UFOmania - No 29 - 2001 03

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: N° 29
Date: March 2001
Publisher: UFOmania
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1254-5112
Price: 25 Francs

UFOmania is a quarterly publication dedicated to presenting an independent overview of recent UFO research and phenomena. This issue, dated March 2001, covers a range of intriguing cases and discussions within the ufology community.

Editorial: The Importance of a General Vision

Didier Gomez, in his editorial, emphasizes the need to consider a broader perspective when analyzing UFO cases. He argues that understanding the context and energy behind these phenomena is more crucial than determining their origin. He highlights that the study of ufology involves understanding socio-cultural contexts and human perception. Gomez states that the bulletin's aim for the coming years is to trust witness testimonies and build upon this incredible database, while discussing the subject seriously and openly. He also mentions the upcoming release of a book and multimedia project related to the November 5, 1990 event, which has caused a slight delay in this issue's publication. The editorial marks UFOmania's eighth anniversary.

Cover Story: UFOs in Eure and the First CD-ROM

The cover prominently features an article about UFOs in Eure, France, specifically mentioning the release of the first CD-ROM on the subject, dated November 5, 1990. Didier Gomez is credited in relation to this.

Featured Articles and Reports

Mexico: A UFO Filmed Over Popocatepetl During Eruption

This section details an incident on December 18, 2000, when the Popocatepetl volcano erupted. During the event, a luminous object was captured in a photograph taken by journalist Alfonso Reyes. The photo, taken with a 20-second exposure, revealed a bright object that appeared to be descending towards the crater. While a meteor was ruled out, the object's trajectory suggested an unusual maneuver. The article also recalls a previous sighting on June 29, 1999, where a surveillance camera captured a disk-shaped object near the volcano. Further reports from February 14 and 22, 2001, describe a large cigar-shaped object and other phenomena observed by CENAPRED surveillance cameras. Lights were also reported on March 5, 2001, with local radio stations receiving numerous calls. The area around Popocatepetl is known for frequent UFO sightings.

Siberia: A UFO Disrupts Barnaoul Airport

This report, sourced from Interfax and France 2 teletext, describes an incident on January 26, 2001, where a UFO forced the closure of Barnaoul airport in Siberia for an hour and a half. A cargo plane crew refused to take off due to the object's position above the runway, and another cargo plane also refused to land. The information was reportedly removed from the teletext later that day. A follow-up from Russian ufologist Boris Shurinov suggests the event occurred on January 21, 2001, and the object was about 10 kilometers from the aerodrome, not directly above. Shurinov also notes that there were no photos and no public reaction. Another report details events on January 21, 2001, where an IL 76 cargo plane refused to take off due to a luminous object. The article includes commentary from Shurinov, who disputes some details, suggesting embellishments. Witnesses described the object as disk-shaped, hovering, and oscillating. The runway was closed, and authorities attempted to manage the situation and prevent public knowledge.

Observation at Vlassikha, Siberia

Following the Barnaoul incident, three consecutive nights of observations (March 6-8) were reported near Vlassikha, south-east of Barnaoul. A witness, Youri Londrenko, filmed a multicoloured luminous sphere that varied in behavior, from hovering to dancing, growing, shrinking, and even exploding like fireworks. Each sighting lasted 20 to 30 minutes and ended with the object heading towards Barnaoul airport, where it was apparently not noticed.

Book Review: 'The Day After Roswell' by Philip J. Corso

This section revisits Philip J. Corso's controversial book, 'The Day After Roswell,' which claims the US government recovered alien technology from the Roswell crash and used it to advance science. The article presents an excerpt and commentary by Alain H., who focuses on verifiable elements. Alain H. expresses belief in Corso's firsthand account of the crash but questions his technical expertise, suggesting Corso's narrative is influenced by imagination. He acknowledges that while Corso claims the debris helped science progress, the exact functioning of the recovered technology remains a mystery. The article also mentions a French translation of the book available for purchase.

