UFOmania - No 22 - 1998 12

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: 22
Date: December 1998
Publisher: UFOmania
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1254-5112
Price: 25 Francs

UFOmania is a quarterly publication dedicated to readers passionate about UFO phenomena and related mysteries. Its primary objective is to present an independent overview of research conducted in recent weeks, focusing on testimonies and press articles.

Editorial

The editorial section, titled "Editorial," begins with a quote from OURANOS n°9 (1973) suggesting that theatrical apparitions might be clever maneuvers to distract from the real issue. The editor, Didier Gomez, welcomes readers to the new year 1999, highlighting the magazine's new color cover, which was a market-driven decision without increasing the subscription price. He solicits feedback from ufologists on this change. The editorial announces that this issue revisits two well-known French UFO cases: the RR4 of Maurice Masse in Valensole (July 1, 1965) and the observation by two children near Cussac in Cantal (August 29, 1967). These cases, featuring humanoid apparitions with physical effects like paralysis or ocular disturbances, are presented as the first part of a dossier that will span several issues. The goal is to analyze the fundamental aspects of close encounters to better understand the UFO phenomenon and its interactions with our environment. The editorial also poses questions about the nature of UFOs, the significance of humanoid beings, and the rarity of such encounters today. It mentions that the magazine is using extensive documentation to support its analysis and aims to identify points for further research. Additionally, it announces a contest where readers can win an official UFOmania T-shirt by answering a quiz on page 28, with a supplementary question for tie-breaking. The T-shirt will also be available for purchase at 80 Francs, with three designs planned (Valensole, Cussac, and Roswell).

Dossier Spécial: Cussac and Valensole

Cussac (August 29, 1967)

This section details the Cussac case, described as one of the most astonishing French observations from 1967, a year rich in close encounters. The case involves two children, François Delpeuch (13) and his sister Anne-Marie (9), who were in a pasture near Cussac when they observed a sphere approximately two meters in diameter. They also saw what they initially perceived as four small "devils" or "children." One of these figures was bent over an object on the ground, while another held an instrument resembling a mirror. These figures, described as entirely black with strange faces, hovered around the sphere before it ascended with a soft whistling sound and an odor of sulfur. The children's dog, Médor, barked at the object. The sphere, described as extremely brilliant and difficult to look at, had no visible opening. One of the small beings was seen to be examining something on the ground, while another waved an object like a mirror. The sphere then ascended, and the figures re-entered it. The children experienced a feeling of paralysis. The object's landing gear, described as three or four straight "crutches," was noticed by Anne-Marie, but not by François.

The report notes that the children did not seem embarrassed when questioned, indicating they were recounting genuine experiences. The text also references a similar testimony from Manuel Silva E Souza in Brazil in 1971, who saw a being and a luminous oval object. The article highlights the similarity between these accounts and older folklore about fairies and lutins, suggesting a recurring theme of non-human beings with supernatural powers.

Valensole (July 1, 1965)

This section recounts the Valensole case, where farmer Maurice Masse encountered a UFO on July 1, 1965, around 5:45 AM in his lavender field. He had noticed damage to his lavender plants for several nights. Upon hearing an unusual whistling sound, he investigated and found a UFO, described as having the shape of an overturned rugby ball, about 2 to 2.5 meters in diameter, with a matte, silver-like color. It was supported by six legs and a central pivot, resembling a "monstrous spider." Two humanoid beings, about 1 to 1.20 meters tall, were seen near the object. One was facing away from Masse, and the other faced him. They appeared to be looking at a lavender plant. When Masse approached, the being facing him gestured, and both beings straightened up. Masse felt completely paralyzed and unable to move. He observed one being place a tube-like object into a case on its right side. The beings seemed to be discussing something, and Masse noticed their eyes moving and heard a gargling sound. He noted that their heads seemed sunken into their shoulders and that they appeared to be mocking him, though their gaze was not malicious. After a few minutes, the beings re-entered the UFO. The object took off with a whistling sound and an odor of sulfur, causing the cows in a nearby field to become agitated. Masse reported that the UFO ascended obliquely, faster than a jet plane. He also noted that the ground was damp, with a 1.20-meter diameter depression and a central cylindrical hole. Four shallow grooves were also observed. Following the encounter, Masse experienced prolonged sleepiness and premonitory dreams.

