UFOmania - No 50

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: N°50
Date: March 2007 (Quarterly, 14th year)
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Focus: Unexplained phenomena and unusual apparitions.

Editorial Stance and Content

Didier Gomez, the Director of Publication, opens the issue with an editorial reflecting on the 14 years of UFOmania magazine. He notes the shift from solely investigating UFOs (referred to as UAP - Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena, a term he finds more appropriate) to a more multidisciplinary approach. Gomez emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor, neutrality, and verification in ufological research, acknowledging that much remains unknown. He highlights the contributions of new researchers like Fabrice Bonvin, whose work on the 'global Gaia brain' is presented as offering new perspectives for the future of ufology. The editorial also touches upon the upcoming release of CNES archives and the ongoing need for transparency and collaboration in the field.

Key Articles and Features

CNES Archives Release

Several articles discuss the impending release of the French National Centre for Space Studies (CNES) archives concerning Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena (UAP), also known as UFOs. These archives, spanning 30 years, include over 3,000 gendarmerie reports, totaling approximately 100,000 pages to be digitized and made available online. Jacques Patenet, head of GEIPAN (the current CNES body for UAP study), cautions against expecting sensational 'scoops,' stating that most curious cases have already been published by associations. However, the initiative is seen as a crucial step towards transparency, addressing long-standing criticisms of secrecy.

Fabrice Bonvin and the 'Global Gaia Brain'

Fabrice Bonvin is featured prominently, with his work on the 'global Gaia brain' presented as a significant discovery in ufology. An interview with Bonvin is included, where he discusses his research and its implications for understanding UAP. The magazine also notes Bonvin's role as a foreign correspondent for UFOmania.

Le Havre Sighting (December 15, 2006)

Correspondent Alix Leproust details an investigation into a sighting that occurred on December 15, 2006, in Le Havre. Three witnesses reported observing seven small, dark objects in aerial formation, moving slowly and exhibiting unusual flight patterns. The objects were described as flat and slightly rounded, with an anthracite or dark brown color. The investigation involved interviewing the witnesses, including a laboratory technician, a safety technician, and a school director, as well as a CM2 student. The report emphasizes the importance of rapid data collection and detailed accounts in such cases.

Review of Publications and Organizations

• INFORESPACE N°113: The bulletin from the Belgian association SOBEPS is reviewed, highlighting articles on crop circles, the VECA experience, and analyses of UAP cases.
• PARASCIENCES N°64: This issue of Parasciences magazine is praised as one of the best on the subject, featuring articles by notable ufologists.
• 'Roswell: L'ultime enquête' by Karl Pflock: The French translation of this book is discussed. The author, a former CIA analyst, examines the Roswell incident, questioning the official narrative while maintaining that UFOs are material objects.
• GEESA (Groupe Européen d'Etudes des Sciences Avancées): A new association founded in the Var region of France is introduced.
• 'Petit guide pratique de l'enquêteur': A revised edition of a practical guide for UFO investigators, originally developed by the Breton association Vigie OVNIs, is made available.

Historical Overview and Statistics

Page 9 provides a historical overview of UFOmania magazine and Planète OVNI since their inception in April 1993. It includes key dates such as the creation of the magazine, the association, and significant events. Statistics are presented, detailing the magazine's international reach (published in 11 countries), subscriber numbers, gender distribution, number of issues published, and the estimated hours spent producing each issue.

Other Content

• 'La revue de presse' by Michel Granger: This section critiques an article from 'Science et Avenir' magazine that questioned the disappearance of UFOs, arguing that the article lacked rigor and contradicted itself.
• 'Espace. Le CNES de Toulouse va mettre en ligne 3000 témoignages sur des phénomènes non identifiés': This article from 'Sud-Ouest' reports on the CNES archive release.
• 'Humeur, humour... hum!': A brief commentary on media coverage of the CNES archive announcement, noting the use of sensationalized photos.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a serious, scientific, and transparent approach to ufology. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, data verification, and multidisciplinary research. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness, encouraging readers to consider new hypotheses while remaining grounded in evidence. There is a clear commitment to fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts, as evidenced by the promotion of events like the 'Repas Ufologiques' and the availability of practical guides for investigators. The magazine also highlights the growing accessibility of information through the internet and the release of official archives, viewing these as positive developments for the field.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, N°50, dated March 2007, is primarily focused on UFO sightings, crop circles, and related phenomena. The cover story, "Sept Ovnis sur le Havre ?" (Seven UFOs over Le Havre?), highlights a sighting in France. The magazine also features articles on crop circles, extraterrestrial messages, and reviews of books related to ufology.

