UFOmania - No 57

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: N°57
Date: December 2008
Volume: 15th year, quarterly

This issue of UFOmania magazine, a French publication dedicated to unidentified aerospace phenomena (UAP) and unusual apparitions, presents a comprehensive exploration of ufology. It aims to provide a balance of research findings, expert opinions, and constructive debate, drawing information from testimonials, press articles, and the reflections of its correspondents.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Didier Gomez, highlights the growing difficulty in understanding the origin of UFOs and the fragmentation within the French ufological community. It stresses the urgent need for better on-the-ground documentation and a more rigorous methodology. Gomez also acknowledges the contributions of new and regular subscribers, as well as article authors, emphasizing their role in supporting the magazine's work. He notes the importance of considering new approaches and perspectives, referencing the work of Aimé Michel and the democratic nature of ufology as a field of expression, while cautioning against uncritical belief.

Dossier Special: Jean Sider

This section features a detailed profile of Jean Sider, described as the most prolific French-speaking author in ufology, with over fifteen published works. The article, written by Fabrice Bonvin, explores Sider's evolution from a proponent of the extraterrestrial hypothesis to a theorist who views UFOs as 'material lures' or 'diversified forms of manipulation of human psychism.'

Bonvin recounts his discovery of Sider's work, starting with 'Ultra Top Secret: ces OVNIS qui font peur' (1990), and praises Sider's rigorous research, intellectual depth, and unique writing style. Sider's extensive personal library of over 2000 books is noted as the foundation of his autodidactic approach.

• The dossier traces Sider's key publications:
• 'L'Airship de 1897' (1987): Focuses on the 1896-97 wave of phantom airship sightings.
• 'Ultra Top Secret: ces OVNIS qui font peur' (1990): Explores US ufological topics like UFO crashes and cattle mutilations, initially supporting the extraterrestrial hypothesis.
• 'OVNIs : Dossier Secret' (1994): Features a preface by Jacques Vallée and delves into the Roswell crash and alien abduction scenarios.
• 'La vie vient d'une intelligence supérieure' (2002): Challenges the theory of evolution, suggesting life may have been imported or created by an alien intelligence.
• 'OVNIs: Dossier diabolique' (2003): Explores themes of demonic possession, reptilian aliens, and the connection between Men in Black (MIBs) and demons.

Sider's core thesis posits that UFOs are not spacecraft but 'material lures' created by an intelligence with significant power over matter and the human mind, designed for systematic deception. This intelligence, he suggests, has been active for centuries and may be terrestrial in origin, potentially linked to 'fluidic and energetic' consciousness.

The article also touches upon Sider's later works, such as 'Les Armées Fantômes' and 'Les "Extra-terrestres" avant les Soucoupes Volantes,' which, while interesting, do not significantly alter his main thesis. The author acknowledges that Sider's ideas are unconventional within mainstream ufology but have stimulated debate and opened new avenues of research.

Articles and Features

Editorial: Didier Gomez discusses the challenges in understanding UFO origins and the state of ufology in France, emphasizing the need for better documentation and methodology.

• Actualités (News):
• 'Si les OVNIs m'étaient contés...': A description of an upcoming OVNI-themed performance art piece by Dominique Rousseau.
• OVNI Médias News: A weekly email service by Didier Charnay (UFOlog) summarizing OVNI news from various media outlets.
• 'L'ufologie, c'est chouette': Notes the growing number of Belgian subscribers to UFOmania, indicating its international reach.
• Italian Ministry of Defense OVNI Archives: Reports that the Italian Ministry of Defense is making its OVNI archives publicly available online, following similar initiatives in other countries.
• 'Phénomènes spatiaux': Announces the release of a magnificent boxed set compiling the works of the GEPA revue 'Phénomènes Spatiaux' from 1963 to 1977, including special issues on UFOs and extraterrestrials.

'Le Courrier du Livre': A section featuring book reviews and recommendations, including a 5-book collection by René Fouéré on 'Phénomènes Spatiaux' and a review of 'Les invisibles du col de Vence.'

