UFOmania - No 60

Magazine Overview

UFOmania magazine, issue number 60, dated September 2009, is a quarterly publication dedicated to the study of unexplained phenomena and unusual apparitions. This issue is particularly focused on the foundational contributions of researcher Jacques Vallée and the concept of the 'Invisible College'.

Editorial Stance

The editorial, titled "Éditorial," by Didier Gomez, laments the current decline in serious ufological research, attributing it partly to the proliferation of unsubstantiated information on the internet and a general societal shift towards superficial consumption of information. Despite these challenges, the magazine remains committed to its mission of preserving and advancing the study of UFO phenomena. The editorial also announces the magazine's new online ordering system for PDF versions of past issues and pays tribute to recently deceased figures in ufology: Gilles Pinon, John Alva Keel, and Richard Hall.

Dossier Special: The 'Invisible College' and Jacques Vallée's Foundational Contribution

This extensive dossier explores the work of Jacques Vallée, highlighting his unique approach to UFO phenomena as a sociological and profound societal movement. It emphasizes the risks of sectarian drifts and political manipulations associated with such research.

The 'Invisible College'

Thibaut Canuti details the origins and purpose of the 'Collège invisible' (Invisible College), a discreet network of researchers that emerged in the early 1960s. Key figures included Jacques Vallée and Aimé Michel, along with international scientists like J. Allen Hynek, Pierre Guérin, and Claude Poher. Their goal was to conduct serious scientific study of UFOs, often in secrecy due to the potential for professional repercussions in a highly rationalist scientific community. The organization aimed to gather and classify observations, believing that a systematic 'control' system was at play, possibly orchestrated by an intelligent, unique consciousness behind the UFO phenomenon.

Vallée's Scientific and Sociological Approach

The dossier traces Vallée's career, from his early interest in astronomy and his observation of a UFO in Pontoise in 1954, to his move to the United States and his work on the first computerized map of Mars for NASA. It highlights his academic background in mathematics and astrophysics, and his later doctoral work in computer science. Vallée's approach is characterized by a refusal to dismiss extraordinary accounts of close encounters, parapsychological phenomena, and abductions, which he believed were integral to understanding the UFO phenomenon. His work, often published in French and English, sought to integrate folklore, mythology, and scientific data.

Vallée's early career in France at the astronomical observatory of Meudon was marked by a desire for greater intellectual freedom. His encounter with Professor J. Allen Hynek in 1963 proved pivotal, leading to his involvement in UFO research at Northwestern University. Vallée's work with Hynek aimed to integrate the psychic and paranormal dimensions of the UFO phenomenon, challenging the purely physical explanations favored by some.

Key Works and Concepts

The dossier references several of Vallée's influential books, including "Passport to Magonia," "Anatomy of a Phenomenon," "The UFO Enigma," and "The Invisible College." His concept of 'orthoteny' is mentioned as a theoretical framework for understanding UFO trajectories. The text also touches upon Vallée's personal life, including his marriage to Janine Vallée, who was also involved in his research.

The 'Clandestine Research'

The article discusses the clandestine nature of the 'Invisible College's' work, driven by the need to avoid the skepticism and potential hostility of the scientific establishment. The members believed that their research was vital for understanding a phenomenon that official science was largely ignoring or actively discouraging. The text quotes Aimé Michel describing the joy and challenges of this secret collaboration.

Vallée's Later Career and Influence

By 1975, Vallée was incorporated into CUFOS. His book "The Invisible College" described the work of scientists investigating paranormal facts. The dossier notes that Vallée's work was revolutionary for challenging the authority of scientific dogma and advocating for the study of even the most fantastic theories. His collaboration with amateur organizations that collected data outside official channels was crucial. The text also mentions that Vallée served as the inspiration for the character of Lacombe in Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

Other Articles and Sections

Books on Italian Ufology

A brief section highlights several interesting books on Italian ufology available through the UPIAR library.

Operation Suricate

This section introduces "Operation Suricate," a network of human sentinels who coordinate nocturnal observations to survey specific areas for UFO phenomena.

