a depiction of known UFOs, but as a mystery within a mystery, a testimony within a testimony.

Triple Investigation Method:

MONNERIE proposes a three-part investigation process for cases involving photographs:

1. Visual Observation Investigation: This involves standard, rigorous investigative methods, focusing on obtaining objective, quantifiable data such as angles, positions, cardinal directions, times, and weather conditions. The investigator must acknowledge the inherent uncertainty in estimations versus measurements and report this clearly. An example is given of a witness indicating a direction without clear reference points, leading to significant azimutal uncertainty.
2. Investigation of the Photograph's Capture (Prise de Vue): This is an investigation within an investigation. It requires obtaining a detailed account from the witness of the photographic act: how it was done, where the witness was, changes in position, precise timings, what was seen in the viewfinder, and whether the capture was spontaneous or planned. For night shots, potential light sources need to be identified. The witness's technical proficiency, calmness, and photographic habits are also assessed.
3. Investigation of the Equipment (Matériel): This involves examining the camera used. Details such as make, model, type, format, purchase and manufacturing dates, lens characteristics (focal length, aperture), shutter speeds, and focus settings are crucial. Particular attention is paid to the settings used for each shot, especially shutter speed, aperture, and focus. The author warns against relying on witnesses who are either ignorant or overly knowledgeable and reconstruct details inaccurately. Special attention is given to basic camera models with limited settings.

The Cliché:

Investigators are urged to obtain the original negative or slide, along with paper prints, handling them with extreme care. Obtaining the entire film roll from which the photo was extracted can provide valuable context, revealing defects or mismaneuvers.

Paradox of Investigation:

MONNERIE concludes by highlighting a paradox: ufological investigations often become an end in themselves, with little follow-up or re-examination. He contrasts this with civil investigations (insurance, police), where re-examination is standard. He criticizes investigations that are merely formal, where the investigator is already convinced of the phenomenon's existence or easily persuaded by the witness, leading to a biased reporting of a narrative rather than objective analysis. He draws an analogy to a police investigation where the officer is pre-judging the suspect, which would be considered a miscarriage of justice.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for a scientific, evidence-based approach to ufology, emphasizing critical thinking, rigorous investigation, and the importance of context. It cautions against accepting testimony uncritically and highlights the limitations and challenges of photographic evidence. The publication positions itself as a platform for serious research, encouraging detailed analysis and discouraging superficiality. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a commitment to methodical inquiry.

This issue of Paris-Match, dated April 1979, includes articles on ufology, astronomy, and cosmology. The cover prominently features a headline about an alleged encounter with an extraterrestrial in Champmotteux on June 23, 1979, accompanied by a cartoonish illustration and a diagram of the solar system.

Ufological Investigation Critiques

The articles delve into the methodology and pitfalls of ufological investigations. A central theme is the critique of how 'unidentified' phenomena are often prematurely labeled as extraterrestrial or supernatural, rather than being thoroughly investigated. The author argues that the failure to identify a phenomenon is often misconstrued as proof of its mysterious or alien origin, leading to a 'paradox' where an investigative failure becomes a 'miracle.'

The Problem of Misidentification

A significant portion of the text addresses the issue of misidentification. It is argued that many reported UFO sightings are actually misidentified celestial objects, such as the moon, planets, or even aircraft. The magazine points out that investigators often fail to perform basic checks, like consulting astronomical calendars or considering the position of celestial bodies, leading to a high percentage of cases being filled with confusions. The astronomical environment is identified as the source of the majority of these confusions, yet it is rarely examined.

The Importance of Objective Evidence

The text emphasizes the critical role of photographic evidence in UFO investigations. Unlike subjective testimonies or memories, photographs are described as immutable, static, measurable, and analyzable. They provide an objective basis for investigation, allowing for careful examination, cross-analysis, and comparison with witness accounts to understand the modalities of an observation. Therefore, cases with photographic evidence are deemed particularly important and deserving of meticulous investigation.