• '>>> en bref' (In Brief):
• UFOmania Conference in 2009, Belgium?: Plans are underway for a conference in Belgium or Northern France for magazine subscribers, aiming to foster community and discuss the magazine's future.
• 'La science confrontée à l'inexpliqué': A review of a new book, 'Hunt for the Skinwalker,' translated into French.
• 'Les invisibles du col de Vence': Information about a book published by the 'Invisibles du Col de Vence' association, detailing investigations into anomalies in the Col de Vence region.
• 'STUDIOVNI, c'est fini!': News that the website STUDIOVNI is no longer active due to its webmaster's departure from ufology.
• 'UFOmania magazine N°51 is out of print': The magazine offers issue N°51 for free download on its website and considers a reprint if there is sufficient interest.

'Un explorateur audacieux' (Continued): This section continues the discussion on Jean Sider's work, highlighting his research into the 1954 wave and his critique of the 'evolutionism' myth. It also mentions his exploration of the 'Gaïa hypothesis' and his views on the potential extraterrestrial origin of life.

'Retour aux sources anciennes' (Return to Ancient Sources): This article by Jean Sider himself addresses criticisms and debates within ufology, particularly in response to an article by Frédéric Praud. Sider defends the need for in-depth research into historical accounts and traditions to understand UFO phenomena. He outlines key questions for research, including the pre-1947 history of UFO sightings and their comparison with modern cases. Sider argues that UFO phenomena have existed for centuries, possibly millennia, manifesting in various forms and adapting to contemporary beliefs ('Zeitgeist'). He also discusses the 'Operation Suricate' event, a coordinated sky-watching effort, and notes the observed decrease in UFO sightings since the moratorium on nuclear testing, suggesting a possible adaptation of UFO appearances to human technology and beliefs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rigorous, evidence-based approach to ufology, encouraging detailed documentation and critical analysis. It champions open-mindedness while cautioning against unsubstantiated claims and sensationalism. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on historical context and the potential for manipulation or non-conventional explanations for UFO sightings. The magazine also fosters a sense of community among its readers and contributors, evident in its subscription offers and plans for future events.

Title: UFOmania magazine
Issue: 57
Date: December 2008

This issue of UFOmania magazine explores the deep historical roots of UFO phenomena, drawing parallels between ancient myths and modern sightings, and features a detailed report on a specific triangular UFO sighting in France. It also highlights ongoing projects in ufological research and interviews key figures in the field.

Ancient Myths and Modern UFOs: A Continuous Phenomenon?

Jean Sider, a researcher, posits that the entities described in ancient folklore—gods, demons, fairies—exhibit behaviors strikingly similar to those attributed to modern UFO occupants. He argues that these beings share a consistent pattern of behavior, including abductions, shapeshifting into various forms (human, animal, object), deceptive communication, and a peculiar interest in human sexuality. Sider contends that these similarities are too profound to be mere coincidence and suggest a continuous, ancient intelligence interacting with humanity.

He cites historical accounts, such as those from Saint Augustine and Saint John Damascene, describing entities that abduct humans or engage in sexual relations. Sider also addresses the commonality of grotesque and absurd elements in these accounts, suggesting they are deliberately introduced by an unknown intelligence. He notes that these phenomena are not limited to specific cultures but appear across different times and regions, including the Saracen world.

Sider also touches upon the concept of 'pre-Arnoldian' UFO events (RR3 and RR4), suggesting that the idea of cosmic travelers was absent in past populations, leading to different interpretations of similar phenomena. He highlights that while the appearance of UFOs might change based on temporal and ethnic factors, entities with human-like or different appearances have always been present, often manifesting as lights, whirlwinds, or even horses and carriages.

Case Studies: From Antiquity to Modern Times

The magazine presents several historical and modern case studies to illustrate Sider's thesis:

• Ancient Cases:
• 5th Century (Saint Augustine): Demons are described as traversing the world, collecting diverse seeds to create different species, and engaging in relations with humans.
• 8th Century (Saint John Damascene): Saracen legends speak of dragons transforming into men to abduct women.
• Medieval Ireland: A farmer's wife was abducted by a fairy woman and asked to nurse a fairy baby. Her refusal led to the death of one of her cows.
• Late 16th Century (Saint-Claude, France): Thievenne Paget confessed to carnal relations with the Devil, who appeared as a large black man.