Le Havre UFO Sighting

The main article details a UFO sighting that occurred on Friday, December 15, 2006, in the upper town of Le Havre, France. Three individuals reported witnessing an unusual aerial phenomenon. Alix Leproust, a local representative for the Academy of Ufology, is quoted as saying that people are often afraid to report such sightings for fear of ridicule. He is actively seeking more witnesses to an observation of "flying objects not identified" that took place between 4 PM and 5 PM on that date. The witnesses described seeing seven flat, dark grey or dark brown objects, resembling hockey pucks, each about 3 meters long and 1.50 meters high. They were flying at an altitude of 800 to 1,500 meters, grouped together, moving from the city center towards the Montgeon forest. Their speed was estimated at around 50 km/h. Leproust, a 37-year-old prevention technician, is seeking a scientific explanation for the event. The gendarmerie confirmed having interviewed several people regarding this sighting. However, the police reported no knowledge of the event. The article also mentions another witness, René Carlier, who observed similar objects on the same date, and Paul George, who reported seeing three yellow spherical objects on January 12, 2007, between 11 PM and midnight, moving east to west at the speed of a small airplane.

Investigations into the Sighting

Alix Leproust emphasizes that the Academy of Ufology is a serious organization, working with scientists and aiming to change public skepticism. The association, based in the Hautes-Alpes region, seeks to partner with the Cnes (National Centre for Space Studies) and its Gepan (Group for the Study of Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena). Leproust stresses the importance of a code of ethics, stating that they aim to be intermediaries between citizens and authorities. The organization believes that UFO reports may have explanations beyond simple confusion or invention, but also acknowledges that phenomena can be caused by optical illusions, meteorites, psychological issues, or hoaxes. For those who wish to report sightings, contact information for the Academy of Ufology is provided.

Crop Circles

The Exotic Hypothesis

Ann Moro, a specialist in Crop Circles, discusses events in August 2001. She notes that this period preceded the "terrible events" of September 11, 2001. The article focuses on a massive crop circle discovered on August 12, 2001, on Milk Hill in Wiltshire, England. This formation, covering 5 hectares, is described as the largest crop circle of all time and is nicknamed "The grand finale," "The mother of all crop circles," and "Galaxy." It is located near Alton Barnes, Golden Ball Hill, and East Field, an area known as the epicenter of the crop circle phenomenon. The article questions who is responsible for these formations, noting that no one has publicly claimed responsibility or provided irrefutable proof of human origin.

Chilbolton and Arecibo

Further exploration of August 2001 leads to Chilbolton, England, where two new crop circles appeared. One, discovered on August 14, 2001, resembles a humanoid face. The second, found on August 19, is described as a copy of the 1974 Arecibo binary message sent to the globular cluster Messier 13. The article notes that the Arecibo message was intended for extraterrestrials.

The Teen-Age Message

On August 29, 2001, in Ukraine, a group of adolescents sent a "Teen-Age Message" via the Evpatoria radio telescope towards the star HD 197076. This message, also known as "The message of the Adolescents," was a peace message intended for hypothetical extraterrestrials. It included drawings of their parents, homes, nature, and their faces. The article provides links to websites where more information about this event can be found.

