UFOmania - No 68

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: N°68
Date: Automne 2011 (Autumn 2011)
Volume: 18ème année
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Type: Trimestriel (Quarterly)

Editorial Stance and Content Overview

This issue of UFOmania magazine, N°68 from Autumn 2011, opens with an editorial by Didier Gomez reflecting on the particular flavor of this edition. He notes the passing of several prominent figures in the ufology world, including Hilary Evans, Budd Hopkins, Jorge Edoardo Anfruns Dumont, and Michel Padrines, all of whom left a significant void. The magazine's publication was delayed due to these events and the need to adjust the content. Gomez also highlights the recent controversy surrounding the Petit-Rechain photo and its impact on Belgian ufology, with Franck Boitte, a Belgian specialist, revisiting the case. The editorial also expresses gratitude for renewed support from readers and contributors, emphasizing the magazine's commitment to being a participatory communication link in ufology, steering clear of sensationalism.

Dossier Special: Belgian Ufology - What Now?

The central theme of this issue is Belgian ufology, particularly the aftermath of the Petit-Rechain photo case. Franck Boitte contributes two articles: "Belgian Ufology: What future after the fiasco of the Petit-Rechain photo (Part 1)" (pages 12-15) and "Belgian Ufology: What future after the fiasco of the Petit-Rechain photo (Part 2)" (pages 16-23). These articles likely delve into the implications of the photo's alleged debunking and its effect on the broader ufological community in Belgium. Thierry Gaulin provides an interview with the protagonist of the Petit-Rechain affair, offering insights into the situation.

Featured Articles and Interviews

Interview with Georges Metz: A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an interview with Georges Metz, author of "OVNIs en France" published by Interkeltia. In this extensive interview (pages 6-9), Metz discusses his 40-year career in ufology, his motivations for publishing his extensive research, and his methodology. He addresses how he treats witness testimonies, the challenges of corroborating evidence, and his perspective on the extraterrestrial hypothesis. Metz also touches upon the evolution of ufology, the shift from humanoid encounters to other forms of phenomena, and his views on the broader implications of UFOs.

"OVNIs en France" - A Review: Pages 8-9 feature a detailed look at Georges Metz's book, "OVNIs en France," co-authored with Gérard Deforge and Jean-Claude Venturini. The review highlights the book's presentation of 52 cases investigated over decades, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the accounts, including encounters with non-human entities and alleged abductions. The review notes the book's focus on the proximity of military bases and the detailed accounts of contactees like Michel G., while also raising questions about the verification process and the presentation of evidence, such as the alleged alien implant.

Recent Observations and News

Recent Observations: This section (pages 10-11) covers recent UFO sightings and related news. An article discusses a luminous phenomenon observed in Midi-Pyrénées, initially suggested to be a meteorite by GEIPAN but with witness accounts suggesting otherwise. Another piece reports on the media's renewed interest in UFOs, citing an article from "Aujourd'hui en France." It also mentions a "mysterious object" seen over Blagnac, which an airport security agent described as resembling a rocket but silent. The section includes statistics from GEIPAN, indicating that a significant percentage of reported phenomena remain unidentified.

"UFO Log Hors Série" and "OVNI: le dossier des rencontres du troisième type en France": Page 4 announces the availability of "UFO Log Hors Série," a bibliographic study of the first 100 issues of the review "L'Inconnu." It also promotes the book "OVNI: le dossier des rencontres du troisième type en France" by Julien Gonzalez, offering a special price before it goes out of print.

GEIPAN Updates: The GEIPAN website is noted for its regular updates, including new cases and an identification guide for observers.

Collaboration Agreement: The signing of a cooperation protocol between "Les Repas Ufologiques" and "SCEAU/Archives OVNI" is announced, aiming to combine efforts in promoting and archiving ufological information in France.