• Modern Cases:
• Abductions and Pregnancies: Women report mysterious pregnancies followed by fetal disappearances. Hypnotic regression reveals they were conceived during abductions, and the fetuses were later removed.
• Physical Traces: Some women report waking up with abnormal secretions in their beds or on their nightclothes.
• Karla Turner's Research: The work of researcher Karla Turner is mentioned, particularly her findings on sexual relations between abductees and 'reptilian' or insectoid beings, and her caution about the reliability of abductees' memories due to sensory control and manipulation.

A Triangular UFO Sighting in France

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed report of a triangular UFO sighting that occurred in Beauche, Eure et Loir, France, between November 1992 and March 1994. The witness, Mlle J.T., then 13 years old, along with two friends, observed a dark, triangular object with three white lights and a central red flashing light. The object remained stationary for a few minutes before executing two circular movements in one direction and one in the reverse, after which it suddenly disappeared.

The report includes correspondence with the witness, who expresses her conviction about the reality of the sighting and her frustration at not being believed by her peers. The witness also recalls seeing a report on Belgian triangular UFOs on television, noting the lack of similar reports from France at the time.

The article also touches upon the military base at Crucey, near Beauche, and the 'Nostradamus' radar system, suggesting a potential, though unconfirmed, link to advanced aerial monitoring capabilities.

FOTOCAT Project: Cataloging UFO Photography

Vicente-Juan Ballester-Olmos introduces the FOTOCAT project, an initiative to create a computerized catalog of photographic UFO cases in France. The project aims to sort through potential hoaxes, misidentifications, and genuine sightings, and invites researchers and the public to contribute their findings. The magazine has committed to supporting this project by publishing updates and encouraging participation.

As of September 2008, the global FOTOCAT catalog contained 9,000 entries, with only 350 from France. Ballester-Olmos emphasizes the importance of this work for building a comprehensive database of UFO evidence, particularly visual evidence like photographs and videos.

Interview with Pascal Pautrot: The Man Behind UFOmania's Web Presence

The magazine features an interview with Pascal Pautrot, the graphic designer and webmaster of UFOmania.fr. Pautrot, who has a background in multimedia and graphic design, discusses his role in the creation and maintenance of the website. He explains that the website complements the magazine by offering additional content, interviews, and multimedia features, while emphasizing that it will not replace the printed publication.

Pautrot expresses his belief in the importance of ufology for understanding humanity and highlights Didier Gomez's dedication to the UFOmania project. He also touches upon the challenges of maintaining a niche publication and website, particularly regarding funding and volunteer efforts.

Ufology and Belief: A Delicate Balance

Denis Andro, a social worker with an interest in sect phenomena and ufology, reflects on the relationship between belief and investigation in ufology. He notes that while ufology strives to be a rational and scientific pursuit, it often becomes intertwined with individual beliefs and convictions, similar to other belief systems like Mormonism or New Age movements.

Andro argues that ufology's methods, such as detailed investigation, source comparison, and hypothesis formulation, are rooted in scientific principles. However, he acknowledges that the field often grapples with the subjective nature of belief. He also points to the growing scientific discoveries, such as exoplanets and the potential for extraterrestrial life, which lend some credence to the underlying hypotheses explored in ufology, even if they are not directly related to UFO sightings.

He concludes that ufology, while inspired by scientific approaches, must also contend with the inherent challenges of belief and the potential for dogmatism, while recognizing the value of curiosity and open-mindedness among its researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently emphasizes the historical depth of UFO phenomena, suggesting that modern sightings are part of a long-standing interaction between humanity and an unknown intelligence. The magazine promotes a rigorous, investigative approach to ufology while acknowledging the role of belief and personal conviction. There is a clear editorial stance favoring the exploration of unconventional ideas and a critical examination of evidence, encouraging readers to contribute to ongoing research projects like FOTOCAT. The publication also highlights the importance of supporting ufological media to preserve the transmission of knowledge in the field.

