UFOmania - No 79

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOmania
Issue: No. 79
Volume: 21st year
Date: July 2014
Publisher: Planète OVNI
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1254 5112
Price: France metropolitan 6.75 €, Europe 10.50 €, Other Countries 13.25 €

This issue of UFOmania magazine is a quarterly publication focused on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) and unusual sightings. Its primary goal is to present research findings from various specialists and encourage constructive debate. The content is derived from witness testimonies, press articles, and reflections from correspondents in France and abroad.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "A dream come true," highlights the significance of the CAIPAN 2014 workshop, organized by Xavier Passot and CNES. The author expresses that this event, which brought together about a hundred people close to GEIPAN, marks a turning point in ufology. The workshop focused on four key modules: field investigation methodologies, elaboration of standard case description methods, systematic sky observation, and psychological aspects of witness testimonies. The editorial also mentions discussions involving prominent figures like Jacques Vallée, Bertrand Méheust, Jacques Arnould, and Ron Westrum. The author personally found the presentations to be of very high quality and the exchanges among participants to be intense and valuable, noting it as a "real breath of fresh air" for ufology. The issue dedicates a significant portion to the CAIPAN workshop, reproducing several presentations. It also acknowledges the contributions of international researchers and ufologists present.

CAIPAN 2014 Workshop: A Detailed Report

The magazine provides an extensive report on the CAIPAN 2014 workshop (Collecte et Analyse des Informations sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés - Collection and Analysis of Information on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena), held on July 8-9, 2014, at CNES in Paris. The workshop's primary objective, as explained by Xavier Passot, was to address the often low scientific consistency of UAP reports, which are typically human testimonies, sometimes written long after the event, and often accompanied by poor quality photographs or dubious traces. The goal was to consolidate "observables" and improve the quality of observation reports, human testimonies, and auxiliary data for correlation.

Day 1: Tuesday, July 8, 2014

The day began with an introduction by Xavier Passot and Lionel Suchet. Pierre Bescond presented the workshop's objectives. The first module focused on field investigation methodologies, with presentations by Richard F. Haynes (NARCAP) on methods for interviewing witnesses and using virtual equipment for analysis. Gilles Munsch discussed the evolution of UAP investigation. Jean-Pierre Rospars presented an analysis of official French UAP observation reports from 1951-1979, highlighting the correlation between unexplained cases and phenomena occurring at close range. Philippe Ollier explained the technique of audio analysis for lightning phenomena.

Later sessions included Gaelle Fedoce (Inra) on the role of sound components in UAP testimony analysis, and François Louange and Antoine Cousyn on the authentication of UAP photos/videos, debunking the famous McMinnville case as a hoax. Jean-Luc Lemaire and Jean-Marc Wattecamps presented on distance training for investigators and internet-based investigations, respectively.

Day 2: Wednesday, July 9, 2014

The second day started with a presentation by Xavier Pasco on building an operational database for UAP phenomena, focusing on document traceability and quality rather than content. Jacques Vallée concluded this module with a strategy for ufological research, emphasizing the need for current scientific capabilities and avoiding preconceived notions.

Thomas Margout presented his thesis work on analyzing data from the 'Lumières dans la nuit' review. Claude Maugé discussed alleged UAP abductions in France, and Jean-Marc Wattecamps presented on container formats and ufological metadata. The day concluded with a lively debate and a convivial dinner.

The morning of the second day focused on systematic sky observation, with Jérémie Vaubaillon launching the CAIPAN project for detecting meteorites and other atmospheric phenomena using a network of cameras. Raymond Piccoli discussed the classification of ball lightning and luminous transient phenomena. Massimo Teodorani presented on monitoring aerial anomalies using instruments, and Nico Conti discussed the implications of instrumental research.

After a break, Philippe Ailleris presented on UAP phenomena and experimental strategies, while Stéphane Dier discussed observation networks. A debate followed, animated by Jérémie Vaubaillon.

The afternoon module addressed the psychological aspects of UAP testimony, with contributions from Jacques Py, Thomas Rabeyron, Pierre Lagrange, Jean-Michel Abrassart, and Romain Bouvet, who discussed the influence of psychological context, perception errors, and cultural beliefs on witness accounts.

The closing session featured Bertrand Méheust, Jacques Vallée, Ron Westrum, and Jacques Arnould. Xavier Passot described the event as "a dream come true," echoing Jacques Vallée's sentiment. A bonus conference by Raymond Piccoli on lightning phenomena was also included.