In Brief

This section (page 5) provides short updates:

• Death of Hilary Evans: Acknowledges the passing of Hilary Evans, described as a lucid and cultured ufologist and friend.
• Death of Jorge Edoardo Anfruns Dumont: Reports the death of the Chilean ufologist, author of two major books on the subject.
• Death of Michel Padrines: Notes the passing of Michel Padrines, who organized the Strasbourg congress on ufology.
• Canadian Archives: Information is provided on newly available Canadian UFO archives, with links to official documents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes rigorous investigation, the importance of witness testimony, and the need for open-mindedness in ufology. It aims to present a balanced view, acknowledging the challenges and controversies within the field, such as the Petit-Rechain case. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, seeking to advance the understanding of unexplained phenomena while avoiding sensationalism. There is a clear dedication to preserving ufological history and supporting ongoing research through collaborations and publications.

Title: UFOmania magazine
Issue: n°68
Date: Automne 2011

This issue of UFOmania, titled "DOSSIER: Ufologie belge...", delves deeply into the phenomenon of UFO sightings in Belgium, particularly focusing on the "Belgian UFO wave" that occurred between late 1989 and early 1990. The magazine also addresses the controversy surrounding the "Petit-Rechain photo," which was later exposed as a hoax, and its implications for the credibility of UFO research.

The Belgian UFO Wave and the Petit-Rechain Photo

The article begins by acknowledging the sensational news of the Petit-Rechain photo being a hoax, as revealed on July 26, 2011. Patrick Ferryn, President of COBEPS (Comité Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux), asserts that this revelation does not invalidate the broader Belgian UFO wave, which began in November 1989 and lasted for several months. He explains that the photo was a fabrication and that its falsity does not negate the numerous other sightings reported during that period.

The magazine presents statistical data compiled by the COB (Catalogue des Observations Belges), which contains UFO notifications collected over nearly 40 years. For the period 1989-1993, the COB recorded 1301 notifications, with 867 cases being investigated. The data shows a significant number of sightings in late 1989, particularly in the border region with Germany, while the Flemish part of Belgium seemed less affected.

Analysis of Sightings and Evidence

The dossier meticulously examines various types of evidence, including radar data, photographic and video recordings, and witness testimonies. It discusses the criteria used for classifying and investigating UFO reports, such as the definition of a "notification" and an "enquêtée" (investigated) case.

Radar Sightings: The magazine details several radar-detected events, including those involving F-16 fighter jets. One notable incident occurred on the night of March 30-31, 1990, when multiple F-16s were scrambled to intercept unidentified objects over Ramillies, Namur. The objects reportedly performed evasive maneuvers and emitted lights. The article notes that radar data is often difficult to obtain due to its limited retention period and classification.

Photographic and Video Evidence: The dossier analyzes the photographic and video evidence associated with the Belgian UFO wave. Out of 1305 reported cases, only 65 yielded photographic or video documentation. The article categorizes these cases, with a significant portion deemed "inexploitable" due to poor quality, lack of context, or being identifiable as known objects like planets, stars, or aircraft. The "Petit-Rechain" photo itself is discussed in detail, along with other alleged photos, such as the "Henrardi photo," which are also questioned.

Trace Cases: The magazine investigates cases involving physical traces left on the ground. One such incident occurred on May 4, 1990, in Stockay St-Georges, Liège, where witnesses reported a luminous object and found ground traces described as circular imprints and dried grass. However, subsequent investigations by experts like Professor Gillet concluded that the evidence was insufficient to confirm an extraterrestrial origin, suggesting possibilities like mycelium or localized contamination.

Witness Testimonies: The article emphasizes the importance of witness testimonies, while also acknowledging the challenges of verifying them. It discusses the psychological aspects of UFO sightings, including the concept of "cognitive dissonance" and how it might influence perceptions. The dossier highlights the reliability of witnesses, even when their accounts are difficult to explain rationally.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently highlights the skepticism surrounding UFO phenomena, particularly from scientific and official bodies. However, it also underscores the persistent nature of these sightings and the dedication of independent researchers and organizations like COBEPS and SOBEPS. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the unexplained aspects of many cases while maintaining a rigorous approach to evidence evaluation. The magazine aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Belgian UFO wave, presenting data, case studies, and expert opinions to allow readers to form their own conclusions.

