UFOmania - No 23-24 - 1999

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: 23/24 DOUBLE
Date: Second semester 1999
Price: 25 Francs
Country: France

This issue of UFOmania, a French ufological publication, focuses on recent UFO observations, a special dossier on a classic case, and a discussion of animal mutilations, alongside a report on UFOs and defense.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Editorial," discusses the long wait for this double issue (numbers 23 and 24), which combines the March and June publications due to a problematic computer failure and a move. The editor, Didier GOMEZ, apologizes for the delay and explains that they preferred to present a comprehensive double issue rather than a rushed single one. He announces that the next issue (25-26) is expected by early December. The editorial also highlights the magazine's ongoing 'flash-back' series on well-documented French UFO cases, focusing this time on the Marius Dewilde encounter in Quarouble in September 1954. The editor emphasizes the importance of studying such cases for a better understanding of the UFO phenomenon, noting that while the case is old, it offers essential elements for reflection. He thanks the subscribers for their patience and contributions, mentioning the expansion of the correspondent network to cover the Languedoc region. GOMEZ reiterates UFOmania's commitment to being an informal relay for enthusiasts and stresses that the magazine is produced in their free time, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining publication schedules.

Key Articles and Features

The Marius Dewilde Case: Confronted with the Extraordinary

This extensive dossier reconstructs the famous 1954 encounter of Marius Dewilde, a railway worker from Quarouble, France. The incident, which occurred on September 10, 1954, at 10:30 PM, began with his dog barking unusually. Dewilde investigated and saw a dark mass on the railway tracks. He described being enveloped by a light ray that paralyzed him, preventing him from moving or crying out. He observed beings through a gallery around the object. The article notes that this case was highly publicized at the time and is considered a significant event that triggered a wave of UFO sightings in France that autumn. The case is presented as a crucial link in understanding the Martian sequence of the 1950s. The text explores the psychological impact of such encounters on individuals, suggesting that the beings might operate on a different dimensional plane. The narrative details Dewilde's experience of being immobilized and unable to react, likening it to a test designed to observe human reactions to the unexplained. The article also touches upon the 'burlesque' aspect of the encounter, with the beings using a 'green ray' and a 'lamp' that was not lit. A photograph shows Marius Dewilde explaining his observation to the gendarmerie and journalists.

Other Observations and Cases

• "Dicen que tomaron fotos de un OVNI" (They say they took photos of a UFO): This section reports on a family in Resistencia, Argentina, who claim to have captured an image of a UFO during their vacation. The object is described as metallic and in an inclined position.
• "De nouvelles observations" (New Observations): This brief mention indicates new observations from Argentina and Italy.
• "Les OVNIS & LES ALIENS INVADENT LE NET" (UFOs & Aliens Invade the Net): This suggests a discussion about UFOs and aliens on the internet.
• "QUAROUBLE: 10 septembre 1954": This is a subheading related to the Marius Dewilde case, detailing the date and time of the encounter.

Animal Mutilations: The Dolphins, New Victims of Extraterrestrials?

This article investigates the phenomenon of animal mutilations, specifically focusing on dolphins found dead with suspicious wounds along the Mediterranean coast, particularly in Banyuls-sur-mer. The author, Jean-Luc Noguera, questions whether extraterrestrials are responsible for these acts and if they pose a danger to humans. The article notes that dolphins possess a large brain and complex communication systems using ultrasounds. It highlights a specific incident on February 20, 1998, where the 20th mutilated dolphin was found. A curious detail mentioned is a 'hole' or mark on the animals, suggesting a mysterious cause. The article suggests that while the phenomenon is complex, it might be linked to extraterrestrial activity, drawing parallels to bovine mutilations in the United States.

UFO Forum: Recent Ufological News

This section likely provides updates on recent UFO-related news and events.

"Le meilleur et le pire" by Michel Granger

This appears to be a review or commentary by Michel Granger on UFO-related topics.

Publications & Lectures of the Semester

This section lists relevant publications and lectures from the period.

UFOs on the Net

This section likely discusses UFO-related content and discussions found on the internet.