Introduction to Corso's Work and the Roswell Incident

This section provides background on Philip J. Corso, a lieutenant colonel in the US Army, who worked in foreign technology at the Pentagon. It details the Roswell incident in July 1947, mentioning the involvement of intelligence agencies and the recovery of debris. The narrative describes the discovery of an unusual object, its crash, and the subsequent military operation to secure the site and suppress information. It mentions witnesses like Dan Dwyer and Roy Danzer, who were asked to forget what they saw. The article touches upon the movement of debris to Fort Bliss and Wright Patterson Air Force Base, and the efforts to discredit witness accounts.

Chapter 1: The Desert of Roswell

This chapter delves deeper into the Roswell incident, describing the discovery of strange radar echoes on July 1, 1947. It recounts witness accounts of flashes and thunder, followed by the sighting of an oval object. Military counter-intelligence personnel were dispatched. The chapter details the recovery of the object, described as intact with its nose buried in a slope. It mentions the presence of bodies and the retrieval of a luminous creature. The military's efforts to control the narrative and silence witnesses are highlighted, including the staged press conference with false debris.

Chapter 3: The Objects of Roswell

This chapter discusses Corso's role at the Pentagon and his access to information regarding Roswell debris. He describes seeing a creature's body and documents related to a crashed vessel. The chapter lists several items allegedly recovered: entangled wires, layered plates with circuit-like patterns, optical lenses that enhanced night vision, a battery-less lamp-like device, and a headband with electrodes. It also mentions a material with 'super-tenacity resistance' and a possible connection between the Roswell craft's empennages and the Northrop YB49 prototype.

Chapter 4: At the Pentagon's Foreign Technology Bureau

Corso's work at the Pentagon involved analyzing alien physiology and propulsion technologies. The article suggests a link between Roswell debris and advanced flying wing technology. It also mentions the US Navy's concern with Unidentified Submerged Objects (USOs) and the lack of official bureaus dedicated to analyzing Roswell debris. The chapter reiterates the cover-up efforts and the disinformation campaign following the Roswell crash.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, alleged extraterrestrial technology, and government secrecy surrounding these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, valuing witness testimonies while acknowledging the complexities and controversies within ufology. There is a clear emphasis on presenting information from various sources, including eyewitness accounts, journalistic reports, and researchers' analyses, often with a critical eye towards official explanations. The Roswell incident and its implications for technological advancement remain a central theme, reflecting a belief in the reality of UFOs and the potential for hidden knowledge.

Other Sections

Observations Récentes: This recurring section provides updates on recent UFO sightings from around the world.

OVNI FORUM: A section for reader correspondence and discussions.

Le petit coin du bouquiniste: A small book corner, likely featuring recommended reading.

Abonnement: Subscription information for UFOmania is provided, detailing prices for France, the European Union, and other countries.

Remerciements: Acknowledgment of individuals and organizations who contributed to the issue.

Librairie Esoterique La Rose et Le Lotus: An advertisement for an esoteric bookstore.

UFOmania n°29, published in June 2001, is a French-language magazine dedicated to the study of UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena. This issue delves into the aftermath of the Roswell crash, explores extraterrestrial technology, and compiles recent UFO sightings from around the globe.

The Roswell Incident and its Aftermath

The issue details General Twining's report to President Truman following the Roswell crash in July 1947. The report described UFO performance and behavior, suggesting a separation of Air Force research to exploit extraterrestrial technology. It mentions the formation of a research group, potentially the MJ-12, involving key figures from intelligence, defense, and scientific sectors. Corso's perspective is presented, linking the Roswell crash to German technological research and the subsequent espionage efforts by the Russians. The report also notes the transfer of extraterrestrial remains to Bethesda and Walter Reed hospitals, and the spacecraft to Wright Field.

Extraterrestrial Technology and Alien Autopsy

A significant portion of the magazine focuses on the analysis of extraterrestrial technology recovered from the Roswell crash. This includes descriptions of the alien beings (EBEs), their physical characteristics, and the advanced nature of their technology. The autopsy report highlights differences in their physiology, such as larger hearts and lungs and unique bone and skin structures. Corso suggests the EBEs were a product of genetic engineering. The issue also touches upon the potential use of lasers and advanced propulsion systems derived from the alien craft, with mentions of projects like Blue Book, Grudge, Sign, and others aimed at managing public perception and research.

