UFOmania - No 66

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: #66 (Spring 2011)
Volume: 18th year
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1254 5112
Cover Headline: Le retour des ovnis belges (The return of Belgian UFOs)

UFOmania magazine is a quarterly publication dedicated to enthusiasts of Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena (UAP) and other unusual apparitions. Its primary objective is to present research findings from various specialists and foster constructive debate. The data presented is drawn from testimonies, press articles, and reflections from a network of correspondents in France and abroad, aiming to advance the study of the subject.

Editorial

The editorial section opens with a tribute to Francis Néhou, a UAP investigator from Haute-Normandie, who passed away. The editor shares personal memories and mentions that Néhou had bequeathed his personal archives, which formed the basis of the editor's first book, "L'Eure des Ovnis." The issue is dedicated to his memory.

The editorial also pays homage to ufologists Henri Chaloupek and Ion Hobana, marking the closure of a generation of pioneers in ufology, including Marc Thirouin, René Fouéré, Aimé Michel, and Jimmy Guieu, who were active in the study of flying saucers from the 1950s.

A significant point raised is the critical importance of archiving UAP data. The editor stresses the need to pass on existing UAP funds to future generations to prevent information loss and ensure solid research foundations. The SCEAU's work with the National and Departmental Archives is highlighted as a crucial effort in this regard, noting the frequent loss or destruction of private collections when an ufologist disappears. Gilles Durand's article on page 18 is mentioned as detailing the basic principles and the reality of this challenge.

The main dossier of the quarter concerns unpublished Belgian investigations, presented by Franck Boitte. Additionally, Gildas Bourdais offers clarifications on the Roswell affair, a long-standing and often controversial topic.

The editorial concludes with a "Bonne lecture" (Happy reading).

Articles and Features

Actualités (News)

• Enquêtes extraordinaires en DVD: An announcement for a pre-order of a series of five 90-minute documentaries on unexplained phenomena, produced by INREES and initiated by Stéphane Allix.
• La mort n'est pas une terre étrangère: A review of Stéphane Allix's book, published by Albin Michel in January 2011. The book explores mysteries of consciousness and the nature of death, drawing on encounters with researchers, mediums, and shamans worldwide.
• L'Armée argentine va étudier les OVNIs: The Argentine Air Force is launching a commission to study unidentified flying object sightings, following Brazil's initiative. The commission will collect and analyze testimonies, with experts in radar, pilots, air traffic controllers, and meteorologists.

Dossier Spécial (Special Dossier): Belgique : 151 observations de la période 1970-2001 sous la loupe (Belgium: 151 observations from 1970-2001 under the microscope)

This extensive dossier, authored by Franck Boitte, presents a detailed analysis of 151 UAP sightings in Belgium between 1970 and 2009, sourced from the GREPI (Groupement de Recherche et d'Études des Phénomènes Inter planetaire). The article details the methodology used for filtering and cataloging these reports, emphasizing the importance of protecting witness identities while ensuring data integrity. The dossier includes tables categorizing observations by date, location, witness, phenomenon appearance, duration, and potential explanations (e.g., aircraft, dirigible).

Key criteria for inclusion in the COB (Catalogue des Observations Belges) are outlined, including sufficient date information and location within Belgium. The author discusses the challenges of distinguishing between genuine UAP reports and misidentifications or hoaxes, noting the reluctance of many witnesses to reveal their identities due to potential harassment or ridicule.

The dossier highlights the "Belgian wave" of 1989, characterized by sightings of large, illuminated, silent, ground-hugging structures, described by Bertrand Méheust in his book "Retour sur l'Anomalie belge." The article presents a detailed table of 26 selected cases from the GREPI data, further filtered based on specific criteria related to the phenomenon's characteristics, displacement, and the credibility of the report.

