Ufologie Contact - Series Nouvelle - No 02 - janv 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIE CONTACT
Issue: N° 2
Date: January 1980
Type: Quarterly Bulletin
Price: 5 F.

This issue of UFOLOGIE CONTACT, published by SPEPSE, is a French-language bulletin dedicated to the study of ufology. It presents itself as a platform for information, research, and the sharing of ideas related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena.

Editorial Stance and Content

The editorial, titled "LE MESSAGE...POUR CONVAINCRE ?" (The Message...To Convince?), written by R. BONNAVENTURE, addresses the importance of critical and contradictory analysis in scientific research. It warns against systematic denigration of colleagues' work, often disguised as appeals to reason or open-mindedness, but which can devolve into gratuitous polemics. The publication, through SPEPSE, upholds the principle of freedom of expression for its members, provided that contributions are reasonable, honest, rigorous, and non-aggressive, reflecting an "ELEVATION D'ESPRIT" (elevation of spirit) conducive to fruitful debate.

The main article, "LA PHOTOGRAPHIE INFRA-ROUGE ET L'UFOLOGIE" (Infrared Photography and Ufology), authored by M. MONNERIE, delves into the technical aspects and applications of infrared photography in the context of UAP investigations. It begins by explaining the electromagnetic spectrum, the nature of light, and the concept of wavelengths, relating them to visible colors and extending into the invisible infrared (I.R.) and ultraviolet ranges. The article clarifies that I.R. is a form of energy emitted or reflected by objects, and while invisible to the human eye, it can be captured by specialized photographic films.

The article discusses the properties of near-infrared radiation, noting its ability to penetrate certain materials like textiles and skin, which poses challenges for photographic equipment construction. It highlights that I.R. photography can be particularly useful in aerial photography, revealing ground details obscured by haze, and in studying the reflectivity and transparency of objects. The author also touches upon the use of I.R. for discreet surveillance and for analyzing the energy output of light sources.

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to the application of I.R. photography in analyzing UAP traces. It debunks the notion of I.R. as a "miracle" technique for UFOs, explaining that the enhanced contrast observed in I.R. photos of traces is primarily due to the differential reflection of solar I.R. by organic matter (e.g., trampled or dry grass) compared to its surroundings. This contrast can be striking in I.R. but barely perceptible visually.

The article then presents a detailed case study of a photograph taken on August 1, 1979, depicting an oblique rectilinear trace with three dots. The analysis meticulously examines the photographic data, including film characteristics, exposure time, lens used (400mm telephoto at f/3.3), and potential light leaks. It systematically rules out common explanations like stars or planets due to the trace's length relative to the exposure time and Earth's rotation. Possible explanations considered include artificial satellites, aircraft, meteors (bolides), or photographic artifacts. The author concludes that the object, though unidentified, is not necessarily an unknown or hypothetical entity, as several known models are compatible with the photographic evidence and the accompanying report.

The author, M. MONNERIE, recommends that Ufologists familiarize themselves with I.R. techniques for photographing traces and encourages members to conduct and document their own experiments. A call is made for participants to submit detailed reports and photographs, including comparative shots on ordinary film, to build a comprehensive catalog of I.R. applications in ufology.

Subscription and Administration Details

The bulletin outlines two subscription formulas: "UFOLOGIE CONTACT" (4 issues per year) and "UFOLOGIE CONTACT SPECIAL" (3 issues per year), both priced at 15.00 F. The subscription period begins on January 1st of the current year. Contact information for subscriptions and administration is provided, including the Director of Publication, R. BONNAVENTURE, and the editorial committee members M. MONNERIE, J. SCORNAUX, and Th. PINVIDIC. The publication is printed and edited by SPEPSE.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific methodology applied to ufological research, the practical application of specialized photographic techniques like infrared, and the critical analysis of evidence. The editorial stance emphasizes rigorous, evidence-based investigation, cautioning against sensationalism and promoting a spirit of open yet critical inquiry. The publication aims to provide a serious platform for ufological study, encouraging collaboration and the sharing of technical expertise among its readership.

This issue of 'Passeport pour Utopia' features two main articles: one detailing a controversial UFO psychic provocation event and the other analyzing the political coup in Grenada. The magazine is dated May 12, 1979, and is published by 'LE MONDE'.

