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UFOmania - No 71
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Title: UFOmania Issue: #71 Volume: 19th year Date: Summer 2012 (Trimestriel, été 2012) Publisher: Planète OVNI Country: France ISSN: 1254 5112 Price: 6,25 € (France métropolitaine), 9,50 € (Europe), 12,50 € (Autres Pays)
Magazine Overview
Title: UFOmania
Issue: #71
Volume: 19th year
Date: Summer 2012 (Trimestriel, été 2012)
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Country: France
ISSN: 1254 5112
Price: 6,25 € (France métropolitaine), 9,50 € (Europe), 12,50 € (Autres Pays)
This issue of UFOmania magazine, a quarterly publication dedicated to unidentified aerospace phenomena (UAP) and unusual apparitions, aims to present research findings and foster constructive debate. The content is based on testimonies, press articles, and reflections from correspondents worldwide, with the goal of advancing the study of the subject.
Editorial
The editorial, by Didier Gomez, highlights the special focus on Swiss ufology in this issue, noting that Switzerland, despite its active ufological community, has not previously been the subject of a dedicated issue. It introduces contributions from Swiss personalities like Fabrice Bonvin, Bruno Mancusi, and Daniel Benaroya, who share their experiences and testimonies. The editorial also pays homage to the pioneers of ufology in Switzerland. It mentions a continuation of Jean Giraud's analysis of a 1977 case, drawing parallels with Marian apparitions, and features an interview with François Louange on digital image analysis. The editorial commends Alix Leproust for his efforts in democratizing the study of UAP and acknowledges the essential role of local correspondents and field investigators in the magazine's volunteer structure. It also reports on statistical data from COBEPS regarding UFO notifications in Belgium and includes a book review.
Table of Contents (Sommaire)
The issue features an editorial, news updates, and a special dossier on Swiss ufology. Key articles include:
- Editorial (p. 3)
- Actualités (News) (p. 4)
- Analyse de Cas, 2ème partie by Jean Giraud (p. 6)
- DOSSIER SPECIAL: L'ufologie helvétique (Special Dossier: Swiss Ufology)
- L'ufologie en Suisse (Ufology in Switzerland) by Bruno Mancusi (p. 14)
- Interview Fabrice Bonvin (p. 18)
- Le GREPI et les éditions Aldane (The GREPI and Aldane Editions) (p. 22)
- UFOFU, un nouveau webmaster (p. 25)
- Interview François Louange (p. 26)
- Ufologie dynamique by Alix Leproust (p. 30)
- COBEPS rapport semestriel by Patrick Ferryn & Jean-Marc Wattecamps (p. 32)
- MUFON France by John Tomlison (p. 35)
- Livre lu le dernier SIDER (Book Review: The Latest SIDER) (p. 36)
- Courrier des lecteurs (Letters to the Editor) (p. 40)
Articles and Features
Analyse de CAS, 2ème partie (Case Analysis, Part 2) (p. 6-10)
This section by Jean Giraud continues the analysis of a 35-year-old case, drawing parallels between aspects of the sighting and reported Marian apparitions. The case involves a witness, Monsieur P., who experienced a missing time event on January 18, 1977, near La Chaumette, France. During the event, he reported seeing a large, dark, cloud-like object with three lights, experiencing intense fear and tremors. The investigation utilized hypnosis, conducted by Michel Dufourny of the "Groupe 03100," to explore the witness's memory gap.
The hypnosis session, conducted on July 19, 1977, aimed to regress Monsieur P. to the time of the incident. The witness described reliving the experience, including the sensation of being moved, seeing the object, and experiencing intense emotional distress. The report details the subject's verbalizations and physical reactions during the hypnotic state, noting the difficulty in fully recovering the lost hour. The investigators faced ethical considerations regarding the potential psychological impact of reliving a traumatic event under hypnosis. The article emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the challenges of interpreting such experiences, suggesting that some elements bear resemblance to accounts of mystical apparitions.
L'ufologie en Suisse (Ufology in Switzerland) (p. 14)
This article, by Bruno Mancusi, introduces the special focus on Swiss ufology. It highlights the active ufological community in Switzerland and features contributions from key figures in the field.