The article also mentions an investigation by magistrate Maître Chautard, who concluded that Masse's testimony was credible. Masse's farm was known for its lavender distillery, and he had no prior interest in UFOs. His family corroborated his account. The text notes that lavender planted on the site of the landing remained dead for ten years.

Observations Récentes

This section, along with "Observations Récentes (suite)" and "OVNI FORUM par Pascal Pautrot," likely covers recent UFO sightings and discussions within the ufology community. Specific details are not provided in the scanned pages, but it indicates ongoing reports and analysis.

Les Ovnis sur le Net

This article discusses the presence and impact of UFO phenomena on the internet, suggesting a growing online community and information exchange related to sightings and research.

Retour à Voreppe

This likely refers to a specific UFO case or event that occurred in Voreppe, France, and is being revisited or analyzed in this issue.

Citations à méditer longuement

This section presents quotes or reflections intended to provoke thought on the broader implications of UFO phenomena.

Quizz UFOmania

As mentioned in the editorial, this section features a quiz related to UFOs, with the prize being a UFOmania T-shirt. The quiz is on page 28.

Courrier des lecteurs

This is the letters to the editor section, where readers can share their thoughts, experiences, and opinions.

Bulletin d'abonnement (Subscription Form)

This section provides details for subscribing to UFOmania, including prices for France (100 Francs for 4 issues), the European Union (140 Francs), and other countries (180 Francs). Payments should be made to Didier GOMEZ. It also specifies that subscriptions can start from any issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are undoubtedly close encounters of the third kind, humanoid sightings, and detailed case analysis. The magazine's stance appears to be one of serious, independent investigation, aiming to present factual accounts and encourage critical thinking about the UFO phenomenon. It emphasizes the importance of analyzing specific details within testimonies and exploring the potential implications of these encounters for our understanding of humanity and the universe. The editorial also shows a commitment to improving the magazine's presentation and engaging its readership through features like quizzes and reader mail.

This issue of UFOmania, number 22, published around September 1998, focuses on recent UFO sightings and analyses, with a particular emphasis on events in France and China.

Un OVNI vu par des gendarmes en Seine-Maritime

This section details an observation on Friday night, September 18, 1998, above the Seine estuary between Le Havre and Honfleur. Gendarmes and police reported seeing a luminous object moving slowly, composed of a luminous disk and three luminous points. Initially, the object was identified by SEPRA as Jupiter and its three satellites. However, this conclusion is met with skepticism by UFOCOM's scientific coordinator, Fabrice, who points out that Jupiter's satellites are not visible to the naked eye. The article questions whether these were artificial satellites placed in orbit or a misidentification, highlighting the potential for human error in such observations.

Observations récentes

Un OVNI dans le ciel normand

This report from Paris Normandie on October 2, 1998, discusses a sighting in Cléon. An inhabitant of Saint-Valéry-en-Caux observed a white, oval-shaped object with luminous lights on the night of August 1998. The object moved slowly at an altitude of approximately 300 meters. The witness described it as having a mushroom-shaped dome and a flat bottom with rotating lights. The report notes that over twenty-five OVNI observations have been reported in Normandy since August, with CUFOHN calling for witnesses. The article also mentions a sighting by an inhabitant of Hérouville-Saint-Clair who saw about fifty white, spherical objects.

Un habitant de Fragnes témoigne

This article from October 1998 recounts the testimony of Bernard Moreau, a quality technician from Kodak, who claims to have seen an OVNI on a Thursday evening in Fragnes, near Chalon. Moreau, described as rational, observed three lights moving in formation from North-East to South-West. He described them as moving at high speed without noise, and not resembling aircraft. His account is compared to a similar observation made by witnesses in the Ardennes. Moreau has filed a detailed report with the Chalon gendarmes.