John Alva Keel

A tribute to the late John Alva Keel, a writer and journalist known for his work on paranormal subjects, including the Mothman. His influential book "Operation Trojan Horse" is mentioned, where he proposed that UFOs might be a screen for a deeper, non-human or spiritual intelligence.

The Jellyfish Stranding

This article debunks a reported jellyfish stranding incident, revealing it to be a hoax orchestrated by a single individual. The investigation by the "Invisibles du col de Vence" team is detailed.

Budd Hopkins

A review of Budd Hopkins' memoir, "Art, Life and UFOs," praising his pioneering work on alien abductions and his ability to connect with 'experiencers'.

Necrology

This section announces the deaths of Gilles Pinon, Richard Hall, and John Alva Keel, acknowledging their significant contributions to ufology.

Ufologist and Shaman

Fabrice Bonvin explores the potential relationship between flying saucers and shamanism, questioning whether the intelligence behind UFOs might be accessible through chemical modification of brain functions, similar to substances used by shamans.

ET Abductions: Real or Imaginary?

Michel Granger examines the phenomenon of alien abductions, posing the question of whether they are physical or psychological, real or imaginary.

Chrononauts

Jean Sider presents a text on the subject of 'chrononauts' or time travelers, a topic rarely addressed in ufology.

Books Review

A section dedicated to reviews of recently published books.

UFOmania Online

Information on how to order UFOmania issues online.

Reader's Mail

A section for reader correspondence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous, scientific investigation into UFO phenomena, particularly through the lens of sociology and anthropology, as pioneered by Jacques Vallée. The magazine positions itself as a vital platform for this research, especially in an era where serious inquiry is perceived to be declining. The editorial stance is one of perseverance against indifference, a commitment to providing reliable information, and a dedication to honoring the legacy of fallen ufologists. The recurring themes include the sociological impact of UFOs, the challenges of scientific acceptance, the nature of intelligence behind the phenomena, and the integration of folklore and personal experience into the study of the unexplained.

This issue of UFOmania, dated September 2009, features a comprehensive dossier on the foundational contributions of ufologist Jacques Vallée. The cover story, "L'apport fondateur de Jacques Vallée" (The Foundational Contribution of Jacques Vallée), highlights his significant impact on the field of ufology.

Jacques Vallée's Early Work and Theories

The article details Vallée's early interactions with J. Allen Hynek in 1964, his observations of the dismissive attitude of officials at the FTD, and his subsequent writings, including "Anatomy of a Phenomenon" and "Les phénomènes insolites de l'Espace." These works already explored themes of the ancient presence of the phenomenon, its manifestations, and the need for scientific study and classification models. Vallée questioned the purely interplanetary hypothesis, proposing new research methodologies and critical considerations.

Vallée's rigorous and intellectual approach is emphasized, contrasting with more sensationalist ufological theories. He recognized that the UFO phenomenon had been studied seriously primarily in the United States, but criticized the lack of rigorous classification and the presence of evidential selection effects in official investigations.

The "Pentacle Memorandum" and Government Manipulation

A significant portion of the article focuses on the "Pentacle Memorandum," a classified document from January 1953 that Vallée discovered. This memo, from the Battelle Institute to the Air Force, discussed recommendations for the "Scientific Advisory Panel" (Robertson Panel). Vallée interpreted this document as evidence of government manipulation and a deliberate attempt to control the narrative surrounding UFOs. He believed that certain events, like the Washington D.C. sightings in 1952, prompted the CIA's interest due to national security concerns and the potential for foreign disinformation.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding the interpretation of the Pentacle Memorandum, with some ufologists, like Jennie Zeidman, interviewing Battelle engineers who downplayed its significance. However, Vallée remained convinced of its implications regarding government duplicity and the manipulation of public belief systems.

Vallée's Classification Systems and "Passport to Magonia"

The dossier outlines Vallée's development of classification systems for UFO observations. His 1969 book, "Passport to Magonia" (translated as "Chronique des apparitions extraterrestres" in French), further developed his core intuition: that UFOs, like various folkloric, mythical, or religious narratives throughout history, point to a single reality – a control system operating on human psychology.