Interview Fabrice Bonvin (p. 18)
An interview with Fabrice Bonvin, a Swiss ufologist, likely discussing his work and perspectives on ufology in Switzerland.
Le GREPI et les éditions Aldane (p. 22)
This section likely discusses the activities of the GREPI (Groupe d'Études et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Inter-aériens) and its publishing arm, Aldane Editions, possibly in the context of Swiss ufology.
UFOFU, un nouveau webmaster (p. 25)
This short piece announces a new webmaster for UFOFU, an online resource related to ufology.
Interview François Louange (p. 26)
An interview with François Louange, an expert in digital imagery, who discusses his website IPACO.Fr and its methodology for analyzing photographic and video evidence of UAP.
Ufologie dynamique (p. 30)
This article by Alix Leproust focuses on the dynamic aspects of ufology, possibly related to field investigations and the active pursuit of information.
COBEPS rapport semestriel (p. 32)
Patrick Ferryn and Jean-Marc Wattecamps present statistical data on UFO notifications received by COBEPS (Belgian UFO Research Committee) during the first semester of 2012.
MUFON France (p. 35)
John Tomlinson provides an update on the activities of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) in France.
Livre lu le dernier SIDER (p. 36)
A book review of the latest publication by Jean Sider.
Courrier des lecteurs (p. 40)
A selection of letters from readers.
News and Other Sections
Actualités (News) (p. 4)
This section covers various news items related to ufology. It mentions the e-bouquiniste.com online bookstore, which offers UFO-related books and magazines, and the availability of back issues of UFOmania. It also highlights the digitization of the AFRINEWS bulletin published by Cynthia Hind in South Africa. The section also reports on activities within the GEIPAN (French official UAP investigation group), including recent case publications and plans for a reorganized investigator network. The EUROUFO.NET network, a European community of UFO researchers, is also featured, emphasizing its collaborative approach and the sharing of information.
VIGIE OVNIS 29 (p. 4)
This entry announces changes in leadership and location for the VIGIE OVNIS association in Finistère, France, and calls for volunteers to assist with investigations, press relations, and documentation.
IV Forum Mondial de l'ufologie (World Ufology Forum) (p. 5)
Information about the World Ufology Forum to be held in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, from December 6-9, 2012, featuring international researchers.
Bientôt un nouveau DVD (New DVD Coming Soon) (p. 5)
This note announces an upcoming DVD from coldevence.com, which will explore paranormal phenomena through four thematic areas based on field experiences.
Correspondants du MUFON (MUFON Correspondents) (p. 5)
Gérard Lebat is appointed MUFON representative for Morocco, aiming to improve information dissemination. John Tomlinson is named MUFON representative for France.
Les Cercles Ufologiques (Ufology Circles) (p. 5)
This section encourages readers to form their own Ufology Circles and lists newly established circles in France and the USA, along with a link to a directory of such groups.
Inexploré Magazine (p. 5)
A mention of the magazine "Inexploré" as a valuable resource for expanding knowledge in ufology and related fields.
22nd ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL UFO CONGRESS (p. 5)
Information about the International UFO Congress in Fountain Hills, Arizona, USA, from February 27 to March 3, 2013, and the availability of related DVDs and a new book.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently promotes rigorous, scientific, and open-minded research into UAP and unexplained phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of field investigations, witness testimonies, and the collaborative efforts of researchers and associations. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, seeking to understand phenomena that defy conventional explanations while maintaining a critical and ethical approach, as exemplified by the detailed hypnosis case study. The magazine also highlights the value of international cooperation and the sharing of information within the ufological community.
This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated Summer 2012 (nº71), focuses on ufology in Switzerland, exploring various UFO sightings, Marian apparitions, and their potential connections. The cover features a headline about UFOs crossing the Alps from the Tessin region and includes a photograph of four people.
Key Articles and Features
Thematic Exploration: Apparitions and UFOs
The magazine extensively compares reported Marian apparitions with UFO sightings, highlighting striking similarities. Several articles detail specific cases:
- 3/ LA PARALYSIE: Describes Monsieur P.'s experience of paralysis after a fall, a symptom also noted during certain apparitions.
- 22/06/1961 Apparition de Garabandal (Espagne): Conchita and her companions experienced complete insensitivity during an apparition.
