UFOmania - No 52

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania magazine ufologique
Issue: N°52, 14ème année, trimestriel
Date: September 2007
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Country: France
ISSN: 1254 5112
Price: 5,50 € (France métropolitaine)

Editorial Stance

The editorial, titled "Se doter d'un réseau d'observations structuré et efficace" (Equipping ourselves with a structured and effective observation network), reflects on the state of ufology in France. The editor, Didier Gomez, expresses concern over the dissolution of SOBEPS and its publication Inforespace, questioning the future of ufological publications. He notes the proliferation of UFO-related discussions but a lack of rigorous study and national archives. Gomez laments the decline in serious researchers and the public's disinterest, attributing it partly to the internet offering free information. He emphasizes the need for a unified approach and reliable statistical data, highlighting the importance of organizations like Vigie-OVNIs 29 and the work of researchers like Jacques Vallée. The editorial also promotes the GEIPAN book "Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés" as a reference document.

Key Articles and Features

Dossier Spécial: Se doter d'un réseau de détection efficace et performant

This special dossier focuses on the need for structured and effective UFO detection networks. It features an interview with Pascal Combot, president of Vigie-OVNIs 29, who discusses their activities, including research, data analysis, field investigations, and the development of an automatic aerial anomaly detection system called S.A.R.A.A. Combot explains that S.A.R.A.A. utilizes high-definition cameras, a motorized mount, and a quadra-vision system for recording and analysis. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the potential for other associations to develop similar systems. The article also touches upon the challenges of funding and the reliance on private contributions and salvaged materials. Combot expresses hope that by implementing such systems across departments, UFO phenomena can be studied more rigorously and irrefutably.

Jacques Vallée on UFO Classification

Dr. Jacques Vallée contributes an article titled "Système de Classification et d'Indicateurs de fiabilité pour l'Etude des OVNI" (Classification System and Reliability Indicators for the Study of UFOs). He argues that a robust classification system is crucial for analyzing the complexity of UFO testimonies and advancing statistical analysis. Vallée revisits his earlier classification system, which categorized reports into types such as "landings" (Type I), cigar-shaped clouds (Type II), objects with discontinuous trajectories (Type III), and objects in continuous flight (Type IV). He stresses that such systems should focus on the behavior of phenomena rather than subjective interpretations and that they require significant time and rigor to develop.

Vigie-OVNIs 29 and S.A.R.A.A.

Further details are provided about Vigie-OVNIs 29 and their S.A.R.A.A. system. The system is described as a prototype designed for capturing and filming aerial phenomena for analysis. It consists of high-definition cameras, including an infrared-capable one, mounted on a rotating turret controlled by a computer. The system is designed to be autonomous and capable of starting recording automatically. The article highlights the goal of obtaining clear, high-quality images that can be analyzed in laboratories. Vigie-OVNIs 29 is presented as a dynamic association striving to advance UFO research with private means.

L'European UFO Survey (EUS)

This section discusses the European UFO Survey (EUS), a non-profit organization composed of scientists and researchers from ten European countries. EUS collaborates with Kingsland Imaging Systems to develop new instrumentation for serious observation, photography, and scientific data recording in UFO studies. The goal is to improve image quality and obtain more reliable data, moving beyond the typical blurry and unexploitable photos. The system, named 'Discovery I', aims to analyze light characteristics, structure, and potential propulsion mechanisms like MHD.

News and Updates

• Inforespace Ceases Publication: The article reports the dissolution of SOBEPS and the discontinuation of its publication Inforespace, citing a decline in members and submissions. The final issue will be a double issue (113-114) in December 2007.
• INA Archives: The National Audiovisual Institute (INA) has opened its archives to the public online, with some video archives related to UFOs available by searching for "OVNI". Three specific videos are highlighted: Darry Cowl's testimony (1994), a 1973 sighting of a flying saucer, and a 2002 report on UFO traces in Moselle.
• Magazine Reviews: The issue features reviews of "La France ouvre le dossier Ovni" in SCIENCE MAGAZINE and "La Vie Ailleurs?" in CIEL ET ESPACE magazine, which discusses extraterrestrial life.
• Roswell Incident: An event in Marseille featuring Gildas Bourdais discussing new elements from Roswell is announced.