The SPEPSE Experience

The issue recounts an experience of the SPEPSE group (a working group on Astronomy) during an observation night. The group, invited by M. Estival and Mme. Sagnes, was denied the status of neutral observers by a character who identified himself as a 'so-called medium' (later named as M. Lardy Daniel). This individual insisted that their presence would disrupt the experience and that they must either participate in groups or speak, not observe neutrally. The SPEPSE members were asked to leave the site, with the explanation that their presence might cause the experience to fail. They noted that the organizers seemed evasive when questioned about gendarmerie protection and the distance of their surveillance.

Later that night, the SPEPSE group returned to the site and found that the participants had already packed up, leaving only a stone structure. During their observation, they noted a high frequency of aircraft passing overhead (one every two minutes). They observed that these aircraft, especially at sunset, appeared as extremely bright luminous points due to the reflection of sunlight, which could easily be mistaken for UFOs by the uninitiated. The 'so-called medium' showed particular interest in one such aircraft.

Conclusions from the SPEPSE Experience

From this experience, several conclusions were drawn:

1. A large number of aircraft were observed passing over the site.
2. These aircraft, particularly at sunset, appeared as bright luminous points, potentially leading to misidentification as UFOs.
3. The participants seemed to be in a 'second state,' lacking free will and the ability to interpret phenomena correctly.
4. The 'so-called medium's' effectiveness was questioned, as he had to move closer to confirm their presence.
5. A key concern was that such individuals might use the presence of neutral observers as an excuse to explain away negative aspects of their 'experiences,' blaming external interference for any failures.

Astronomy and Cosmology

Beyond ufology, the magazine includes content on astronomy and cosmology. An emission titled "A la poursuite des étoiles" (In Pursuit of the Stars) is mentioned, featuring astrophysicists Jean-Claude Pecker, Jean Heidmann, and Hubert Reeves. This segment likely discussed the solar system, the Milky Way galaxy, and the broader universe, touching upon questions about the universe's origin, evolution, and its infinite nature. The text highlights that our understanding of the universe is limited by the instruments available and that humans are continuously seeking to extract information to form an image of the world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical analysis of ufological practices, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific methodology, objective evidence, and the avoidance of premature conclusions. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a strong advocacy for scientific rigor in investigating unexplained phenomena. The magazine promotes a rational approach, encouraging the use of astronomical knowledge to debunk common misidentifications and highlighting the importance of verifiable data, such as photographs, in the pursuit of truth.

Title: ASTRO-UFO
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Date: 1973

This issue of ASTRO-UFO magazine explores the evolution of our understanding of the Universe, from ancient cosmologies to modern astrophysical phenomena.

Historical Cosmological Models

The magazine begins by tracing the historical quest for understanding the Universe. Early civilizations like the Babylonians envisioned Earth at the center, with the heavens above and the underworld below. The Chinese conceived of the world as a vast chariot. The Greek astronomer Ptolemy, around 200 AD, developed the first comprehensive cosmology, placing a stationary Earth at the center with celestial bodies orbiting it. This geocentric model, though incorrect, dominated astronomical thought for fourteen centuries.

This view was challenged by Nicolaus Copernicus, who, in 1543, published his treatise proposing a heliocentric model where Earth and other planets orbit the Sun. This shift was based on earlier Greek ideas and contradicted prevailing observations.

The Expanding Universe and Extragalactic Discoveries

It was not until 1923 that astronomers, using powerful optical telescopes installed by Americans, proved the extragalactic nature of galaxies. This discovery significantly expanded our view of the Universe beyond our own Milky Way. Since then, advancements in instrumentation, including larger telescopes and radio telescopes, have been crucial for studying these distant objects and understanding the Universe as a whole.

Quasars: Mysteries of the Universe

A major focus of the issue is the study of quasars, discovered about a dozen years prior to publication. These are extremely luminous objects whose nature remains a mystery, posing profound questions for astronomers. The Mont Palomar Observatory, with its five-meter diameter telescope, has been instrumental in this research. Quasars are believed to be among the oldest objects in the Universe, existing perhaps nine billion years ago, during the early stages of cosmic expansion.

Research at Mont Palomar suggests that quasars are not uniformly distributed and are rapidly moving away from our galaxy. This observation supports the theory of a Universe that began with a gigantic explosion, causing all celestial objects to recede from each other at increasing speeds with distance.