This issue of UFOmania, dated December 2008, features a comprehensive article titled "L'orthoténie : artefact statistique, erreur méthodologique, mirage ou illusion ?" (Orthoteny: Statistical Artefact, Methodological Error, Mirage or Illusion?). The article, written by Michel Granger, critically examines the controversial orthoteny theory developed by ufologist Aimé Michel.

The Orthoteny Theory

The article begins by describing the challenges in studying UFO phenomena, noting the elusive nature of sightings and the difficulty in obtaining tangible proof, which often leads to reliance on subjective conviction rather than scientific evidence. It highlights the tendency towards conspiracy theories and the importance of critical thinking.

The core of the issue revolves around Aimé Michel's orthoteny theory, which emerged from his analysis of UFO sightings, particularly the wave of 1954. Michel observed that many sightings, when plotted on a map, appeared to form straight lines, which he interpreted as evidence of a structured, intelligent phenomenon. He developed statistical methods to support his claims, suggesting these alignments were unlikely to be due to chance.

Methodological Critiques and Statistical Analysis

The article meticulously details the criticisms leveled against orthoteny. Donald H. Menzel, an astronomer, is cited for his statistical objections, arguing that Michel's calculations were flawed and that many alignments could be explained by chance, especially with a larger number of data points. Menzel's critique, published in the Flying Saucer Review, questioned the integrity of Michel's data selection and analysis.

Jacques Vallée, initially intrigued by orthoteny, also conducted simulations using early computer technology. His findings corroborated Menzel's, suggesting that many of the observed alignments could be statistically explained by random distribution, particularly for smaller numbers of points. Vallée's work, though initially seen as supportive, ultimately contributed to the theory's downfall.

François Toulet, a statistician, also analyzed orthoteny, concluding that while some patterns might exist, the theory itself was problematic and likely an "illusion" or a "trap." He pointed out issues with date accuracy and the statistical significance of the findings.

Historical Development and Debunking

The article traces the evolution of orthoteny, from its initial presentation in Michel's book "Mystérieux Objets Célestes" (MOC) to its later developments and eventual critiques. It highlights how the theory, despite its initial appeal to ufologists, faced increasing skepticism from scientists and statisticians.

A significant blow came from Michel Jeantheau's research in 1997, which re-examined the data for the 'BAVIC' line, a key piece of evidence for orthoteny. Jeantheau found discrepancies in the dates of the reported sightings, suggesting that Michel may have manipulated or inaccurately reported data to fit his theory.

The Role of Belief and Skepticism

The article emphasizes the interplay between belief and scientific rigor in ufology. It suggests that orthoteny, while an attempt at a scientific approach, was ultimately undermined by subjective interpretations and a desire to find patterns where none might exist. The author notes that even Aimé Michel himself expressed doubts over the years, referring to his work as a "mirage" or an "illusion."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for critical thinking and methodological rigor in the study of UFO phenomena. It highlights the dangers of confirmation bias and the tendency to interpret ambiguous data in favor of pre-existing beliefs. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific skepticism and evidence-based research, viewing orthoteny as a cautionary tale in the history of ufology. The article concludes that while orthoteny may have been an interesting intellectual exercise, it ultimately failed as a scientific explanation for UFO sightings.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, number 57, dated December 2008, focuses on various intriguing aspects of ufology, including statistical analyses of UFO sightings, specific case studies, and theoretical explorations of the phenomenon. The cover story, "Curiosités à Socorro Anomalies et fraude dans le désert," highlights a case involving alleged UFO crash site evidence and subsequent revelations of fraud.

Orthoteny: Statistical Artifact, Mirage, or Illusion?

The lead article by Aimé Michel critically examines the concept of 'orthoteny,' the alignment of UFO sightings in straight lines. Michel questions the statistical validity of this concept, referencing calculations that suggest random chance could produce such alignments. He points to the work of Donald Johnson and Jacques Vallée, while also cautioning against subjective interpretations and 'pattern recognition.' The article delves into the history of orthoteny research, citing various publications and researchers, including Menzel, Saunders, and Clark. Michel suggests that the initial enthusiasm for orthoteny might have been a statistical illusion, particularly when considering the randomness of natural phenomena and human perception.

