UFOmania - No 67

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: #67
Date: Summer 2011
Type: Quarterly magazine on ufology and unexplained phenomena.

Editorial Stance

The editorial, "Éditorial," by Didier Gomez, reflects on the vastness of ufology and the magazine's 18-year commitment to exploring UFO phenomena. It highlights the ongoing quest to understand the origins of these events, emphasizing the importance of rigorous research and the analysis of collected data. The editorial notes the shift from early extraterrestrial hypotheses to a broader consideration of unknown origins. It also points to the value of regional case compilations and mentions recent cases from Norway and Colombia, underscoring the continued relevance of the subject.

Key Articles and Features

Cover Story: O.V.N.I. vert-orangé explose au-dessus de la Montagne Noire

The cover prominently features this headline, suggesting a significant UFO sighting. The cover collage also showcases various books and articles related to UFO phenomena in different French regions.

Dossier: Catalogues départementaux et régionaux

This extensive dossier explores the scarcity and importance of regional UFO catalogs in France. It notes that despite the vast number of UFO reports, only a handful of books focus on specific geographical areas. The article traces the history of these catalogs, starting with Jean-François Boëdec's "Les O.V.N.I en Bretagne" (1978), which was the first regional UFO study. It also discusses works like "La Corse base d'OVNI" by Jean-Pierre Chambraud, "OVNIS du Cotentin" by Philippe Le Barillier, and "OVNI en Provence" by Henri Julien and Michel Figuet. The dossier emphasizes the time-consuming nature of compiling such catalogs and the challenges faced by researchers.

Interview: Patrice Vachon (ex-ADRUP)

Patrice Vachon, former head of the Dijon-based research association ADRUP, shares his experiences in ufology and parapsychology. He discusses ADRUP's activities in the 1980s, including collecting and analyzing regional UFO cases and parapsychological phenomena. Vachon expresses a nuanced view on UFOs, believing humanity is not alone but lacking definitive proof of extraterrestrial visitation. He advocates for rigorous analysis and a scientific approach to avoid misinterpretations, citing an example of a misidentified military exercise.

Actualités: UFOLOGIE ET PARANORMAL

This section reviews "U&p.mag," a bi-monthly digital magazine focusing on ufology and the paranormal. It mentions Gérard Lebat being featured on the cover of issue #4 and notes the significant download numbers for that issue.

SETI, c'est fini?

An article reports that the SETI institute has temporarily suspended its activities due to a lack of financial support. The announcement was made by PDG Tom Pierson, citing insufficient funding despite the success of the Kepler space telescope in detecting exoplanets.

"Les plus grands canulars français" by Pascal Mateo

This book review discusses Pascal Mateo's work, which examines twenty French hoaxes, including one related to ufology. The review details a specific case from 1954 involving alleged extraterrestrials near Toulouse, which was later revealed to be a journalistic prank.

"OVNI le dossier des rencontres du troisième type en France" by Julien Gonzalez

This section promotes a special offer for Julien Gonzalez's book, which is described as a comprehensive catalog of UFO encounters in France, including appendices on misidentifications, Belgian cases, and research methodology.

"Le fonds Michel Carrouges vendu aux enchères"

A brief note about the auction of Michel Carrouges' extensive collection, which included many works on paranormal phenomena.

>>> en bref (In Brief)

• This section provides short updates:
• Repas ufologiques: Information on new ufology meeting groups in Metz and Rouen, with details on speakers and locations.
• Nomination au GEIPAN: Xavier Passot is appointed head of GEIPAN, the French agency for the study of unidentified aerospace phenomena.

DOSSIER: Le phénomène OVNI dans le bassin houiller Franco-belge

This section reviews a fascicle by Jean-Marie Bigorne and Jacques Bonabot detailing UFO phenomena in the Franco-Belgian coal basin between 1942 and 1975. It includes statistical elements and a focused study of the Nord region and its Belgian border.

"Mystères en Pays d'Oc" by Bruno Bousquet

This book is presented as a catalog of UFO observations in the Hérault department, compiled from various sources.

"L'Eure des OVNIS" by Didier Gomez

Didier Gomez's work is mentioned as cataloging 22 cases for Haute-Normandy and further cases for Eure, covering specific periods.

"OVNI en Champagne-Ardenne" by Guy Capet

This book, released during a European UFO congress in Châlons-en-Champagne, lists 137 cases from the Champagne-Ardenne region.

"La cote d'Or insolite" by Patrice Vachon

Patrice Vachon's book is mentioned as exploring ufology and other unusual phenomena in the Côte d'Or region.