A St-Symphorien-de-Marmagne aussi

This section reports on two adolescents who observed an unidentified flying object on the night of August 10-11, 1998, in St-Symphorien-de-Marmagne. They described it as a fireball larger than a star, moving horizontally and leaving a luminous trail. A similar phenomenon was observed in Blanzy at the same time.

Un pilote de la Force Aérienne Chinoise prend un Ovni en chasse

This article, sourced from AFP and translated from English, details an event reported by the Chinese government-controlled newspaper Hebei Daily on November 5, 1998. On October 19, 1998, four radars detected an unknown moving target near a military training base in Changzhou. The object, initially appearing as a small star, grew larger and descended. It was described as having a mushroom-shaped dome and a flat bottom with rotating lights. A Chinese Air Force Jianjiao-6 interceptor was dispatched. The pilots described the object as resembling those in science fiction films. When they approached within 4,000 meters, the object rapidly ascended and evaded the fighter jet, seemingly playing a game of cat and mouse. A request to fire on the object was denied. The interceptor eventually returned to base due to low fuel, and the OVNI disappeared before two other aircraft could reach the area. The report notes that such sightings are rarely published by official Chinese newspapers.

OVNI FILME A KUNNING, CHINE

This report from SIGHTINGS describes an OVNI filmed on October 3, 1998, in Kunming, China, by Han. The object was filmed for nearly three minutes and was described as constantly transforming and emitting dazzling lights. It appeared in various forms, including a flaming ball and five diamonds in formation.

Les OVNIS sur le Net

This section provides a list of websites for those interested in ufology, encouraging readers to contact the magazine with any known sites.

ETERNEL DIFFUSION

This advertisement promotes ETERNEL DIFFUSION, a distributor of OVNI-related videos, books, and merchandise. They offer a wide selection of imported and domestic materials, with special advantages for members, including discounts and priority information on new releases. They also offer a 'Carte Privilège' for enthusiasts.

UFO CRASH LANDING? Friend or foe?

This section reviews Jenny Randles' new book, which details the complete history of the Rendlesham Forest incident of December 26, 1980. The book is described as an essential work for ufologists, providing a comprehensive compilation of data on one of the most documented cases in Great Britain.

EPISTEMOLOGIE DU PHENOMENE OVNIEN OU CINQUANTE ANS DE DÉNI SCIENTIFIQUE

This mentions a book by Jacques Costagliola that examines the scientific study of UFO phenomena, arguing that the diagnostic preceded the amateur investigation. The author, initially skeptical, is now convinced of the physical reality of the phenomenon and discusses scientific approaches, historical commissions (Sign, Grudge, Blue Book), and waves of sightings in France and Belgium.

LDLN DÉMÉNAGE

This announces that 'Lumières Dans La Nuit', the oldest ufology magazine (41 years old), has changed its format to A4 and now offers 40 pages per issue.

LE FANZINE DE TOUTES LES TENDANCES UFOLOGIQUES

This reviews 'UFOLOG n°5', a fanzine described as equivocal but full of interesting UFO-related affairs and disputes. It highlights articles by Jean Sider and Michel Picard, and mentions a catalog for finding articles and a list of books available from AZTEC bookstore.

ATTENTION ÇÀ BRÛLE !

This reviews the first issue of 'Dossier Brûlant', an 80-page magazine. While acknowledging its good intentions, the review criticizes some editorial weaknesses and a lack of depth. It covers topics like X-Files, Men-In-Black, mutilations, and abductions. The review finds the price high compared to other publications and expresses hope for a more thorough second issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers recent UFO sightings, witness testimonies, and attempts at scientific or rational explanations. There is a recurring theme of questioning official explanations and highlighting the skepticism of some authorities versus the conviction of witnesses and ufologists. The magazine also explores the idea that UFO phenomena adapt to cultural and technological contexts, as suggested by the analysis of the Maurice Masse sighting. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, encouraging witness participation and providing information on related publications and resources.

Title: UFOmania
Issue: n°22
Date: 1998

This issue of UFOmania, a French ufology magazine, covers a range of topics from specific sightings to broader discussions on the nature and implications of UFO phenomena. It includes articles on alleged extraterrestrial signals, local UFO cases, book reviews, and opinion pieces from various figures in the ufology community.