Letters from Readers

This section features correspondence from the magazine's readers.

VSD "Hors-Série": "What Should We Prepare For?"

This article discusses a special issue of the magazine VSD, which is dedicated to a report compiled by a scientific study committee (COMETA) for the French Prime Minister and Head of State. The report, authored by military personnel, scientists, and French defense and intelligence figures, aims to address the issue of UFOs seriously. The article highlights that the report complements existing data from private ufology and aims to alert the public to the significance of the UFO phenomenon. It mentions that the COMETA committee includes notable figures such as Christian Marchai, Michel Algrin, General Denis Letty, Admiral Marc Merlo, Alain Orszag, Professor André Lebeau, and General Bernard Norlain. The article notes that while the report may not contain entirely new information for seasoned ufologists, its strength lies in the credibility of its authors. It also mentions a case from 1995 in Bariloche, Argentina, which was covered by UFOCOM. A key quote from the report is highlighted: "The UFO phenomenon concerns Defense in the broadest sense and calls for a certain number of measures that we will examine in a final part: [...] - a reflection on the strategic, political, and religious consequences that an eventual confirmation of the extraterrestrial hypothesis would entail, to which the bizarre connotation must now be removed."

The article also touches upon the sociologist Pierre Lagrange, whose work is apparently not well-regarded by COMETA. It suggests that the VSD report is a challenge to American authorities and that French individualities are questioning Lagrange's 'reductive' approach. The author expresses hope that the report will encourage more open-mindedness towards the UFO phenomenon and potentially lead to greater scientific and governmental engagement.

References and Bibliography

• This section lists several references related to the Marius Dewilde case and UFOs in general, including:
• "OVNI: Le premier dossier complet des rencontres rapprochées" by Figuet & Ruchon.
• "Contacts du 4ème type" by Pierre Delval.
• "La nouvelle vague des soucoupes volantes" by Jean-Claude Bourret.
• "Ne résistez pas aux extraterrestres" by Marius Dewilde & Roger-Luc Mary.
• "Le diabolique secret des O.V.N.I" by J.M Lesage, C.E OURANOS.
• "Les soucoupes volantes: Le grand Refus ?" by the G.A.B.R.I.E.L team, edited by Michel Moutet.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

UFOmania consistently focuses on UFO sightings, encounters, and the broader implications of the phenomenon, including potential extraterrestrial contact and its connection to defense and scientific inquiry. The magazine aims to provide a platform for detailed case studies, such as the Marius Dewilde incident, and to explore controversial topics like animal mutilations. There is a clear stance in favor of seriously investigating UFOs, moving beyond dismissive explanations, and encouraging a more open and scientific approach from both the public and authorities. The publication emphasizes its role in compiling and disseminating information from various sources, including witness testimonies, research reports, and media coverage, while acknowledging its production in the authors' free time and the challenges involved.

Title: UFOmania
Issue: n°23-24
Publisher: UFOmania Languedoc-Roussillon
Country: France
Language: French

Dauphins échoués: Mystère et incohérences

This article investigates the phenomenon of stranded dolphins, particularly focusing on the mysterious wounds found on their bodies. While some attribute these to diseases like Morbillivirus or natural causes, the article explores more unusual hypotheses. Fishermen deny attacking the dolphins, and the precision required for such injuries suggests professional skill. The idea of dolphins being suicidal or killing each other is dismissed as unlikely. A more intriguing theory suggests they are victims of explosions from implants when exceeding a certain perimeter, possibly linked to military experiments, as seen in cases in the Mediterranean.

Ufologists draw parallels between these dolphin mutilations and the well-documented cases of cattle mutilation, suggesting a potential extraterrestrial connection. The article notes that in early 1998, 13 dolphins of the blue-white species washed ashore with similar mutilations, and in 1997, three more were found. The characteristic hole found under the throat of the dolphins is highlighted as a significant detail, with no advanced explanation yet provided by scientists. The article also touches upon the 'mad cow' disease and the 1954 wave of sightings that preceded manned space flights, linking these to the broader UFO phenomenon.