UFO Psychic Provocation Experiment in Champmotteux

The article by Thierry Pinvidic, from the 'Section Recherche Thématique', critically examines an event that took place on the night of June 23-24, 1979, in Champmotteux, France. The event, organized by Monsieur Estival of SPEPSE, involved a 'psychic provocation' aimed at eliciting UFO phenomena. Pinvidic, invited to observe, expresses skepticism about the methodology from the outset, stating his intention to form an objective opinion on the methods employed rather than solely expecting to see a UFO.

Jean-Pierre Frambourg of DETECTUFO/SPEPSE raised concerns about detecting 'provoked' UFOs, noting that the intention to detect seemed to hinder the phenomena during previous provocation sessions. Monsieur Estival agreed to Frambourg's participation, with the condition that he not inform the organizers of his presence to avoid disruption.

Pinvidic recounts his arrival and the initial program, which included Pierre Vieroudy and detection by Jean-Pierre Frambourg. He notes that participants were expected to comply with the medium's methodology, which he found potentially arbitrary. Despite his reservations about the 'psychic provocation' method, he considered the idea a voluntary research approach.

However, the experience was immediately disrupted by Madame Frédérique Sagnes, who threatened to halt the experiment if Pinvidic and other SPEPSE members (Pascal Montreil, Jean-Claude Thorel, René Kielwasser) did not leave. Sagnes believed they were 'pro-rationalists' who did not believe in the work and intended to discredit it. Pinvidic asserts he came with an open mind and solely to observe the methods and discuss methodology with Pierre Vieroudy.

Forced to leave, Pinvidic and Montreil departed to avoid further disrupting the event, which had attracted participants from GENPI. Pinvidic felt that their exclusion was based on their affiliation with SPEPSE, which was considered 'pro-rationalist'.

He criticizes the organization for the choice of location, the presence of 'conditioned' individuals, and the systematic exclusion of critical observers. He describes the event's methodology as 'abusive,' citing elements like Nazca drawings and symbolic 'initiation tests.' Pinvidic concludes that the event was a 'masquerade' designed to prevent criticism and that the organizers were 'fanatical believers' with a 'pathological attitude.' He states that the experience illuminated the 'disruptive role of bad faith in research.'

In a 'NOTA' section, Pinvidic clarifies that his critique is specific to the Champmotteux experience and not to all UFO research, acknowledging that other researchers have integrity. He hopes French ufology will better define the limitations of interpreting 'psi' phenomena. He questions whether an indubitable observation during such a session confirms a 'psi' nature of UFOs or merely a 'psi' phenomenon during provocation, emphasizing the need for clear evidence.

Grenada: After the Coup d'Etat of March 13th

This section, attributed to 'LAN HAMEL', details the political upheaval in Grenada following a coup d'état on March 13, 1979, which brought Maurice Bishop, a lawyer, to power. The article contrasts the new regime with the previous one led by Sir Eric Gairy, described as a 'despot and a madman.'

Sir Eric Gairy, a former union leader, had ruled Grenada for many years, fostering a personality cult and implementing repressive measures, including a private militia. He was accused of transforming the island into an 'enfer' (hell) for its population, suppressing opposition, and even allegedly ordering the killing of Rupert Bishop, Maurice Bishop's father.

The article notes that Grenada's independence from Great Britain was granted in 1974, but the economic situation had deteriorated since then. Maurice Bishop accused the CIA of seeking to destabilize his government through campaigns to discourage tourism and sabotage.

The new government, composed of seven members, describes itself as socialist but non-Marxist, aiming for dignity, democracy, and economic independence. They have taken steps such as lowering the price of rice and planning to implement equal pay for men and women, and general elections.

The article also touches upon Gairy's eccentricities, including his interest in occult sciences and UFOs, and his alleged attempts to have the UN establish an organization for the study of unidentified flying objects.

Recent Information by T. Pinvidic

This section, dated December 13, 1979, by Thierry Pinvidic, discusses the aftermath of the Grenadian coup and its potential implications for UFO research at the UN level.

Pinvidic notes that the new Grenadian government has not placed UFOs on the UN agenda. He recounts a meeting in New York where he, along with other ufologists and journalists, questioned Lee Spiegel, who was tasked with an information mission to the UN's Bureau of Space Affairs. Spiegel confirmed that his mission was ongoing despite the coup and expressed interest in receiving reports from GLPAN to aid his work.