Vallée argued that the phenomenon adapts its appearance to cultural contexts but not its underlying structure, suggesting it is not simply about extraterrestrials studying Earth. He proposed that UFOs might be a means of communication or control, adapting to human concepts and cultures. His work drew parallels with the "fairy faith" described by Walter Ewans Wentz.

The "Control System" Theory and Camouflage

In "Le collège invisible" (The Invisible College), Vallée elaborated on the "control system" theory, describing three levels of camouflage employed by the phenomenon: 1) discouraging witnesses through social pressure and official denial, 2) imposing normative explanations by public authorities, and 3) the phenomenon itself creating conditions for its own non-acceptance through deceptive means.

He posited that the belief in extraterrestrial visitors, widely promoted by UFO enthusiasts, might be a trap, a simplistic explanation that masks the phenomenon's true, more complex nature. Vallée suggested that this belief could be a form of "super-nature" or a manifestation of the collective unconscious, projecting necessary imagery for humanity's survival.

Critiques and Rejection of the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH)

Vallée systematically rejected the two main explanations for UFOs: their non-existence and the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH). He based this rejection on five fundamental arguments:

1. Frequency of Close Encounters: The sheer number of close encounters (estimated at five thousand between 1969 and 1990) suggested that aliens would not need to land so frequently for mere observation or sample collection.
2. Physiology of Ufonauts: The consistently humanoid appearance of entities observed in close encounters seemed too frequent to be purely extraterrestrial, and Vallée questioned the idea of genetic or scientific experiments on humans by advanced races, finding the abduction scenarios often contradictory to the technological sophistication implied by UFOs.
3. Historical Persistence: The phenomenon's presence throughout history, adapting its appearance but not its underlying structure, made an extraterrestrial origin less likely.
4. Control System: The idea that UFOs are a control system, influencing human evolution and consciousness, was a central tenet.
5. Chamanism and Altered States: The connection between shamanic experiences and UFO encounters, particularly abductions, suggested a shared underlying reality or mechanism.

The article acknowledges criticisms of Vallée's arguments, particularly regarding the statistical validity of his close encounter data and the potential for psychological explanations for some cases.

Vallée's Later Work and Influence

Vallée's later works, such as "La grande manipulation" (The Great Manipulation) and "Révélations" (Revelations), continued to explore the societal impact of UFO beliefs, the role of government manipulation, and the dangers of cult-like adherence to extraterrestrial narratives. He warned against transforming ufology into a new religion and highlighted the potential for manipulation, drawing parallels with cults like Heaven's Gate, the People's Temple, and the Order of the Solar Temple.

His work has been influential, even inspiring the character of Claude Lacombe in Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." Vallée has also been involved in international initiatives, advocating for scientific study of UFOs.

Chamanism and the "Gaien" Nervous System

The dossier also features a section on "Chamanism, Ayahuasca," exploring the connection between ufology and shamanic practices. Fabrice Bonvin, a researcher and author, is introduced as a proponent of the "Gaien" nervous system theory, which posits that UFO manifestations are a sophisticated communication method used by "Gaia" (Earth) to promote human evolution and life conservation.

The article discusses how shamanism, through altered states of consciousness induced by substances like ayahuasca, allows for contact with entities and other realities. It draws parallels between the initiation process of shamans and the experiences of UFO abductees, suggesting that both involve transformation, isolation, and a broadening of consciousness. The article highlights the work of researchers like Jeremy Narby and Rick Strassman, who explored the potential of DMT and its connection to shamanic visions and abduction accounts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance appears to be one of in-depth exploration and critical analysis of ufological phenomena, with a particular focus on the complex and often unconventional theories of Jacques Vallée. The issue emphasizes Vallée's intellectual rigor, his challenge to established hypotheses, and his exploration of the psychological, societal, and historical dimensions of the UFO phenomenon. The inclusion of shamanism suggests an open-minded approach to understanding anomalous experiences, seeking connections beyond conventional scientific paradigms. The article critiques simplistic explanations and highlights the potential for manipulation and misinterpretation within the field of ufology.