"O.V.N.I. en Ardennes" by Jean-Michel Ligeron

This book is highlighted as a significant regional UFO catalog, detailing 10 years of investigations into UFO sightings in the Ardennes.

"Fantastiques rencontres au bout du monde" by Jean-François Boédec

This work is described as a catalog of UFO cases in Finistère, featuring statistical analysis of phenomena distribution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous, evidence-based research in ufology. There's a strong focus on regional studies and the compilation of case catalogs, reflecting a belief that understanding local phenomena is crucial for a broader comprehension of UFOs. The publication also acknowledges the historical evolution of UFO theories, moving beyond simple extraterrestrial explanations to consider more complex and unknown origins. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded skepticism, encouraging detailed investigation while cautioning against hasty conclusions and misinterpretations. The magazine also highlights the efforts of private associations and researchers in advancing the field, particularly in France.

Title: UFOmania
Issue: n°67
Date: Summer 2011

This issue of UFOmania magazine delves into various facets of ufology, featuring articles on the evolving strategies of the SETI program, detailed accounts of international UFO sightings, and comprehensive regional UFO case catalogs. It also includes interviews and analyses of historical and contemporary UFO phenomena.

Articles and Features

The New Strategy for Extraterrestrial Research (SETI)

The lead article discusses the perceived stagnation of the SETI program, which has primarily focused on detecting electromagnetic signals. It highlights criticisms suggesting that this approach may have been too narrow and proposes a shift towards exploring other, previously neglected, avenues of research. The article references correspondence from Donald E. Tarter and the work of astronomer Jean Heidmann, touching upon the concept of 'false alarms' and the debate around humanity's unique place in the universe. A surprising declaration from SETI pioneer Frank Drake is also featured, suggesting that a small fraction of detected signals might indeed be of extraterrestrial origin, though he emphasizes the rarity of such occurrences.

UFOs at Oslo-Gardermoen Airport (Norway)

This section reports on the unusual incident on March 24, 2011, when Oslo-Gardermoen Airport was temporarily closed due to the presence of an unidentified aircraft. The article details how the mysterious object, described as resembling a deltaplane or glider, hovered at an altitude of 8,000 feet, causing significant flight delays and disruptions. The SAS pilot Johan Kylborn recounts his experience of spotting the verdant object and its unusual maneuvers, including a 360-degree turn, before it disappeared. Despite investigations, no definitive explanation has been found, and the incident remains unexplained.

UFO Sightings in the Cracovie Region (Poland)

This report details a series of strange aerial incidents that occurred in the Cracovie region of Poland on March 8 and 9, 2011. Multiple independent witnesses observed unusual objects described as resembling classic flying saucers with a ring of lights. The objects were seen at low altitudes, with one report mentioning an object hovering over a highway. While official explanations are lacking, the detailed reports from reliable witnesses highlight the intriguing nature of these sightings. The article notes variations in the descriptions of the lights and the presence of a dark space within the ring.

Regional UFO Case Catalogs

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an extensive listing of regional and departmental UFO catalogs. This section provides a valuable resource for researchers, detailing various publications and associations that have compiled UFO case data across France. It includes information on authors, references, and the geographical scope of these catalogs, covering regions like Sud-Est, Nord, Ile de France, and Ouest.

Book Reviews and Features

Several book reviews and features are included:

• "OVNI sur le Finistère: 50 ans d'enquêtes" by Jean-François Boédec: This book is presented as an update and expansion of previous work on UFO cases in the Finistère region of Brittany.
• "OVNIS dans le ciel Corse" by Christophe Canioni: This new publication is highlighted as the first work to specifically address UFO phenomena in Corsica, inaugurating a new collection on myths and strange phenomena.
• "Le petit bonhomme de Renève": This case, previously considered a significant UFO event, is re-examined. New hypotheses suggest it might be explained by a dressed-up monkey, specifically a pygmy marmoset, rather than an extraterrestrial encounter.
• "OVNIS sur l'Hudson River": This is a French translation of the book "Night Siege," which details significant UFO observations in the Hudson Valley during the 1980s.

The ADRUP Association

Information is provided about the ADRUP (Association Dijonnaise de Recherches Ufologiques et Parapsychologiques), founded in 1976. The article outlines its various sections, including sky surveillance and field investigations, and lists notable cases investigated by the association, such as the Renève humanoid encounter and the Poncey-sur-Lignon incident. It also mentions ADRUP's involvement in the CECRU protocol and its historical activities.

