UFOmania - No 59

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: 59
Volume: 16th year
Date: June 2009
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1254 5112
Cover Price: France metropolitan 6.25 €
Cover Headline: Phenomenon photographed on January 19, 2009, in Mazamet (Tarn).

Editorial Stance and Mission

UFOmania magazine positions itself as a quarterly publication dedicated to providing information for enthusiasts of Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena (UAP) and other unusual apparitions. Its primary objective is to present research findings from various specialists and to foster constructive debate. The magazine relies on testimonials, press articles, and reflections from its correspondents. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining an open mind to understand the significance of these phenomena in our immediate environment and advocates for rigorous study of UAPs as a reality.

Key Articles and Features

Cover Story: Phenomenon in Mazamet

The cover of this issue highlights a phenomenon photographed on January 19, 2009, in Mazamet, Tarn. The accompanying article details the observation by a witness named Cedric C. on March 14 or 15, 2006, in Thorenc, near the Col de Vence. Cedric C. described a dark, elongated object with a grey protuberance, exhibiting a rocking motion and then moving horizontally. The witness's account is detailed, including his emotional state and the photographic evidence obtained. The article also discusses potential optical effects and the witness's credibility.

Dossier: Special Investigations

"Mars 2006, a very strange observation in the Nice hinterland" by Pierre Beake and Denis Alarcon:
This section details an investigation into a sighting in Thorenc, Alpes Maritimes, in March 2006. The witness, Cedric C., observed an object described as an elongated ellipse with a grey protuberance. The object displayed a rocking motion and then moved horizontally. The article includes analysis of the photographs taken and discusses possible explanations such as atmospheric turbulence or optical effects.

"Chasseurs d'ovnis au col de Vence":
This part of the dossier refers to a documentary film titled "UFOs & Crop circles 2" produced by the association coldevence.com, featuring interviews with witnesses and researchers. It covers investigations at two key locations: Col de Vence in France and Milk Hill in England, known for persistent anomalies and crop circles. The film is presented as a follow-up to a previous documentary.

News and Updates

"UFO DATA is finished!" by Russel Calaghan:
This communiqué announces the cessation of the Anglo-Saxon magazine UFO DATA due to financial crisis, despite efforts to keep it running. The article highlights the high cost of publication and the decline in subscriptions, expressing gratitude to subscribers and promising to send an electronic version of the review with a DVD of a 2008 conference.

"It's online...":
This section announces the release of a detailed 52-page report by COBEPS concerning an observation of an unidentified aerospace phenomenon on December 11, 1989, by Lieutenant-Colonel André Amond and his wife in Ernage, Belgium. The report is available for download.

"Measure the radiation":
This article discusses the RADEX RD 1503 radiometer, a successor to the QUARTEX RD 8901, which measures beta and gamma radiation. It notes its availability and relevance beyond ufology, following a broadcast on nuclear waste.

"Strange Meurthe-et-moselle":
This announcement details an upcoming "End of the Strange" weekend event on August 8-9, 2009, in Fontenoy-la-Joûte, featuring conferences, exhibitions, and telescopes. It is organized by Bruno Klotz, president of the CLAP association.

"Edition Privée 2009 'RARE' - OVNI et Extraterrestres":
Michel Padrines announces the re-edition of his book "OVNI Investigation," a blend of ufology and archaeology, with a limited print run of 150 numbered copies.

<<< In Brief >>>

Obituary: The death of Patrice Roger, founder of the Sentinelle de Reims group, is announced. He was also responsible for the Sentinelle News review.

Declassified Documents: Vicente-Juan Ballester-Olmos points to the availability of two downloadable PDF documents (140 and 148 pages) from the Defense Intelligence Agency's website, related to declassified UFO reports.

Enigmatic Col de Vence: Pierre Beake and his colleagues are preparing to release a book documenting events at Col de Vence.

Local Press

"Observation of UFOs: It creates bonds" (L'Union, March 5, 2009):
This article reports on a sighting by Robert and Ginette Beaufort in Reims, who observed a luminous, round object above Notre-Dame Cathedral. The couple's account received little local reaction but prompted a letter from a witness in Normandy who had a similar experience 34 years prior. The article notes that the Reims sighting was officially explained as a confusion with the planet Venus, a conclusion that ufologists find dismissive.