Advanced Observatories and Telescopes

The magazine details several significant observatories and their capabilities:

• Mont Palomar Observatory (USA): Home to the second-largest telescope in the world, with a five-meter mirror, it is actively involved in studying quasars.
• Kit Peak Observatory (USA): Located near Tuckson, Arizona, this observatory houses a unique collection of ten telescopes, a powerful millimeter radio telescope, and specialized solar instruments. It has been operational since 1973 and contributes to the study of distant quasars.
• Mont Hopkins Observatory (USA): This observatory is developing a prototype for a new generation of telescopes using multiple mirrors. The Hopkins telescope, with six 1.8-meter mirrors, will form the third-largest telescope in the world, equivalent to a 4.3-meter telescope.
• European Southern Observatory (Chile): Features a 3.60-meter diameter telescope.

These observatories utilize advanced technology, including sophisticated computers and infrared observation techniques, to probe the distant Universe.

The Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation and the Big Bang

The issue discusses the discovery of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation, a faint radio wave signal originating from all directions in space. This radiation is believed to be the remnant of the initial expansion of the Universe, when it was extremely hot and dense. The discovery of the CMB in 1977 earned Arno A. Penzias and Robert W. Wilson the Nobel Prize.

This CMB radiation, observed at 3 Kelvin (-270°C), supports the Big Bang theory, which posits that the Universe began from a highly concentrated state and has been expanding and cooling ever since. The theory, first proposed by Georges Lemaître in 1927, suggests that the Universe originated from a primitive atom.

The Expanding Universe and Hubble's Law

Observations of galaxies show that they are receding from us, with their speed proportional to their distance. This relationship, known as Hubble's Law, is a key piece of evidence for the expansion of the Universe. The magazine illustrates this with the analogy of confetti on an inflating balloon, where the confetti pieces move further apart as the balloon expands.

Black Holes: Theoretical Concepts

The magazine also explores the theoretical concept of black holes, derived from Einstein's theory of relativity. A black hole forms when a massive object exhausts its nuclear fuel and collapses under its own gravity, becoming incredibly dense. This extreme density warps spacetime, preventing anything, including light, from escaping.

While black holes are theoretically unobservable directly, their presence might be inferred by observing the behavior of matter around them, such as the formation of a luminous disk as matter is drawn in. The article speculates that matter falling into a black hole could potentially lead to another parallel space.

Theories of the Universe's Fate

Several theories regarding the ultimate fate of the Universe are presented. One possibility is an 'accordion' Universe that cyclically contracts and expands without reaching infinite density. Another theory suggests an equal amount of matter and antimatter, though this is yet to be verified. The current understanding, based on Einstein's relativity, points to an expanding Universe that may have undergone a prior contraction phase before the Big Bang.

The Nature of Matter and Antimatter

The issue touches upon the concept of matter and antimatter. It is stated that our Earth and solar system are composed of matter. However, it is hypothesized that other galactic clusters might consist of antimatter, which would only be detectable through their emitted radiation. The definitive test would be to send a probe to such a cluster; an explosion would indicate the presence of antimatter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical development of cosmological thought, the ongoing exploration of the Universe through advanced technology, and the theoretical frameworks attempting to explain cosmic phenomena like quasars, the Big Bang, and black holes. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific curiosity and a commitment to presenting complex astronomical concepts to a broader audience, emphasizing the progress and remaining mysteries in our understanding of the cosmos.

This issue of "L'Étrange Univers" (The Strange Universe), dated September 1979, focuses on both cosmological theories and the activities of French ufological organizations. The cover prominently features the title "AU DELA DE NOTRE VOIE LACTEE" (Beyond Our Milky Way) and "Un etranger univers" (A Strange Universe), with author Jean Heidmann's name. The magazine is published by Hachette.

Cosmological Theories by Jean Heidmann

The issue presents excerpts from Jean Heidmann's work, exploring the concept of an expanding universe. Heidmann posits that if this expansion continues indefinitely, our galaxy will eventually become completely isolated. He also discusses two potential end scenarios for the universe: a 'cosmic cold death,' where all stars exhaust their nuclear fuel and the universe grows cold and dark, or a 'Big Crunch,' where the universe recontracts, leading to extreme temperatures that would break down atoms and eliminate all traces of life.