Crop Circle in Corcelles, Switzerland

An article describes a crop circle that appeared in a wheat field in Corcelles-près-Payerne, Switzerland. The phenomenon attracted numerous curious visitors, including a geobiologist and individuals speculating about extraterrestrial origins. The owner of the field, Yvan Cherbuin, discusses the damage caused and the public's reaction. Bruno Mancusi of Swissufo provides measurements of the crop circle, noting its diameter and the lack of detected radioactivity or significant magnetic perturbation. He also observes the behavior of visitors, including some who meditated at the site.

Other Articles

• "Les choses étranges qui tombent du ciel" by Claude Burkel.
• "28 janvier 1994, Rencontre dans le ciel" recounts a significant UFO sighting by Airbus A320 pilot Jean-Charles Duboc.
• "Aspects positifs et bénéfiques des OVNIs" by Raymond Terrasse.
• "Bouquinerie: A la recherche de la perle rare..." a section on books.
• "Courrier des lecteurs" (Letters to the editor).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently addresses the need for rigorous scientific investigation into UFO phenomena, advocating for structured observation, data collection, and analysis. There's a recurring theme of the challenges faced by independent researchers in France, including a lack of funding, public skepticism, and the need for better organization and archiving. The editorial stance is one of persistent inquiry and a call for greater seriousness and collaboration within the ufological community. The magazine also highlights technological advancements in detection and analysis as crucial for moving the field forward. The issue reflects a concern for the future of ufological publications and research in the face of evolving media landscapes.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated September 2007, delves into various facets of ufology, featuring articles on classification systems, historical cases, and unusual aerial phenomena. The cover story, "LES CHOSES ETRANGES QUI TOMBENT DU CIEL" (Strange things that fall from the sky), highlights Fortean phenomena. The issue also includes an in-depth look at the Roswell incident and an interview with Didier Gomez.

Hynek's Classification and New Approaches

The magazine begins by discussing J. Allen Hynek's classification of UFO sightings, noting its contribution to defining 'landings' (CE1, CE2, CE3). It highlights the limitations and arbitrariness of observer-centric classifications. A new, behavior-based classification system is proposed, focusing on the phenomenon's actions rather than the witness's perception. This system categorizes anomalies into 'AN' (Anomalies) and 'FB' (Flybys), with further subdivisions based on physical effects and interactions. For instance, 'AN1' covers amorphous lights without lasting physical effects, while 'AN2' includes reports with physical effects like poltergeist phenomena. 'AN3' and 'AN4' deal with entities and personal interactions with them, respectively. 'AN5' covers injuries and pathological effects. The 'FB' categories describe aerial observations, with 'FB1' being simple sightings, 'FB2' involving physical evidence, and 'FB3' including reports with occupants.

The article "Un Système de Classification basé sur le comportement du phénomène" (A Classification System Based on the Phenomenon's Behavior) critiques previous classification systems for being observer-dependent and complex. It proposes a new system focusing on the phenomenon's behavior, aiming for greater objectivity and statistical analysis. This system uses a three-digit code to assess source reliability, site investigation, and the probability of natural explanations.

The Roswell Incident: A Critical Examination

An article titled "Roswell: comme Capri, c'est fini !" by Alain Thibert critically re-examines the Roswell incident. Thibert argues that the widely accepted "Mogul balloon" theory, proposed by Karl Pflock, is a fabrication designed to conceal the truth. He contends that the alleged debris from the Mogul project was insignificant and that the military's explanation was a cover-up. The article details how Pflock allegedly manipulated evidence and testimonies to support the Mogul theory, while ignoring contradictory accounts and the possibility of an extraterrestrial craft.

Gildas Bourdais, in "Roswell. L'ultime enquête : le flop de Karl Pflock," further critiques Pflock's book, calling the Mogul explanation an "imposture." Bourdais argues that the description of the Mogul balloon train is misleading, with components being small and fragile. He points out inconsistencies in witness testimonies and the military's explanations, suggesting that the official narrative is designed to dismiss the possibility of a non-human craft.

