UFOmania - No 75

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: #75
Volume: 20th year
Date: July 2013
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1254 5112
Cover Price: 6.75 € (Metropolitan France)
Cover Headline: UFOSYSTEMIQUE

This issue of UFOmania magazine is dedicated to exploring a new, systemic approach to ufology, presented in a major article by members of the COBEPS association. The magazine aims to provide a comprehensive overview of UFO phenomena, encouraging a scientific and interdisciplinary approach.

Editorial

The editorial highlights the significant article 'UFOSYSTEMIQUE' by three COBEPS members, which re-examines the ufological problem within a broad context of interconnected facts. Drawing on their extensive experience, the authors offer a fresh perspective on the complex pathways of these often-maligned but persistent phenomena. The editorial also pays tribute to Lucien Clerebaut, a historical figure in ufology and founder of SOBEPS, who recently passed away. It thanks the subscribers for their continued support, which enables the magazine's continuation.

Key Articles and Features

UFOSYSTEMIQUE: Establishing a Bridge Between Scientific Milieu and Ufologists

This extensive dossier, authored by Jean-Marc Wattecamps, Daniel Van Assche, and Patrick Ferryn, proposes a systemic approach to ufology. The article argues that ufology should be structured as a scientific discipline, viewing UFO phenomena as a complex system. It aims to define the scope of ufology, outline research areas, and pose key questions. The authors emphasize the need for an interdisciplinary approach, integrating various scientific fields such as physics, geology, politics, and sociology. They critique the limitations of purely analytical or punctual approaches and advocate for a holistic view that considers the interactions between UFOs, witnesses, the physical environment, investigators, and the broader societal context.

The article introduces the concept of 'ufosystémique,' which involves understanding the phenomenon as a system of interactions. It discusses the challenges of studying UFOs, including their complexity, randomness, and the resistance from the scientific community. The authors propose two main research approaches: empirical-descriptive and hypothetical-deductive. They also highlight the importance of a collaborative and citizen-based approach to research.

The dossier delves into the 'triangle of observation,' comprising UFOs, witnesses, and the environment, and discusses the interactions within this system. It also outlines eight domains of internal research within the UFO system, such as the relationship between UFOs and witnesses, and the role of investigators and their reports.

Project LICORNE 2

Jacques Patenet, director of MUFON France, presents Project LICORNE 2, an initiative revived from the Marseille association MAGONIA to support current research efforts.

Observations of the Creuse to Seine-et-Marne: Augmented Reality?

Jean-Marc Gillot explores UFO sightings in the Creuse and Seine-et-Marne regions, questioning whether they represent an 'augmented reality.'

Homage to Lucien Clerebaut

Patrick Ferryn and Michel Bougard pay tribute to Lucien Clerebaut, a founder of SOBEPS, who passed away on July 3, 2013. Clerebaut was a significant figure in the history of French ufology.

Letters to the Editor

This section features reader correspondence, indicating ongoing engagement with the magazine's content.

Book and Magazine Reviews

1942-1954 - The Genesis of a State Secret

This section reviews Jean-Gabriel Greslé's book, which examines declassified US Air Force documents related to UFO sightings between 1942 and 1954, suggesting evidence of advanced non-terrestrial technology.

Nexus Magazine

A review of Nexus magazine's July 2013 issue, highlighting its dossier on UFO disclosure and an interview with Stephen Bassett regarding a congressional hearing on UFOs.

Bob vous dit toute la vérité

This section announces the end of the radio show 'Bob vous dit toute la vérité,' hosted by Bob Bellanca and Mathieu Allouch. It expresses regret over the show's cancellation, emphasizing the importance of such platforms for discussing ufological topics.

Briefs

UFO in France Out of Print

Georges Metz's book 'UFO in France' is out of print, but a limited number of copies are available directly from the author.

The Roswell Affair Available for Download

Gilles Fernandez offers his book 'Roswell-Rencontre du Premier Mythe' for free download online.

