UFOmania - No 61

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: 61
Volume: 16th year
Date: Quarterly, December 2009
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Country: France
Language: French

Editorial Stance

UFOmania magazine positions itself as a quarterly publication dedicated to informing readers passionate about Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) and other unusual apparitions. Its primary objective is to present research findings from various specialists while fostering constructive debate. The magazine emphasizes that the data published comes from testimonies, press articles, and reflections from its correspondents in France and abroad. It aims to advance the study of the subject by gradually providing elements of answers, encouraging an open mind to better understand the significance of these phenomena in our immediate environment. Field investigations are considered the primary material for study, asserting that UAP are a reality that requires rigorous study.

The editorial also highlights a shift in French ufology, expressing a preference for opening debates to international researchers due to regrettable internal conflicts. The editorial thanks contributors and wishes readers happy holidays, announcing a special issue on GEIPAN for Spring 2010.

Key Articles and Features

Dossier Special: John Alva Keel, his life, his work

This extensive dossier pays tribute to John Alva Keel, a prominent ufologist and writer who passed away on July 3, 2009. The articles explore his groundbreaking theories, particularly his "ultraterrestrial" hypothesis, which challenged the conventional extraterrestrial explanation for UFOs. Keel argued that UFOs are not alien spacecraft but rather phenomena intrinsically linked to humanity and Earth, possibly originating from another dimension or plane of existence.

• "John Alva Keel, chercheur de l'impossible" by Loren Coleman: Coleman, a leading figure in cryptozoology, shares his personal connection with Keel, describing him as a fierce defender of his theories. The article details Keel's early life, his career as a writer and journalist, and his transition into ufology. It highlights his critical stance on the extraterrestrial hypothesis, which he abandoned in 1967 after his investigations revealed a connection between psychic phenomena and UFOs.
• "John Keel, chantre des ultraterrestres" by Michel Granger: Granger delves into Keel's concept of "ultraterrestrials," explaining that these phenomena are not necessarily hostile but rather entities that manipulate human perception, often through staged "miracles" that influence religious beliefs. The article traces Keel's influences, including Charles Fort, and his extensive research into various anomalous phenomena.
• "L'impossible: sa vie, son œuvre" (The Impossible: His Life, His Work): This section further elaborates on Keel's theories, emphasizing his belief that UFOs and paranormal events are part of our environment and operate on a different space-time continuum. It discusses his books, including "UFOs: Operation Trojan Horse" and "The Mothman Prophecies," and his research into the Mothman phenomenon in Point Pleasant, West Virginia.

Actualités (News)

• "La plaquette du Geipan": The French organization GEIPAN has released a presentation booklet titled "Les phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés" (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena), aimed at the general public to help distinguish misinterpretations from genuine unidentified phenomena and guide witnesses on how to report sightings.

• "OVNI: Londres ouvre ses archives": The British national archives have made public the complete file on the 1980 Rendelsham Forest incident, one of Britain's most famous UFO sightings. The dossier includes the testimony of Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Halt and other official documents, though the Ministry of Defense could not provide a definitive explanation.

Conferences and Events

• "Conférence MUFON, Turin, 28 & 29 mai 2010": The CISU Italy and MUFON are organizing a conference in Turin to foster international cooperation in ufology. The event aims to share research results, establish a common understanding of the phenomenon, and develop collaborative research programs, particularly between European and American associations.

• "REPAS UFO": Information about upcoming UFO-themed gatherings organized by Michel Rousseau in the Limoges region of France.

Other Articles

• "FOTOCAT, Rapport de situation 4" by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos: An update on the FOTOCAT project, likely related to cataloging and analyzing UFO sightings, with a mention of the Mazamet case from January 19, 2009.

• "Une BD sur le cas Varginha" by Philippe Auger: A comic strip based on the Varginha UFO case.

• "Interview James Carrion & Ruben Uriarte": An interview with key figures from MUFON USA, discussing their work and the organization's role in UFO research.