Fortean Phenomena: Strange Falls from the Sky

The article "LES CHOSES ETRANGES QUI TOMBENT DU CIEL" (Strange things that fall from the sky) by Claude Burkel explores Fortean phenomena, detailing historical and modern accounts of unusual objects falling from the sky. These include rains of fish (sardines in Yoro, Honduras), frogs, toads, snails, worms, meat, and even blood. The article also recounts instances of stones falling from clear skies, sometimes targeting specific locations or individuals, and a large block of ice reportedly falling during Charlemagne's reign. It notes that while some phenomena have modern counterparts (like volcanic ejecta), others, such as the rain of yellow mice in Bergen, Norway, remain unique.

Interview with Didier Gomez

The magazine features an interview with Didier Gomez, who discusses his journey into ufology, sparked by the Belgian UFO wave in 1989. He expresses frustration with the lack of structure and rigor in French ufology, contrasting it with more organized efforts abroad. Gomez emphasizes the importance of studying the human and social sciences in understanding UFO phenomena, suggesting that the intelligence behind these events has a profound control over human consciousness. He advocates for a holistic approach, integrating UFO studies with broader questions about human existence and our place in the universe. Gomez also shares his thoughts on influential ufologists like Jacques Vallée, Aimé Michel, and Allen Hynek, and expresses skepticism about the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors, leaning towards a more integrated, perhaps 'Gaia'-like, explanation for these phenomena.

Ufology and Scientific Inquiry

Gomez stresses the need for ufologists to engage with scientists and for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach to the subject. He criticizes the tendency towards sensationalism and the lack of centralized data and research structures in French ufology. He also touches upon the challenges of classifying phenomena that defy easy categorization, such as objects seen at night without their own light or daytime sightings that don't conform to the 'disk' shape.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the need for a more scientific and behavior-based approach to ufology, moving away from observer bias and complex, outdated classification systems. There is a strong critique of the official explanations for the Roswell incident, suggesting a deliberate cover-up. The magazine also highlights the bizarre and unexplained nature of Fortean phenomena, underscoring the vastness of the unknown. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation, critical analysis of evidence, and a willingness to explore unconventional hypotheses while maintaining a grounded, scientific perspective. The interview with Didier Gomez reinforces this by advocating for interdisciplinary research and a focus on the underlying intelligence behind UFO phenomena, rather than solely on the 'extraterrestrial' hypothesis.

This issue of UFOmania Magazine, dated September 2007, is issue number 52 and focuses on the theme "UFOs: The Truth is Out There." It presents a collection of articles exploring various aspects of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), including historical accounts, witness testimonies, scientific analyses, and speculative hypotheses.

Historical Accounts of Anomalous Falls

The magazine details numerous historical incidents involving the fall of unusual substances or objects from the sky. These include:

• 1696: A nauseating, butter-like substance fell in southern Ireland.
• 1819: Gelatinous matter was found after a fireball fell on the island of Lethy, India.
• 1741: An unusual 'spider web' fall covered fields in Selborne, England.
• 1786: Black eggs, which hatched into tadpole-like creatures, fell on Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
• 1794: A rain of toads occurred in Lalain, France.
• 1803: A shooting star with an oblique trajectory fell in Silesia.
• 1819: A pulpy, chamois-colored object fell in Amherst, Massachusetts.
• 1827: Hay was observed sailing and then falling in Wales.
• 1832: A yellow, cotton-like substance fell in Volokolamsk, Russia.
• 1833: A 'rain of fire' was reported in Rahway, New Jersey, with jelly-like blocks found.
• 1851: A rain of blood and meat fell on soldiers at the Benicia military camp in San Francisco.
• 1846: A green-grey powder fell on Shanghai.
• 1857: Escar-gots fell on Wolverhampton, England.
• 1867: A sulfur deposit was found after a phenomenon in Thames Ditton, England.
• 1886: Hot flint pebbles fell outside the offices of the News and Courier in Charleston, South Carolina.
• 1908: Hailstones with images of the Virgin Mary were reported in Saint-Étienne-lès-Remiremont, France.
• 1921: Stones began falling in Chico, California.
• 1958: Rain fell for two and a half hours in Alexandria, Louisiana, under a clear sky.