UFO Sightings and International Reports

UFOmania n°29 features a section on recent UFO observations from March 2001. These reports span various locations, including Puerto Rico, Washington State (USA), Rome (Italy), Lake Erie (Canada), Honduras, Oklahoma (USA), and Chile. The descriptions vary from luminous orange lights and spheres to triangular craft and oval objects, often accompanied by unusual sensory effects or behaviors.

UFOlogy on the Internet and Book Reviews

The magazine also provides resources for UFO enthusiasts, including a curated list of attractive UFO-related websites and links to specialized resources. It highlights the site of Philippe Huleux and mentions new books by Jean Sider and Jean-Paul Ronecker, offering insights into the UFO phenomenon and related research.

Specific Case Studies and Research

Several chapters delve into specific aspects of UFO research. Chapter 5 discusses the 'cover-up' and the potential creation of MJ-12. Chapter 6 outlines strategies for managing UFO information. Chapter 7 examines the assimilation of EBEs as potentially robotic entities. Chapter 8 discusses the project related to the Roswell crash and the analysis of its debris. Chapter 13 explores the origins of laser technology, suggesting a link to the Roswell crash. Chapter 14 details the development of anti-missile projects potentially influenced by UFO technology. Chapter 15 covers findings related to fiber optics and super-resistant materials from the crash.

Epistemology of the Unknowable

A section titled 'Epistemology of the Unknowable' by Fabrice Bonvin discusses the challenges of applying scientific methodology to the UFO phenomenon. It highlights the importance of case catalogs and analyzes factors such as the number of witnesses, observation times, and the socio-cultural context influencing UFO reports. The author suggests that UFO manifestations are protean and adaptive, reflecting the cognitive schemas of the observers and the prevailing environment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania strongly emphasizes the reality of UFO phenomena and the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence. The editorial stance appears to be one of deep investigation into government cover-ups, the study of recovered alien technology, and the dissemination of information to the public. There is a clear focus on the Roswell incident as a pivotal event that initiated significant, albeit secret, research into UFOs and alien life. The magazine promotes a critical view of official explanations and encourages readers to explore alternative theories and evidence. The recurring themes include government secrecy, advanced alien technology, the potential for extraterrestrial interaction, and the ongoing efforts to understand these phenomena through scientific and investigative means.

This issue of UFOmania, number 29, published in April 2001, focuses on various aspects of UFO phenomena, including statistical analyses, witness accounts, theoretical explanations, and a review of a book proposing a military manipulation theory.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Sightings

The article begins by examining the timing of UFO sightings, noting that they are predominantly reported in the evening and early night. It suggests that this pattern is more reflective of human social habits (people being outdoors more in the evenings) rather than a specific preference of the phenomenon itself. The author deduces that statistical data on observation times are unlikely to reveal the true nature of the phenomenon, as they are influenced by sociological and cultural factors.

Another statistical observation points to a crystallization of UFO sightings in late summer and early autumn, particularly in October. This is partly attributed to the exceptional wave of sightings in France and Italy in October 1954, which may have created a bias in collected data. The clarity of the autumn sky is also cited as a factor favoring aerial observations. However, the author concludes that the occurrence of the phenomenon appears to be evenly distributed throughout the year, rendering annual data less helpful for a deeper understanding.

The 'Mimicry' Hypothesis

The concept of 'mimicry' is discussed in relation to UFO appearances. The author argues that 'mimicry' is a more appropriate term than 'imitation' because it implies intentionality and self-awareness, suggesting that UFO manifestations are deliberately orchestrated. This hypothesis posits that UFO appearances are not random but are carefully controlled events, designed to target specific witnesses or groups. The idea is that the phenomenon is capable of 'symbolic thought,' allowing it to represent abstract concepts through signs that can be understood by observers.

UFO Phenomena and Human Perception

The issue highlights how human perception, expectations, and cognitive frameworks influence the interpretation of UFO sightings. The example of an OVNI sighting over Dagestan in November 2000 illustrates how different individuals (civilians, army personnel, Imams) interpreted the same event based on their backgrounds and beliefs, ranging from secret military aircraft to divine signs.