"Interview: Orléans - 'I don't believe in UFOs, I am certain they exist!'":
This interview with Christian Comtesse, a ufologist, discusses his views on UFOs, his personal experiences, and his efforts to organize ufological gatherings. He expresses a strong conviction in the existence of UFOs, despite not believing in the conventional 'flying saucer' narrative. He also touches upon the challenges of ufology, the role of organizations like GEIPAN, and the perceived secrecy surrounding the topic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and credible witness testimony in the field of ufology. It highlights the challenges faced by ufological publications, such as financial difficulties and the trend of disappearing magazines, underscoring the need for reader support through subscriptions. The editorial stance acknowledges the potential reality of UFOs while cautioning against hasty interpretations and manipulation of the phenomenon. There is a recurring theme of debunking official explanations that dismiss witness accounts, as seen in the Reims case, and a call for more active local ufological groups to ensure proper handling of information and witness support. The magazine also promotes its own resources, including practical guides for investigators and its online presence.

Summary of Key Incidents

• January 19, 2009, Mazamet (Tarn), France: A phenomenon was photographed.
• March 14/15, 2006, Thorenc (Alpes Maritimes), France: A witness observed an elongated, dark object with a grey protuberance.
• December 11, 1989, Ernage, Belgium: A report on an investigation into an unidentified aerospace phenomenon.
• February 12, 1975, Nagel-Séez-Mesnil (Eure), France: A luminous ball was observed that moved to avoid vehicle headlights.
• March 2, 2009, Reims (Marne), France: A couple observed a luminous, round object hovering above Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Notable Quote

"« C'est comme si la chose repoussait l'air autour d'elle... »" - M. Cedric C.

FAQ

• What is UFOmania magazine? UFOmania magazine is a quarterly publication dedicated to information for readers passionate about Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena (UAP) and other unusual apparitions, aiming to present research findings and foster constructive debate.
• What was the main event featured on the cover? The cover features a phenomenon photographed on January 19, 2009, in Mazamet, Tarn, France.
• What is the significance of the 'Col de Vence' investigation? The 'Col de Vence' is highlighted as a location of persistent anomalies, with investigations documented in a film and a book, focusing on UFO sightings and crop circles.
• What is the current state of ufological publications? The magazine notes the alarming trend of ufological publications disappearing, citing the closure of UFO DATA and Inforespace, and emphasizes the importance of subscriptions to sustain such magazines.
• What is the magazine's stance on the reality of UFOs? The editorial suggests that UFOs have a physical reality and exhibit fantastic technology, but cautions against hasty conclusions about their origin, as the phenomenon can be manipulated.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated June 2009 (Issue 59), focuses on recent and historical UFO sightings, with a particular emphasis on a case at the Col de Vence and the concept of 'Realism Fantastic'.

Col de Vence Sighting (February 17, 2009)

The magazine reports on an unusual event at the Col de Vence, a known site for strange occurrences. A witness named Julien observed a dark, dome-shaped object oscillating vertically in the sky. The object then ascended at an incredible speed, estimated at over 1000 km/h, until it was lost from view. The observation lasted about twenty seconds. The object was estimated to be between 4 to 10 meters in size. Initial analysis by 'Les Invisibles du col de Vence' and the C.R.U.N. (Niçois Ufological Research Committee) suggested it was not a conventional aircraft, balloon, or parachute. Despite a special report being planned, no physical trace was found at the location.

Mazamet Sighting (January 19, 2009)

Another case detailed is from Mazamet, where Florence Cambos and her son Albin reported seeing a 'fireball' that traversed the sky. They described it as a luminous sphere that stagnated for a minute before disappearing. This event is contrasted with meteor showers reported by hundreds of people on January 17th. The article notes that while the phenomenon could be a meteorite, the luminous point of 50 centimeters leaves room for other hypotheses. The case is being investigated, with potential links to other sightings in the Castres/Mazamet area.

Research and Publications

The issue highlights the work of Julien Gonzalez, an independent researcher who has compiled a catalog of UFO sightings in the Nièvre region since 1946. His research includes over 80 lesser-known observations and has led to the publication of several articles and a planned book on UFOs in Burgundy. The magazine also features a subscription appeal for Julien Gonzalez's upcoming book, 'OVNI dans le troisième type en France', which aims to provide a comprehensive catalog and analysis of third-type encounters in France.