SVs Under Jungian Eye

Jean-Marc Gillot shares information about a booklet titled 'Aux frontières de la connaissance,' featuring an interview with Georges Duplain and Carl Gustav Jung on flying saucers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rigorous, scientific, and interdisciplinary approach to ufology. It encourages open-mindedness while emphasizing critical analysis and evidence-based research. The editorial stance is to foster understanding and discussion of unexplained phenomena, moving beyond sensationalism and towards a more structured study. There's a clear effort to bridge the gap between amateur researchers and the scientific community, as exemplified by the 'UFOSYSTEMIQUE' dossier. The magazine also acknowledges the historical context of UFO research and pays tribute to key figures in the field.

This issue of UFOmania, titled 'DOSSIER', focuses on 'the scientific approach and ufologists...' and explores the complex relationship between scientific inquiry and the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

The Definition of UFOs

The article begins by examining the definition of UFOs, presenting J. A. Hynek's commonly accepted definition. Hynek defines a UFO as a 'vision, related in written or spoken form, of objects or lights observed in the sky or on the ground whose appearance, trajectory, general behavior, and luminescence do not evoke a logical conventional explanation and which have not only baffled those who originally observed them but cannot be identified after careful examination.' The text notes that Hynek's definition emphasizes the 'vision related' aspect, possibly to lend credibility to the study of UFOs by scientists. However, it also suggests that Hynek's description seems to focus on the objects and lights themselves rather than just the reported vision. A second definition by Hynek is also presented, which refers to an 'aerial phenomenon' rather than just an object or light, bringing it closer to the GEIPAN definition.

Professor Auguste Meessen's definition of a UFO as an 'Unconventional Flying Object (UFO)' is also discussed, emphasizing that these are flying objects or aircraft with unconventional technical characteristics, such as lacking wings, reactors, or propellers. The article proposes its own definition: UFOs are aerial objects or luminous phenomena of unknown and unexplained origin at the time of observation, which remain so based on detailed testimonies and thorough study by qualified individuals. These qualified individuals include scientists, engineers, pilots, and experienced amateurs, as well as individuals who have acquired knowledge autodidactically and are part of an organization with relevant resources.

Sources of UFO Data

The article highlights the importance of working with detailed reports and investigation data available in ufological literature. However, it notes that the sheer volume of information makes it difficult to use directly. Researchers often need to undertake historical criticism, conduct field investigations, and collaborate with private investigation structures. The text points out the lack of a comprehensive synthesis on UFO characteristics in ufology, but mentions several rigorous statistical studies that can be utilized. These include the US Air Force-commissioned Battelle Institute's Special Report '14' (1955), a GEPAN information note (1980) based on a Soviet study by GUINDILIS MM., MENKOV & PETROVSKAIA, and C. Poher's (1976) statistical study of UFO observation reports.

The Battelle report is described as the most substantial and sophisticated work, involving a questionnaire developed by a panel of scientists and analyzing reports from 1947 to 1952. It aimed to determine if the UFO phenomenon was new to science. The study selected 3,201 reports concerning 2,199 'objects,' with 19.7% remaining unidentified.

The GEPAN note relies on a Soviet study validated by the Academy of Sciences of the USSR. While conducted correctly, it suffers from imperfections, particularly in the description of the report population and the lack of conformity tests. The sample consisted of 207 reports on 256 observations, selected from the catalogue of F.J. Ziguel.

C. Poher's work, though not without imperfections, is considered significant for its statistical analysis of a substantial number of cases (1000 compiled from various literature). The compilation and coding were manual, and the data was processed using punched cards. Poher identified 825 cases from a larger dataset. The article notes that the multiplicity of sources, especially from books, might bias the data.

UFO Characteristics and Classifications

The article discusses the classification of UFOs, referencing J. A. Hynek's system, which categorizes observations based on distance to the object. Hynek distinguishes between 'distant objects' (daytime 'Disques Diurnes' - DD, and nighttime 'Lumières Nocturnes' - LN) and 'close encounters' (first, second, and third types: RR1-3, based on physical traces or occupants). Vallée's classification is also presented, which categorizes UFOs based on their behavior and interaction with the environment and witnesses, including 'AN' (anomalies), 'FB' (fly-by), 'MA' (maneuvers), and 'CE' (close encounters).