It is suggested that intelligence might shape the appearance of UFOs according to the observer's expectations and cognitive schemas. This leads to the idea that understanding social representations of UFOs and extraterrestrial life could potentially help predict future sightings.

Scientific Study of UFOs: Challenges and Methodologies

The article discusses the difficulties in conducting scientific studies on UFOs. Catalogues of observations, while useful, are considered insufficient for rigorous scientific study because they lack experimental control and are based on subjective testimonies. The phenomenon's nature, which can 'deceive' human senses and affect human psychology, further complicates objective analysis.

A small statistical study of 30 cases from the 1954 French UFO wave is presented. The study aimed to find correlations between the time of day, the number of witnesses, and the shape of the object. The results indicated weak correlations, suggesting that the data primarily reflect the cognitive schemas of witnesses and societal organization rather than the nature of the UFO phenomenon itself.

The study found that most observations involved a single witness, and there was a tendency for fewer witnesses to be reported later in the day. The most frequently reported object shape was the saucer or disc. The author hypothesizes that there is no direct relationship between the time of day, number of witnesses, and object shape, and that the data are more indicative of psychological and sociological factors.

Alternative Hypotheses: Ultraterrestrial vs. Extraterrestrial

The issue explores the debate between extraterrestrial (HET) and ultraterrestrial (HUT) hypotheses for UFO phenomena. It critiques the HET hypothesis as potentially too vague and difficult to falsify scientifically. The HUT hypothesis, which suggests entities from other dimensions, is presented as the 'poor relation' of ufology, often limited to simplistic choices like 'UFOs don't exist' or 'UFOs are extraterrestrial.'

The author notes that the HUT hypothesis is broad and can encompass various interpretations, such as demons or beings from other dimensions. However, it is argued that a scientific theory must be falsifiable. While the HET hypothesis is considered more precise and thus more falsifiable, the HUT hypothesis allows for a wider range of explanations that may not fit within current scientific understanding.

Military Manipulation Theory

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reviewing a book titled 'OVNIS: L'ARMEE DEMASQUEE' (UFOs: The Disguised Army) by Emmanuel Dehlinger. This book proposes that UFO phenomena are primarily a result of high-security military operations, involving psychological manipulation. The theory suggests that military forces might be using advanced technologies, such as laser cannons, to create phenomena like crop circles, thereby imposing an extraterrestrial narrative on the public.

The author of the review acknowledges that while the idea of military involvement is plausible, the motives behind such actions remain obscure. The book is described as a potentially controversial but thought-provoking work that could reignite debates about the nature of UFOs and the possibility of military deception.

Recent Sightings and Case Studies

The issue includes reports of recent UFO sightings:

• Nouméa, New Caledonia (February 26, 2001): An unusual silver ball-shaped object was observed. Photos were taken, but the results were inconclusive, leading to speculation that it might have been a weather balloon.
• Villeneuve la Guyard, Yonne, France (April 12, 2001): A farmer witnessed a black sphere moving towards a church steeple. The object was observed for about ten seconds and appeared to follow the course of the Yonne river.

Book Reviews and References

The magazine features a 'Bouquiniste's Corner' section listing various used books on UFOs for sale, including titles by Desmond Leslie, George Adamski, Kenneth Ring, Michel Monnerie, Henry Durrant, and Jean-Claude Bourret.

It also includes a comprehensive bibliography of cited works, covering authors like Robert E. Bartholomew, Nicolas Spanos, Jacques Vallée, Allen Hynek, and others, providing a foundation for further research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania consistently emphasizes the complexity of the UFO phenomenon, moving beyond simplistic explanations. It highlights the importance of considering psychological, sociological, and potentially military factors alongside the more traditional extraterrestrial hypothesis. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging critical thinking and further research into the various facets of UFO sightings, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the subjective nature of witness testimony. The magazine promotes the idea that UFOs are not merely physical objects but may involve sophisticated forms of manipulation and perception control.