The recurring themes include the difficulty in obtaining official data, the challenges of distinguishing genuine anomalies from misidentifications or hoaxes, and the psychological factors influencing witness accounts. The magazine also touches upon the media's role in shaping public perception of UFOs.

Overall, UFOmania magazine's "DOSSIER: Ufologie belge..." serves as an in-depth exploration of a significant period in UFO history, emphasizing the complexity of the subject and the ongoing debate between skepticism and belief.

This issue of UFOmania, dated Autumn 2011 (Issue 68), features a prominent dossier titled "DOSSIER >>> Ufologie belge... et maintenant ?" which critically examines the Belgian UFO wave and its aftermath, particularly focusing on the debunking of the famous Petit-Rechain photograph.

The Petit-Rechain Photograph: A Hoax Revealed

The cover story and several articles within the magazine address the revelation that the iconic Petit-Rechain photograph, long considered a cornerstone of UFO evidence, was a deliberate hoax. Patrick Maréchal, the individual who took the photograph, confessed that it was a model he constructed, initially to explain what thousands of people had witnessed. The article details Maréchal's confession, his motivations, and the impact of this revelation on the ufological community. It highlights how the press and skeptics seized upon this confession to discredit the entire Belgian UFO wave, despite the existence of numerous other unexplained sightings.

Patrick Ferryn, a key figure in Belgian ufology and a member of the CoBEPS (Comité belge d'étude des phénomènes spatiaux), discusses his involvement in investigating the Petit-Rechain case and the subsequent efforts to understand the hoax. He recounts how the SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Étude des Phénomènes Spatiaux) initially treated the photo as authentic, with analyses by scientists like Auguste Meessen and François Louange failing to detect any manipulation. The article also touches upon the financial aspects, including the distribution of funds related to the photograph's publication and the efforts of SOBEPS to acquire rights.

The Belgian UFO Wave: A Critical Reassessment

Beyond the Petit-Rechain photo, the magazine revisits the broader context of the Belgian UFO wave of 1989-1990. It acknowledges that while the Petit-Rechain case was debunked, this does not invalidate the hundreds, if not thousands, of other unexplained sightings reported during that period. The articles emphasize the need for rigorous investigation and the distinction between debunked cases and those that remain genuinely puzzling.

Ufological Methodologies and Skepticism

Several articles delve into the methodologies used in UFO research. One piece introduces the concept of the "average mobile" (moyenne mobile), a statistical technique for analyzing time-series data, which can be applied to UFO sighting reports to smooth out fluctuations and identify trends. This method is presented as a tool for more objective analysis.

The magazine also features discussions on skepticism within ufology, with contributions from figures like Jacques Scornaux. He argues that the line between "skeptical" and "believing" ufologists is not always clear, and that many ufologists, consciously or not, employ a "socio-psychological hypothesis" when explaining sightings. The article highlights the divergence of opinions among ufologists regarding the proportion of unexplained cases and the nature of the phenomena.

History of Belgian Ufology: SOBEPS and CoBEPS

Patrick Ferryn provides an extensive account of the history of Belgian ufology, focusing on the evolution of organizations like SOBEPS and its successor, CoBEPS. He traces the origins of SOBEPS from Jean-Gérard Dohmen's "Groupe D" and its transformation into a major investigative body. The article details the challenges faced by these organizations, including financial difficulties, the impact of media coverage, and the struggle to maintain rigor and objectivity in their research. The eventual dissolution of SOBEPS in 2007 and the continuation of its work through CoBEPS are also discussed.