Regarding physical characteristics, UFOs are often described as luminous objects against a dark sky (87% of cases in a Russian study). Details often include luminous elements like trails, lights, and halos. Daytime sightings are less common, with objects appearing matte (33%) or reflective (67%). UFOs generally give the impression of being solid. Sound is rarely reported, with the vast majority of cases indicating silence. However, some studies suggest that sound is present in a significant percentage of close encounters and nocturnal light observations, often described as a hum or whistle, usually at low intensity.

The shapes of UFOs are typically geometric and simple: spheres, discs, cylinders, lenses, triangles, and rectangles. They generally do not resemble science fiction depictions of spacecraft. Size estimation is difficult, but studies using the UFOCAT catalogue suggest two 'peaks' for UFO sizes, around five and twenty meters.

UFOs exhibit variable speeds, sometimes appearing stationary or moving at very high speeds. They can also display rapid changes in speed, including sudden stops, sharp turns, and rapid acceleration, sometimes exceeding 9g. These maneuvers are often described as 'anomalous' compared to conventional flight.

The UFO Observation Triangle: Environment, Witnesses, and Interactions

The article introduces the concept of the 'UFO Observation Triangle,' comprising the UFO itself, the environment, and the witnesses. It emphasizes that these three elements are interconnected and crucial for understanding the phenomenon.

Environment

The environment is defined as the setting in which UFO observations occur, encompassing natural and artificial elements, as well as sociological, historical, and political factors. The article notes that while the physical environment is relatively well-understood, the study of human interaction with the environment is a younger field. UFOs are observed globally, in various environments from deserts to urban areas, and even over oceans. However, reporting is concentrated in industrialized countries, with the USA and Europe having the highest number of reported cases. This disparity is attributed to factors like the availability of reporting channels and cultural antecedents.

Witnesses

The article discusses the difficulty in quantifying the number of UFO witnesses, estimating that there could be over two million worldwide since 1947. It highlights that witnesses have diverse profiles, ages, and social conditions. While some studies suggest adults and active individuals are more likely to report, qualified individuals like scientists and engineers report their observations more frequently. The article notes that witnesses are often surprised by their observations and are motivated by a desire for explanation, often seeking anonymity. The investigation process can be challenging, with witnesses being re-interviewed and their testimonies scrutinized.

Interactions

The interactions between UFOs and witnesses are explored, focusing on sensory perceptions and the transfer of information and energy. UFOs are perceptible by human senses and leave lasting memories and sometimes physiological traces. The article mentions that while information can be extracted through investigation, energy transfer can leave physiological marks on witnesses. The study of these 'sensitive impressions' is considered important for ufology. The article also touches upon the effects of UFOs on witnesses' psychology and sociology, noting that most witnesses do not exhibit psychopathology and that their experiences can lead to significant life changes.

Conclusions

The article concludes that the three elements of the UFO observation triangle (UFOs, environment, and witnesses) remain poorly understood. It points out that while there is more information on UFOs themselves, the witness and environmental aspects are less studied. The article calls for more systematic and rigorous research, utilizing modern data analysis techniques to better understand the UFO phenomenon. It suggests that while many UFO reports may be explained by conventional means, a significant portion remains unexplained, warranting further scientific investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this dossier is the attempt to bridge the gap between scientific methodology and the study of UFO phenomena. The magazine advocates for a rigorous, data-driven approach, drawing on statistical analysis, scientific disciplines, and careful examination of witness testimonies and environmental factors. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the unexplained aspects of UFO sightings while emphasizing the need for systematic research and critical evaluation of evidence. The article implicitly suggests that UFOs represent a genuine phenomenon that deserves serious scientific attention, moving beyond mere speculation or dismissal.

This issue of UFOmania, titled "l'approche du milieu scientifique et les ufologues..." (The approach of the scientific milieu and ufologists...), published in July 2013, number 75, explores the intersection of scientific inquiry and ufological research.

Scientific and Ufological Approaches

The magazine discusses the challenges and methodologies involved in studying the UFO phenomenon from both scientific and ufological perspectives. It highlights that while scientific rigor is desired, the nature of UFO evidence often necessitates approaches that blend scientific techniques with historical and sociological analyses.