UFOmania's Role and Future

The magazine emphasizes the importance of continuing archival efforts and forming investigators. It highlights the need for local investigations, public awareness, and the establishment of credible research networks. The editorial stance encourages rigorous data collection and the sharing of information to build a solid foundation for future ufological research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous, evidence-based research in ufology. There is a clear call for a more organized and professional approach to UFO investigations, moving beyond anecdotal evidence and historical cases. The magazine champions the creation and dissemination of regional catalogs as crucial tools for understanding the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, willing to explore unconventional hypotheses while also critically evaluating cases for more rational explanations, as seen in the re-examination of the Renève case. The magazine also highlights the role of international collaboration and the importance of accessible information for the public and researchers alike.

This issue of UFOmania, dated Summer 2011 (n°67), focuses on "Fortean phenomena in the old press." It presents a collection of historical accounts of unusual events, UFO sightings, and related investigations, drawing from various French and international publications.

Article 1: Mysterious Flame in the French Alps

The issue begins with an account of a mysterious intermittent light observed from the Gland observatory in French Switzerland, near the communes of Perrignier, Draillant, and Lully. A report was sent to the French Ministry of Air, which requested local mayors to identify the nature of the phenomenon, noting a similar event in 1914. While some speculated about spies, the article dismisses this as improbable. The mayor of Perrignier, Monsieur Condevaux, suggests the light might be a natural phenomenon, such as gas escaping from the earth and igniting, possibly linked to atmospheric electricity or underground petroleum deposits mentioned by Abbé Mermet. Despite attempts by local youths to pinpoint the source, the exact location of the "dancing flame" remains elusive. The article also mentions a similar phenomenon observed by the mayor's brother, who saw a flame cross the road during a thunderstorm. The prevailing hypothesis leans towards gases from decomposing organic matter or from bodies buried near an old leper colony, but scientific examination is deemed necessary.

Article 2: The 'Dancing Flame' on the Hill

This section elaborates on the phenomenon near Thonon, described as a curious and unexplained event. An inhabitant of Perrignier points towards the direction of observation. The article references "Le petit Dauphinois" from April 25, 1936, detailing new developments on the Maladière phenomenon, confirming it's not a myth and has garnered more testimonies. The phenomenon is described as a flame dancing on the hill, observed near Thonon.

Article 3: Albert Vionnet's Testimony

Albert Vionnet recounts his experience on the evening of April 30th, around 9:30 PM, while on the national road near Maladière. He was suddenly blinded by a large flame that erupted on the road itself, a few meters in front of him. The phenomenon disappeared shortly after. The article then quotes an observer from Gland, Switzerland, who calls the phenomenon a "luminous barometer." This observer notes that the light is not visible every night and its intensity and duration correlate with atmospheric pressure. When barometric pressure is low, the activity is high; when it's high, appearances are more spaced. Activity increases significantly in summer if a thunderstorm is imminent. Numerous people in the Swiss region of Nyon, Rolle, and Morges have frequently seen a bright point of light appearing and disappearing in the southeast, near Perrignier, Draillant, and Lully, likely a "will-o'-the-wisp" in a humid, wooded area.

The observer finds the term "feu follet" (will-o'-the-wisp) inappropriate for a luminous phenomenon visible from 20 km away. A more plausible explanation is a subterranean gas release correlated with atmospheric pressure. Monsieur Condevaux, the mayor of Perrignier, mentions a fissure on the hillside caused by a ground collapse, suggesting a geological connection.

Article 4: A Plane Hovering

Reported in "Le petit Dauphinois" on April 9, 1937, this incident describes an aircraft observed hovering over Thonon on April 8, 1936, around 4 PM. The plane, possibly from Switzerland, remained almost motionless for nearly twenty minutes, resembling a large glider. A mechanic named Monsieur Moille, who observed the aircraft, found its immobility contrary to the principles of aviation. He noted the aircraft then resumed its flight with a powerful engine hum, heading towards Lausanne at an estimated speed of 300 km/h, and was not an autogyro. Several people confirmed the sighting, raising questions about whether it was a mirage or a new type of flying machine.

Article 5: Pterodactylus Hibernatus

This section, referencing "L'écho du Mont-Blanc" from February 14, 1856, reports a significant scientific discovery in Culmont, Haute-Marne. Miners excavating a railway tunnel unearthed a monstrous creature from a cavity in a large rock. The creature is described as a reptile with a long neck, a muzzle, sharp teeth, and membrane-covered legs and feet, resembling a bat but the size of a large goose. Its wingspan was estimated at 3 meters, and its skin was dark, bare, and oily. It showed brief signs of life before expiring with a hoarse cry. The creature is termed a "living fossil."