- 4/ LE NUAGE: Monsieur P. perceived a dark, undulating mass, approximately 20m long and 10m wide, hovering above trees.
- 27/05/1945 Apparition de Codosera (Espagne): Marceline Barrosa observed a dark, cloud-like mass that led to an apparition.
- 28/05/1950 Apparition de Necedah (États Unis): Madame Fred Van Hoof saw a blue cloud before an apparition.
- 22/07/1968 Apparition de Saint Bruno (Canada): Six girls and a woman witnessed an apparition emerging from a cloud during a storm.
- 11/02/1858 Apparition de Lourdes (France): Bernadette witnessed a golden cloud and a woman appearing above a bush.
- 13/05/1917 Apparition de Fatima (Portugal): Children reported being enveloped in light and seeing a Lady above an oak tree.
- 17/01/1871 Apparition de Pontmain (France): The Virgin appeared to children, growing larger and accompanied by a message.
- 18/03/1896 Apparition de Tilly sur Seuilles (France): A radiant Lady appeared, her brilliance increasing with the witnesses' prayers.
- 01/11/1937 Apparition de Heede (Allemagne): The apparition became more brilliant during prayer.
- 6/ LE TOURBILLON DE VENT: Monsieur P. experienced a whirlwind while immobilized.
- 8/ DES FLEURS MAGNIFIQUES: Mentions the presence of magnificent white flowers during Monsieur P.'s experience, a characteristic of religious apparitions.
- 7/ LES MANIFESTATIONS FLUCTUANTES: Monsieur P. experienced intense trembling that varied with his pleas, suggesting a responsive phenomenon.
- 5/ LE FRENE: Monsieur P. estimated the 'cloud' to be about ten meters high, noting its interaction with a nearby ash tree.
Military and UFOs
- L'armée et les ovnis: This section details the Swiss military's historical involvement with UFOs, starting with Major Rolf Lécher of the SR ADCA in 1945. The discovery of Lécher's files in 1994 led to a redefinition of the SR aviation's mission. The Federal Military Department (DMF) issued a press release in 1995 stating they have no reason to believe in UFOs or suspect a security threat, and do not invest resources in such research.
- Communiqué de presse du Département militaire fédéral et les OVNI: The DMF clarifies its stance on UFO information, stating that documents are transferred to federal archives and are accessible to researchers.
- Quelques exemples d'observations:
- 11 novembre 1954, Grandvillard (Fribourg): A round, brilliant object was observed by soldiers during exercises, later identified as a weather balloon.
- 10/11 octobre 1967, Oberehrendingen (Argovie): Three cylinders descended from the sky, hovering over a cornfield, emitting a humming sound before a 'container' was lowered.
Dossier: L'ufologie helvétique (Ufology in Switzerland)
This extensive dossier explores ufology in Switzerland, highlighting the influence of different language regions on research trends.
- Introduction: Discusses how German-speaking ufologists lean towards pro-extraterrestrial and New Age theories, while French-speaking ufologists are influenced by French researchers.
- Opinion Polls: A 1988 Link/Ovni-Présence poll revealed that a majority of Swiss believe UFOs are conventional phenomena misinterpreted by witnesses, with a small percentage having seen a UFO or believing in extraterrestrial visits.
- Bruno Mancusi Profile: Details the background of Bruno Mancusi, a chemist and ufologist involved with various Swiss and international ufological organizations.
- Des ovnis venus du Tessin auraient franchi les Alpes: Reports on sightings of spherical lights in the Montreux region in July 2012, similar to observations in the Tessin region. These objects were described as silent and moving impressively.
- Cases from Switzerland:
- 26 juillet 1975, Zwischbergen (Valais): A disc-shaped object was observed and photographed by Dutch tourists.
- 19 juin 1996, Vallorbe (Vaud): A witness observed a bright 'star' and a red, elongated object with a projector, followed by a grey-black hemispherical object.
- Un enfant coursé par l'ovni de Froideville?: Reports on a 'flying rugby ball' observed in Froideville in November 2003, which allegedly circled a child inside a house.
- Bibliographie et notes: Lists sources and references for the articles.