Key Questions for Ufology

The issue poses a series of questions that researchers, philosophers, and scientists should consider. These include whether UFO behaviors indicate intelligence, how to identify such intelligence, the motivations behind UFO actions, the potential origins of this intelligence, and the implications of such a discovery for humanity. It also raises questions about the possibility of dialogue and appropriate human responses.

UFOs and the Environment

This section delves into the interactions between UFOs and their environment, categorizing them as interactions involving information and energy transfer. It details the physical traces left by UFOs, such as ground subsidence, broken branches, and various material deposits, which can be analyzed for clues about their composition and origin. The analysis of materials from alleged UFO crash sites, like Roswell, is discussed, with some findings suggesting non-terrestrial alloys, though the evidence is often debated and lacks widespread scientific publication.

Physical Traces and Material Analysis

The article details various types of physical traces left by UFOs, including those resulting from mechanical contact, physico-chemical processes, electromagnetic emissions, and potential occupant traces. It notes that these traces, while intriguing, have not yet provided definitive proof of an entirely novel phenomenon. The analysis of alleged Roswell debris is mentioned, with some lab results indicating unusual isotopic compositions, but the methodology and source of these analyses are questioned.

Animal Mutilations and Crop Circles

The phenomenon of animal mutilations, often associated with UFOs, is discussed as an epiphenomenon. Similarly, crop circles are examined, with the article noting that while some are complex and intriguing, many have been proven to be of terrestrial origin, created by artists. The connection to UFOs is often based on association with landing traces.

Environmental Constraints on UFOs

UFOs are presented as phenomena constrained by their environment. The article explores how UFOs might interact with and be influenced by atmospheric conditions, topography, and even human-made structures. It questions whether UFOs adhere to known physical laws, particularly concerning their apparent ability to achieve high speeds and perform complex maneuvers without sonic booms, suggesting that advanced physics or unknown principles might be at play.

Spatio-Temporal Distribution and Waves

The spatio-temporal distribution of UFO sightings is analyzed, with a focus on 'waves' of sightings. Studies are mentioned that attempt to correlate these waves with geographical factors, seismic activity, and even solar activity. The complexity of these correlations is highlighted, with the need to consider multiple variables and interactions.

The Role of Witnesses and Investigators

The article emphasizes the importance of witness testimony and the role of investigators in collecting and interpreting UFO data. It discusses the characteristics of witnesses and the methodologies employed by investigators, including field research, interviews, and the analysis of physical evidence. The challenges of objectivity in ufological research are acknowledged, with an emphasis on transparency regarding data collection methods and potential biases.

Organizational Structures in Ufology

Various types of organizations involved in ufology are described, including public agencies (like the former GEPAN/GEIPAN in France) and private associations. The diversity of these organizations, their methodologies, and their approaches to research are discussed. The article notes the shift towards online platforms for information sharing and the challenges of maintaining consistent data collection and archival practices.

Data Collection and Analysis

The process of collecting and analyzing UFO data is detailed, from initial notifications to detailed investigation reports. The importance of timely data collection and the challenges of producing comprehensive reports are highlighted. The article also touches upon the historical context of official investigations, such as Project Blue Book in the USA, and the gradual declassification of government archives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a critical yet open-minded approach to ufology, encouraging rigorous investigation and analysis. It emphasizes the need to bridge the gap between scientific inquiry and the study of UFO phenomena, acknowledging the complexities and uncertainties involved. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a systematic and multi-disciplinary approach to understanding UFOs, while also recognizing the limitations and potential biases inherent in the field. The recurring themes include the nature of UFO intelligence, their interaction with the environment, the methodology of investigation, and the organizational landscape of ufology.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated July 2013, focuses on the scientific and ufological approaches to understanding UFO phenomena. The cover headline, "l'approche du milieu scientifique et les ufologues..." (the approach of the scientific community and ufologists...), sets the tone for an in-depth exploration of methodologies, case studies, and the challenges of integrating UFO research into mainstream science.