Further details reveal that in 1973, about thirty dolphins beached themselves on the Mediterranean coast. In 1996, a strange injury was reported at Canet Plage, along with eight other cases in Agde and Palavas. The mutilations are often associated with UFOs or extraterrestrials. The article mentions cases in Trigance, Var, where between 1992 and 1994, over 100 cattle and sheep were found with identical holes in their throats, similar to those found on dolphins. The presence of circular incisions near the jaw and burns on the dolphins' bodies are also noted, with scientists attributing them to high temperatures, despite the incidents occurring in winter.

Official scientific investigations have so far failed to provide convincing answers. The article invites readers to search for possible links between mutilations and the behavior of living beings, suggesting a need for deeper investigation into the animals' lives and potential signs that could be useful to 'aggressors'. A quote from Jean-François Boédec's book "Fantastiques rencontres au bout du monde" emphasizes the importance of understanding humanity's place in the universe through the study of phenomena like UFOs.

UFOs in Argentina: New Observations

The region of Buenos Aires recorded the highest number of known UFO cases in Argentina. In 1998, UFO sightings increased by over 22% compared to 1997, with Buenos Aires province accounting for 37% of all reported cases. The Argentine UFO Network (RAO), established in 1991, reported a total of 87 sightings in 1998. The year with the highest activity in the last decade was 1994, with 140 cases. A consistent pattern, termed 'hourly law,' shows a majority of sightings occurring between 7 PM and 8 PM, followed by early morning hours.

Buenos Aires province led with 33 'approved' sightings, followed by Cordoba (14 cases), La Pampa (12 cases), Santa Cruz, and Rio Negro (4 cases each). The article also mentions a specific incident in Resistencia where a family claims to have photographed a UFO while on vacation in Capilla Del Monte. The photograph, taken by engineer Luis Cotichello, revealed a metallic object in a tilted position, resembling a UFO.

UFOs in Italy: New Observations

Several UFO sightings were reported in Italy between late 1998 and early 1999. On December 26, 1998, a large UFO, described as a 'mother ship' and 'flying cigar,' was observed over Merlengo, near Bolzano, remaining stationary at an altitude of 2500 meters before disappearing. On December 21, 1998, a bright disc was seen in Stra, near Padova, described as a circular object with its own lights, which moved slowly before accelerating.

In early 1999, a black discoidal object, about 10 meters in diameter, was observed flying over Cava dei Tirreni. On January 11, 1999, a fireball crossed the sky over Bologna. On January 18, 1999, a luminous object was seen in Trescastagni, Sicily, described as having three lights or a fuzzy cloud, moving in a zigzag pattern at high speed. These reports are attributed to Peter Gersten of CAUS and local sources.

SETI: The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence at Home

This section discusses the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) project, focusing on its evolution and the involvement of amateurs. The SETI project, initially launched by NASA in 1992, aimed to detect artificial signals from extraterrestrial civilizations. However, budget cuts led to its privatization. The SETT League, founded in 1994, aims to democratize SETI research by allowing amateurs to participate using affordable equipment. The project 'Argus,' launched in 1996, seeks to mobilize volunteers worldwide to coordinate SETI research, with the goal of establishing 5000 amateur listening stations by 2001.

The article highlights the frustration of potentially having detected signals that are then lost due to the lack of personnel to analyze the data. The SETT League offers a way for individuals to contribute by providing software and data processing tools. The article mentions that a radio amateur reported capturing a distinct signal from the constellation of Pegasus in October, but this announcement did not initially provoke a significant reaction.

Other Sections

• Left at East Gate: A CD-ROM about the Rendlesham Forest incident in England is announced.
• Ça bouge à ANNECY: Introduction of ARPE, an association dedicated to researching extraterrestrial presence.
• Un coup de PUB: A humorous mention of a UFO sighting over Lorraine.
• GOLDEN BOOKS: An advertisement for books on UFOs and extraterrestrials.
• LE COURRIER UFOLOGIQUE: A section featuring a forum with various ufological discussions, including a critique of the magazine UFOLOG and its content.
• DREAMLAND: A mention of a new X-Files video about Area 51.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, particularly UFO phenomena and related mysteries such as animal mutilations. There's a strong emphasis on presenting alternative theories and encouraging reader participation in research. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and critical of purely conventional scientific explanations when evidence suggests otherwise. The magazine promotes ufology as a field worthy of serious investigation, often highlighting the limitations of official responses and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries through unconventional means.