Other Articles:

• Le sujet OVNI dans les médias: An article by Jean Bastide discussing the portrayal of UFOs in the media.
• Vademecum SCEAU archives: An article by Gilles Durand on the SCEAU archives and the importance of UAP data preservation.
• Les OVNIS des services secrets français: An investigation into UAP reports within French secret services.
• Roswell: Retour sur 'l'imposture des ballons Mogul' / Le faux débris de 1996: Gildas Bourdais revisits the Roswell incident, addressing the Mogul balloon theory and alleged debris.
• Drones sans pilotes: An article on pilotless drones.
• Livres parus (Books published): A section featuring new book releases.
• Courrier des lecteurs (Readers' mail): A section for reader correspondence.

Hors Frontières (Beyond Borders)

• 15. Thier - Luxembourg - 20.11.2002: A detailed report of a triangular object sighting with luminous features.
• 10. Bruxelles - Brabant - fin avril 2000: A witness account of a pulsating, balloon-shaped object, possibly followed by a helicopter with German insignia.
• 6. Limelette - Brabant - 01.01.1990: A description of a large, triangular craft with lights and tubular structures.
• Testimony from "Jean-Michel" on Brazil: A personal account related to a healer in Brazil, involving UAP sightings and unusual phenomena, suggesting a connection to extraterrestrial influence and manipulation.

Other Sections:

• Abonnements (Subscriptions): Information on subscription rates for 2011.
• Conférence à Grenoble le 21 avril 2011: Announcement of a conference on UFOs and crop circles by Pierre Beake.
• Petite Annonce (Small Ad): A request for UFO-related documentation for an exhibition in London.
• En bref (In brief): A section with short news items, including a mention of a DVD project by coldevence.com on hauntings and ghosts, and the passing of ufologist Ion Hobana.
• Hommage à un pionnier: A tribute to Henri Chaloupek, a French ufologist involved in various organizations and known for his work on Eastern European UAP cases.
• Hommage à un ami: A tribute to Francis Néhou, who passed away at age 43, and contributed significantly to the editor's book.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes rigorous investigation, data archiving, and the importance of open-mindedness in studying UAP. There's a strong focus on historical cases and the contributions of early ufologists. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained phenomena, acknowledging the challenges of credibility and evidence, while advocating for continued research and the preservation of knowledge. The magazine also highlights the international scope of UAP research, with features on cases from Belgium, Argentina, and other regions. The recurring theme of the "Belgian wave" underscores the magazine's commitment to in-depth analysis of significant historical UAP events.

Title: UFOmania
Issue: n°66
Date: Spring 2011
Publisher: UFOmania magazine
Country: France
Language: French

Dossier: The Return of Belgian UFOs

This section focuses on the Belgian UFO wave, with contributions from organizations like COBEPS and SOBEPS. Patrick Ferryn, Coordinator of COBEPS, discusses the organization's efforts to train new investigators and analyze past sightings, particularly the 1989-1991 wave. He notes that while some observations are mundane, others remain unexplained, challenging conventional explanations. COBEPS is also re-examining important cases from the Belgian wave.

Franck Boitte contributes an article on the 1954 Belgian UFO wave, highlighting its significance for European ufology. He details the historical context, the challenges of collecting reliable information, and recounts specific cases from Liège, La Docherie, Athus, Dudzele, and Rijmenan-bij-Keerbergen.

Personal Account: A Trip to Brazil

A personal testimony from 'Jean-Michel' recounts a trip to Brazil, initially for health reasons related to asthma. The journey involved multiple flights and led him to Abadiania, a town known for a 'miraculous healer' named João de Deus. Jean-Michel describes encountering numerous images and discussions related to extraterrestrials and UFOs in the town. He expresses initial skepticism but becomes intrigued by the prevalence of these themes. He details his experiences with the healer, including unusual medical procedures, and notes the presence of scientists who allegedly investigated the phenomena. The account concludes with a warning about manipulation and the potential for extraterrestrial activities occurring on Earth unnoticed.