• "Panique à l'armée de l'air espagnole" by Gabriel Gomis Martin: An account of an extraordinary event involving the Spanish Air Force in 1975.

• "Enquêtes dans le Tarn": Reports on investigations conducted in the Tarn region of France.

• "PORTRAIT: Rémy Fauchereau, un ufologue pas comme les autres": A profile of Rémy Fauchereau, an unconventional ufologist.

• "En vrac": A collection of miscellaneous short items.

• "VAGUE 1954: Le cas de Bélesta (09) n'était qu'un canular": An analysis suggesting that the 1954 Bélesta case was a hoax.

• "Livres, rencontres dans le ciel": A section likely reviewing books or discussing encounters in the sky.

• "Courrier des lecteurs": Letters from readers.

• "Le PAN du 18 octobre identifié": An explanation of luminous points observed on October 18, identified as related to the launch of a US military satellite.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the life and work of John Keel, his "ultraterrestrial" theory, and the broader spectrum of paranormal and unexplained phenomena. The magazine maintains a stance of rigorous investigation and open-mindedness, prioritizing international collaboration and scientific inquiry over internal disputes within the ufological community. There's a clear emphasis on presenting well-researched cases and theories, encouraging readers to engage critically with the subject matter. The editorial's preference for international researchers suggests a desire to elevate the discourse and focus on substantive research rather than sensationalism or personal conflicts.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, number 61, dated December 2009, is dedicated to exploring the life, work, and theories of ufologist John Alva Keel. The cover headline, "l'impossible: sa vie, son œuvre," sets the tone for an in-depth examination of his controversial ideas.

John Alva Keel: A Ufologist's Life and Work

The magazine delves into Keel's early work, starting with his 1970 book, which categorized him as a defender of a parapsychological origin for UFOs rather than an extraterrestrial one. His assertion that UFO phenomena could be linked to terrestrial manifestations and complex hallucinatory processes, rather than alien visitors, is highlighted. Keel's approach is described as playing with words, using allusive language, and making unsubstantiated claims, which contributed to his success but also made his thought process difficult to pin down.

The 'Super-Spectre' and 'Ultraterrestrials'

Two central pillars of Keel's theory are the 'super-spectre' and 'ultraterrestrials.' The 'super-spectre' is defined as an energy spectrum outside normal electromagnetic fields, capable of materializing. Keel proposed that UFOs are not from outer space but from another continuum, 'ethereal' entities that can materialize on Earth. He also adopted and expanded upon the theories of occult doctor Meade N. Layne, who believed UFOs were 'ethereal' entities from a parallel realm. Keel replaced 'ethereals' with 'ultraterrestrials' and the 'ether' with 'superspectre,' broadening the scope to include various paranormal phenomena like poltergeists, doppelgangers, spontaneous human combustion, and even religious miracles.

Keel's 'ultraterrestrials' are presented as manipulative beings who may be benevolent or malevolent, educating and tormenting humanity, observing and surveilling us. He suggested they might be the 'slaves' of a greater, 'demonic' super-intelligence that controls energy, space, and time. He also posited that 'ultraterrestrials' could be responsible for 'cosmic hoaxes' and that they might be the descendants of an advanced terrestrial civilization predating our own.

Critiques and Alternative Explanations

The magazine critically examines Keel's theories, noting that his core concepts, the 'super-spectre' and 'ultraterrestrials,' have not gained significant empirical support in the 40 years since their proposal. The article points out that Keel, while a prolific writer, was not a scientist and often made unsubstantiated claims, attributing his lack of proof to a lack of technology. The magazine also contrasts Keel's ideas with the more conventional extraterrestrial hypothesis (H.E.T.) and notes that many ufologists have moved towards 'alternated reality' and 'interdimensional' concepts, which Keel touched upon but did not fully develop.