The 'Realism Fantastic' Movement

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the concept of 'Realism Fantastic', largely popularized by Louis Pauwels and Jacques Bergier through their 1960 book 'Le matin des magiciens'. The article traces the intellectual journey of Pauwels and Bergier, their collaboration, and their exploration of esoteric knowledge, ancient civilizations, and unexplained phenomena. It discusses their shared interest in the paranormal and their belief that the extraordinary can be found within reality itself. The magazine also touches upon the legacy of their work and its influence on subsequent publications and movements.

Historical Context and Other Cases

Throughout the issue, various historical UFO cases are referenced, including sightings from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s in France. The magazine also includes a section on 'Méprises et canulars' (Mistakes and Hoaxes), discussing common misidentifications and deliberate fabrications in UFO reports. The article on Julien Gonzalez's research in Nièvre provides a chronological list of reported sightings in that region.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of critical analysis and scientific rigor in the study of UFO phenomena, while acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases. The 'Realism Fantastic' section suggests an open-minded approach to the unknown, encouraging readers to explore beyond conventional scientific explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into anomalous aerial phenomena, with a particular interest in historical context and the philosophical implications of such sightings.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, number 59, dated June 2009, features a cover story titled "Observation d'un PAN* à Octeville-sur-mer (76)" which details a specific Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon (UAP) sighting.

Investigation: UAP Sighting in Octeville-sur-mer

The main article details an encounter by Jean Pierre X, a witness with a scientific background, on January 18, 2009, between 2:00 and 2:15 AM near Octeville-sur-mer. The sighting occurred during strong winds and heavy rain, with the witness observing a UAP from the entrance of the Club-House of the Octeville golf course. The object was described as having a triangular shape with three white lights at the angles and a larger, brighter light in the center. The witness estimated the object's altitude to be around 150 meters and its distance from him to be approximately 150 meters. He initially thought it might be a large aircraft preparing to land at the nearby Havre-Octeville airport, but the object's steady, linear movement and lack of sound, despite the storm, led him to reconsider. The witness also noted a faint, blue, flickering arc connecting the rear lights of the object.

The investigators, Jacques Amirault and Gérard Nouzille from the "Groupe Ufologie Dynamique du Havre," interviewed the witness on-site and took photographs of the location. They noted that the witness's scientific background and detailed description lent credibility to his account. The article also discusses the proximity of a military airport and a nuclear power plant to the sighting location.

Further analysis suggests that the UAP's trajectory was similar to air traffic approaching the Havre-Octeville airport, but with a slight deviation. The investigators also attempted to minimize the witness's estimations of angular height and altitude based on a site visit and the witness's drawing, suggesting a lower altitude and closer distance than initially perceived.

The article emphasizes the witness's insistence on remaining anonymous and his lack of inclination towards believing in UFOs in general, making his intriguing experience all the more significant. He expressed regret for not being able to observe more due to the weather conditions.

Ufology vs. SETI: A Comparative Analysis

Another significant section of the magazine explores the relationship between Ufology and SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence). Written by Michel Granger, a scientist with extensive experience in paranormal and ufological research, this section delves into the apparent dichotomy between these two fields, despite their shared interest in extraterrestrial life.

Granger highlights that many ufologists pay little attention to SETI, viewing it as irrelevant to their research on UFOs. Conversely, radio astronomers involved in SETI often dismiss UFO phenomena, considering them outside the scope of their scientific investigations. The article questions how this division has persisted for 50 years.

It traces the origins of SETI, mentioning key figures like Giuseppe Cocconi, Philip Morrison, and Frank Drake, and their early efforts in searching for extraterrestrial signals. The article notes the limited success of various SETI programs over the decades, including SENTINEL, META/SETI, SETI/MOP, and SETI/NASA.

Granger also addresses the common argument that astronomers, being in the best position to observe, would report UFOs if they existed. He counters this by citing a 1977 survey that indicated astronomers do observe UBOs (Unidentified Brilliant Objects) but often refrain from discussing them due to career concerns. The article also points out that astronomical instruments are not designed to detect nearby objects like UFOs.

The section discusses the differing views of prominent SETI figures on UFOs, with some dismissing them as natural phenomena or psychological illusions, while others, like Frank Drake, expressed skepticism about the technological credibility of UFOs. However, some figures, like Jill C. Tarter, acknowledge the vastness of the universe and the possibility of unknown phenomena.