Scientific and Ufological Approaches

The magazine emphasizes the need for a rigorous, scientific approach to UFO investigations. It outlines how the process should aim to reconstruct the environment at the time of an observation, drawing on various scientific disciplines such as geology, geography, astronomy, and meteorology. The article discusses the importance of identifying relevant information sources and the most effective tools for presenting this data.

Witness Testimony Collection

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the collection and analysis of witness testimony. Several methods are detailed, including:

• Questionnaires: A more structured approach where the investigator provides questions for the witness to answer remotely. This method is fast for data entry but can lack direct feedback and may lead to misunderstandings.
• Written, Audio, or Video Accounts: Spontaneous narratives from witnesses, which can be rich in detail but require more processing time. Video recordings are highlighted for capturing non-verbal cues.
• Interviews: Considered the most effective method, allowing for direct interaction between the witness and investigator. The interview process involves allowing the witness to speak freely before asking clarifying questions. It's recommended to have two investigators and, if possible, to conduct a reconstruction of the observation site.

The article also touches upon the psychological aspects of testimony, questioning the reliability and accuracy of human witness accounts and exploring techniques to reduce biases.

Project Licorne 2

The magazine introduces Project Licorne 2, an ambitious initiative by MUFON France in collaboration with GEIPAN (the French official UFO investigation body). The project aims to create a standardized, universal format for describing UFO cases, facilitating data exchange between different databases. This standardized dossier structure is designed to be adaptable to the complexity of each case, comprising sections on:

• Generic Information: Basic details of the observation.
• Physical Environment: Description of the natural and artificial surroundings.
• Witness: Information about the witness's background and state.
• Testimony: Detailed description of the phenomenon observed.
• Reconstruction and Analysis: Investigator's findings, hypotheses, and remaining unexplained points.

This modular architecture is intended to be evolutive, allowing for the addition of new modules as needed.

Case Studies

Several detailed case studies are presented, primarily from France, illustrating the application of investigative methods and the nature of reported phenomena:

• Gouzon, Creuse (1956-1957): A child witness describes a cigar-shaped object moving at tree height.
• Guéret, Creuse (1967-1968): A teenager observes a luminous object with humanoid figures inside.
• Seine et Marne (mid-June 1976): A group witnesses star-like lights and a triangle-shaped craft, followed by a luminous sphere with humanoid figures.

These cases highlight the variety of reported phenomena and the challenges in interpreting them. The article also references other historical observations and research, including the famous Belgian UFO wave and the Condon Report.

Thematic and Methodological Discussions

The issue delves into broader themes related to ufology:

• Systemic Approach: The importance of viewing UFO phenomena as a complex system, analyzing interactions and flows rather than isolated events.
• Inductive vs. Deductive Approaches: Discussing two primary research strategies: inductive (testing hypotheses) and deductive (building explanations from data).
• Societal Impact: Examining how UFO phenomena influence global culture, media, and societal perceptions.
• Challenges in Scientific Acceptance: Addressing why UFOs have not been widely accepted by the scientific community and the need for more rigorous, standardized research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the necessity of a scientific, methodical, and systemic approach to UFO research. The magazine advocates for standardized methodologies, robust data collection, and interdisciplinary collaboration. There's a clear stance that ufology needs to move beyond anecdotal evidence and embrace rigorous investigation techniques to gain credibility and advance understanding. The editorial emphasizes the complexity of the phenomenon and the ongoing effort to establish a bridge between scientific inquiry and the study of unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, number 75, dated July 2013, is primarily dedicated to commemorating the life and work of Lucien Clerebaut, the founder of the Belgian UFO research organization Sobeps, who recently passed away. The magazine also covers ongoing ufological research and organizational activities, including the relationship between French and international UFO groups, and previews upcoming publications.