Specific Case Studies and Analyses

The Airbus A320 UFO Sighting (January 28, 1994)

This is a detailed account by Jean-Charles Duboc, an Airbus A320 captain, of a UFO sighting over Paris. The object, described as a large, dark red, lenticular shape with blurred contours, was observed at an altitude of approximately 10,500 meters and a distance of 25 nautical miles. The sighting was confirmed by the co-pilot and a steward, and crucially, by a radar trace recorded by the Air Defense Operations Center (CODA). The object reportedly disappeared progressively, as if dematerializing. Duboc explores several hypotheses, including extraterrestrial demonstration of power, advanced American technology, or a collaboration between ETs and the US. He notes the object's proximity to the strategic nuclear command center at Taverny and suggests the sighting might have been a message to the Defense Nationale and Parisians.

The Cussac Incident (Summer 1965)

This article recounts the testimony of two children, Jean and Marie, who were guarding cows in the Cantal region of France. They reported seeing a large, metallic sphere hovering in a field, accompanied by two small figures in black suits. The figures entered the sphere, which then departed at high speed. The children experienced conjunctivitis, and a local guard also reported hearing a loud noise. Jean-Jacques Vélasco, a former head of GEPAN, investigated the case and found the children's accounts consistent, even after 13 years. He notes the presence of a sulfurous smell and the unusual nature of the event, suggesting it was not a military maneuver.

Other Witness Testimonies

The magazine includes various other witness accounts:

• 1950: Police officers in Philadelphia observed a shimmering, jelly-like disc.
• 1952: Residents of Oloron-Sainte-Marie and Gaillac, France, reported seeing cigar-shaped objects and falling arachnoid substance.
• 1975: Four students in Saint-Julien, France, witnessed a bright, white, spherical object.
• 1974: A couple on a beach near Saint-Tropez was followed by a luminous object.
• 1963: An agricultural worker in Vaucluse, France, reported a cigar-shaped object that induced a powerful memory of a childhood accident.
• 1954: Two cyclomotorists near Avallon, France, reported a luminous object that approached them.
• 1979: A car and its three occupants were followed by two luminous balls in Provence, France.
• 1951: A large UFO with multicolored lights reportedly healed a police officer bitten by an animal in Beausoleil, France.
• 1954: Buck Nelson reported being illuminated by a bright ray from a UFO, which healed his kidney ailments.
• 1968: A customs officer in Peru reported receiving a violet-red ray from a UFO, which cured his myopia and rheumatism.
• 1954: Two individuals reported seeing two figures in a transparent object observing a play in Beausoleil, France.

Explanations and Hypotheses

The magazine explores several explanations for these phenomena:

• Extraterrestrial Hypothesis: The objects are spacecraft from other civilizations.
• Supernatural/Demonic Influence: The phenomena are attributed to divine or demonic intervention.
• Time Travel/Future Technology: Objects from the future are visiting the present.
• Electromagnetic Countermeasures: Advanced technology used to create decoys or distract radar.
• Cosmic University Theory: The Earth is a laboratory for advanced civilizations studying humanity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a stance that acknowledges the reality of UFO phenomena and encourages serious investigation, contrasting with sensationalist or dismissive approaches. It highlights the positive and potentially beneficial aspects of UFO encounters, such as healing and spiritual influence, while also presenting more conventional scientific and technological explanations. The editorial emphasis is on presenting documented cases and encouraging critical thinking rather than outright dismissal or uncritical acceptance. The recurring theme is that the UFO phenomenon is complex and multifaceted, involving various types of entities and motivations, and that a deeper understanding requires open-minded yet rigorous inquiry.