This issue of UFOmania, titled "ABDUCTIONS >>>Un phénomène d'envergure," published in September 2009, delves deeply into the phenomenon of UFO abductions, particularly within the North American cultural context. The magazine explores the evolution of abduction narratives, from early spiritualistic 'contactees' to the more recent 'abductee' phenomenon, and critically examines the evidence and interpretations surrounding these claims.

The Evolution of Abduction Narratives

The article traces the shift in ufological focus from celestial observations to alleged direct encounters with extraterrestrials (ETs). It highlights how the concept of 'contactees' who communicated with beings from other planets, often through psychic means or astral travel, paved the way for the abduction phenomenon. Early figures like Emanuel Swedenborg and Helène Smith are mentioned as precursors, whose experiences, though not strictly abductions, involved journeys to other worlds and communication with non-human entities.

The narrative then moves to the modern era of abductions, pinpointing the Barney and Betty Hill case in 1961 as a pivotal event. Their experience, involving a missing time period and subsequent hypnotic regression, became a template for thousands of subsequent abduction accounts. The article notes how ufology, initially resistant, eventually had to incorporate these 'close encounter' narratives into its corpus, despite the inherent difficulties in verification.

The "Abduction" Phenomenon in North America

Much of the discussion centers on the prevalence of abduction claims in North America, particularly the United States. Surveys like the one conducted by OMNI magazine in 1988 and the Roper poll in 1991 are cited, suggesting millions of Americans reported close encounters and missing time. The article critically analyzes these surveys, questioning their methodology and the extrapolation of results to the general population. It points out the potential for suggestion and cultural conditioning in shaping these experiences.

Scientific and Psychological Interpretations

The magazine presents a range of interpretations for abduction experiences. While some researchers, like Dr. John E. Mack, advocate for the reality of these encounters, suggesting they defy traditional psychological explanations, others remain skeptical. The article details numerous psychological theories proposed to explain abductions, including birth trauma, childhood abuse, false memories, fantasy proneness, and even mass hysteria. The role of hypnosis in eliciting and potentially fabricating abduction memories is also a significant point of discussion.

Critiques and Skepticism

A substantial portion of the issue is dedicated to critiquing the abduction phenomenon. The lack of verifiable physical evidence is repeatedly emphasized. The article questions the logistics of mass abductions, the absence of any physical traces at alleged landing sites, and the lack of independent corroboration. It highlights the tendency for abduction narratives to become increasingly sensationalized and sexualized, particularly in later accounts.

The magazine also touches upon the commercialization of abduction fears, with the mention of anti-abduction products and insurance. It contrasts the high number of reported abductions in America with the significantly lower numbers in other parts of the world, suggesting a cultural rather than an extraterrestrial origin for the phenomenon.

Key Cases and Debates

Several key abduction cases are discussed, including those of Barney and Betty Hill, Antonio Villas-Boas, and various French cases that are presented with skepticism. The article scrutinizes the details of these accounts, often highlighting inconsistencies or alternative explanations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of consciousness, the role of spirituality versus science in understanding anomalous phenomena, and the critical examination of evidence. The magazine takes a largely skeptical stance towards the physical reality of UFO abductions, leaning towards psychological and sociological explanations. It advocates for a more rigorous scientific approach to ufology, urging a return to fundamental principles of observation and evidence-based research, while acknowledging the complexity and enduring mystery of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be that while the experiences reported by abductees are real to them, their interpretation as physical extraterrestrial encounters is highly questionable and likely rooted in psychological and cultural factors.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated September 2009, focuses on the intriguing and often controversial topic of 'Chrononauts' – the theory that UFOs are vehicles used by time travelers from Earth's future or past. The cover story, titled 'Les Chrononautes,' explores this hypothesis through the works of several authors and researchers.

The 'Chrononauts' Hypothesis

The magazine introduces the concept of 'chrononauts' as a rare but significant idea in ufology, particularly in French-language literature. It highlights three English-language books that propose this explanation for UFO phenomena: J. H. Brennan's 'Time Travel, a New Perspective,' Marc Davenport's 'Visitors from Time,' and Dr. Bruce Goldberg's 'Time Travellers from Our Future.' The author acknowledges that while time travel is a theoretical concept explored by scientists like Albert Einstein, few ufologists have seriously considered it as an explanation for UFO sightings.