Lucien Clerebaut: A Tribute

The issue opens with a heartfelt announcement of the death of Lucien Clerebaut, founder of Sobeps in Brussels, who died on July 3, 2013, at the age of 70 after a series of surgeries. The article details his significant contributions to ufology, including his direction of the influential revue 'Inforespace' from 1972 until its dissolution in 2007. Clerebaut was instrumental in coordinating research during the 1990 Belgian UFO wave, leading a team that gathered thousands of testimonies and published two major works on the subject. He was known for his warm welcome and for surrounding himself with grounded collaborators. Following Sobeps' closure after a General Assembly on June 11, 2007, Patrick Ferryn continued the work by founding COBEPS, which operates discreetly. The obituary includes a moving tribute from Michel Bougard, the last president of Sobeps, delivered at Clerebaut's funeral on July 9, 2013. Bougard recalls Clerebaut's enthusiasm, determination, lucidity, and dedication to serving his dreams with reason, likening him to the 'engineer' of the Sobeps 'machine'. He acknowledges the challenges and joys shared with Clerebaut and his collaborators, and the eventual aging and closure of Sobeps, culminating in the profound loss of Clerebaut himself.

GEIPAN and MUFON: A Collaborative Relationship

Xavier Passot, head of GEIPAN (Groupe d'Études et d'Information sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés), addresses the relationship between GEIPAN and MUFON (Mutual UFO Network). He clarifies that their relationship is informal, friendly, and without formal commitment. Their collaboration mainly involves referring witnesses with cases outside France to MUFON, and vice versa for cases outside Belgium (SOBEPS) and Italy (CISU). Passot highlights ongoing discussions to improve investigation methods and develop a common format for case descriptions to build a collaborative database. He also touches upon the perception of these relations, noting that some MUFON representatives might use the association with GEIPAN to appear more scientific, potentially leading to accusations of government collusion. Conversely, GEIPAN's public association with MUFON could be misinterpreted as favoritism, when in reality, MUFON's global reach is primarily useful for directing international witnesses.

MUFON Argentina's Research Initiative

The magazine reports on MUFON Argentina's new initiative to establish "Correspondant Enquêteurs" (Investigating Correspondents). The national director, Dr. Andrés Salvador, along with regional directors Rubén Morales, Mario Lupo, and Pablo Omastott, have created an organizational framework for high-quality research based on transparency and methodological rigor. This aims to add academic value to reports submitted to MUFON headquarters in the USA. The first "Correspondant Enquêteur" appointed is Luis Annino, editor of the blog "Orbita Cero." This system is designed to develop national and regional research capabilities, yielding better results than isolated efforts.

Ufology in Tarn and Aveyron

Didier Gomez, publisher of UFOmania magazine, outlines plans to foster ufological interest in the Tarn and Aveyron regions of France. This initiative involves organizing informal meetings for discussion and data exchange, aiming to create a local network of enthusiasts. The objective is to build a database of UFO cases from these departments, initially hosted on ufomania.fr, with potential expansion to the wider Midi-Pyrénées region. Gomez is the primary contact for this initiative.

Book Reviews and Back Issues

The magazine includes a section on "La boutique « UFO »... logique," featuring various UFO-related books and DVDs for sale. Among them are "OVNI 50 ans d'enquêtes dans le Tarn" by Didier Gomez, "Le Guide pratique de l'enquêteur de terrain," and DVDs from "OVNI Contacts" and "Les 3èmes Rencontres Rapprochées."

A comprehensive list of past UFOmania magazine issues is provided, detailing the special dossiers and articles featured in each number from Hors-série n°1 (March 2004) to N°74 (Spring 2013). This section serves as a catalog of the magazine's extensive coverage of ufological topics over the years.

Upcoming Publication: 'La grande mystification'

The final pages announce an upcoming issue of UFOmania magazine (n°76, October 2013) and a new book by Jean Sider titled "La grande mystification: Des forces intelligentes inconnues?" published by JMG éditions. The book is described as the second volume of Sider's study on UFO phenomena, investigating how unknown intelligences manipulate human perception through various guises. It will delve into aquatic phenomena, ball lightning, strange animals, and the role of media disinformation in obscuring the truth about UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous, evidence-based research in ufology, as exemplified by the work of Lucien Clerebaut and the initiatives of GEIPAN and MUFON. There is a clear focus on collaboration and information sharing among researchers and organizations, both nationally and internationally. The magazine also highlights the historical aspects of UFO research, as seen in the retrospective of past issues and the tribute to Clerebaut's decades of dedication. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, aiming to demystify the phenomenon while acknowledging its persistent mysteries, as suggested by the upcoming book's theme of "great mystification."