Specific Cases and Photographic Evidence

The issue includes discussions of specific cases and photographic evidence. A report on the FOTOCAT project highlights its effort to catalog UFO photographs, particularly French cases. The article details a sighting in Mazamet, France, in January 2009, initially reported as a UFO, but later identified as a formation of a rainbow arc. Another case from La Baule in 1982 describes luminous spheres observed by a witness, which the article suggests could be related to atmospheric phenomena like ball lightning or swamp gas.

A notable mention is made of Edmond Campagnac's account of an extraordinary UFO sighting near Colmar in 1954, where witnesses' photographs were allegedly confiscated by the gendarmerie. This case is presented as a rumor due to a lack of corroborating evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance appears to be critical yet open to exploring unconventional ideas. While acknowledging Keel's influence and narrative skill, it questions the scientific basis of his theories and highlights the lack of empirical evidence. The recurring themes include the debate between paranormal and extraterrestrial explanations for UFOs, the nature of consciousness, and the role of belief in shaping perceptions of anomalous phenomena. The issue emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and evidence-based analysis in ufology, while also acknowledging the persistent mysteries surrounding the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated December 2009, features a prominent cover story on 'Panic at the Spanish Air Force: Repeated Observations,' detailing significant UFO incidents involving the Spanish military. The magazine also includes an interview with MUFON USA representative James Carrion, an article on the Varginha UFO case and its comic book adaptation, and a review of Malcolm Robinson's book 'UFO Case Files of Scotland.' Additionally, it presents ongoing UFO investigations in the Tarn region of France and a clinical manual on extraordinary experiences.

FOTOCAT Project

The magazine introduces FOTOCAT, a large-scale project launched in the early 2000s to create a global database of UFO photographs and videos. With nearly 9600 entries, FOTOCAT aims to make this information freely accessible to ufologists worldwide. The article highlights the ongoing compilation of French UFO photo cases, which has reached 474 entries, and calls for reader collaboration to expand this database.

France-FOTOCAT Compilation

In collaboration with UFOmania magazine, a compilation of photographic and video UFO cases is underway for France. While the initial report indicated 400 entries, an update shows 474 cases. The article appeals to readers to contribute their own files or press clippings to enrich this database, requesting basic information such as date, time, location, photographer's name, and any other relevant details or sources.

Cooperation in Ufology

The article acknowledges the active contributions of readers like Bruno Mancusi and Franck Boitte. It also mentions Denis Breysse, a civil engineering professor at the University of Bordeaux, who manages the Bécassine project, a global database of RR3 cases. Breysse has adapted and verified his case catalog with FOTOCAT's data, emphasizing the importance of continued collaborative efforts in ufology.

"OVNI, L'Affaire Varginha" Comic Book

A new comic book, "OVNI, L'Affaire Varginha," published by Editions Ankama on November 5, 2009, is highlighted. This is the first French-language UFO comic book in 30 years. The author, Philippe Auger, consulted with the magazine's editor to select significant UFO cases for his work, including the Tehran incident (1976), the Phoenix Lights (1997), and the Roswell crash (1947). Auger ultimately chose the Varginha incident for its comprehensive nature, covering various UFO phenomena like close encounters, crashes, MIBs, cover-ups, and high-strangeness events.

The Varginha case is described as a strong choice due to its thorough investigation by high-level researchers and its relevance to the French-speaking public. The magazine's editor recalls being the first to publish a report on the Varginha case in France in the defunct 'Tau-Ceti' review, initially having some skepticism due to the escalating events but later convinced of its solidity after exchanges with investigator Bob Pratt.

The article details a meeting with witnesses and investigators in Varginha in October 2004, accompanied by investigator-translator Cynthia Luce. These interviews solidified the belief that an extraordinary event had occurred, with authorities attempting to conceal it. Philippe Auger's meticulous research and artistic quality are praised, making the comic book an engaging read that brings the Varginha case to life and offers a fresh perspective on UFO literature.