Interview: Fabrice Bonvin
Fabrice Bonvin, a ufologist and author, discusses the current state of ufology in Switzerland and his global analysis of UFO phenomena.
- Current Situation: Bonvin notes a significant decline in UFO activity and suggests ufology has become more historical.
- Personal Work: He is currently working on his RH responsibilities and a startup, occasionally writing for Nexus magazine.
- Theories on UFOs: Bonvin links UFO phenomena to nuclear technology and consciousness, suggesting UFOs are spiritual in nature and aim to elevate humanity. He identifies multiple origins for UFOs, including 'Gaian' and 'extraterrestrial-dimensional' origins.
- Ufology in Switzerland: He describes ufology in Switzerland as complicated by its multiple languages but notes that the number of ufologists is small. He mentions prominent figures like Erich Von Däniken and Billy Meier.
- Notable Swiss Cases: Bonvin highlights the Froideville case (a 'flying rugby ball' incident) and an abduction case involving a woman with a distinguished career.
- Internet's Impact: Bonvin acknowledges that the internet has revolutionized information access but laments the decline of print magazines due to the 'free content' culture.
- Reading Recommendations: He recommends books by Richard Dolan, Lesley Kean, and Colonel Alexander for understanding UFO phenomena.
- Ufology Generations: Bonvin observes a divide between older ufologists focused on historical cases and younger ones who are more tech-savvy but sometimes lack depth.
- Website: He maintains a website to share articles and discuss topics like UFOs and shamanism.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena and religious or spiritual experiences, particularly Marian apparitions. There's a strong emphasis on detailed case studies, witness testimonies, and comparative analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, presenting evidence and theories without necessarily endorsing a single explanation. The interview with Fabrice Bonvin suggests a more critical and analytical approach to modern ufology, emphasizing the need for new data and a deeper understanding of the phenomenon's spiritual and technological dimensions. The magazine also highlights the challenges of ufological research in a multilingual country like Switzerland and the impact of the internet on information dissemination.
This issue of UFOmania, dated Summer 2012 (n°71), is dedicated to the exploration of UFO phenomena, with a strong focus on Swiss ufology and the analysis of evidence. The cover prominently features the title 'le mystère des OVNIs' (The Mystery of UFOs) alongside a striking abstract artwork.
Roger-Paul Perrinjaquet: A Little-Known Pioneer
The main article pays tribute to Roger-Paul Perrinjaquet, a Swiss ufologist and founder of GEOS-Genève in 1966. Writing under the pseudonym R. Jack Perrin, he authored the notable book 'le mystère des ovnis'. The article details his early interest in parallel sciences, his involvement with UFO research since 1954, and his correspondence with international researchers. His professional career as an engineer at Boeing in the US is also mentioned. Upon returning to Switzerland, he founded GEOS-Genève, which published a bulletin and had around a hundred members. He eventually left GEOS due to the time commitment and the repetitive nature of discussions with new members. Perrinjaquet was also known for his invention of the 'Bamix' food processor. The article highlights his interest in 'contactees' and his belief that their cases might hold the key to understanding the UFO mystery. It also mentions his UFO detectors, known as 'GEOS' detectors, which were distributed widely.
Interview with Daniel Benaroya (GREPI)
Daniel Benaroya, head of GREPI (Groupe de Recherche et d'Etude des Phénomènes Insolites) in Switzerland, is interviewed. He clarifies that he is one of three 'perpetual deputy secretaries' of GREPI. He shares that he and Alain Stauffer became interested in ufology in 1966 and were members of various research groups, including Perrinjaquet's GEOS. The goal of GREPI is to inform about the phenomenon, try to understand it, and publish their findings on their website. They also feature a 'testimonials' section and conduct on-site investigations ('enquête'). Benaroya expresses a reservedly favorable view on the French GEIPAN archives being made public online. He discusses a specific 'RR3' case in Geneva, noting its intriguing characteristics like a 'solid light' and an interior appearing larger than the exterior. Regarding his analysis of the UFO phenomenon, Benaroya states he has no conclusions, but is certain the phenomenon exists, most witnesses are credible, and physical evidence is present. He dismisses banal explanations for a small part of observations and remains unconvinced by any single hypothesis, including extraterrestrial ones, though he considers it one of the less absurd possibilities. He recommends Luc Bürgin's book 'OVNI sur la Suisse' and mentions GREPI's online shop for UFO-related books.