Key Figures and Their Contributions

Several ufologists and researchers are mentioned throughout the issue. Aimé Michel is a central figure, credited with introducing the concept of orthoteny. Jacques Vallée is frequently cited for his work on statistical analysis and his theories on 'parallel universes.' Donald Johnson, Josef Allen Hynek, Jerome Clark, Claude Maugé, Alexander D. Mebane, and others are referenced for their contributions to UFO research, statistics, and specific case investigations.

The Socorro Incident: A Case of Fraud

Philip Mantle recounts his investigation into alleged UFO crash site rocks from Socorro, New Mexico. Initially, analysis suggested an extraterrestrial origin, but it was later revealed that the results were fabricated by Ronnie Milione. Mantle details his experience of being deceived and his subsequent legal actions. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for fraud within the ufology community.

Crop Circles: Messages from an Unknown Source?

The article "Crop circles: The number pi in the English countryside" by Fabrice Bonvin and Vittorio Sabadin explores the phenomenon of crop circles. It discusses the increasing complexity of these formations, suggesting they may contain messages. The specific case of a crop circle in Barbury Castle, Wiltshire, is analyzed, revealing it to represent the mathematical constant Pi (π). The article considers both human and potentially non-human origins for these intricate designs, highlighting the intellectual and artistic mastery involved.

Hunt for the Skinwalker: Science Confronts the Unexplained

Gildas Bourdais reviews the book "Hunt for the Skinwalker" by Colm Kelleher and George Knapp. The book investigates phenomena at a remote ranch in Utah, including UFO sightings, animal mutilations, and alleged encounters with 'skinwalkers.' Bourdais notes that the book explores various hypotheses, including paranormal and 'ultraterrestrial' explanations, while downplaying the extraterrestrial hypothesis. He discusses the scientific team's involvement (NIDS) and the lack of definitive proof, suggesting that the phenomena might be related to 'parallel universes' or 'wormholes.' The review also touches upon the potential involvement of military secrecy and the broader context of UFO research.

Laurent Duval: UFO Investigator in Brittany

An interview with Laurent Duval, an 'intervenant de premier niveau' (IPN) who investigates UFO sightings in Brittany, France. Duval shares his personal experience of witnessing a UFO and his methodology for investigating unexplained aerial phenomena. He emphasizes the importance of systematic investigation, eliminating probable causes, and collaborating with organizations like GEPAN.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania consistently explores the tension between scientific rationality and the unexplained. While acknowledging the statistical and logical approaches to UFO phenomena, it also delves into more speculative theories like 'multiverses' and 'paranormal' entities. The magazine appears to maintain a critical yet open stance, encouraging intellectual rigor while not dismissing the possibility of extraordinary explanations. The recurring theme is the need for continued investigation and open-mindedness in the face of complex and often baffling phenomena. The editorial stance seems to favor a thorough, evidence-based approach, while also recognizing the limitations of current scientific understanding and the potential for deception.

Title: UFOmania magazine
Issue: n°57
Date: December 2008

This issue of UFOmania magazine focuses on reader contributions, editorial responses, and reviews of relevant books and publications in the field of ufology and related topics.

Courrier des lecteurs (Readers' Mail)

The "Courrier des lecteurs" section addresses several reader inquiries and comments. Didier Gomez, the editor, responds to concerns about the delayed delivery of issue #56. He explains that recurring distribution problems are faced with each issue, with delivery times ranging from 5 to 10 days. He notes that the previous issue was also delayed due to the printer, JMG, not delivering on time. He aims to have the next issue ready for the printer by the 10th of the month but acknowledges potential delays.

Denis Andro and Christophe Alosserry both inquire about not receiving issue #56, with Alosserry suspecting a distribution problem in his area. Didier Gomez's response addresses these concerns.

Bruno Bousquet (34) praises issue #56 and recommends the Spanish book "Cartas de tres herejes" for its compilation of correspondence between Antonio Ribera, Aimé Michel, and Jacques Vallée since the 1960s. He also suggests that UFOMANIA should include more precise details like dates, times, and locations for reported cases, citing an example from issue #56 where an observation date was miscalculated due to unclear reporting in a newspaper article. The editorial team acknowledges this feedback, stating it helps verify readership and that case details are often provided for indicative purposes.