UFOmania issue n°23-24, published in 1999, is a French magazine dedicated to the study of UFOs and related phenomena. This issue covers a range of topics, including specific sighting reports, book and website reviews, and discussions on the scientific and skeptical approaches to ufology.

Article: The Pegasus Signal

The issue details an incident where a radio amateur claimed to have detected a signal from the Pegasus system on October 26 and 27. The signal was reportedly at 1453.827 megahertz with a Doppler shift of +/- 200 Hertz. However, the copied signals, particularly the background noise, were so similar that they fostered skepticism. The discoverer, initially identified as Paul Dore or John Doe, had also informed the BBC. The signal was visualized on the web, sparking a debate, notably when Art Bell, host of the American show "Coast to Coast," featured the information. Richard Hoagland suggested the signal might originate from a spacecraft from Pegasus, explaining the Doppler shift by its considerable speed. The article notes that a student from the University of Montana considered Pegasus an unlikely location for intelligent life, describing it as a double star system of red dwarfs (M4 and M6), making a Earth-like planet improbable due to the youth of the stars. A professional from the BETA project (official SETT) reported detecting nothing from Pegasus with the Oak Ridge Observatory antenna. Professor Nathan Cohen of Boston University suggested it was a deception, arguing the signal was not within the required bandwidth for a "polychromatic" SETT signal, and if a signal was received, it was likely from a terrestrial satellite. The confirmation of the signal detection by the Max Planck Institute for Radioastronomy in Bonn, via the Effelsberg Radio Observatory, was never received.

Article: The 'Aveyronnais UFO'

This section reports on an unexplained aerial phenomenon observed on January 6, 1999, near Campagnac, on the border of Aveyron and Lozère, France. Patrick D., a 46-year-old ambulance driver, filmed a massive, luminous, ovoïde object with at least three superimposed colors: white, orange, and dark. The object remained immobile for twenty minutes. Bruno Bousquet, an investigator for SOS-Ovni, stated that after five months, they were unable to pronounce on the nature of the object, deeming it a "flying object unidentified." He ruled out weather balloons, as none were launched in the area at that time, and the French Air Force denied any exercises in the vicinity. The immobility of the object for twenty minutes also ruled out an aircraft. Two other witnesses from Millau and Laissac also reported seeing a similar object. Bousquet concluded that all plausible explanations were abandoned, and they could not provide a logical, rational explanation for the observation. He believes other witnesses may have seen the event but are hesitant to come forward.

Book Review: 'Mystery Stalks the Prairie'

The magazine reviews the book "Mystery Stalks the Prairie" by Roberta Donovan and Keith Wolverton, published in 1976. The book focuses on the phenomenon of animal mutilations, particularly in Montana between August 1974 and May 1976. The authors present cases based on reports from the sheriff's office of Cascade County, Montana. The book aims to inform the American public about these events and suggests that some people know the truth but remain silent. It also includes other related events, such as sightings of unidentified helicopters and strange human-like creatures observed near mutilations. The review highlights that the book does not claim to provide a definitive conclusion but aims to shed light on the connection between UFO sightings and mutilations. The review notes the difficulty in finding the book, especially in French, and praises its detailed approach.

Book Review: 'Les OVNIS et autres Objets Volants'

This review discusses the book "Les OVNIS et autres Objets Volants" by Sabine Delmarti, published in late 1998 by De Vecchi. The book is described as a historical overview of the UFO phenomenon, attempting to answer questions with known hypotheses. The reviewer notes that while the term OVNI (UFO) is considered imprecise, it encompasses various unexplained phenomena. The book aims to distinguish between UFOs and Flying Saucers for the general public. However, the reviewer criticizes the cover image, which depicts a lenticular cloud, as poorly chosen and not representative of a UFO. The reviewer also points out factual inaccuracies and superficial research, citing the inclusion of questionable sources like "Phénoména" and "La rumeur de Roswell." The author, a professional journalist, is noted as not being a ufology specialist and not having conducted field research.