Granger concludes that while SETI focuses on distant signals, Ufology deals with phenomena occurring in our immediate vicinity. He suggests that the study of UFOs might be more important for understanding our place in the universe than the detection of a distant, potentially incomprehensible signal.

Comparative Ufology: UFOs in Motion

This section, curated by Vicente-Juan Ballester-Olmos, presents a comparative analysis of UAP photographs, focusing on cases where the object was captured incidentally while the witness was in a moving vehicle (car or train).

Several examples are presented, including a photo from the French Pyrenees (Andorra), one from near Perpignan in 1972, another from the Black Forest in Germany in 1966 and 1983, and one from Willamette Pass, Oregon, USA, in 1966. The article notes that these photos often show blurred objects, and the witnesses themselves did not observe anything unusual at the time of capture. Ballester-Olmos explains that such images are often produced by the brief exposure of a closer object against a background, due to the motion of the vehicle.

He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between photographic and digital photos, as well as between photos taken with a visual witness testimony and those discovered incidentally. The section includes references to various books and articles on UAP photography.

FOTOCAT Project

The magazine also provides an update on the FOTOCAT project, an initiative to create a comprehensive catalog of UAP photographs and videos from France. The project, coordinated by Vicente-Juan Ballester-Olmos, aims to collect and make this data accessible online. UFOmania magazine is collaborating with the project to expand its database, which currently contains over 9600 entries globally and 435 specific to France. Readers are encouraged to contribute their own findings and information to aid in this collective effort.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of scientific inquiry and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging detailed reporting of sightings and fostering a critical yet curious approach to UAP phenomena. The magazine bridges the gap between anecdotal witness accounts and scientific analysis, while also engaging with broader questions about extraterrestrial intelligence and the nature of reality. The contrast between the methodical, distant search of SETI and the direct, often perplexing, encounters of Ufology is a recurring theme, suggesting that both avenues may hold pieces of a larger puzzle.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated June 2009 (Issue 59), features a cover story titled 'SCYLLA, l'écueil de la dimension zéro' by Fabrice Kircher. The article explores the concept of UFOs as a means to reflect on the human condition, our place in the universe, and the nature of cosmology, drawing insights from ancient texts to understand secret dimensions of the cosmic universe.

Main Article: SCYLLA, l'écueil de la dimension zéro by Fabrice Kircher

Fabrice Kircher, born in Sarreguemines in 1959, is an active researcher in unexplained phenomena, known for his works with Dominique Becker. He describes himself as a researcher rather than a field operative. Kircher presents a novel cosmological model where the universe originates from a single point that has become complex over time. He posits that our 3-dimensional world is confined to Earth, while visitors, referred to as 'ufonautes, aliens, angels, demons, gods, revenants,' inhabit a 4-dimensional realm. This 'anti-world' is a mirror of ours, with an inverted arrow of time, separated by a 'dimension 0,' equivalent to 72.

Kircher details an event from July 1961 in America where a student was abducted by a UFO and spent 3 hours in an anti-world, only to find that 18 days had passed in his own world. This leads to calculations: 18 days x 24 hours = 432, and 432 / 3 hours = 144. An 'aller-retour' (round trip) takes 72 units of time, suggesting a factor of 72 or 144 related to the time difference. He connects the number 72 to dimension 0 in the metric of a cube, suggesting our universe might be cubic. He also references the Voynich manuscript's mention of a cubic universe and a central microcosm with a base of 72.

He further explores ancient sources, less confidential than the Voynich manuscript, where these mathematical values appear in contexts of crossing worlds. He points to Homer's epics, 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey,' as containing hidden knowledge, possibly not authored by a mere poet but by a 'thaumaturge' (miracle worker) for other thaumaturges, revealing secrets of warfare, siege tactics, and city conquest. The success of a besieged city, he argues, depended not only on military might but also on magical and religious approaches, including knowing the city's secret name and the gods supporting it.