Interview with James Carrion (MUFON USA)

James Carrion, the current representative of MUFON USA, is interviewed about the organization's mission and structure. MUFON is a non-profit scientific research group studying UFOs for the benefit of humanity, with three main goals: investigating UFO sightings and collecting data, discovering the true nature of the phenomenon, and raising public awareness. MUFON operates as a decentralized organization with a global network of consultants and approximately 800 investigators.

Carrion notes that MUFON receives 500-600 cases per month, with 99% processed through their website, mufoncms.com. He states that while the phenomenon's existence is clear, its true nature remains a mystery, comparable to the mystery surrounding Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting. MUFON prioritizes collecting and analyzing data, comparing information globally, and filtering out misidentifications, disinformation, and poorly investigated cases.

Regarding UFO waves, Carrion mentions that MUFON was not sufficiently structured to handle the major waves of 1947 and the 1960s-70s but is now well-equipped to manage the current volume of reports.

Interview with Ruben Uriarte (MUFON International)

Ruben Uriarte, director of MUFON's international investigations, discusses the MUFON Symposium as a forum for presenting theories and data. He emphasizes MUFON's objective approach, focusing on mission objectives rather than specific theories. Uriarte highlights the importance of distinguishing between historical accounts influenced by medieval concepts and actual UFO phenomena.

He identifies Kenneth Arnold's sighting, the Roswell incident, the Phoenix Lights, and Stephenville as significant cases in UFO history. Uriarte acknowledges parallels between modern abduction experiences and historical accounts of demonic encounters but notes the difficulty in determining the exact timeline of such events.

Uriarte suggests that exotic American "black program" aircraft might account for some sightings, but not the majority. He also discusses the evolution of UFO phenomena, from 'flying saucers' to modern 'UFO nuts & bolts,' suggesting a more complex reality than simple nuts and bolts.

He expresses openness to translating the MUFON Journal into other languages and collaborating with existing structures like UFOmania magazine. Uriarte recommends books by Jacques Vallee, J. Allen Hynek's 'The UFO Experience,' the Condon Report, and MUFON Journals available online.

Spanish Air Force UFO Incidents

This section details several credible UFO cases from Spanish ufology, focusing on incidents involving the Spanish Air Force, particularly at the EVA 5 base near Alicante.

The EVA 5 Base and Declassified Documents

Colonel in charge of declassified UFO files at the Spanish Air Force stated that not all documents are publicly released. Agent B. Angel confirmed that sensitive case files were held in a box, awaiting analysis for potential declassification. The article stresses the absurdity of believing official institutions would fully declassify cases involving potential threats to aircrews or military personnel.

The Manises Case

The Manises case is cited as an example where a judge ruled the affair credible, confirming "the existence of unidentified traffic in the region of unknown origin." This traffic involved five radar echoes detected at altitudes between 9,000 and 11,000 feet. A base commander confirmed these non-identified echoes were not due to equipment failure or radar error.

Incident of July 27, 1975 (EVA 5)

On July 27, 1975, at 4:00 AM, radar operators at EVA 5 detected luminous points moving at high speed. These objects were not visible on civilian radar but were tracked by EVA 5's surveillance radar. The objects moved at varying speeds and altitudes, estimated between 20,000 and 100,000 feet, reaching speeds of up to 4,300 km/h. The official report noted the objects' speed, rapid rotation, and luminous intensity, ruling out conventional aircraft.

Incident of October 9-10, 1975 (EVA 5)

On the night of October 9-10, 1975, a powerful, dazzling light was observed near EVA 5. This event was preceded by radar interference on VHF frequency 121.5 MHz. The light was described as an ovoïde object, approximately nine meters long and three meters high, emitting yellow and red lights in a 'T' formation. The object maneuvered silently and then disappeared towards the Balearic Islands. The military commander's official statement denied any incident occurred, despite the witness's subsequent long-term physical and psychological issues.