Ufological Organizations and Activities

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the activities and communications of various French ufological groups, primarily SPEPSE (Société Parisienne d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux et Stranges) and ASTRO-UFO.

SPEPSE Activities

The issue reports on the formation of ASCRIU (Association Suisse de Coordination et de Recherche Ufologique) on April 21, 1979. SPEPSE was invited to a series of commented slide shows by the Cosmos Club de France, covering topics like Jupiter, Soviet astronautics, and the detection of exoplanets. A report on the inaugural meeting of the ASTRO-UFO group on May 19, 1979, is also included. A survey published in "Le Pèlerin" on June 3, 1979, regarding UFOs (S.V.) and conducted by SOFRES, is mentioned. A succinct report from the SPEPSE General Assembly on June 9, 1979, notes an improvement in response rates to convocations but a low participation in the assembly itself. The administrative report for 1978/79 is referenced. Future conferences are planned, including one by SPEPSE on October 26th. The administration is preparing membership cards for January 1980 and an increase in the entry fee to 20 F. A revision of statutes is also planned to position the association as a cultural, amateur research organization.

CECRU and Inter-Group Relations

A letter from SPEPSE to CECRU members expresses satisfaction with the 5th CECRU session in Nîmes but urges better use of administrative commission time and adherence to the agreement protocol. SPEPSE also reminds CECRU members about the commitment to establish a file of specialists by group, noting that only CEMOCPI has complied so far.

DETECTUFO and Project MAGONIA

J.P. Frambourg, responsible for DETECTUFO, discusses the future development of SPEPSE towards amateur research in various disciplines, including the study of UFO phenomena. He proposes creating a 'Robotics' group to study the computer-individual system. Frambourg's communication reflects on the challenges of maintaining an association focused solely on UFOs, suggesting a broader cultural scope to attract more members and resources. He highlights the potential benefits of collaboration with other cultural and scientific associations and the possibility of securing financial aid.

MARINUFO and Research

G. Richard, responsible for MARINUFO, reports progress and requests reproductions of a questionnaire for the civil and military marine. He is also involved in the CECRU Investigation Commission and is planning to create a "UFO 3" club within his company.

Parapsychology

L. Istival wishes to pursue a dynamic study of the phenomenon, employing provocation and creation of UFO phenomena, with seemingly promising results.

ASTRO-UFO and Observation

On July 21, 1979, ASTRO-UFO organized an evening to foster better acquaintance among SPEPSE members and to initiate astronomical observation. Despite cloudy skies preventing telescope use, attendees enjoyed a barbecue and listened to explanations about telescope operation. The event was held at Pontchartrain.

Other Mentions

The issue also mentions the publication of "Notre Ufologie-Contact Spécial nº 2" concerning GEPAN circulars. The renewal of the Directional Coordinating Committee for 1979/80 is listed, with key roles assigned to members from SPEPSE, ASTRO-UFO, DETECTUFO, and Recherche Thématique.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and objective approach to ufology, while also acknowledging the need for broader cultural engagement and collaboration. There's a clear emphasis on the administrative and organizational aspects of these groups, including membership, funding, and inter-group relations. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging active participation, rigorous research, and a forward-looking perspective on the study of unexplained phenomena, whether cosmic or terrestrial.

Title: Ufologie-Spécial
Issue: 3
Date: Summer 1979 (été 79)
Language: French

This issue of Ufologie-Spécial focuses on interviews with authors and provides extensive listings of ufological publications and organizations. It aims to foster intellectual development through the study of applied sciences, particularly space phenomena, and to investigate the reality of these events.

Key Features and Articles

Interviews and Books

The issue announces that Ufologie-Spécial nº 3 will feature interviews with four members: Michel MONNERIE regarding his book "Le Naufrage des Extra-Terrestres"; BARTHEL and BRUCKER concerning their book "La grande peur martienne"; and PINVIDIC about his book "OVNI : un fantastique noeud Gordien".