Analysis of the Events

The magazine attempts to find connections between the Chilbolton crop circles and the Evpatoria message. It notes that the "face" crop circle at Chilbolton is similar to the message sent from Evpatoria. The article questions whether these events are a coincidence or a deliberate connection. It explores the possibility of a hoax, suggesting that a group might have infiltrated the "Teen-Age Message" program and strategically created crop circles near a radio telescope. However, the lack of any claims of responsibility six years later is presented as unusual for such a hypothesis. The article also mentions Michael Hesmann's book, which discusses the "Cosmic Call" projects but omits the "Teen-Age Message" from 2001.

"Ovnis sur le havre": Hypotheses

Alix Leproust offers his personal perspective on the Le Havre UFO sighting, arguing against the hypothesis that the objects were balloons. He bases this on the defined trajectory with a change of course, the similar movement and number of objects reported by multiple witnesses, and the lack of variation in their flight, which he believes is inconsistent with balloons being affected by wind currents. He suggests that if they were balloons, they would have shown more movement. He concludes that the objects' behavior suggests a motorized model, possibly electric, to maintain such a constant course.

Montpellier Sightings

The magazine also reports on an observation of unidentified flying objects in Montpellier, France, on September 26, 2006. Four witnesses observed blinking lights performing aerial maneuvers over the city. The objects were described as having lights similar to those of airliners and were potentially equipped with electric motors, making them quieter than conventional model aircraft. The article notes that these phenomena are difficult to explain with conventional means and are categorized as unexplained aerial phenomena.

Book Review: "Le Secret des Secrets"

Didier Gomez reviews Fabrice Bonvin's book, "Le Secret des Secrets." The book is described as a comprehensive examination of official and unofficial governmental research into UFOs (PANs - Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés). It allegedly exposes propaganda, media collusion, and manipulation by the scientific community. The book also delves into secret studies and the identities of individuals involved in UFO research in the United States. It discusses future military technologies like geophysics weapons capable of altering the climate, the HAARP project, and "chemtrails," and their connection to UFO appearances. Finally, the book explores the "matrix hypothesis," suggesting that reality might be a simulation controlled by a superior intelligence, and applies this to UFO manifestations, proposing new theoretical perspectives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the investigation of these phenomena, and the exploration of their potential meanings and origins. The magazine presents a range of perspectives, from eyewitness accounts and ufological analysis to discussions of crop circles as potential messages and critical reviews of books on the subject. There is a clear interest in uncovering the truth behind unexplained aerial phenomena and challenging conventional explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging scientific investigation while acknowledging the possibility of unconventional explanations and the need for a broader understanding of reality. The emphasis on environmental messages within crop circles and the discussion of the "matrix hypothesis" suggest a willingness to consider complex and even philosophical interpretations of these events. The magazine also highlights the importance of citizen reporting and scientific rigor in the study of UFOs.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated March 2007 (N°50), features an in-depth interview with Swiss ufologist Fabrice Bonvin, exploring his theories on the origin and nature of UFO phenomena. The magazine also includes a "Lectures du Trimestre" section reviewing recent UFO-related books, a "Courrier des lecteurs" section with reader feedback and editorial responses, and a "Coup de gueule" section offering critical perspectives on the state of ufology.

Interview: Fabrice Bonvin

Fabrice Bonvin details his personal journey into ufology, which began in childhood with an encyclopedia and was solidified by his first UFO sighting at age 14. He emphasizes the importance of mastering English to access global ufological information, particularly through early online systems like BBS.

Bonvin's core thesis, developed in his books "OVNIs - Les Agents du Changement" and "OVNIs - Le Secret des Secrets," posits that the Earth is a living organism with a form of consciousness (the Gaia hypothesis, inspired by James Lovelock). This planetary consciousness, or "Noosphere," is connected to a universal library of knowledge. He argues that UFO manifestations are expressions of this Gaian intelligence, acting as a defense mechanism for the planet and aiming to elevate human consciousness, particularly environmental awareness.

He criticizes the dominant Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET), suggesting it is often a belief system rather than a scientific one, and highlights its inability to explain the adaptive nature of UFO appearances to different historical contexts (Zeitgeist). Bonvin points to historical government actions, such as the management of the UFO phenomenon by the US government, as evidence that authorities recognized its non-extraterrestrial, potentially Gaian, origin.