Reviews of UFO Publications

The issue includes a "REVUE DE PRESSE" (Press Review) section that highlights recent publications and magazines covering UFO topics. This includes reviews of "Snatch" magazine's dossier on ufology, "UFO LOG" fanzine, "métapsychique" bulletin, and Scandinavian UFO publications like "UFO-Norge" and "UFO Aktuellt." These reviews offer insights into how ufology is being portrayed and discussed in various media outlets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is a critical and analytical approach to ufology, particularly concerning the Belgian UFO wave. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, the debunking of hoaxes, and the distinction between unexplained phenomena and those that can be explained through conventional means. The editorial stance appears to be one of seeking truth and clarity, even when it leads to disappointing revelations like the Petit-Rechain hoax. There is a clear call for more scientific rigor and a move away from sensationalism within the ufological community. The magazine champions the idea that even debunked cases contribute to the overall understanding of the phenomenon and that genuine unexplained cases still exist and warrant further investigation.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, number 68, published in Autumn 2011, features a diverse range of articles focusing on the paranormal, ufology, and related mysteries. The cover highlights 'PARA SCIENCES n°82 ÉTÉ 2011', suggesting a focus on unexplained phenomena.

Review of 'Parasciences' Magazine

The issue begins with a review of 'Parasciences', described as an essential read for those interested in mysteries beyond UFOs, including transcommunication, ghosts, the afterlife, and altered states of consciousness. The review notes that issue n°82 covers topics such as contacts with the afterlife, changing worlds, unknown forces, the future, and the legacy of figures like Paul Misraki. It emphasizes that the magazine explores the inexplicable, blending themes of life after death with UFOs, and the supernatural with transcommunication.

'INEXPLORE' Magazine

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to 'INEXPLORE', the quarterly publication of INREES. This magazine focuses on extraordinary subjects like consciousness, healing, spirituality, and life after death, aiming to provide serious research for ufologists. The review highlights that 'INEXPLORE' seeks to explore new territories and answer questions about the unknown. It mentions an article on Kenneth Ring and Near-Death Experiences (NDEs), noting that perceptions during NDEs seem similar whether experienced by sighted or blind individuals. Other featured articles include a dossier on Carl Gustav Jung, the mind-body connection, and a tribute to the recently deceased neuropsychiatrist David Servan-Schreiber.

Conference Report: 'Week-end de l'étrange' in Lorraine

A detailed report covers the 'Week-end de l'étrange' held in Fontenoy-la-Joute on July 30-31, 2011. The event, organized by SPICA and the GRPA, featured eight conferences on paranormal themes. Fabrice Bonvin opened the series with a talk on UFOs, their connection to nuclear issues, and government policies. Other speakers included Anaël Asser on Yi-King, Jocelin Morisson on Near-Death Experiences (NDEs), Yves Lignon on Marian apparitions (including Fatima) and the 'dancing sun' phenomenon, and Joël Mesnard on 'crashes of nothing' and UFO mimicry. The event also included a photo exhibition on astronomy and ufology. Despite a challenging weather forecast and low temperatures, the conference was described as a success with a pleasant atmosphere and competent organizers.

Online UFO Discussions

The issue promotes online platforms for UFO enthusiasts. 'Radio Chat' is introduced as a new initiative by Alix Leproust for discussing UFO phenomena, aiming to foster communication among specialists, amateurs, and the curious. The 'Jeudi des OVNIS' (UFOs on Thursday) event on Radio Chat has already seen participation, with future topics including 'Fantastic stories of ufology'. Additionally, the 'CB Chat' application for Android is highlighted as a new meeting point for live debates on UFOs and unidentified aerospace phenomena, available every Thursday at 9 PM.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are featured:

• 'OVNIS sur l'Hudson River' by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, Philip J. Imbrogno & Bob Pratt: This French translation of the 1987 bestseller 'NIGHT SIEGE' details mysterious UFO observations in the Hudson Valley during the 1980s and includes updated information up to 1995. The review notes Hynek's background as a professional astronomer and consultant for the US Air Force.
• 'Enigmas de Cantabria' by F.R Carrandi and 'Mirage Men' by Mark Pilkington: 'Enigmas de Cantabria' compiles mysteries from the Spanish region. 'Mirage Men' is presented as a significant work by a British author suggesting active involvement of US intelligence agencies in the UFO field since its inception, through deception and camouflage operations. The review notes the author's ambiguity about UFOs, suggesting they operate in both the imagination and physical space.
• 'Les ovnis et autres prodiges' by Fabrice Kircher: This compilation of 36 articles explores phenomena ranging from UFOs and ghosts to cosmology and ancient mysteries, with a strong pro-extraterrestrial hypothesis stance. The reviewer finds the content uneven, questioning the author's acceptance of certain claims without sufficient evidence.
• 'OVNIS enlèvements extraterrestres, Univers parallèles' by Jean Casault: This book examines the question of UFOs and alien abductions, citing scientific committees that have studied the phenomenon since 1947. Casault, a journalist, invites readers to explore the process of reflection on parallel universes.
• 'Des ovnis comme s'il en pleuvait!' by Thibaut Alexandre: This book by a young ufologist from Berzy-le-Sec aims to debunk UFO sightings by identifying them as misidentifications, often related to astronomical phenomena like satellites. The reviewer praises Alexandre's methodical approach.
• 'Le cas Adamski' by Marc Hallet: This book critically examines the claims of George Adamski, the famous alleged contactee. Hallet, who has studied Adamski for years, presents a detailed demystification, analyzing the photographic evidence and Adamski's narrative, concluding he was a fabricator.
• 'OVNIS dans le ciel Corse' by Christophe Canioni: This book is the first to cover UFO observations in Corsica, presenting cases and historical context. While acknowledging the author's conviction about the extraterrestrial nature of UFOs, the reviewer notes that the book lacks definitive proof and that the author's broader cosmological speculations are not central to ufology.
• 'OVNIS: l'hypothèse extraterrestre généralisée' by Claude Lavat: This book strongly advocates for the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH) for UFOs, asserting their material reality and advanced technology. The reviewer criticizes Lavat's approach, finding his arguments based on personal hypotheses rather than concrete evidence and noting his dismissal of rationalist critiques and certain researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the unexplained, with a particular focus on UFO phenomena and the extraterrestrial hypothesis. While some articles present critical or skeptical viewpoints (e.g., debunking misidentifications, analyzing Adamski's claims), others strongly advocate for the ETH or explore related spiritual and consciousness-related topics. The magazine seems to encourage serious investigation into these subjects, even when challenging conventional explanations. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between scientific inquiry and the exploration of paranormal and anomalous phenomena.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated Autumn 2011 (N°68), features a mix of reader correspondence, reviews of ufological products, and a preview of an upcoming book on the history of French ufology. The magazine maintains a focus on the investigation and understanding of UFO phenomena.

Letters and Correspondence

The issue opens with a letter from Lucile Charlier, a passionate ufologist, who is conducting a questionnaire for French ufology associations. She aims to understand the number of people involved, their interest level, and whether this interest is growing, to assess the feasibility of a new project planned for 2012. She requests responses to her questions to aid her research.

The editorial response, from Didier Gomez, expresses a pragmatic and somewhat pessimistic view. He notes the low circulation of UFOmania (320 copies) and questions the effectiveness of communication methods in ufology. While acknowledging potential connections between groups and official services, he suggests that specialized magazines are the best way to stay informed. Gomez shares his personal experience of receiving similar questionnaires over 18 years without follow-up, leading to a degree of skepticism about the practical outcomes of such inquiries. He recounts a trip to Turin where he observed a similar lack of widespread involvement in ufology. He emphasizes the personal investment (time, money) required for serious ufological research and suggests that the phenomena are not necessarily extraterrestrial, which can be discouraging. He advises Lucile that her project might succeed if based on volunteerism and if she surrounds herself with the right people, but he remains cautious about her prospects for profit.

Another reader, identified as being 26 years old and working, expresses a desire to contribute to the field but has limited time. He mentions his involvement with the association Ovni Investigation and his work on a book about the phenomenon, expressing a wish to connect with Jacques Vallée. He shares a sentiment that ufology has not progressed significantly since Aimé Michel's time, with too much focus on ego and self-promotion, leading to a cyclical lack of progress. He advocates for a 'super private organization' dedicated to serious study and is attempting to build an information exchange network, despite growing despair. He notes that a significant portion of those interested in ufology (65%) are considered 'illuminated' or 'believers'.