Opinions: UFOs in the Media

This section critiques how UFOs are portrayed in the French media. Jean Bastide expresses outrage over a France-Info radio report that he felt ridiculed UFO enthusiasts. The magazine includes a response from the editorial team that acknowledges the report's mocking tone but also suggests that some UFO enthusiasts' arguments are indeed risible, particularly concerning the 'UMMO affair'. The response calls for more rigor and seriousness in French ufology.

Another article reviews a France 2 documentary titled "OVNIS: Vérités et illusions" presented by the Bogdanoff brothers. The reviewer, Gérard Lebat, praises the documentary for presenting the UFO phenomenon in a serious and accessible manner to a general audience, avoiding the typical debate format. He notes that the film acknowledged the reality of the phenomenon and the limitations of current explanations. The documentary featured interviews with various ufologists and experts, including Jacques Patenet, former head of GEIPAN, and Christian Comtesse, who discussed UFO meals. The reviewer highlights the documentary's positive impact in legitimizing the UFO subject.

Archives: The National Ufological Heritage

This extensive section details the work of SCEAU (Sauvegarde et Conservation des Etudes et Archives Ufologiques), an association dedicated to preserving ufological documents and collections. It outlines SCEAU's mission, its partnerships with national archives and libraries in France and Switzerland, and the types of documents it collects. The article lists several archival locations and contact information for researchers interested in consulting these materials. It also emphasizes the importance of preserving this heritage for future study and warns about the risk of documents disappearing after the death or disinterest of their owners.

UFOlogy in Belgium: After SOBEPS

This part of the magazine highlights active ufological groups in Belgium following the cessation of SOBEPS. It lists two organizations: Belgisch UFO-meldpunt and CERPI - BELGIQUE. Contact details and brief descriptions of their activities are provided, encouraging Belgian subscribers to connect with them for ongoing research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a serious and rigorous approach to ufology, advocating for the preservation of evidence and critical analysis. It critiques sensationalism in the media and among some enthusiasts, while also acknowledging the persistent mystery of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance supports the idea that UFOs are a real subject worthy of scientific investigation, even if definitive explanations remain elusive. There's a strong emphasis on the importance of archival work and the need for credible research to counter misinformation and skepticism.

This issue of UFOmania, dated Spring 2011 (n°66), features a cover story titled "Les ovni en Grande-Bretagne" (UFOs in Great Britain), highlighting the declassification of over 8500 pages of British UFO-related documents. The magazine delves into various UFO cases and related topics, including French secret service investigations and a critical re-examination of the Roswell incident.

Les ovni en Grande-Bretagne

The main article reports on the release of over 8500 pages of British documents concerning UFOs, made public by the UK National Archives. Journalist David Clarke, who consulted for the archives, noted that these documents span a wide range of subjects, including a 1979 debate in the House of Lords about the existence of flying saucers. Despite a member of parliament being told there was 'nothing to convince His Majesty's Government of the slightest visit by an extraterrestrial vessel,' the British Ministry of Defence secretly established a 'Flying Saucer Working Group' to investigate UFO sightings. The declassified files contain numerous witness testimonies, sketches, and classified notes, including reports of a UFO wave in 1978, a potential alien abduction, and a military aircraft being 'followed' by a mysterious object. In 1967, the military, police, and secret services were mobilized after multiple reports of six small saucers forming a perfect line in the southern UK.

Churchill and Eisenhower allegedly kept UFO secret

A note from the Ministry of Defence mentions a 1999 letter suggesting that Winston Churchill ordered a UFO encounter involving a military aircraft and an unidentified object to be kept secret. The letter, allegedly from 1999, claims Churchill and US President Dwight Eisenhower discussed this incident and decided to conceal it. However, the Ministry of Defence found no written evidence of such a meeting.

Dossiers Secrets >> Dans les archives

This section, authored by Franck Boitte, discusses a book published in October 2010 by L'Iconoclaste titled "Dans les archives inédites des Services Secrets" (In the unpublished archives of the Secret Services). The book, weighing 2.8 kg and containing over 350 pages with numerous photographic documents, covers the period from 1870 to 1989. The author suggests the book is a posthumous tribute to individuals who served in secret services, driven by various reasons, and acknowledges the genius of certain politicians. He clarifies that the book does not contain revelations about current organizations or activities, but rather historical information.