Title: UFOmania magazine
Issue: N°52
Date: September 2007
Publisher: CHAUD BIZZ NESS
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated September 2007, is primarily focused on the ongoing efforts in ufological research, documentation, and dissemination of information. The magazine features a 'Bouquinerie' section, highlighting recently discovered or noteworthy publications related to UFOs, including articles from specialized journals and historical pieces.

Key Articles and Features

Bouquinerie: Discovering Rare UFO Literature

The 'Bouquinerie' section, curated by Didier Gomez, aims to bring attention to significant but potentially overlooked UFO-related articles and books. It features an article from 'La revue du palais de la découverte' (May 1992) titled "Ces OVNI qui nous entourent" by Jean-Jacques Vélasco, which emphasized the importance of objective information and the SEPRA methodology. Another piece highlighted is from the 'Journal de Tintin' (January 1978) by Roger Lorthioir, who expressed that the more he studied the UFO phenomenon, the less he understood, clarifying that UFOs are not simply extraterrestrial visitors.

Two significant finds by Frédéric Praud include issue n°102 of 'La recherche' (July-August 1979) with a dossier on "Les scientifiques et les OVNI," featuring articles by Michel Granger, Hubert Reeves, and Alain Esterle. This publication is noted for already informing the public on the topic nearly 30 years prior. Additionally, the book "Ces O.V.N.I. qui nous observent" (May 1978) by the OURANOS commission is praised as a valuable compilation of investigation reports and graphic reconstructions, serving as a collective memory for researchers.

Reader Correspondence and Feedback

The 'Courrier des lecteurs' section addresses reader inquiries and comments. Christophe Alossery asks about the possibility of an electronic version of UFOmania, to which the response indicates no immediate plans, citing the importance of supporting the printed edition through subscriptions. Christian Keifer expresses appreciation for a previous issue and supports inter-group exchange in ufology, while also noting a tendency for some individuals to use ufology for self-promotion. Jacky Kozan commends issue 51 as a solid foundation for understanding UFOs and wishes the magazine longevity. France Bilquez offers a philosophical perspective on the mystery of UFOs, suggesting a broader view beyond the physical. The section also includes a response from the editorial team regarding the nature of UFO phenomena, questioning a direct link to extraterrestrial life.

UFO Meetings and Events

Updates are provided on 'Repas Ufologiques' (UFO Meetings) across France. New meetings are announced in Lorient, and existing ones in Bordeaux, Rennes, and Colmar are highlighted. The meeting in Colmar was inaugurated by Jean-Claude Bourret, who gave a presentation to over 130 attendees. The importance of these meetings for information dissemination and structuring the ufological community is emphasized.

Data Archiving Initiative

A proposal for a standardized national UFO data archiving system is presented by an unnamed contributor. This system aims to assign a unique numerical code to each case, incorporating country, department, date, GEIPAN classification, and a sequential identifier. The goal is to create a unified database accessible via the internet, complementing existing efforts like those by the CNES and organizations such as VIGIE OVNIS 29 and PLANETE OVNI.

Media Appearances and Publications

Alix Leproust reports on her participation in a FR3 Normandie radio show, "c'est mieux le matin," where she discussed UFOs in Normandy. This intervention was well-received and led to plans for a future "special OVNI en Normandie" segment. The magazine also promotes its own back issues, special editions, and related books and DVDs through a 'Commande' (Order) section. Notable publications advertised include "OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn" by Didier Gomez, "Le Guide Pratique de l'Enquêteur," and "Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés" under the direction of Yves Sillard.

Book and DVD Promotions

Several books and DVDs related to ufology are featured and available for purchase. These include "OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn," "Apparitions insolites en Occitanie," "Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés," the "OVNI Contacts (DVD)" series, "L'Eure des OVNI," and "Le rapport COMETA."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania magazine reinforces its commitment to serious, evidence-based ufological research. Recurring themes include the importance of historical documentation, the challenges of objective investigation, the need for collaboration among researchers and organizations, and the dissemination of information to the public. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous analysis and a critical approach, while also acknowledging the passion and dedication of the ufological community. The magazine actively promotes its own publications and related works, positioning itself as a central hub for French ufology.