Reflection: Scylla and the 'Dimension Zero' by Fabrice Kircher

This section continues the exploration of Homeric texts, focusing on the passage describing the perils of Scylla and Charybdis. Kircher suggests that the description is not literal but symbolic, hinting at a 'dimension zero.' He analyzes the numbers mentioned in the text: 12 feet, 6 necks, 6 heads, 3 rows of teeth, leading to calculations like 12x6=72 and 72x6=432. Dividing 432 by 3 yields 144, and multiplying 432 by 3 gives 1296. He interprets the 3 hours spent in the anti-world versus 18 days in the normal world as a temporal displacement. The calculation 1296/24 = 54 suggests 54 days, equivalent to 1296 hours, spent in the anti-world. This translates to approximately 21 years and 4 months in our world.

Kircher links the number 1296 to the 7th dimension of a cube, proposing that the 'Homeric cosmology' suggests a 7-dimensional universe. He connects this to esoteric traditions mentioning 7 heavens and 7 subterranean spheres. He then analyzes a passage from 'The Iliad' describing a battle for Patroclus's corpse, which takes place in a 'fatal abyss,' surrounded by fog and lacking sun or moon. This scene is interpreted as a representation of dimension 0, with a 'reddish fog' (6th dimension) and an 'abyss' (7th dimension).

He proposes a mathematical breakdown of these dimensions: 7-D (the abyss, 1296), 6-D (red fog, 216), 0-D (iron core, 72), 5-D (light, 36), 4-D (world of aliens, 6), and 3-D (our world, 3). He concludes that Homeric epics are encrypted texts revealing secrets about the universe, anti-worlds, and communication between dimensions.

Conference Report: "Conférence sur le phénomène OVNI qui intrigue ou fascine" in Pérols (34), April 18, 2009

This section reports on a conference organized by OVNI-Languedoc, an association dedicated to the objective study of UFO phenomena. The event, held at the Salle Yves Abric, featured talks by ufologists Thierry Gaulin, Bruno Bousquet, and Didier Gomez, as well as Jacques Patenet, former head of the official GEIPAN (Groupe d'Études et d'Informations sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) department of CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales).

The conference program included presentations on the history of the V.E.R.O.N.I.C.A. group, crop circles, various UFO cases, and the official research conducted by GEIPAN. Jacques Patenet discussed GEIPAN's case classification system (A, B, C, D1, D2) and the role of IPNs (Intervenants de Premier Niveau). He emphasized the importance of rigorous methodology and the ongoing nature of research ('When we haven't found, we keep looking').

Didier Gomez presented on crop circles, asserting that they are entirely man-made, a stance that was challenged. Thierry Gaulin and Bruno Bousquet presented a counter-investigation into an old case from the Hérault region. The event included debates, stands, and book signings, attracting both believers and skeptics in a constructive atmosphere.

Book Review: "Les OVNI de V.E.R.O.N.I.C.A." by Thierry Gaulin

This review discusses Thierry Gaulin's second book, which revisits the history of the V.E.R.O.N.I.C.A. group, active in France from the 1970s to the 1980s. The Nîmes-based group studied UFO phenomena and investigated cases, including the less solid 'Rose C.' case. The review notes Gaulin's immersion in old V.E.R.O.N.I.C.A. files and interviews with former members.

Book Review: "OVNI 50 d'enquêtes dans le Tarn/ufomania.fr" by Didier Gomez & Bruno Bousquet

Erlé Lassalle introduced the speakers, followed by Jean-Marc Donnadieu's presentation on crop circles, which he attributed solely to human activity. Didier Gomez and Bruno Bousquet then presented their work, focusing on various hypotheses surrounding UFOs and presenting a revised version of an article from March 2004. They aimed to select a dozen 'acceptable' hypotheses from the many circulating in ufology.

Jacques Patenet spoke about official research in France, emphasizing GEIPAN's methodology and the role of IPNs. He highlighted that GEIPAN studies phenomena without venturing into speculative explanations of their origin. He also mentioned the growing network of IPNs, who are volunteers assisting in preliminary investigations.

Thierry Gaulin discussed regional cases and Bruno Bousquet summarized a counter-investigation into an old Hérault case. The event fostered a respectful debate between ufologists and the public, including notable figures like Eric Maillot.

Sidermania: God and Devil in Ufology

This section, authored by Jean Sider, explores a niche in ufological literature, particularly in the United States, where authors argue that UFOs are either directed by angels serving God (Elohim) or by fallen angels serving the Devil (demons).

Sider notes that most 'pro-UFO' literature favors the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), suggesting physical beings from other planets. However, a small percentage explores divine or diabolical interpretations.