Incident of May 21, 1981 (EVA 5)

On May 21, 1981, at 1:45 AM, an oval luminous object was observed by a sergeant and soldiers on patrol near EVA 5. The object moved erratically, descending rapidly and then executing a sharp backward movement before descending vertically to an altitude of approximately 500 meters. It was described as a luminous object about one meter in diameter, emitting a non-dazzling light. While one soldier believed it to be extraterrestrial, the author refrains from definitive conclusions, noting the mystery surrounding EVA 5's UFO origins.

General Observations at EVA 5

The article notes that EVA 5 is a critical site for Spanish air security, responsible for observing aerial phenomena. It mentions a declassified document referencing UFO observations at the Air Academy in San Javier, Murcia, stating that "all pilots are aware of these facts (i.e., UFO observations), which repeat with a certain frequency."

UFO Investigations in Tarn, France

This section details ongoing UFO investigations in the Tarn region of France, with the goal of eventually publishing a book compiling 104 cases. The current focus is on verifying information and cross-referencing with natural or explainable phenomena.

A list of 17 cases recorded since the beginning of 2007 is provided, with dates, locations, nature of the sighting, explanation (if any), and source.

Two witness testimonies are included:

• Erick Van Loy (pseudonym): On November 10, 2006, in Albi city center, he observed two copper-colored cylinders following each other at low altitude, silently, and without lights. He was surprised by the lack of other witnesses despite the public setting.
• Mme Requena: Recounts an observation in Cabanès in 2002 of a luminous object described as a "thing" that moved at high speed to the right of her vehicle, causing fear.

UFO Case Files of Scotland by Malcolm Robinson

This section reviews Malcolm Robinson's book, 'UFO Case Files of Scotland: Amazing Real Life Alien Encounters.' The book is described as a significant contribution to UK ufology, detailing cases with remarkable depth and objectivity.

Robinson's personal involvement in ufology since the late 1980s is highlighted. The book covers cases like the Bonnybridge UFO Hot Spot, considered a major UFO center in the mid-1990s. It also includes the case of actor Robert Taylor, who reported a UFO landing in Livingston in 1979, leaving physical traces. The A70 incident, an abduction case, is presented in full and is reportedly being considered for a feature film. The Fife incident involving entities and a UFO is also discussed.

A key case featured is the photographic evidence from Craigluscar Reservoir on February 19, 1994, described as the best photographic UFO case from Scotland. Ian McPherson photographed a grey disk in daylight. The book also covers other cases in detail, including the author's own research and findings.

The review praises Robinson's honesty in admitting his own errors and his objective presentation of information. The book is recommended as a must-read for anyone interested in UFOs.

Clinical Manual of Extraordinary Experiences

This section introduces the book "Manuel clinique des Expériences Extraordinaires" (Clinical Manual of Extraordinary Experiences), a co-edition by DUNOD and INREES, published in October 2009. It is presented as a foundational text for INREES, systematically categorizing and presenting extraordinary experiences, along with therapeutic and listening approaches.

The manual addresses hypotheses for the occurrence of these experiences, possible diagnostic confusions, and tools to differentiate between pathological and extraordinary phenomena. It emphasizes the societal importance of understanding these experiences, given the number of individuals reporting them.

The book aims to provide scientific and respectful reference for those who have experienced extraordinary events, their loved ones, and professionals in related fields such as psychiatry, psychology, and medicine. It includes contributions from renowned researchers like Stan Grof, Bruce Greyson, Dean Radin, and Kenneth Ring.