However, Pinvidic expresses doubt about the mission's success in achieving international control over UFOs, citing the 'pro-American' stance of the UN. He mentions that only Luxembourg has responded to the UN's request for information on UFOs.

He anticipates that debates in the British House of Lords in January 1980 might lead to a more concerted effort, potentially with the UK government pushing for international control of UFO issues through the UN, possibly with the support of Prince Phillip.

Despite these possibilities, Pinvidic acknowledges that diplomatic maneuvers have historically hindered such control at the UN. He speculates on the reasons behind Gairy's downfall and questions whether the 'New Jewel' movement (Bishop's party) will advance UFO issues, or if the situation will be forgotten. He also raises the possibility of CIA involvement in the Grenadian revolution, suggesting it might have been aimed at countering efforts related to UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue exhibits a critical and skeptical stance towards paranormal phenomena, particularly UFOs, emphasizing the need for rigorous methodology and objective analysis. The article on the Champmotteux event strongly criticizes flawed research practices and potential deception. The coverage of the Grenadian coup, while informative, also hints at underlying political machinations and the potential for hidden agendas. The overall editorial stance appears to favor rational inquiry and a cautious approach to extraordinary claims, whether in ufology or politics.

Title: S.P.E.P.S.E.
Date: July 1, 1901 (founding date)
Character: This document is not a magazine issue in the traditional sense but rather an informational leaflet or charter for the S.P.E.P.S.E. organization.

S.P.E.P.S.E. - Organization Charter

The document introduces the S.P.E.P.S.E. (Société Parisienne d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux et Etranges), defining it as a Parisian Society for the Study of Space and Strange Phenomena. It is described as an amateur research organization with no commercial, political, or confessional aims, established under French law (law of July 1, 1901, and decree of August 16, 1901).

Aspirations

The organization's aspirations are twofold:
1. To develop and enrich intellectual faculties through the study and practice of experimental sciences, with a particular focus on space.
2. To study the manifestation of space and strange phenomena and to prove the reality or non-existence of such events.

Operational Structure

Siege Social (Headquarters):
S.P.E.P.S.E.
Domaine de Montval
6, allée Sisley
78160 MARLY-LE-ROI
Tel. 958.98.09 (after 8 PM)

• Bureau (Executive Board):
• President: Michel MONNERIE
• Secretary: Raymond BONNAVENTURE
• Treasurer: Pascal MONTREUIL

Groupes de Travail (Working Groups):

The organization is structured into several working groups:

• Investigation: This group operates a telephone alert network for the Île-de-France region and surrounding areas.
• Contact: J.C. THOREL, 5 square de l'Hébergerie, 78450 VILLEPREUX, Tel. 462.35.91

• Astro UFO:
• Contact: R. KIELWASSER, 21 rue Letort, 75018 PARIS, Tel. 251.25.36

• Detect UFO:
• Contact: J.P. FRAMBOURG, 22 rue d'Estienne d'Orves, 94240 L'HAY LES ROSES, Tel. 660.94.77

• Robotique:
• Contact: J.P. FRAMBOURG, 22 rue d'Estienne d'Orves, 94240 L'HAY LES ROSES, Tel. 660.94.77

• Documentation:
• Contact: L. DEMEILLIERS, 3 rue de la Solidarité, 92120 MONT ROUGE, Tel. 654.03.45

• Recherche Thématique (Thematic Research):
• Projet MAGONIA: Contact: P. MONTREUIL, 21 rue Elias Howe, 94100 StMAUR, Tel. 283.39.23
• Section MARINUFO: Contact: T. PINVIDIC, 7 hameau Florida, 91800 BRUNOY, Tel. 046.80.89

• Operationnel Public (Public Relations):
• Contact: G. RICHARD, Résidence la Croix du Sud, 5 allée R.Garros, 94150 CHEVILLY-LARUE, Tel. 664.46.79
• Contact: Y. LACHERE, 28 allée de l'ersépolis "BOIS PERSAN", 91400 ORSAY, Tel. 928-57-90

Information Request

A post-scriptum (P.S.) notes that any information requests should be made in writing, and a stamped envelope must be included for the response.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The document's stance is purely informational, outlining the structure, goals, and contacts of the S.P.E.P.S.E. organization. It emphasizes a scientific and experimental approach to studying space and strange phenomena, aiming for intellectual development and objective investigation. The themes revolve around UFO research, paranormal investigation, and scientific inquiry into unexplained events, particularly within the French context.