Book Review: 'Contacts Extraterrestres'

Timothy Good's book "Contacts Extraterrestres" is reviewed. The book covers encounters with extraterrestrials, including sightings of alien craft, friendly or hostile entities, abductions, and journeys on "flying saucers." It presents a panorama of close encounters throughout the century. Good is noted for his balanced approach, including his doubts, and for addressing the question of extraterrestrial bases on Earth. The review states that the book is essential reading for both believers and skeptics, offering a critical and synthetic history of the UFO phenomenon based on forty years of research.

Book Review: 'Le Problème de la Vie Extraterrestre'

This section announces the new book by Michel Jeantheau, "Le Problème de la Vie Extraterrestre." The book is divided into two parts. The first part examines how our perception of reality is distorted by definition and interpretation errors, suggesting that visible reality may need to be reconsidered. The second part explores mysterious phenomena, possibly of extraterrestrial origin, providing examples. The review implies that the book aims to re-evaluate our understanding of phenomena often misidentified as UFOs.

Book Review: 'G.A.B.R.I.E.L. - Les Soucoupes Volantes: Le Grand Refus ?'

This section promotes the book "G.A.B.R.I.E.L. - Les Soucoupes Volantes: Le Grand Refus ?" by Michel Moutet, published in 1979. It is described as a rare and essential encyclopedia that thoroughly analyzes the different facets of the UFO phenomenon. The book is presented as a collector's item, difficult to find, and available for purchase directly from the editor, Michel Moutet.

Publication Review: 'UFO La Visita Extraterrestre'

The magazine highlights "UFO La Visita Extraterrestre," an Italian publication described as a significant new development. It is a glossy magazine with 100 pages, published in Italy, covering the UFO subject broadly. The team behind the magazine consists of young enthusiasts, researchers, and investigators who aim to expand internationally. They are seeking contact with UFOmania subscribers to better understand the ufological situation in France and are interested in articles, videos, and photos.

Online Resources for Ufologists

This section provides a curated list of websites for ufologists, emphasizing the vast resources available on the internet. It recommends sites such as:

• `abduct.com/aaer/main.htm`: For Alien Abduction Experience and Research.
• `if-aic.com`: The website of Budd Hopkins' Intruders Foundation, assisting abduction victims.
• `Fast.To/anomalia`: The Spanish association Fundacion Anomalia, publisher of "Cuadernos de Ufologia."
• `inexplicata.com`: A Spanish journal of ufology.
• `magonia.demon.co.uk`: The English association Magonia, with an academic style.
• `angelfire.com/fl/ufomiami/`: The Miami UFO Center, offering information in Spanish.
• `netline.cl/ovnichile`: Featuring Chilean UFO literature, reports, and news.
• `sightings.com`: A site with numerous testimonies, photos, and videos.
• `ufo.it`: The Italian site UFO ON LINE, with photos, videos, and statistics.
• `geocities.com/Area51/Station/1321/`: A site on the UFO situation in Chile.
• `cufon.org/uhr/uhrndx.htm`: UFO Historical Review, focusing on early 20th-century sightings.
• `ufoinfo.com/roundup/`: UFO Round-Up, covering current UFO news.
• `ufomind.com/ufo/updates/`: UFO UpDates Mailing List Archive.
• `home.fuse.net/task/WAVE73.htm`: Information on the 1973 UFO wave.
• `fufor.org`: The Fund for UFO Research (FUFOR).
• `cufos.org/index.html`: The page of CUFOS.