UFO Sightings Database (ovni-suisse.ch)
A section presents a database from ovni-suisse.ch, listing 252 UFO cases known in Switzerland up to 2007. Each entry includes a date, location (municipality and canton), and a code (LN, DD, RR2). The site allows direct access to case details by clicking on the date.
UFO Analysis: Methodologies and Tools
Several articles delve into the technical aspects of UFO research, particularly the analysis of photographic and video evidence. François Louange, a specialist in UFO analysis, is featured. His website, IPACO.fr, offers a methodology for analyzing photo/video documents. The complexity of UFO evidence lies in its interpretation, and while photos/videos are not definitive proof, their analysis requires scientific rigor. The article discusses the challenges posed by digital manipulation and the ease with which images can be altered. It outlines two complementary approaches to analyzing UFO evidence: qualitative (photo-interpretation) and quantitative (measurements and estimations). The qualitative approach involves interactive visualization to identify details and potential leads. The quantitative approach uses computer tools to measure geometric and radiometric properties of objects in images. The importance of authenticating documents is stressed, acknowledging that no foolproof method exists. The article also details the process of collecting external data, such as location, date, time, and environmental parameters (weather, wind, visibility), and the use of specialized software for image analysis.
UFOs in Switzerland: Luc Bürgin's Research
Luc Bürgin's book 'OVNI sur la Suisse' (UFOs over Switzerland), which examines cases from the Swiss Air Force's files, is reviewed. Bürgin's work is described as factual and objective, aiming to encourage media responsibility in reporting on UFOs. The book explores numerous Swiss UFO cases, acknowledging that most have rational explanations (natural phenomena, aircraft, etc.), but a residual 5% remain truly puzzling. A significant portion of the book focuses on the Swiss Army's stance on UFOs, highlighting a pattern of denial and secrecy. Despite official statements claiming no UFO archives exist, Bürgin found documents dating back to the 1950s and reports of Swiss citizens, including Air Force members, observing UFOs. The article quotes a military spokesperson who, while denying official archives, also stated that aviation intelligence services are responsible for handling such reports, which are not made public. The book also touches upon the threats and disciplinary measures faced by pilots who report UFOs, and the alleged cover-up strategies employed by the military. Bürgin's research is supported by numerous eyewitness accounts, describing various object shapes like silver spheres, metallic saucers, and cigar-shaped craft.
Ufologie Dynamique: Dynamic Ufology
This section introduces 'Ufologie Dynamique', an association based in Le Havre, France, founded by Alix Leproust. The group focuses on UFO sightings in the Caen region of Normandy, with numerous cases reported since the 1960s. Several specific cases from Caen and surrounding areas are detailed, including sightings of luminous phenomena, triangular objects, and unidentified lights. The article also provides advice for UFO witnesses on how to report their experiences, suggesting contacting the gendarmerie or independent researchers like Alix Leproust. Leproust explains that Ufologie Dynamique was created to discuss UFO phenomena openly and rationally, acting as a 'guardrail' against sectarianism and extrapolation. He emphasizes the group's social and informative role, encouraging dialogue and rational approaches.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, scientific analysis of evidence, and rational interpretation of UFO phenomena. There is a critical stance towards official secrecy and a call for greater transparency, particularly from military and governmental bodies. The articles highlight the challenges of distinguishing genuine sightings from misidentifications, hoaxes, and natural phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the collection and analysis of data while maintaining a healthy skepticism and avoiding sensationalism. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery of UFOs and the ongoing efforts by researchers and organizations to understand them.
This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated Summer 2012 (Volume été 2012, Issue 71), is a French publication dedicated to ufology. It features a cover story on UFO cases reported in Le Havre, France, and includes articles on various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, book reviews, and reports from ufological organizations.
Le Havre UFO Cases
The main article, "Des cas recensés au Havre" (Cases reported in Le Havre), published in Le Havre Infos N°86 on September 26, 2012, details UFO sightings in the Haute-Normandie region. It notes that 350 cases have been recorded in the region since the 1960s. The article highlights specific incidents:
- A luminous star in Graville: On October 26, 2007, a surprising and persistent luminosity was observed, initially mistaken for a star but later identified as such with unusual brightness and position.