The manual covers topics such as epistemological and psychopathological prerequisites, near-death experiences (NDEs), heightened consciousness before death, post-death experiences, out-of-body experiences, lucid dreams, shamanic experiences, psycho-spiritual experiences, hauntings, possession, extrasensory perceptions, and physical effects at a distance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on credible UFO sightings, detailed investigations, and the scientific study of unexplained phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on official documentation, witness testimonies, and the work of research organizations like MUFON. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and analysis without necessarily endorsing definitive conclusions, particularly in cases involving potential extraterrestrial origins. The magazine also highlights the importance of international collaboration in ufology and the need for rigorous, evidence-based research.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated December 2009 (Issue 61), features a prominent portrait of Rémy Fauchereau, described as a dedicated ufologist focused on local investigations and the compilation of UFO-related press articles. The cover also highlights two volumes of his work: 'Les OVNI dans la Presse Locale de l'Yonne, volume 1 et 2'.

Rémy Fauchereau: The Local Ufologist

The magazine dedicates significant space to Rémy Fauchereau, portraying him as a rare breed of ufologist who eschews internet debates for meticulous, ground-level research. His primary focus is on his home region, the Yonne, where he diligently collects and compiles press articles concerning UFO sightings. This effort has resulted in two substantial volumes, totaling over 300 pages each, which document numerous articles from the local daily 'L'Yonne Républicaine' and other regional publications, spanning from 1967 to 2008. A third volume is planned to cover the period from 1947 to 1966. Fauchereau's work is presented as a valuable and 'convincing piece of evidence' for the UFO phenomenon, offering a detailed historical record.

Vatican Explores Extraterrestrial Life

An article titled 'Le Vatican guette les signes d'une vie extraterrestre' reports on the Vatican's initiative to study the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Father José Gabriel Funes, an astronomer and director of the Vatican Observatory, highlighted the relevance of astrobiology and the potential profound implications for humanity's self-perception. The Vatican hosted a conference bringing together scientists from various fields to explore the origins and existence of life beyond Earth. The article notes that while the Church has a complex relationship with science, as evidenced by the Galileo affair, it now acknowledges scientific theories like the Big Bang and has sponsored discussions on evolution. The piece also touches upon the internal divisions within the Church regarding creationism versus the acceptance of extraterrestrial life.

Notable UFO Cases and Books

The Socorro Incident

The magazine commemorates the passing of Lonnie Zamora, the key witness in the famous 1964 Socorro, New Mexico, UFO sighting. The article recounts Zamora's experience of witnessing a landed object and two beings, and the subsequent investigation, which concluded that the case remains unexplained.

'Strange Company' by Keith Chester

A review of Keith Chester's book 'Strange Company' is featured, detailing its focus on non-conventional aerial phenomena reported by military personnel during World War II. The book compiles documents from the US National Archives, presenting observations of objects with extraordinary flight capabilities. Chester's research suggests that these sightings were taken seriously by military authorities and were considered phenomena beyond known technology.

The Bélesta 'Canular'

A significant article reveals that the well-known 1954 UFO sighting in Bélesta, France, was actually a hoax. The report details how a group of friends, bored on a Saturday night, constructed a makeshift flying object using bicycle parts and powerful lamps to simulate a UFO sighting. This elaborate prank, sustained for 50 years, became a classic case in ufology until the perpetrators confessed.

Book Reviews and Publications

Several books and publications related to ufology are highlighted:

• 'A mille lieux d'ici': A ufological novel by Aline Montesanti and Antony Balbo, published by Lacour, about an abduction experience.
• 'Phénomènes Spatiaux': A comprehensive collection of publications by GEPA, compiled into three volumes, covering UFO research from 1963 to 1977, including special issues and a 'Pêle-Mêle' volume with recent texts and research.
• 'La librairie du Bonheur': A bookstore in Paris specializing in well-being, health, and ufology.