The author notes that the interest of French secret services in ufology is not new, with former agents often presenting themselves as retired. He highlights a 1982 book, "Paroles d'espion" (Words of a Spy), by François Gardes (an alias), which was overlooked. Gardes had previously written "Chasseurs d'ovni" (UFO Hunters) in 1977. The article then focuses on a chapter titled "Lumières Nocturnes: Des Gendarmes sur les traces des ovnis" (Nocturnal Lights: Gendarmes on the trail of UFOs), which appears in the "Dans les archives inédites des Services Secrets" book.

This chapter, written by Mr. François Cathala of the Gendarmerie's Historical Service, summarizes four official UFO reports. Cathala's selection is presented as a 'best of' for ufologists. The cases are presented chronologically:

1. Morsbach-Forbach (Moselle, October 7, 1954): Charles Bou, a Coca-Cola delivery driver, reported a lenticular machine about 4m high with red light beams descending towards the ground. The object ascended rapidly and disappeared. The case is classified as 'Doubtful' due to a lack of thorough investigation into the witness's state.
2. Marliens (Côte d'Or, May 5, 1967): A witness discovered an irregular trace of about 30m² in a clover and barley field. The ground was hard, and a thin, grey-white deposit was found, which microscopic analysis suggested had undergone partial fusion. The trace had a central depression and six cylindrical cavities. The case is classified as 'Doubtful' due to the lack of an actual UFO observation and potential for misidentification.
3. Trancrainville (Eure-et-Loir, May 20, 1974): An agricultural worker reported a circular trace of approximately 30m in circumference in a wheat field, with three 30cm circular marks arranged in a triangle. The case is classified as 'Non-identified' as there were no witnesses and the marks could be attributed to natural phenomena like lightning.
4. Revigny-sur-Ornain (Meuse, June 6, 1975): Gendarme brigadier Michel Flouret photographed two large, orange-red objects described as voluminous with rounded centers and pointed edges, hovering over a field. The objects moved in an 'S' pattern before disappearing vertically. The case is classified as 'Non-identified,' with some debate about the authenticity of the photos and the witness's background.

The author notes that the selection of these cases by Cathala is intriguing, as they are less famous than others. He also mentions that the chapter's title, "Nocturnal Lights," is somewhat misleading as the cases do not primarily describe 'nocturnal lights' in the sense defined by Hynek.

Roswell: Retour sur l'imposture des ballons « Mogul »

This article by Gildas Bourdais critically examines the 'Mogul project' explanation for the Roswell incident. Bourdais argues that the theory, proposed by the US Air Force in the 1990s, is a "veritable imposture" and presents several arguments against it.

He begins by recounting the initial Roswell Army Air Field announcement in July 1947 of a recovered "flying disc," which was quickly retracted and explained as a weather balloon and radar target by General Ramey. However, subsequent testimonies in the 1990s led the Air Force to propose the 'Mogul project' explanation: a secret train of high-altitude balloons used to detect Soviet nuclear explosions.

Bourdais refutes this explanation by highlighting:

• The nature of Mogul trains: These were composed of ordinary materials (neoprene balloons, nylon lines, radar reflectors) that would not impress elite officers. The 'Mogul N°4' train, cited as the explanation, was reportedly canceled due to weather.
• Lack of witness corroboration: No witnesses described recovering a Mogul train with its equipment.
• Witness descriptions of debris: Military and civilian witnesses who handled some of the debris described it as strange and unlike ordinary weather balloon or radar target components.
• The implausibility of mistaking debris: Bourdais questions how experienced aviators could mistake fragile radar reflectors (described as 'flower-patterned scotch tape' by some witnesses) for parts of an alien spacecraft.