Bonvin addresses criticisms of his theories, asserting that scientific proof is often limited by methodological tools and that the concept of a planetary consciousness is gaining traction. He also discusses the challenges of interacting with Gaian intelligence, likening it to shamanic practices, and mentions researchers like Michael Harner and Rick Strassmann who have explored similar concepts.

He notes that the decline in UFO sightings since the cessation of nuclear testing suggests a correlation between these events and the phenomenon's activity. Bonvin also touches upon the difficulties in ufology, including the prevalence of debunking, the lack of scientific rigor among some practitioners, and the influence of government disinformation.

Book Reviews (Lectures du Trimestre)

The magazine reviews several recent books:

• "Troubles dans le ciel: Observations extraterrestres 1947-1994" by Jean-Jacques Velasco and Nicolas Montigiani. This book is described as a scientific analysis of UFO cases, highlighting the relationship between nuclear tests and UFO appearances. It is recommended for non-specialists.
• "Conspiracy of Silence, UFOs in Ireland" by Dermot Butler & Carl Nally. This work focuses on UFO cases in Ireland, including classic sightings and alien contact scenarios, and explores the phenomenon's presence in Irish current events.
• "The Canadian UFO Report" by Chris Rutkowski & Geoff Dittman. This book examines Canadian UFO cases chronologically, from the 17th century to recent events, including the Falcon Lake incident and the MIB phenomenon.
• "Fantômes et sciences d'observation" by Camille Flammarion. This is a posthumous publication of Flammarion's unfinished work, compiling over 5,000 responses to his inquiries into paranormal phenomena, particularly ghost sightings.

Reader Feedback (Courrier des lecteurs)

This section features correspondence from readers and responses from the editorial team (primarily Didier Gomez):

• Bruno B. (34) inquires about the status of ufomania.fr and the lack of other French ufological publications, urging subscriptions to UFOmania.
• Didier Gomez responds, explaining website maintenance issues and the ongoing management of studiovni.com. He also addresses concerns about copyright and the reduction of existing content into shorter formats, emphasizing the importance of original, in-depth work.
• Jacques Costagliola (78) debates the terminology used for UFOs, advocating for "PAN" (Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés) over "OVNI" and criticizing the term "ufologique" as an anglicism. He argues against abandoning the term "OVNI" mid-stream.
• Didier Gomez defends the use of "OVNI" and "PAN," acknowledging the public's misinterpretation of UFOs as solely extraterrestrial craft due to media influence. He agrees on the need for precise terminology.
• Tony Thepaut (29) seeks contact with Jean-Jacques Velasco regarding a sighting of green, white, and red "rockets" in Brittany that mirrored an account in Velasco's book.
• Didier Gomez states that Velasco has retired from CNES and wishes to distance himself from the ufological community, but will forward the request.
• Alain Stauffer (Brazil) comments on the value of conference recordings.

Critical Perspectives

• "Coup de gueule!" by Bruno Mancusi (Payerne, Switzerland): Mancusi responds to Frédéric Praud's critique of ufology's seriousness. He agrees with Praud's concerns about organizational difficulties and the lack of rigor but defends the potential for progress through collective effort and ethical practices. He criticizes Praud's judgment from outside the structures he critiques and highlights the inclusion of French ufologists like Jacques Vallée and Jean-Jacques Velasco in international rankings.
• Michel Granger (71) also comments on Frédéric Praud's "coup de gueule," agreeing with the assessment of ufology's issues but emphasizing the need for patience and continued research. He suggests Praud connect with Didier Gasc and advocates for a unified approach within organizations like "Planète OVNI."

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

This issue reflects a concern for the scientific rigor and seriousness of ufology, contrasting it with what some perceive as a decline in public interest and a proliferation of less credible approaches. The interview with Fabrice Bonvin introduces a complex, alternative hypothesis (Gaia) that challenges the mainstream extraterrestrial explanation. The book reviews showcase a range of research, from historical case compilations to scientific analyses. The reader feedback section highlights ongoing debates about terminology, organization, and the overall credibility of the field. The magazine appears to champion a more critical and research-oriented approach to ufology, while acknowledging the challenges posed by public perception, government secrecy, and internal divisions within the community.