Reader Correspondence

The 'Courrier des lecteurs' (Readers' Mail) section includes several letters:

• Thierry Rocher praises the magazine's quality and originality, expressing concern about the decline of ufological publications.
• Denis Andro raises concerns about the use of ayahuasca in neo-shamanic practices, citing a report from the Miviludes that highlights potential physical and psychological risks, including psychiatric decompensation, comas, and deaths.
• Jean-Marc Donnadieu responds to an article on crop circles, defending his research and criticizing the author for allegedly presenting a biased and incomplete view, particularly regarding the scientific investigation of crop circles.
• Fabrice Bonvin shares his collaboration on a comic book about the Varginha case and inquires about the magazine's future projects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes rigorous, evidence-based ufological research, often contrasting it with sensationalism or unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear preference for local investigations and historical documentation, as exemplified by Rémy Fauchereau's work. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to present a balanced view by debunking hoaxes (like the Bélesta case) and critically examining reported phenomena. The magazine also acknowledges the scientific community's engagement with ufology, as seen in the Vatican's initiative and the review of academic research. The decline of print ufological publications is a recurring concern, with UFOmania positioning itself as a vital platform for continued discussion and research.

Title: UFOmania
Issue: nº61
Date: December 2009
Type: Magazine ufologique

This issue of UFOmania magazine, number 61, dated December 2009, features a special dossier on the life and work of John Keel. The magazine also includes a 'Courrier des lecteurs' (Readers' Mail) section, a communiqué from Lucien Manzi regarding the dissolution of the ALEPI association, and a section dedicated to the sale of past issues and related publications.

Courrier des lecteurs (Readers' Mail)

The 'Courrier des lecteurs' section presents several exchanges and opinions from readers.

One correspondent, responding to a previous discussion, criticizes certain investigations into crop circles, labeling them as poorly conducted and biased. They argue that the explanation for crop circles lies in simple human actions and tools, questioning the necessity of seeking more complex explanations. This correspondent also expresses surprise at the idea that only 10% of the human brain is used, referencing a discussion with someone who cited Einstein.

Another correspondent, Monsieur Gomez, is addressed directly. The initial writer defends their argumentation regarding crop circles, stating it is based on conclusions from studies rather than a priori postulates. They challenge Gomez to point out flaws in their reasoning, emphasizing that their conclusion is that humans with simple tools can perfectly explain crop circles, and there's no need to look for other causes. The writer expresses a desire for Gomez to explain why going into a crop circle is so important, and notes that they have not personally visited one.

Lucien Manzi, in a communiqué, announces the dissolution of the "Association Louhannaise d'Etudes des Phénomènes Inexpliqués" (ALEPI) in Louhans. He explains that the association's treasury was donated to 'restos du cœur' (food banks) via bank transfer, after a refusal from within the association prevented a donation to the St Pierre parish. Manzi expresses regret for this situation and thanks members, witnesses, elected officials, and the press for their support over the years.

'Ndir' reflects on the state of French ufology, noting the slow disappearance of associative ufological reviews and the cessation of activity by instigators of past ufological movements. They question the lack of a new generation taking over and ponder why young people are not more involved. Ndir suggests that the archives and treasury of dissolved organizations should be passed on to other ufological associations, lamenting that ufology might be becoming a 'no man's land'.

Isabelle Ben B. writes about the prevalence of UFO phenomena in certain departments, suggesting a possible link to geobiology. She wonders about the nature of non-human populations cohabiting with humans and their vibrational levels, particularly in her department. She offers to share further discoveries.

The editorial response to Isabelle Ben B. acknowledges the complexity of the situation, suggesting that ancient texts like the Bible and Torah describe phenomena that were simply incomprehensible at the time, and that these phenomena adapt their appearance to the technological progress of the era. The response notes that the evolution of UFO sightings reflects this adaptation, from 'celestial chariots' to 'phantom craft' and 'flying saucers'. The editorial team expresses interest in the 'energy materialization' experiment mentioned and questions why certain departments seem more prone to these manifestations.

F. Boitte writes to congratulate the magazine and inquire about the transition to electronic subscriptions, asking about the cost and the end date of their current postal subscription. The editorial response clarifies that the electronic option is also for discovering the magazine and for accessing out-of-print issues. It confirms that their subscription is valid until issue #65 and that a renewal notice will be sent.