He references Joe Lewels' book, 'The God Hypothesis,' which suggests that UFO occupants are angels, not demons, citing abductee testimonies. Lewels interprets encounters with reptilian or insectoid beings as divine interventions aimed at preventing human self-destruction. Sider finds this interpretation curious, especially Lewels' suggestion that insectoid entities could be angels.

Conversely, the 'diabolical hypothesis' is explored through authors like Nelson Pacheco and Tommy R. Blann, who link UFO phenomena to demonic activity. They cite various incidents, including cattle mutilations and disappearances of animals and humans, as evidence of negative entities. They also discuss cases where abductees, like Barbara Schutte, felt their experiences were orchestrated by a satanic force.

Sider critically examines the evidence for both divine and diabolical hypotheses, suggesting that the interpretation of such phenomena is often influenced by the observer's beliefs and background. He posits that the 'law of Marks and Kamman' (choosing an exciting hypothesis and selectively gathering supporting evidence) can lead to diverse interpretations of UFO occupants, from gods and angels to demons and extraterrestrials.

He also touches upon the idea of the 'cosmic zoo' hypothesis, where Earth is seen as a controlled environment, and the concept of panspermia. The article questions the religious connotations often found in abduction accounts and suggests that the perceived nature of the entities might be shaped by the abductee's psyche and personal history.

Sider concludes by discussing the limitations of interpreting UFO phenomena, emphasizing that while many theories exist, definitive proof remains elusive. He also highlights the importance of scientific rigor in ufological research, referencing works by Rémy Chauvin and Hans-Joaquim Zillmer that challenge evolutionary theories.

Presentation of the Editor

Jean Sider's work, 'Les Ovnis et le paranormal: 20 dossiers percutants,' is presented. The editor notes that Sider connects the paranormal with UFO phenomena, suggesting an unknown intelligence manipulates humanity, echoing Charles Fort's ideas. Sider warns against viewing mediumistic phenomena and close encounters with UFOs with excessive optimism.

Biography of the Author

Jean Sider is described as a prolific author and researcher specializing in ufology, with numerous books and articles on topics such as the 1954 wave, demonic UFOs, and the origins of humanity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of ufology with ancient history, mythology, and esoteric knowledge. There's a strong emphasis on deciphering hidden meanings in historical texts and connecting them to modern UFO sightings and abduction accounts. The editorial stance appears to favor in-depth, critical analysis, presenting various hypotheses (extraterrestrial, divine, demonic) while encouraging readers to question and investigate further. The magazine also highlights the efforts of independent researchers and organizations in studying the UFO phenomenon, often contrasting their work with official investigations or mainstream scientific views. There's a recurring theme of hidden knowledge and the idea that UFO phenomena may hold profound secrets about humanity's origins and destiny.

Title: UFOmania magazine
Issue Date: June 2009 (Issue 59)
Publisher: UFOmania magazine
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of UFOmania magazine features a collection of reader letters, an in-depth article on bovine genetics and its potential link to animal mutilations, and a critique of a UFO-themed documentary. It also includes a section for ordering past issues and related publications.

Reader Correspondence

The "Courrier des lecteurs" section opens with a general comment on the shift towards digital communication and a plea for continued reader engagement. Christian Valentin (68) congratulates the team for the quality of the magazine, particularly the recent issue featuring the GEPA and a DVD. Bruno Mancusi (Suisse) expresses his appreciation for the magazine's openness to different hypotheses and collaborations with foreign researchers, specifically mentioning the 58th issue's cover and a 'Spatial Phenomena' box set. He also praises the magazine for posing questions that elevate the spirit and encourages a prudent approach to UFO research, emphasizing humility and respect for proposed hypotheses. Mathias Boddaert (74) also expresses his support and delight in accompanying the magazine for two more years, highlighting the importance of such publications for maintaining motivation in ufology.

Several letters address specific points:

• Christian Valentin (68) praises the magazine's quality and layout.
• Bruno Mancusi (Suisse) commends the magazine's approach to ufology, its collaborations, and its focus on knowledge. He also notes the absence of Jimmy Guieu in a DVD's content despite his mention in the text.
• Patrick Bony (69) requests more theoretical articles, like those by Sider and Bonvin, expressing agreement with Bonvin's 'Gaian' theories and 'matrix' hypothesis, and a preference for in-depth analysis over simple sighting reports.
• Julien Gonzalez thanks the magazine for including his book in the next issue and mentions that he will add a catalog of Belgian RR3 cases (around 25) as an appendix.