The recurring themes include:

• The nature and origin of UFO phenomena: Moving beyond the simple Extraterrestrial Hypothesis.
• The role of consciousness: Exploring planetary consciousness and its connection to UFOs.
• Government influence and secrecy: How official bodies have managed and potentially manipulated information.
• The scientific status of ufology: Debates on methodology, rigor, and acceptance.
• The challenges facing the ufological community: Internal divisions, public interest, and the need for professionalism.

Title: Planète OVNI
Issue: N°50
Date: March 2007
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of Planète OVNI magazine, titled "La boutique « UFO »... logique," primarily serves as a catalog and promotional material for various UFO-related books, DVDs, and past magazine issues, with a strong emphasis on investigations within the Tarn region of France.

Featured Products and Publications

OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn by Didier Gomez

This catalog, published by Vent Terral in June 2006, details 103 UFO cases documented in the Tarn region from October 1952 to June 2005. Didier Gomez, the author, presents a meticulous compilation of these cases, ranging from easily explainable phenomena to mysterious and unexplained observations. The work is intended as a reference for both the general public and ufologists, stemming from the author's extensive field investigations. The book is 252 pages long and costs 19 € (including shipping).

Le GUIDE PRATIQUE DE L'ENQUETEUR (The Practical Guide for Investigators)

This new release for 2007 is a practical guide for UFO investigators, priced at 10 €.

Apparitions insolites en Occitanie by Didier Gomez

Published by UFOmania éditions in May 2005, this 132-page book explores the connection between past unusual manifestations and modern UFO sightings, focusing on the Occitanie region. Didier Gomez, after fifteen years of ufological research, presents his conclusions on phenomena that appear with impunity, drawing from ancestral folklore and twelve representative UFO cases. The book aims to foster an open-minded perspective on contemporary explanations for these apparitions.

Un Fait maudit by Thibaut Canuti

This book, published by UFOmania éditions in October 2005, is a 210-page exploration of the historical and phenomenological aspects of UFO events worldwide. It serves as a foundational text for understanding ufology, presenting a faithful account of chronologically recorded events.

UFOmania magazine Hors-série n°1

This special issue, released in March 2004, is a 60-page compilation of the best articles published in UFOmania magazine over its first ten years (1993-2003). It covers information, research, and investigations into unusual phenomena, featuring contributions from various ufologists.

OVNI Contacts (DVD)

This double DVD, produced by Planète OVNI and Artcastle Productions in November 2005, captures interviews from the "Rencontres Rapprochées" (Close Encounters) event held in Châlons-en-Champagne in October 2005. It features discussions with numerous ufologists and researchers, including Gildas Bourdais, Robert Roussel, Bertrand Méheust, and Thibaut Canuti, among others. The DVD is priced at 18,00 €.

Other Featured Items

• L'Eure des OVNIS by Didier Gomez (Éditions Lacour, 2001): A 144-page book detailing UFO investigations from a specific evening in the Eure region. Priced at 18,00 €.
• BIBLIOVNI (Cd-Rom) by Frédéric Praud (2005): A CD-ROM resource priced at 10,00 €.

Back Issues and Ordering Information

The magazine also lists summaries and availability of past issues of UFOmania magazine, from Hors-série n°1 to N°49, with prices ranging from 2,50 € to 5 €. A form is provided for ordering these back issues, as well as the featured books and DVDs, with specific shipping costs indicated. Orders are to be sent to PLANETE OVNI, BP 26, 81301 Graulhet Cedex, with payment by check.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO investigations, historical UFO cases, the phenomenology of UFOs, and the promotion of ufological literature and media. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, detailed investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena, encouraging an open-minded approach to understanding these events. The magazine acts as a central hub for ufologists and enthusiasts to access research, books, and other resources.