Dossier Spécial: John Keel

This issue features a special dossier dedicated to John Keel, covering his life and work. While the specific content of the dossier is not detailed in the provided text, its prominent placement suggests it is a major focus of this edition.

UFOmania Magazine Products

The magazine includes a section advertising various UFO-related publications and media:

• OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn by Didier Gomez: A catalog of 103 cases from October 1952 to June 2005, covering explainable to inexplicable phenomena in the Tarn region.
• Le Guide pratique de l'enquêteur de terrain (Practical Guide for Field Investigators): Updated in May 2008, this guide provides methodology for creating investigation reports.
• OVNI Contacts (DVD) by Planète OVNI & Artcastle Productions: Interviews from European encounters in Châlons-en-Champagne in October 2005.
• OVNI Contacts << first encounters >> (double DVD) by Artcastle-productions: Released in November 2005.
• Le DVD des 3èmes Rencontres Rapprochées, Gaillac 8 mars 2008: Features a conference by Bertrand Méheust and related content.
• L'Eure des OVNIS by Didier Gomez: Published by Lacour in 2001.

Past Issues Summary

The magazine also provides a summary of its past issues, highlighting key articles and interviews:

• Hors-série n°1 (March 2004): Features articles from 1993-2003, including topics like mimicry of UFOs, planetary pollution as an explanation, the Geipan project, and interviews.
• N°45 (Dec 2005): Covers UFOs and nuclear issues, high strangeness, and interviews.
• N°46 (March 2006): Discusses UFOs and spectroscopy, and the evolution of ufology.
• N°47 (June 2006): Focuses on investigation methodology, medical advice for investigators, and crop circles.
• N°48 (Sept 2006): Details the 2nd Rapprochées Encounters, crop circles, and mutilations.
• N°49 (Dec 2006): Continues the discussion on UFOs and spectroscopy, and features the 2nd Rapprochées Encounters with a positive review.
• N°50 (March 2007): Includes interviews and articles on crop circles and ufology.
• N°51 (Epuisé - Out of print): Mentions a special issue.
• N°52 (Sept 2007): Explores the Col de Vence anomaly zone and features interviews and articles on UFOs and time hypotheses.
• N°53 (Dec 2007): Covers the Valdes case, Setka (a Soviet secret UFO program), and Socorro.
• N°54 (March 2008): Features Bertrand Méheust, science fiction, and the Roswell legacy.
• N°55 (June 2008): Discusses ufological meals and the Cnes UFOs.
• N°56 (Sept 2008): Includes special dossiers on spatial phenomena, the HET hypothesis, and the SETI project.
• N°57 (Dec 2008): Focuses on spatial phenomena, the HET hypothesis, and the SETI project.
• N°58 (March 2009): Features articles on spatial phenomena, the HET hypothesis, and the SETI project.
• N°59 (June 2009): Presents recent investigations, the 'fantastic realism' period, and discussions on the devil and ufology.
• N°60 (Sept 2009): Explores the 'invisible college' and Jacques Vallée's contributions, ET abductions, and chrononauts.

Upcoming Issue

The cover of the next issue, UFOmania magazine n°62 (Spring 2010), is previewed. It will be a special issue on GEIPAN, featuring an interview with Yvan Blanc, the head of GEIPAN (CNES). The cover also lists the ISSN and prices for different regions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers a wide range of ufological topics, from historical cases and scientific investigations to reader experiences and theoretical discussions. There is an emphasis on research methodology and critical analysis, as seen in the discussions about crop circles and the critique of biased investigations. The editorial stance appears open to exploring various hypotheses, including those related to non-human intelligence and phenomena beyond conventional scientific understanding, while also encouraging rigorous evidence-based approaches. The magazine also serves as a platform for community interaction through its 'Courrier des lecteurs' section and by promoting related publications and events.