A reader named M Gomez shares a testimony about observing two unknown objects, attaching a photo and an inverted color image. They request anonymity. The testimony describes an observation on August 17, 2008, around 6:10 PM, while driving on the A8 highway near Le Luc, France. Two dark, seemingly stationary objects were seen in the sky above a mountain range, estimated to be a few hundred meters from the ground and about 100-200 meters wide. The observation lasted 2-3 minutes, after which the objects appeared to move and disappear behind the mountain, with their spacing changing.

Serge R. shares a similar experience, noting that his companion took several photos of two objects visible to the left of the middle peak. He mentions the time lapse between photos was 2 minutes and 30 seconds. He also expresses his willingness to provide a deposition to the gendarmerie if other similar testimonies have been received.

The GEIPAN (Groupe d'Études et d'Informations sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) responds to Serge R., thanking him for his interest and photograph. They remind him that only testimonies filed with the gendarmerie are processed by GEIPAN and integrated into their database, inviting him to file a report. Serge R. replies that he does not intend to file a gendarmerie report as he believes there are insufficient precise elements to support the phenomenon, but he remains available if other testimonies surface.

The editorial response to Serge R.'s testimony highlights it as a good example of a witness conducting their own investigation. They note that the photograph, while interesting, does not add significant evidence beyond the testimony itself.

Book Reviews and Features

UFOMANIA magazine n°56 Review: The magazine is praised for its comprehensive dossier on Aimé Michel, a mathematician and ufologist known for his work on "orthoténie." The issue features texts about his ideas, fears, and doubts regarding UFOs. It also includes a translation by Franck Boitte of Jacques Vallée's "Forbidden Science," covering his personal journal from 1957-1969.

"Du cerveau à Dieu" (From the Brain to God) by Mario Beauregard and Denyse O'Leary: This book is reviewed, posing the question of whether God created the brain or vice versa. It examines how the brain processes spiritual experiences, drawing on neuroscience research. The authors argue that authentic spiritual events exist and cannot be solely attributed to chaotic neural activity. They suggest that scientific materialism is insufficient to explain phenomena where the mind seems to dominate matter, such as spontaneous healings or strong intuition. The book is described as a fundamental work demonstrating the objective reality of mystical and spiritual experiences.

"L'apocalypse molle" (The Soft Apocalypse) by Aimé Michel: This section announces the upcoming publication of "L'apocalypse molle," a collection of correspondence between Aimé Michel and Bertrand Méheust from 1978 to 1990. The book is presented as a significant contribution to understanding Aimé Michel's prophetic and visionary thought, which integrated the question of flying saucers into a grand project of reflecting on the cosmic evolution of life and thought. The title is explained as referring to a continuous catastrophe and a unfolding project, occurring on a temporal scale beyond human perception.

"La clarté au cœur du labyrinthe" (Clarity at the Heart of the Labyrinth) by Aimé Michel: This book compiles over 500 chronicles Aimé Michel wrote for the magazine "France catholique" between 1970 and his death. The chronicles, organized by theme, offer a new perspective on his trajectory as a philosopher who explored fundamental human questions about existence, origins, and destiny. The book covers topics from the animal origins of human thought to a potentially limitless material and spiritual future, the properties of matter, the depths of space, and the hidden Thought within human consciousness and "Christian rumor."

Promotional Offer: A special offer is presented for "L'apocalypse molle" and "La clarté au cœur du labyrinthe," with discounted prices and combined purchase options.

Back Issues and Subscriptions

A comprehensive list of available back issues of UFOmania magazine is provided, along with prices and ordering information. Several special issues and DVDs are also offered, including "OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn," "Le Guide pratique de l'enquêteur de terrain," and DVDs of UFO conferences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features reader contributions, emphasizing the importance of direct testimony and personal investigation into UFO phenomena. There is a strong focus on historical research, particularly concerning figures like Aimé Michel, and the exploration of the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to encourage open-minded inquiry while also valuing rigorous research and precise data collection, as evidenced by the discussion on reporting UFO cases. The magazine also promotes related books and events, positioning itself as a hub for the ufology community.