He specifically addresses the argument that the debris was reinforced with glue, stating that tests showed the treated wood was still easily breakable and flammable, contradicting witness accounts of debris that resisted burning. Bourdais also points out that the radar targets, described as tetrahedral kite-like objects with aluminum foil, were extremely fragile and easily damaged, making it unlikely they would be mistaken for alien technology.

He concludes that the 'Mogul project' explanation is not credible and that the Roswell incident likely involved something more significant, possibly including the recovery of an alien craft and non-human bodies, as suggested by later testimonies.

Livres (Books)

This section reviews two books:

• "Dimension Jimmy Guieu": An anthology-homage to the influential French ufologist and science fiction writer Jimmy Guieu, compiled by Richard D. Nolane. It features contributions from eleven authors who bring Guieu's characters to life and includes an unpublished article by Guieu himself and reproductions of book covers. The review praises the initiative and recommends the book for fans of Guieu's work.
• "Le triangle de la Burle": A book by Jean Peyrard, published by Créer in 2007. Although not strictly a UFO book, it is noted for containing numerous anecdotes and UFO sighting reports from the Cévennes region of France. The book chronicles unusual aeronautical accidents and events in this geographical area, suggesting a persistent unknown phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, government secrecy, and the historical investigation of sightings. There is a clear skepticism towards official explanations that downplay or dismiss UFO reports, particularly the 'Mogul project' theory for Roswell. The editorial stance appears to favor a more open-minded approach to the subject, valuing witness testimonies and archival research, while critically examining official narratives and debunking attempts. The inclusion of detailed case studies from French secret service archives and re-examinations of major incidents like Roswell underscore a commitment to in-depth ufological inquiry.

This issue of UFOmania, dated Spring 2011 (Issue 66), delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, with a strong focus on the Roswell incident and its surrounding controversies. It features articles on alleged UFO debris, the Mogul Project, scientific analysis of recovered materials, and the potential for misidentification due to advanced drone technology. The magazine also reviews recent books on ufology and discusses the ongoing debate about government secrecy.

The Roswell Incident and the Mogul Project

The issue critically examines the prevailing theory that the Roswell debris was from a Mogul Project balloon train. It highlights discrepancies in witness testimonies, particularly concerning the discovery of metallic fragments and unusual materials by W.W. Brazel. The article questions whether Mogul Flight #4 was actually launched, citing Albert Crary's journal which suggests cancellations due to weather. It contrasts the official narrative with the detailed accounts of witnesses and researchers, suggesting that the Mogul theory may not fully explain the findings.

Analysis of Alleged UFO Debris

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the analysis of alleged UFO debris, particularly a fragment exhibited at the Roswell Museum. The article details isotopic analysis performed at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, which concluded that the fragments were of terrestrial origin. However, it notes unusual findings in optical microphotographs, such as alternating layers of copper and silver. The investigation traces the fragment's origin to a jewelry workshop, debunking claims of extraterrestrial material.

Witness Testimonies and Expert Opinions

The magazine presents testimonies from various individuals involved in the Roswell incident, including Brazel's daughter, Major Jesse Marcel Jr., and researchers like Karl Pflock and David Rudiak. It also includes the perspective of physicist Charles Moore and Captain Sheridan Cavitt. The article contrasts these accounts with official reports and explanations, highlighting the persistent questions and controversies surrounding the event.

The Rise of Drones and Potential Misidentifications

Another key theme is the increasing prevalence of advanced drone technology and its potential to be mistaken for UFOs. The issue discusses the development of stealthy, high-altitude drones, such as the Boeing Phantom Ray, which have a manta ray-like shape. It suggests that these sophisticated aircraft could lead to new misidentifications, especially during nocturnal flights, and emphasizes the importance of cataloging their characteristics.