The Bonaventure Affair

The issue begins with an account of the Bonaventure affair, which occurred on November 9, 1990, in Montréal, Canada. Approximately a dozen witnesses reported seeing a strange phenomenon in the sky. The article highlights the testimony of photographer Marcel Laroche, who captured the event on film, and Albert Sterling, deputy director of security, who described the object as unlike anything he had ever seen. Witnesses described seeing six lights forming a circle with rays projected outwards. People at the Bonaventure hotel pool also observed the object, with a lifeguard alerting security. Even the arriving police officers were reportedly stunned, with one exclaiming "sacram...!" Another witness from the hotel described a large light forming a circle with very luminous beams, and the object was visible for several hours, moving at a very low speed, making identification impossible. The case is noted as remaining unexplained.

Extraterrestrial Signal or X-Files Episode?

This section discusses the scientific community's reaction to a signal allegedly detected by British amateur astronomer Paul Dore, believed to be of extraterrestrial origin from the EQ Pegase system. The signal was reportedly captured with a small radio-telescope and distributed to observatories for analysis. While some astronomers remain skeptical, suggesting human interference or a satellite signal (like Project 415), Dore claims to have been visited by three men who told him this. The SETI program is awaiting confirmation with more sensitive instruments. The article also touches upon rumors of a conspiracy, with Dore allegedly signing a document preventing him from disclosing further details.

UFOLOGIE Québec Website

UFOLOGIE Québec is introduced as a new and friendly website that aims to develop over time, covering topics such as observations, the role of the CIA, and space archaeology, with a focus on TOP SECRET affairs.

The Voreppe Case: Contradictory Information on a Dubious or Exceptional Case?

This lengthy article scrutinizes the Voreppe UFO case, which was initially presented by Jean-Jacques Vélasco as exceptional. However, subsequent information from the CNES (French National Centre for Space Studies) suggested it was a simple case of misidentification involving a balloon shaped like an animal. The author expresses skepticism about the six-day delay in the CNES's explanation, questioning the competence of French ufologists in analyzing cases and suggesting potential government interference or control over information dissemination. The article highlights the discrepancy between the initial excitement and the mundane explanation, and questions why the witnesses (three adults and a child) would mistake a balloon for a UFO, especially when filming it. It also brings up the issue of burn marks on a cherry tree, which were not addressed in the CNES's explanation. The author draws a parallel to the U.S. Air Force's explanation of the Roswell incident as a Mogul balloon project, suggesting a similar attempt by French authorities to dismiss UFO reports. The possibility of an unknown military prototype is also considered.

"A UFO in the Garden..."

This section reports on the Voreppe incident, where a family claimed to have seen an imposing metallic sphere hovering over a neighbor's cherry tree on a Sunday evening. The article cites "Le Dauphiné" newspaper and mentions that gendarmes were alerted and collected witness testimonies. The CNES confirmed the case was "very interesting" and that their specialists analyzed video footage and collected samples. The object was described as a spherical, metallic, and incandescent object about five to seven meters in diameter, which rose into the air and disappeared towards Vercors. The neighbor, Mme Brun, humorously noted that her cherry tree was examined by scientists. The article concludes that the scientific investigation is ongoing and that it's too early to draw conclusions.

"It Wasn't a UFO."

This article provides the official conclusion from the CNES regarding the Voreppe incident. The experts stated that the particular observation conditions (setting sun, very light wind) led to the misidentification of the object. The SEPRA (Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes de Rentrée Atmosphérique) identified the "UFO" as a helium balloon, about one meter in diameter, representing an animal. The article notes that the CNES has recorded nearly 3200 testimonies since 1977, with only a few undergoing complementary investigation.

ISERE: MISCELLANEOUS NEWS

This brief news item states that the Centre for Spatial Studies in Toulouse (CNES) is taking the UFO phenomenon very seriously.