Investigations and Perspectives

One section discusses the 'desolation' of encountering 'completely formatted and subjective' ufology fans who solely hope for salvation by extraterrestrial civilizations. It critiques certain 'Pro ET' individuals who attack researchers like Jacques Vallée without self-questioning. The author contrasts those who passionately seek answers with those who simply hope for extraterrestrial intervention. The author's own website is presented as a tool for staying informed and connected, rather than advancing the field significantly. A forthcoming book is mentioned, which will explore commonalities between UFO observations and supernatural manifestations such as Men in Black (MIB), humanoids, Marian apparitions, abductions, and crop circles, using concrete cases from France. The author intends to highlight the psychic and imaginative dimensions of these experiences, citing cases like Point Pleasant, Bugarach, and Hessdalen as examples that cast doubt on the extraterrestrial hypothesis and emphasize the psychological impact on witnesses.

The author references Joël Mesnard's view that deep study of the UFO phenomenon leads to the conclusion that it is not extraterrestrial but something else that mimics them, with unknown origins and multiform, elusive manifestations. The rarity of sightings, often to a single witness, is noted, contrasting with earlier eras. The author expresses appreciation for interviewees who are willing to question their own assumptions. The article mentions the case of Fabrice Bonvin observing an MIB and the similar experience of a witness who had a 'blockage' regarding the memory. The author finds reassurance in the continued work of researchers like Fabrice Bonvin, Thibault Canuti, Joël Mesnard, and Jean Sider, and expresses a desire to meet them.

Archives and Resources

A section titled "SOS ARCHIVES EN PÉRIL" appeals for information about archives related to ufology that are threatened with disappearance. It provides contact details for SCEAU (BP 19, 91805 BRUNOY Cedex, [email protected], http://sceau-archives-ovni.org). Sébastien Delcroix is specifically looking for back issues of the LDLN magazine. The section also includes contact information for Nagib Kary (69) and his website http://ovnis-direct.com, offering to share works and writings on his site.

Products and Back Issues

The magazine features a "Boutique UFO" section offering several ufological books and DVDs for sale:

• "OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn" by Didier Gomez (19 €)
• "Le Guide pratique de l'enquêteur de terrain" (252 pages, 2006) (13 €)
• "OVNI Contacts (DVD)" featuring interviews from European encounters (13 €)
• "OVNI Contacts << first encounters >>" (double DVD) (18 €)
• "2èmes Rencontres Rapprochées, Graulhet, 2006" (DVD) (18 €)
• "Le DVD des 3èmes Rencontres Rapprochées, Gaillac 8 mars 2008" (16 €)
• "L'Eure des OVNIS" by Didier Gomez (16 €)

There is also a section listing past issues of UFOmania magazine, with descriptions of their contents, from Hors-série N°1 (March 2004) to N°67 (Summer 2011). Notably, issues N°48 to N°52 and N°39 to N°60 are mentioned as being available, with some older issues being sold out.

Upcoming Publication Preview

A prominent preview announces "Histoire de l'ufologie française par Thibaut Canuti," to be published by JMG éditions. The book is described as a comprehensive history of ufology in France, covering its origins, key figures, organizations, and theories, including the 'new ufology,' skepticism, ancient astronaut theories, and esoteric traditions. It aims to retrace the achievements and shortcomings of ufology and the UFO controversy, which remains unresolved after 65 years. The table of contents includes sections on private research, the GEPA, ancient astronauts, the 'realism fantastique,' the 'Collège Invisible,' cults, and the question of whether UFOs exist.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue reflects a recurring theme of the challenges in serious ufological research, characterized by limited engagement, the need for personal investment, and the prevalence of uncritical belief or ego-driven agendas. The editorial stance, as expressed by Didier Gomez, is one of cautious realism, acknowledging the passion within the field but tempering it with a pragmatic assessment of its current state and the difficulties in achieving widespread, serious progress. The magazine continues to serve as a platform for disseminating information, promoting research, and offering a space for discussion among enthusiasts and investigators.