Critique of Alain Guadalpi's Film

Alain Guadalpi's film on UFOs is the subject of a detailed critique by a reader who was interviewed for the documentary. The reader points out several inaccuracies and perceived biases:

1. Focus on French Cases: The film primarily focuses on French subjects like Bertrand Méheust and COMETA, despite the interview taking place in Switzerland regarding Swiss ufology.
2. Vallorbe Case: The landing case of Vallorbe (June 19, 1996) is only briefly mentioned with a drawing, and its inclusion is questioned because it is an 'explained case,' contradicting the film's pro-UFO stance. The reader suggests this is why the film was rejected by French TV channels.
3. Approximations and Errors: The film is accused of making approximations regarding Swiss cases.
* Yverdon-les-Bains: Views of Yverdon-les-Bains are shown, but the focus shifts to the reader's home in Payerne, and Patrick Gyger, conservator of the Maison d'Ailleurs museum, is interviewed much later in the film.
* COMETA and Philip Corso: The reader refers to a passage where COMETA seems to support Colonel Philip Corso's theories, but Guadalpi never contacted the reader for clarification on which passage was being alluded to.
* Vallorbes [sic] Case: The explained case of Vallorbe is presented briefly with a drawing and a legend, without further explanation.
* Penthéréaz Case: The case of Penthéréaz (December 21, 1982) is mislocated in Orbe in the film, simply because the witness worked there.

The reader concludes that the film oscillates between documentary and homage to Jimmy Guieu, suggesting Guieu was the primary intent but was 'dressed up' with other subjects to appeal to a wider audience.

Bovine Genetics and Animal Mutilations

An article explores the recent complete sequencing of the bovine genome. Researchers from Lausanne, Geneva, and the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics collaborated on this project, which took six years and involved 300 scientists from 25 countries. The genome of the cow ('Bos taurus') contains approximately 22,000 genes, similar to Homo sapiens (20,000-25,000). The article highlights that the bovine genome is remarkably similar to the human genome in terms of genetic rearrangements and common genes, with differences primarily in genes related to brain function, which are crucial for language acquisition.

Geneticist André Langaney explains that similarities between species' genomes suggest frequent exchanges of genetic material since their divergence from a common ancestor. This implies the existence of distinct pre-human, pre-gorilla, and pre-chimpanzee lineages that continued to hybridize.

The article connects this genetic proximity to the theories of the 'lunatic fringe' ufologists from the 1980s, who claimed that extraterrestrials were responsible for cattle mutilations, not for hostile reasons, but for genetic purposes. These ufologists also noted the genetic similarities between bovines and humans. The article quotes geneticist Barbara McClintock, who was initially dismissed for her work on 'jumping genes' in maize, emphasizing the fluidity of the genome. The text suggests that this genetic connection might explain why certain 'visitors' might be interested in 'genetic degeneration' and commit mutilations. While not definitively stating that aliens are behind the mutilations, the article posits that the genetic findings warrant reflection on the matter.

Other Content

• RR3 Cases in Belgium: Julien Gonzalez mentions that he will include a catalog of Belgian RR3 cases (around 25) in his upcoming book.
• UFOmania Shop: The magazine advertises various publications for sale, including books by Didier Gomez ('OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn', 'Apparitions insolites en Occitanie', 'L'Eure des OVNIS'), DVDs ('OVNI Contacts', 'Le DVD des 3èmes Rencontres Rapprochées'), and back issues of UFOmania magazine.
• Sommaire du n°60: A preview of the upcoming issue (n°60) is provided, listing articles on Jacques Vallée, Michel Granger on abductions, and other regular features.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania magazine demonstrates a commitment to in-depth ufological research, as evidenced by the detailed reader letters and the article on bovine genetics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness, encouraging the exploration of various hypotheses while maintaining a critical perspective, as shown in the critique of the Guadalpi film and the nuanced discussion of genetic theories related to animal mutilations. The magazine actively promotes its own publications and those of its contributors, fostering a community around the study of UFO phenomena. There's a clear emphasis on theoretical and investigative approaches to ufology, moving beyond simple sighting reports.