Article 6: Charles Fort, the Father of Forteanism

This article introduces Charles Hoy Fort (1874-1932), an American journalist and author who collected and documented anomalous phenomena, often dismissed by mainstream science. His most famous work, "The Book of the Damned," details phenomena like luminous discs, rains of fish and frogs, mysterious footprints, and unexplained disappearances. The article praises Fort's unique writing style, blending precise accounts with critiques of scientific dogmatism and poetic flair. It mentions his influence on writers like Lovecraft and Pauwels. The term "Fortean" is derived from his name, and the Fortean Society was founded in his honor. The article notes that while Forteanism is less known in French-speaking countries, it is significant in the Anglo-Saxon world, with "Fortean Times" being a prominent publication. Fort's work is characterized by its "knowledge through the absurd" method, challenging conventional explanations with a skeptical yet open-minded approach.

Article 7: The Belgian UFO Wave (COBEPS Colloquium)

This section reports on a colloquium held on May 14, 2011, in Perwez, Belgium, organized by COBEPS (Comité Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux), marking 20 years since the significant Belgian UFO wave of 1989-1991. The wave, which lasted eighteen months, involved thousands of witnesses reporting highly remarkable aerial phenomena, often described as triangular objects with large headlights, observed mostly in the south of Belgium. The colloquium aimed to assess the impact of this wave and explore new explanations. Key conclusions highlighted the exceptional duration, number of witnesses, and quality of testimonies, ruling out simple rumor effects or conventional military exercises. The observed craft displayed performances beyond conventional aircraft, and their nature and origin remained undetermined. The article also notes that UFO phenomena continue to manifest in Belgium, with recent observations in Huy being deemed reliable. The COBEPS emphasizes the importance of collecting and investigating testimonies, considering UFOs as potentially piloted craft with advanced technology, possibly utilizing electromagnetic forces and air ionization for propulsion and light emission.

Article 8: Patrick Ferryn's Communiqué

Patrick Ferryn, president of COBEPS, issues a formal denial regarding a press report that suggested a resurgence of UFO sightings was primarily due to an increase in paper lanterns. He clarifies that while there has been an increase in reports of flying lanterns, this should not be confused with genuine UFO observations, which, though less frequent than during the 1989-1991 wave, still warrant investigation. He criticizes certain media for sensationalizing the issue and creating a false impression of a new "Belgian wave."

Article 9: Jean Casault's Book and the CEO

This section introduces Jean Casault's new book, "Ce dont je n'ai jamais parlé" (What I Never Spoke About), which explores UFOs, extraterrestrials, and parallel universes. Casault, a journalist with 40 years of experience, shares his research, hypotheses, and personal experiences, including direct contact with extraterrestrials and alleged involvement of "men in black." The book posits that ufology is not merely a physical phenomenon but a psychospiritual experience linked to human evolution. The article also highlights the "Centre d'études sur les ovnis" (CEO), founded by Casault, which aims to train and certify independent UFO investigators. The CEO offers a comprehensive guide and online examination, with the goal of promoting rigorous investigation and disseminating findings.

Article 10: South American Ufology

Fabrice Bonvin, a regular contributor to UFOmania and author of several books on UFOs, discusses the unique characteristics of ufology in South America. He contrasts it with Western ufology, noting that in South America, UFO phenomena are often integrated into cultural beliefs and traditions, leading to a more empirical, emotional, and spectacular approach. He highlights the role of contactees like Sixto Paz and the emphasis on personal experience and psychic phenomena. Bonvin criticizes the sensationalist "ufotainment" prevalent in some South American circles, exemplified by figures like Jaime Maussan, which he believes undermines the credibility of the field. He also touches upon the Varginha incident in Brazil as an example of the dramatic and often violent nature of reported UFO events in the region. Bonvin suggests that Western ufologists could benefit from understanding the cultural and spiritual contexts that shape South American ufology, advocating for a more open-minded approach that embraces possibilities without necessarily accepting every claim at face value.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of historical documentation and critical analysis of UFO phenomena. It highlights the contrast between scientific skepticism and more open, empirical, or culturally influenced approaches to ufology, particularly evident in the comparison between Western and South American perspectives. The magazine appears to favor rigorous investigation, while acknowledging the enduring mystery and the need for open-mindedness. The editorial stance leans towards presenting diverse accounts and viewpoints, encouraging readers to critically engage with the subject matter. There's a recurring theme of distinguishing genuine unexplained phenomena from misidentifications, hoaxes, or sensationalism.