Some Quotes

The magazine includes a collection of quotes from various figures in the ufology field:

• J. Allen Hynek: Discusses the enigmatic nature of abduction cases and the mystery surrounding their purpose.
• Jacques Vallée: Emphasizes the need to study the repercussions of UFO phenomena on humans and to analyze landing traces, conduct interviews, and scrutinize the sky with various instruments.
• Hilory Evans: Poses the question of why certain individuals are targeted for encounters and suggests that understanding the encounter might be easier if it were proven to be specific to a certain type of individual.
• Kenneth Ring: Speculates whether NDEs (Near-Death Experiences) and UFO encounters are expressions of a common source aiming to awaken humanity to a truth it desperately needs.
• Jean Cocteau: Describes UFOs as mysterious, existing in a mythical twilight zone between the physical and psychic, and between reality and fiction.
• Tony Nugent: Views UFOs as a phenomenon that challenges our ways of seeing and understanding, existing in a twilight zone between the physical and psychic, reality and fiction.
• Thomas E. Bullard: Highlights the importance of studying abductees as individuals to understand the common predispositions and repercussions of their experiences.
• Dalila & Gérard Lemaire: Propose that UFO phenomena imitate Marian apparitions rather than the other way around.
• Didier Gomez: Suggests observing what the phenomenon provokes in individuals rather than solely focusing on explaining witness descriptions.
• John A. Keel: Notes that many who achieve sufficient understanding of the phenomenon abandon the subject due to the difficulty of communicating their findings.
• Whitley Strieber: Suspects that the cause of UFO-related disturbances is external but adopts a hallucinatory form modulated by ambient culture, possibly orchestrated by an intelligence.
• Jean-François Boédec: Advocates for placing UFO observations within a coherent framework to determine the link between the phenomenon and humanity, suggesting that understanding humans may be a prerequisite to understanding UFOs.
• Bob Pratt: States that the UFO phenomenon has a disturbing side.

A Long Meditation

This section presents further reflections on UFO phenomena, including:

• Thomas E. Bullard: Discusses the study of abduction cases, emphasizing the need to understand the psychological profiles of abductees.
• Dalila & Gérard Lemaire: Argue that UFO phenomena mimic Marian apparitions to be believed.
• Didier Gomez: Encourages focusing on the effects of UFO phenomena on individuals rather than trying to explain their descriptions.
• John A. Keel: Observes that many who gain deep insight into the phenomenon abandon the subject due to the difficulty of conveying their findings.
• Whitley Strieber: Suggests that UFO phenomena might be external disturbances that manifest in a hallucinatory form, possibly influenced by an intelligence.
• Jean-François Boédec: Stresses the importance of understanding the link between UFOs and humanity, suggesting that understanding humans might be key to understanding UFOs.
• Bob Pratt: Acknowledges the unsettling aspects of the UFO phenomenon.

Book Review: "Les Ovnis : une menace pour l'humanité?" by Richard D. Nolane

This review discusses Richard D. Nolane's book, which explores the possibility that UFOs could be a threat to humanity. The author cites examples of UFOs causing fatal accidents, burns, and irradiation. The book is presented as a reflection on the dangerous nature of these manifestations for both physical and mental integrity. Nolane's work is influenced by researchers like Bob Pratt, Jorge Martin, Timothy Good, and Jacques Vallée, and it highlights the negative aspects of the UFO phenomenon, particularly in Brazil. The review notes that Nolane's analysis of the works of others leads him to strong presumptions about the threat posed by UFOs. The author of the review agrees with Nolane that the UFO phenomenon is negative, but disagrees with his potential conflation of UFOs with Marian apparitions, suggesting these are opposing forces of good and evil.

Book Review: "Collection LES ESSENTIELS n°88 - éditions MILAN 1998"

This review describes a small booklet from the "Les Essentiels" collection, published by Milan, which provides a concise overview of the world of ufology. At 63 pages and costing 20 francs, it is presented as a useful primer for newcomers to the subject. The booklet aims to serve as an introduction to the UFO problem for the uninitiated, offering a brief history of the phenomenon and its major lines of development. It is described as well-documented and includes humorous drawings on each page.

Book Review: "Je te dis que j'ai vu un OVVNNII..."

This is a brief mention of a book, possibly related to the "Les Essentiels" collection, with a title that translates to "I tell you I saw a UFO...".