J. H. Brennan

Brennan, a journalist and writer, concluded that traces of temporal visits to Earth exist, citing scientific reviews from the 19th century. However, his work is criticized for referencing less credible sources like Desmond Leslie & George Adamski's 'Flying Saucers Have Landed.' Brennan's book is noted for discussing anachronistic artifacts and human footprints found in ancient geological strata, but his chapters on premonitory dreams, radiesthesia, and telepathy are deemed irrelevant to the chrononaut theory.

Marc Davenport

Davenport's chapter, 'We are the guinea pigs,' suggests that abductees are manipulated by beings who paralyze them, conduct 'examinations,' and even violate women, with the goal of creating human-ET hybrids. He posits that these beings may be from Earth's future, aiming to help humanity reproduce. Davenport's hypothesis is criticized for its lack of convincing evidence, relying on a small number of abduction cases where entities claimed to be time travelers. The author also questions the logic of entities claiming to manipulate time, which they assert doesn't exist.

Dr. Bruce Goldberg

Goldberg, a retired dentist and psychologist, has investigated alleged abductions and believes that some abductees have experienced these events across multiple past lives. He suggests that these 'chrononauts' from the future aim to help individuals evolve spiritually. Goldberg details cases like 'Tina,' who experienced missing time and unexplained pregnancies, and 'Roger,' whose life dramatically changed after an encounter with beings claiming to be from 1500 years in the future. Wendy, a young artist, also recounted an abduction involving Greys and future humans. Goldberg's work is noted for its extensive case studies but is also critiqued for its reliance on anecdotal evidence and the potential for hypnotic suggestion to influence testimonies.

Abduction Phenomena and Social Context

The magazine addresses the common skeptical assertion that UFO abductees are primarily from the working class. It refutes this by citing studies and interviews, including those by T. E. Bullard, which show abductees come from all walks of life, including doctors, professors, and professionals. The article also touches upon the 'medico-sexo-genetic' procedure described by M.-T. de Brosses, which allegedly aims to create human-ET hybrids, and the resulting 'virgin pregnancies' and missing fetuses reported by some abductees.

Roper Survey and Declining Abduction Reports

A Roper survey from 1998 is discussed, indicating a decrease in the number of Americans reporting abduction symptoms. While the percentage of Americans who have seen a UFO remained stable, the number reporting abduction experiences dropped significantly. This decline is contrasted with the rise in UFO-related media content, suggesting that the 'contamination by cinema and TV' theory might be insufficient to explain the trend.

UFO Sightings in Belgium

The issue features reports of recent UFO sightings in Wallonia, Belgium. A couple from Feluy claims to have seen seven silent, luminous points in the sky, while Patrick Tverbiss Twerdy from Andenne reported observing a single, slow-moving luminous object. The magazine explores the credibility of these testimonies and the rational explanations that can be considered.

'Les Mystères du Col de Vence' Book Review

A review of the book 'Les Mystères du Col de Vence' by Pierre Beake and the association coldevence.com is included. The book chronicles 30 years of investigation into unexplained phenomena at Col de Vence, featuring numerous photos and witness testimonies of strange objects and events.

Maurizio Cavallo's 'Le Rivage des Dieux'

Another book review covers Maurizio Cavallo's 'Le Rivage des Dieux,' which recounts his alleged alien abduction experiences and initiation into cosmic knowledge. The review notes that while the book contains unique photos, it largely reiterates common abduction tropes and lacks tangible evidence, placing it far from traditional ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania magazine consistently explores the more speculative and fringe aspects of ufology, particularly the 'Chrononauts' theory and the phenomenon of alien abductions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and witness accounts while also acknowledging skeptical viewpoints and the need for rigorous evidence. The magazine aims to inform readers about diverse UFO phenomena, even those considered less conventional, and encourages critical thinking. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery surrounding UFOs and the human drive to understand these unexplained events, often linking them to human psychology, societal anxieties, and the search for meaning.