Scientific Perspectives on OVNIS

"LA RECHERCHE", a monthly review from the Société d'Editions Scientifiques, published an article in its Summer 1979 issue (nº 102) titled "les scientifiques et les OVNIS" (scientists and UFOs). The article concludes with a thought-provoking question: "...aurons-nous un jour un Jean-Baptiste BIOT des S.V. ?..." to encourage the scientific community to accept the reality of UFOs (S.V. - Soucoupes Volantes).

Events and Activities

• October 1-15, 1979: An animation event was held at the Venoix neighborhood center in CAEN, themed "unidentified aerospace phenomena".
• October 27-28, 1979: The 6th session of the CECRU, supported by GREPO, took place at the Centre Barbieré in AVIGNON.

Library and Documentation

Readers are directed to contact the headquarters of SPEPSE (Société Parisienne d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux et Etranges) for information on documents, bulletins, and reviews. SPEPSE is described as a non-profit, apolitical, and non-denominational amateur research organization.

Documents Available:

• ENERGIE: Information on classical, nuclear, and new energies can be obtained by contacting BUREF at the Centre d'Information sur l'énergie in Paris La Défense. This includes details on energy needs, resources, conservation, power lines, new energies, nuclear energy, radioactivity, and the psychology and sociology of nuclear applications.
• GIPAN: A brochure from GIPAN (Groupe d'Etude et d'Information sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés) is mentioned, with its full text published in "UFOLOGIE CONTACT" nº 2.
• LETTRE: A letter from astronaut Gordon COOPER to the ambassador of Grenada, dated November 9, 1978.
• PROTOCOLE: An agreement protocol from ASCRU (Association Suisse de Coordination et de Recherche Ufologique).

Directory of Ufological Publications and Organizations

The magazine provides an extensive list of bulletins and reviews related to ufology, along with their editorial addresses and contact information. This directory is intended to be part of a chronological index of articles published in 1979. Some of the listed publications include:

• Bulletin trimestriel de l'AESV (Aix-en-Provence)
• APORCHE (Toulon)
• ASTRO UFO (Villepreux)
• COSMOS MAGAZINE (Brussels)
• FSPACE INFORMATIONS (Toulouse)
• LIS EXTRATERRESTRES (Rebais)
• GANYMEDE (Bièrgès, Belgium)
• G.U.B. BULLETIN (La Tour de Trême, Switzerland)
• GEPAN INFORMATIONS (Saint Symphorien de Lay)
• L'INCONNU (Paris)
• INFO-OVNI (Montluçon)
• KRUPTOS (Caluire)
• LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT (Le Chambon-sur-Lignon)
• NOSTRA (Paris)
• OVNI 43 (Le Puy)
• OVNI INFO 34 (Montpellier)
• PANORAMA UFO (GoZZano, Italy)
• Le PHENOMENE OVNI (Chambéry)
• REALITE OU FICTION (Nancy)
• La RIVUE DES SOLCOUPES VOLANTES (La Valette du Var)
• RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES (Lesthem)
• UFOLOGIE CONTACT et N° SPECIAUX (Rly-le-Roi)
• UFO-QUEBEC (Dollard des Ormeaux, Canada)
• UFOLOGIA (Forbach Cedex)
• VALCLLEE UFOLOGIE (Lyon)

An index of these reviews, covering the year 1979, is planned for publication at the end of December in UFOLOGIE CONTACT SPECIAL. Researchers and associations interested in this document are asked to notify the editors to ensure sufficient print run.

SPEPSE Organization Details

The issue also provides details about SPEPSE, including its headquarters at Domaine de Montval, 6 allée Sisley, 78160 Marly-le-Roi. It lists the Bureau members: Michel MONNERIE (President), Raymond BONNAVENTURE (Secretary), and Pascal MONTREUIL (Treasurer). It also outlines the structure of their working groups, including Investigation, Astro UFO, Detect UFO, Robotique, Documentation, Recherche Thématique, Projet MAGONIA, and Section MARINUFO, with contact persons and phone numbers for each.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the promotion of ufological research, the dissemination of information through publications and interviews, and the encouragement of scientific inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance is one of active engagement in the study of UFOs, aiming to bring scientific rigor and community awareness to the subject. The extensive directory of publications suggests a commitment to connecting researchers and providing resources for the ufological community.