UFOmania Quiz

The magazine includes a quiz with eight questions related to UFO history, famous cases, and key figures in ufology. Participants are asked to send their answers by February 15, 1999, to win a UFOmania tee-shirt. A subsidiary question asks for the exact number of UFOmania subscribers as of January 1, 1999.

Sondage (Survey)

Readers are invited to reserve a tee-shirt featuring an image related to the Valensole case (July 1, 1965). The magazine is soliciting interest for a group order and estimates the price for subscribers to be around 80 FF. Other designs are also possible if there is sufficient interest.

TOP 10

This section presents a new rubric that tests the popularity of books on the UFO subject. The editorial team's unanimous selection for this quarter comprises the most essential books that have marked French ufological literature. The list includes:

1. *Le diabolique secret des O.V.N.I.* by J-M Lesage (1995)
2. *Les apparitions OVNI* (Vols I, II, III) by Lob & Gigi (1979)
3. *Sont-ils déjà là?* by Gildas Bourdais (1995)
4. *Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes* by Group. LDLN
5. *Le grand Cannage* by Michel Gnangen
6. *Dossier Extraterrestre* by John E. Mack (1997)
7. *OVNIs du Cotentir* by Philippe Le Barillier
8. *OVNI en Ardennes* by Jean-Michel Ligeron
9. *Fantastiques Rencontres du bout du monde* by éditions Le Signon - J-F Boëdec
10. *Vague d'OVNI SUR la Belgique 1 & 2* by Sobeps

Readers are encouraged to express their own views on what constitutes the "Top of ufology in France."

Reader's Mail

This section features a letter from Thierry Van De Leur of Strasbourg, who inquires why UFO magazines have not covered the discovery of a monumental humanoid head sculpture on the Moon, reportedly found by Egyptologist Guy Gruais. The letter details the risks Gruais took in revealing this information and mentions that the French government (through the R.G.) is aware of the head's existence. Only the German magazine MAG 2000 is credited with publishing photos. The writer expresses frustration that such a significant discovery has been met with indifference, questioning why information needs to come from the USA to be taken seriously. The letter also raises questions about who created the sculptures, when they were erected, and their intended message, given their immense size (5,000-10,000 m² each). The writer suggests that NASA is aware of the sculptures, especially after the Clementine mission's lunar mapping, and questions why this information has been suppressed. The letter concludes by urging ufology group leaders and journalists to explain their silence on this matter.

A Strange Monumental Sculpture on the Moon

This article elaborates on the discovery mentioned in the reader's letter. It states that in 1997, at the request of Patrice Roger, head of the Sentinelle group, Guy Gruais analyzed images from the Apollo 16 mission taken in April 1972. Using his Paris laboratory, Gruais, a former head of IBM Europe's photo department, enhanced the images, revealing numerous "anomalous" sites suggesting mining activity on the Moon. These include squared craters, symmetrical structures, and modules excavating holes at regular intervals. The article notes that Gruais's findings were made possible by his expertise in image analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFOmania revolve around the investigation of UFO sightings, the analysis of potential extraterrestrial signals, and the critical examination of official explanations and potential government cover-ups. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages critical thinking and a thorough investigation of the UFO phenomenon, while also acknowledging its more unsettling and potentially dangerous aspects. There is a clear interest in exploring cases that challenge conventional explanations and in providing a platform for diverse viewpoints within the ufology community. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, urging readers to question, investigate, and contribute to the understanding of these phenomena. The inclusion of a quiz, a 'Top 10' book list, and reader mail further emphasizes the magazine's engagement with its audience and its commitment to fostering discussion within the ufology field.

Title: UFOmania
Issue: n°22
Date: January 4, 1999
Publisher: UFOmania
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of UFOmania delves into a significant and controversial discovery on the Moon, alongside discussions on the future of ufological publications and a network of research correspondents.