Title: UFOmania magazine
Issue: 60
Date: September 2009
Publisher: UFOmania
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of UFOmania magazine, number 60, dated September 2009, features a "Courrier des lecteurs" (Reader's Mail) section that forms the core of its content. The magazine's editorial stance emphasizes open-mindedness while maintaining a rigorous and coherent approach to ufological research, seeking verifiable evidence.

Reader Mail and Debates

The "Courrier des lecteurs" section highlights several exchanges, notably a significant debate surrounding the book "Le Rivage des Dieux" (The Shore of the Gods), for which Didier Gomez, the editor, wrote the preface. François-Marie Périer, the author of the preface, expresses his reservations about the book's content, particularly its methodology and the evidence presented. He criticizes the book for lacking concrete proof and for potentially discrediting the author's work. Périer questions the author's claims, asking for specific evidence, such as the location of the "Clarion" solar system, and demanding the publication of laboratory reports and analyses related to photographic evidence.

Didier Gomez responds to Périer's critique, acknowledging the need for an open mind but reiterating that the magazine's commitment to a coherent discourse requires evidence. He states that "Le Rivage des Dieux" does not provide sufficient guarantees for their study and expresses a desire to verify the author's claims. Gomez also notes that the French ufology field generally lacks openness.

Another reader, Maurizio, contributes to the discussion, suggesting that the focus on purely "material" evidence and "reason" might be contrary to understanding phenomena that transcend current rational frameworks. He argues that UFOs and the intelligence behind them operate on a different mode than human perception allows. Maurizio also points out that many contactee accounts and apparitions share common themes, suggesting a consistent underlying intelligence.

Didier Gomez, in his response, acknowledges the cultural and historical context of alleged extraterrestrial contacts. He cites examples from various cultures and religions, such as the Hopi myths, the foundation of Angkor Vat, the Dogon people, and the Mahabharata, to illustrate that the idea of ancient contact is not new. He agrees that modern humans often have a limited perspective on history and that much knowledge may be hidden.

Michel Riffon from Montreal, Quebec, also writes in, congratulating the magazine for its work and expressing satisfaction with his subscription. He notes that his previous issue arrived late due to an incomplete postal address and thanks the magazine for addressing this issue.

Book and Media Reviews

The magazine also features a section on books and media related to ufology. Several publications are listed for sale, including:

• "OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn" by Didier Gomez.
• "Le Guide pratique de l'enquêteur de terrain" (The Practical Guide for Field Investigators).
• "Apparitions insolites en Occitanie" by Didier Gomez.
• "Le DVD des 3èmes Rencontres Rapprochées, Gaillac 08 mars 2008" (DVD of the 3rd Close Encounters).
• "OVNI: 1993/2003, Hors-série n°1" (Special issue).
• "L'Eure des OVNIS" by Didier Gomez.
• "OVNI Contacts" (DVD).

Additionally, a forthcoming special issue on JOHN ALVA KEEL is announced for December 2009, focusing on "LES MYSTÈRES DU COL DE VENCE - 30 ANS D'INVESTIGATION" by Pierre Beake.

Back Issues and Subscriptions

The magazine provides a detailed list of available back issues (from number 39 to 50, with some noted as sold out) and offers a command form for purchasing these issues, DVDs, and books. Pricing and postage details are included for domestic and international orders.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and evidence-based research in ufology. While acknowledging the existence of phenomena that may challenge conventional understanding, the magazine maintains a skeptical yet open-minded approach. The editorial stance, as represented by Didier Gomez, prioritizes coherent discourse, scientific rigor, and the verification of claims. There's a clear distinction made between anecdotal accounts or speculative theories and documented, verifiable evidence. The magazine also highlights the value of historical and cultural perspectives in understanding UFO phenomena, suggesting that current rational frameworks might be insufficient. The recurring theme is the ongoing effort to bring a more structured and credible approach to the study of UFOs, balancing the extraordinary nature of the subject with the need for sound investigative methods.