- An object in La Mare-au-Clerc: On December 15, 2006, witnesses reported seeing a bizarre orange structure, followed by six small black structures moving in formation at an altitude of 300 meters. This case was classified as unexplained by GEIPAN.
- An object at Stade Deschaseaux: On October 21, 2011, a bright light object was observed accelerating at an impossible speed and then vanishing, with no sound emitted.
The article mentions that approximately 15 cases have been investigated in the area since 2006. It also touches upon the general challenges in ufology, the skepticism faced by researchers, and the importance of rigorous investigation.
COBEPS Notifications 2012
An article by Jean-Marc Wattecamps, head of the investigator network, details the notifications received by COBEPS (Comité Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux) in Belgium during the first semester of 2012. COBEPS, a non-political association, aims to technically and scientifically study UFO phenomena. They received 39 notifications, with most coming directly from witnesses who found them online. The data shows that 63% of notifications were made within 48 hours of the observation. The majority of cases (26 out of 32 classified) were identified as 'celestial lanterns,' with others being Venus, airplanes, multicopters, or balloons. The article includes a graph showing monthly notification numbers and a pie chart classifying closed cases by GEIPAN (A: perfectly identified, B: probably identified, C: insufficient information).
Book Reviews
"La grande mystification" by Jean Sider
This section reviews Jean Sider's book, "La grande mystification" (The Great Hoax), which is divided into two parts. The first part, "Mimétisme et polymorphisme du phénomène Ovni" (Mimicry and Polymorphism of the UFO Phenomenon), explores how UFO manifestations adapt to human beliefs and historical contexts, suggesting a possible manipulation by unknown intelligences. The book examines three aspects: mimicry, polymorphism, and bizarre incidents. Sider argues that the phenomenon is a vast deception aimed at hiding the true nature and goals of the entities involved. The review highlights examples like phantom aircraft and trains, suggesting that the phenomena are designed to deceive and confuse witnesses. The second part of the book will focus on unknown intelligent forces.
"Contacts OVNI - La dernière frontière" by Roger K. Leir
This review discusses Dr. Roger K. Leir's book, which compiles his research on UFOs and implants. The book is divided into three parts: supposed non-human implants retrieved during surgeries, the Varginha case in Brazil, and reflections on environmental issues in relation to UFOs. Leir's work on implants suggests a correlation with abduction experiences, with patients often exhibiting foreign bodies and electromagnetic emissions. The review notes that Leir is a unique practitioner in this field and that his findings warrant further investigation.
"Congrès international UFO 2012" by Ludovic Chapier
This is a critical review of the proceedings of the International UFO Congress held in Fountain Hills, Arizona, from February 21-26, 2012. The book, authored by Ludovic Chapier, an economist and independent researcher, provides an account of discussions and interventions by various speakers, including Chuck Zukowski (cattle mutilations), Travis Walton (alien abduction), Stan and Lisa Romanek (extraterrestrial contact), and others. The congress covered a wide range of UFO-related topics.
Letters to the Editor
This section features correspondence from readers. One letter draws a parallel between Michel Granger's book on cattle mutilations and Claude Lecouteux's "Chasses Fantastiques et Cohortes de la Nuit" (Fantastic Hunts and Night Cohorts), suggesting that the phenomena of mutilations and mysterious night hunts, once prevalent in Europe, may have 'shifted' to the United States with modern intensive farming. The letter posits that these phenomena are real, ancient, violent, and involve entities that enjoy mutilating and creating illusions. Another letter discusses the author's 25 years of studying UFO phenomena, mentioning various topics like crop circles, cattle mutilations, alien abductions, and the Varginha case. The writer expresses belief in extraterrestrial civilizations manipulating human civilization since its beginning and mentions recent credible testimonies from military personnel regarding sightings of unconventional craft near nuclear sites.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, focusing on UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and related phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation, scientific analysis, and the importance of distinguishing between credible evidence and speculation. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded yet critical, encouraging detailed research and open discussion within the ufology community. Recurring themes include the historical context of UFO phenomena, the challenges of scientific acceptance, and the potential for manipulation or deception by unknown intelligences.