Book Reviews and Ufological Developments

The magazine features reviews of several books related to UFOs. "UFOs: Generals, Pilots, and Government Officials Go on the Record" by Leslie Kean is highlighted for its credible witnesses. "OVNI sur le Finistère" by Jean-François Boëdec is presented as a comprehensive catalog of UFO sightings in the Finistère region of France. The review of "Les OVNI: Aspects psychiatriques, médico-psychologiques, sociologiques" by Daniel Mavrakis discusses the scientific and sociological implications of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine also touches upon the ongoing debate about government secrecy and the slow process of disclosure.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent mystery of the Roswell incident, the critical examination of official explanations, the scientific analysis of alleged UFO evidence, and the impact of technological advancements on UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to analyze evidence and testimonies objectively. While acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial origins, the magazine emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation and a cautious approach, distinguishing between credible evidence and speculation. The issue also highlights the growing interest in ufology from scientific and governmental bodies, alongside the continued skepticism from certain quarters.

Title: UFOmania magazine
Issue: 66
Date: Spring 2011
Publisher: UFOmania
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of UFOmania magazine features a prominent 'Courrier des lecteurs' section, largely dedicated to a detailed discussion initiated by Gilles Durand concerning the archiving of ufological data. The cover headline highlights this reader correspondence, while the magazine's overall focus remains on UFO phenomena and related research.

Archives and Collections: The Challenge of Ufological Data Preservation

The core of this issue's reader contributions revolves around the critical need for proper archival practices in ufology. Gilles Durand, writing from the perspective of SCEAU/Archives OVNI, engages in a discussion with Didier Gomez regarding the difficulties of accessing and preserving private ufological archives. Durand emphasizes the importance of depositing these archives in official administrative bodies, such as Departmental Archives (AD) or National Archives (AN), which offer long-term security and accessibility.

He contrasts this with the fragility of associative archives. Durand recounts the fates of several ufological associations that struggled with their collections: GNEOVNI, which lost its archives when its building was sold and the new owner disposed of the contents; CERPI, whose archives' whereabouts are unknown after its dissolution; and AAMT, whose archives were dispersed among members or saved by other organizations.

Durand argues that while associations might aim for a dedicated space, the sustainability and professional management offered by public institutions are superior. He points to the ongoing construction of new archival centers by the Ministry of Culture and National Archives in France as evidence of the growing recognition of the value of private collections. He also mentions the efforts of the Swedish AFU, while cautioning about the long-term political and policy uncertainties that could affect even well-established organizations.

Durand provides practical advice on consulting archives at the Departmental Archives, detailing the process of requesting and accessing documents, and noting that photocopies and photographs are permitted, but not scanning. He also directs readers to the 'Vademecum pour la consultation des Fonds Documentaires Ufologiques' available on the SCEAU website.

Regional UFO Catalogues and Investigations

The issue also highlights various regional and departmental UFO studies. A significant mention is made of a 1977 fascicule titled 'Le phénomène OVNI dans le bassin houiller franco-belge (période 1942-1975)' by Jean-Marie Bigorne and Jacques Bonabot. An updated note from December 2010 by Bigorne acknowledges the study's age and limitations but frames it as a historical attempt to document UFO phenomena in the region.

The magazine also features a section on available publications and multimedia related to ufology, including books like Didier Gomez's 'OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn' and DVDs of ufological encounters and conferences. A 'Petite Annonce' seeks specific back issues of the LDLN magazine.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The editorial stance, as reflected in the 'Courrier des lecteurs', strongly favors professional archival practices and the long-term preservation of ufological data within established institutions. The recurring themes are the importance of documentation, the challenges of maintaining organizational continuity, the historical significance of UFO cases, and the ongoing efforts of researchers and archivists to safeguard this information. The magazine positions itself as a platform for these discussions and a repository of information through its publications and archives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the critical importance of preserving ufological documentation and the challenges associated with it. The 'Courrier des lecteurs' section, dominated by Gilles Durand's detailed analysis, underscores the fragility of associative archives versus the stability of institutional archives. The magazine advocates for a systematic approach to collecting, cataloging, and making ufological data accessible, emphasizing the role of organizations like SCEAU in this endeavor. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting rigorous research, historical accuracy, and the long-term safeguarding of the UFO phenomenon's history, encouraging collaboration with official archival bodies.