Article: The Belgian UFO Wave

This article discusses the significant UFO wave that occurred in Eastern Belgium starting on November 29, 1989. It describes large, luminous, silent structures observed hovering or moving slowly. The author, who had previously studied animal magnetism and science fiction, initially reacted with skepticism to the Belgian sightings, finding them "too perfect" and objective for the prevailing skeptical climate. The article notes that the wave continued for two years, with the SOBEPS organization accumulating and analyzing data. The phenomena observed seemed to surpass the technological capabilities of the time, raising questions about the reliability of the sightings and the psychological mechanisms involved. The author expresses a growing passion for the subject, which he feels is often neglected or considered "snobbish" by French ufologists. He concludes that the events suggest something beyond conventional explanations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania maintains a critical yet open stance towards UFO phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, and the need for reliable data. The magazine actively promotes ufological research by highlighting relevant books, websites, and ongoing investigations. There's a clear distinction made between established scientific inquiry and more speculative or sensationalist approaches. The editorial stance encourages readers to engage with the subject matter critically, acknowledging the complexities and the ongoing mystery surrounding UFOs, while also cautioning against premature conclusions or the "ufologicalization" of established scientific fields.

Title: UFOmania
Issue: n°23-24
Date: Undetermined
Publisher: Unknown
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of UFOmania, dated n°23-24, focuses on recent UFO phenomena and historical analysis. The cover prominently features an "Operation T-Shirt" contest and announces its winner, Grégory Paccaud. The magazine also includes a report on a UFO sighting and a discussion of various UFO theories.

Derniere Minute: UFO Sighting Near Perpignan

Gilles Hargat, a correspondent from Perpignan, reports a UFO sighting on Saturday, August 28, 1999, at 20:45. The phenomenon was observed for three minutes by Hargat, his wife, and their three children near the Moulin à vent in Perpignan. The object was described as a tube situated within two bright light beams, visible from approximately 500 meters. It moved at a constant speed without emitting any blinking lights. An investigation is underway, and a call for witnesses is planned to appear in the local press.

Analysis of UFO Phenomena and Theories

The issue delves into the complexities of UFO phenomena, particularly in the context of the 'atypical wave'. It notes that after ten years, historical depth is sufficient to evaluate earlier hypotheses. The 'American hypothesis' and the theory of privately owned, remotely controlled aerostats are discussed, with the observation that these explanations have been challenged by the passage of time. While the socio-psychological hypothesis cannot be entirely dismissed, it is presented as sometimes costly. The article highlights a series of unexplained phenomena observed in Eastern Belgium between 1989 and 1992, which the author, Bertrand Méheust, considers to remain inexplicable.

Méheust shares these reflections in his new book, "Ovnis: retour sur l'anomalie belge." He clarifies that he does not claim to present a definitive truth but rather aims to convey his perplexity regarding this elusive subject. His goal is to encourage readers to ask questions, foster debate, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the topic.

Concours tee-shirt officiel

The magazine congratulates Grégory Paccaud, a Swiss subscriber, for winning the official UFOmania tee-shirt contest. His "great perspicacity" allowed him to win the coveted tee-shirt. The article notes that while many participants did not provide the full names required for certain questions (specifically questions 5 and 6), everyone who participated found the answers to the first "Quizz." The emphasis was on speed in answering.

The questions for the contest were:

1. Objet Volant Non Identifié (Unidentified Flying Object)
2. E. Kenneth Arnold
3. Jimmy Guieu
4. Betty et Barney Hill
5. Joseph Allen Hynek
6. Le colonel Philip J. Corso
7. En 1974 (In 1974)

Question subsidiaire

A subsidiary question, "8.42", asked participants to estimate the number of bulletin subscribers as of December 31, 1998. The magazine encourages readers to increase this number, promising to catch up on any delays and welcoming new initiatives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania continues its focus on UFO sightings, investigations, and the historical context of UFO research. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and theories while acknowledging the enigmatic nature of the phenomena. The magazine encourages reader participation through witness reports and engagement with subscription goals. The inclusion of a tee-shirt contest suggests an effort to connect with and engage its readership on a more personal level. The recurring theme is the ongoing quest for understanding unexplained aerial phenomena, supported by both contemporary reports and historical analysis.