Title: UFOmania
Issue: #71
Date: Summer 2012
This issue of UFOmania magazine continues its exploration of UFO phenomena, reader experiences, and ufological research, maintaining its commitment to providing a platform for diverse perspectives within the field.
Reader Contributions and Debates
The issue features letters from readers, including Kevin Milhamont, who discusses the psychological impact of alleged alien abductions and the reality of non-human intelligence, drawing parallels with John Mack's work. Milhamont suggests that these experiences might be part of multiple realities beyond our limited perception.
Another reader, T. Canuti, expresses his continued support for UFOmania despite the perceived apathy and ideological disputes in the ufology community. He praises the magazine for giving a voice to various viewpoints and for its role in preserving ufological history through written records, contrasting it with the ephemeral nature of online content.
Georges Metz writes in response to issue #70, recalling his passion for older UFO cases like Quarouble and mentioning the "Bussière affair." He also shares a memory of an unusual observation on a Moroccan beach.
Analysis of Ufological Hypotheses
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a critical discussion of ufological theories, particularly an article by Michel Granger. The editor, Didier, acknowledges Granger's extensive work but expresses disagreement with his latest article in issue #69, which presents alternatives to the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET). Didier argues that Granger creates an unnecessary opposition between HET and other hypotheses, downplaying certain possibilities and overlooking others, such as extradimensional explanations.
Didier also critiques Granger's assertion that Jacques Vallée lacked courage for not distinguishing between an "explicative cause" for the phenomenon and for allowing readers to form their own opinions. Didier frames this as a false dichotomy between "courageous defenders of extraterrestrials" and those who are "less courageous but more prudent or agnostic."
The editorial stance emphasizes the need to move beyond the "dialogue of the deaf" that has characterized ufology since the late 1970s, where pro-HET ufologists lost credibility. The issue acknowledges the role of skeptics in reminding ufologists of the importance of rigorous methodology and the need for extraordinary evidence to support extraordinary claims. The discussion touches upon the idea that if the extraterrestrial hypothesis is the only one considered, it becomes a theory rather than a hypothesis.
Book and Product Reviews
The magazine includes a section on "La boutique « UFO »... logique," featuring various books and DVDs related to ufology. Among the featured items are:
- "OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn" by Didier Gomez, a catalog of 103 UFO cases from 1952 to 2005.
- "Le Guide pratique de l'enquêteur de terrain" (May 2008 edition), a manual for UFO investigation.
- "OVNI Contacts (DVD)" and "OVNI Contacts << first encounters >>" (double DVD), featuring interviews from the 2005 Châlons-en-Champagne encounters.
- "Le DVD des 3èmes Rencontres Rapprochées, Gaillac 8 mars 2008," including a conference by Bertrand Méheust.
- "L'Eure des OVNIS" by Didier Gomez.
Several back issues of UFOmania are also listed for sale, with detailed descriptions of their contents, covering topics such as Aimé Michel, Jean Sider, John Keel, the GEIPAN, and various UFO cases from different regions.
Tribute to Gérard Grède
A heartfelt tribute is paid to Gérard Grède, a long-time collaborator of SOBEPS and COBEPS, who passed away on September 9, 2012. Franck Boitte remembers Grède's discretion, efficiency, and seriousness, particularly his work in page layout for Inforespace. Grède is also noted as an early Belgian environmentalist who raised awareness about pollution issues.
SOS Archives en Péril
A call is issued for information regarding archives related to ufology that are at risk of disappearing. Readers are encouraged to contact SCEAU (Archives OVNI) with any relevant details.
Upcoming Publication
An announcement is made for UFOmania magazine n°72, "À paraître courant automne 2012," featuring the book "La grande mystification" by Jean Sider, which explores mimicry and polymorphism in the UFO phenomenon and suggests that an unknown intelligence manipulates human perception.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue reinforces UFOmania's commitment to exploring the complexities of UFO phenomena, encouraging critical thinking, and preserving the history of ufological research. The editorial stance appears to favor open discussion and rigorous investigation, while acknowledging the ongoing debate between different hypotheses, particularly the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis. The magazine serves as a vital archive for UFO-related information, providing a platform for both established researchers and new voices in the field.