Title: UFOmania magazine
Issue: 67
Date: Summer 2011
Publisher: UFOmania
Country: France

Reader Reactions and Contributions

This issue opens with reader feedback, including a letter from Jean-Pierre D'Hondt (59) who thanks the magazine for issue 66 and notes the "sympathetic solidarity" among ufologists, contrasting with "sterile polemics." He mentions the fusion of GNEOVNI with GERU and the availability of their regional observation catalog online. D'Hondt also clarifies details regarding the disappearance of GNEOVNI archives, stating that while the association was not inactive, the published account didn't perfectly match the facts, but emphasizes it's a minor anecdote.

Mathias Boddaert (74) shares his extensive work in collaboration with Arald (http://www.arald.org/contacts.php/) to access and potentially publish old press articles on UFOs. He explains that while commercial use of the Arald archives is not permitted, an arrangement was sought for publication in a specialized review. Boddaert details the nature of the articles, noting that only one is signed (Marcel Conversy's 'Feu de Thonon'), while others are brief, often previously unpublished. He also points out potential links to Jean Sider's book on airships and Jacques Bergier's work.

Jean-Jacques Goetschy (67) sends greetings from the SPICA association, which is working on a catalog of Alsatian UFO observations, expected to be ready by the end of 2012. He promises early notification of its release.

Sébastien Delcroix is actively seeking specific back issues of the LDLN publication (numbers listed in the text) and asks for offers to be sent to the magazine.

Historical Cases and Research

Phénomènes Fortéens dans la presse ancienne: Jean-Pierre D'Hondt details his extraction work from the "Mémoire et actualité en Rhône-Alpes" website. This site, supported by DRAC and the Rhône-Alpes region, aims to catalog and promote regional resources. D'Hondt describes the search engine's limitations but highlights his effort in reconstituting illegible passages and identifying keywords. He notes that the extracted "Fortéen" phenomena often include unusual details like observation duration, ascending trajectories, repetitive forms, or shape changes, even when a natural cause is evident.

Toujours disponible: The magazine promotes Bruno Bousquet's book "L'affaire D.," a re-edition of his investigation into a 1955 encounter in Assas (Hérault). The case involved an object landing, physical and psychological effects, telepathic contacts, and diverse phenomena. The re-edition is 178 pages and available for purchase.

SOS ARCHIVES EN PÉRIL: A call to action from SCEAU (BP 19, 91805 BRUNOY Cedex, [email protected], http://sceau-archives-ovni.org) requests information about any ufology archives that are threatened with disappearance. They emphasize the importance of preserving this documentation.

UFOmania Magazine Shop and Back Issues

The magazine includes a section advertising various UFO-related books and DVDs available for purchase, including:

• "OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn" by Didier Gomez (€19)
• "Le Guide pratique de l'enquêteur de terrain" (€13)
• "OVNI Contacts (DVD)" (€13)
• "OVNI Contacts << first encounters >>" (double DVD) (€18)
• "2èmes Rencontres Rapprochées, Graulhet, 2006" (€18)
• "L'Eure des OVNIS" by Didier Gomez (€16)
• "Le DVD des 3èmes Rencontres Rapprochées, Gaillac 8 mars 2008" (€16)

It also lists available back issues of UFOmania magazine from N°39 to N°60, with specific numbers noted as sold out (N°41, N°48-52). The list includes special issues like "Hors-série n°1" (March 2004) and recent issues up to N°66.

Upcoming Publication

UFOmania magazine n°68 (Autumn 2011): The cover announces the upcoming issue featuring the book "OVNIS EN FRANCE LES ENQUETES DE GEORGES METZ." This book, by Georges Metz, Gérard Deforge, and Jean-Claude Venturini, covers forty years of UFO investigations in France. It promises incredible and well-documented stories, including an account of a witness accompanying humanoids to a secret underground base and the famous Haravilliers affair. The book is 400 pages, priced at €24.00 TTC, and is published by INTERKELTIA (7 rue Pasteur - 78350 Jouy en Josas — www.interkeltia.com). It is set to be available in August 2011 on their website and September 1st in bookstores.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOmania magazine demonstrates a strong commitment to documenting and preserving ufological history and research. The editorial stance appears to be one of active investigation, archival preservation, and the sharing of information through both the magazine and related publications. There's a clear emphasis on regional UFO phenomena (Rhône-Alpes, Tarn, Alsace) and historical cases. The magazine actively encourages reader participation through letters and the call for archival information. The promotion of books and back issues indicates a desire to provide a comprehensive resource for ufology enthusiasts. The inclusion of the "SOS ARCHIVES EN PÉRIL" section highlights a concern for the potential loss of vital historical data in the field.