Lunar Anomaly: The Humanoid Head

The central piece of this issue revolves around a discovery made by Guy Gruais. While examining enlarged photographs of the Moon, Gruais claims to have found a structure on the lunar surface that clearly depicts a humanoid head, with characteristics attributed to a 'Grey alien'. The article notes that these images, while striking, are difficult to reproduce clearly on photocopies, with photo n° 72H-1.1.1.3 being cited as the most revealing. Gruais suggests this anomaly is located in an area of the Moon not easily visible from Earth to astronomers, on the left crown of our natural satellite. He also mentions discovering another site nearby that appears to be under construction, raising questions about whether it's a construction site or a remnant of a past structure.

The discovery is presented with a photograph of the enlarged structure, prompting questions about its authenticity and potential implications. The article poses rhetorical questions, such as whether NASA can reasonably deny its existence, and references the 'conspiracy theorist' viewpoint that 'They are hiding everything from us, telling us nothing!'

Reader Correspondence and Editorial Response

A reader, Thierry Van De Leur, writing on January 4, 1999, shares his thoughts on the lunar discovery. He recounts attending a slide show on lunar cliché analysis presented on March 12, 1998, where Guy Gruais presented his findings. The presentation was attended by notable figures like Jimmy Guieu and George C. Andrews. Van De Leur also points out a curious anagram formed by 'Groupe Sentinelle' which is 'Lune porte le signe' (Moon carries the sign). He further highlights the coincidences surrounding the discovery date of March 6, 1998: it was the same day NASA announced the discovery of water ice on the Moon, it was the 6th day of the month, the 66th day of the year (at midnight), and 666 days before January 1, 2000.

The editorial response, addressed to 'Cher Didier', acknowledges the reader's letter and the extraordinary nature of the information. The editor expresses the need for extreme vigilance when dealing with such extraordinary claims, emphasizing that the full context and accuracy of the photos are not yet fully understood. The editor also notes that there is no direct link established with the UFO phenomenon and that, until proven otherwise, there is no formal indication that the phenomenon is extraterrestrial. The editor suggests contacting Guy Gruais directly for more explanations and expresses personal skepticism about a direct link to UFO phenomena, while admitting this is a personal opinion.

Proposal for a National Ufological Review

In a separate section, a correspondent named 'Didier' proposes the creation of a national, inter-associative ufological review. This review would be published annually or semi-annually and made available in kiosks. The goal would be to unite various ufological associations, pool budgetary funds for the creation of this national publication, and inform the general public about the activities of often anonymous private associations. The review would aim to provide an annual report on French ufological research and present recent observation cases.

The correspondent emphasizes the importance of countering disinformation spread by the media, as regularly pointed out by Joël Mesnard. The success of such a project would require broad participation, financial support, and contributions from individuals for article creation. It would necessitate a spirit of solidarity and complementarity among different groups. The primary practical objective would be to gain public attention and be distributed widely.

Editorial Realism and Independence

The editor responds to the proposal for a national review with a mix of encouragement and realism. While acknowledging the laudable nature of the desire to create such a publication, the editor deems the project 'utopian'. The editor points out that it would require significant financial resources, which are often beyond the means of ufological groups, unlike large publishers like Marshall Cavendish who operate for profit. UFOmania, the editor states, remains independent in all aspects and wishes well for the realization of this dream, implying it is a long-held aspiration.

Other Content

The issue also features a section titled 'L'EURE DESOVNIS' (The Hour of UFOs), detailing investigations and testimonies from an evening on November 5, 1990, at 7:00 PM. This section is available through Osmondes, located at 44 rue Eugène Carrière, 75018 Paris.

Additionally, the magazine includes a directory of correspondents across various regions of France (Normandy, Paris Region, Champagne-Ardenne, Midi-Pyrénées, Grenoble Region) and Luxembourg, along with contact details and email addresses. This network is presented as being 'Adapted to your requirements'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unexplained phenomena, particularly those observed in space (the Moon), and the challenges of disseminating information within the ufological community. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, acknowledging extraordinary claims but emphasizing the need for rigorous verification and a critical approach. The magazine champions independence and expresses a desire for greater public awareness of ufology while remaining pragmatic about the logistical and financial hurdles involved in large-scale publications. The editorial team also highlights the importance of countering misinformation and fostering collaboration among researchers.