Other Articles and Features

• "L'actualité des phénomènes inexpliqués et des apparitions insolites": This section provides news and updates related to ufology.
• "Journée ufologique du Razès": An announcement for an upcoming ufological event on September 6, 2014, in Rennes-le-Château, featuring speakers like Jean-Luc Rivera and Thibaut Canuti.
• France 2 Report on GEIPAN: A brief mention of a TV report about GEIPAN broadcast on France 2.
• "Un repreneur d'UFOmania en 2015 ?": A discussion about the potential for a new owner to take over UFOmania magazine in 2015, with the aim of developing it further.
• Robert Roussel's Third Book: An update on Robert Roussel's upcoming book, expected by the end of 2014.
• "Inexploré" Magazine: A mention of an issue of "Inexploré" magazine featuring an interview with Nicolas Hulot.
• "OVNI au Maroc" by Gérard LEBAT: A review or mention of a book detailing UFO sightings in Morocco.
• PROMO & SOLDES MONSTRES!: A promotion offering back issues of UFOmania magazine and other ufology-related books at discounted prices.
• INFORESPACE in pdf!: Information on how to download archived issues of the "Inforéspace" magazine.
• "Méthodes de recherche utiles pour les observations de PAN par les équipages et les contrôleurs du trafic aérien" by Richard F. Haines: This article, presented at CAIPAN, details methods for collecting and analyzing UAP reports from aviation personnel, emphasizing the need for more robust statistical approaches.
• "L'INVESTIGATION UFOLOGIQUE, CHRONIQUE D'UNE MUTATION" by Gilles MUNSCH: This piece discusses the evolution of ufological investigation, from intuitive approaches to more systematic methods, and the challenges posed by witness testimony.
• "EXPERTISE QUALITATIVE ET CARACTÉRISATION QUANTITATIVE DE RAPPORTS OFFICIELS D'OBSERVATION DE PHÉNOMÈNES AÉRIENS TENUS POUR NON IDENTIFIÉS EN FRANCE (1951-1979)" by Jean-Pierre ROSPARS: This research analyzes official French UAP reports from 1951-1979 to identify significant cases and explore potential quantitative differences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific approach to ufology, the importance of rigorous investigation methodologies, the analysis of witness testimony, and the role of organizations like GEIPAN. The magazine strongly advocates for a serious, evidence-based study of UAP, moving beyond anecdotal accounts to more systematic data collection and analysis. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness combined with a critical and scientific perspective, aiming to advance the understanding of these phenomena.

Subscriptions and Contact Information

Subscription rates for UFOmania magazine are provided for France, the European Union, and other countries. Contact details for Planète OVNI, including postal address, phone number, and email, are listed for subscriptions and inquiries. Information for international bank transfers (IBAN and BIC) is also included.

Advertisements and Promotions

The issue includes advertisements for ufology-related books and resources, such as "ufofu.tumblr.com" and "e-Bouquiniste.com," as well as promotions for back issues of UFOmania magazine and other ufological publications like "Inexploré."

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated July 2014, is dedicated to the CAIPAN 2014 conference, focusing on the "Methodology of Field Investigations of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP)". The magazine delves into the scientific and methodological approaches used to collect, analyze, and understand UAP reports.

Key Themes and Articles

Classification of Reports by Experts

The issue explores the challenge of expert agreement in classifying UAP reports. It details a two-step process involving CNES engineers' classifications from the late 1970s and a self-assessment using similar categories. The goal is to determine the coherence and validity of these expert classifications.

Analysis of Observations Based on Interest Level

This section investigates whether specific "signatures" distinguish "explained" from "unexplained" events. It examines correlations between the unexplained nature of phenomena and factors such as distance from the observer, population density, and time of day. The aim is to refine the description of phenomena and narrow down possible hypotheses.

Poster Sessions

Eight short poster presentations complemented the main sessions, offering participants a chance to learn about ongoing associative work and data compilation efforts in the field.

Sound Components in UAP Analysis

Gaelle Fedoce discusses the difficulties in collecting and analyzing the sound components of UAP reports. She highlights that auditory phenomena are rarely reported unless they are unusual, and the ability to localize sound sources is limited. The article emphasizes the importance of considering sound data for a complete analysis.

Authentication and Analysis of UAP Photos/Videos

François Louange and Antoine Cousyn present methods for authenticating and analyzing UAP photos and videos using the specialized software IPACO. The process involves evaluating document authenticity, identifying artifacts, and characterizing phenomena, whether known or unknown.

Techniques for Interviewing Witnesses

Philippe Ollier details the techniques for interviewing witnesses of ball lightning and other phenomena. The method, inspired by PROGREAI, focuses on building trust, encouraging free narrative, and systematically gathering details to obtain a reliable testimony.

Internet as a Tool for Investigations

Jean-Marc Wattecamps highlights the growing role of the internet in UAP investigations. He discusses various online resources, including mapping tools (Google Earth), meteorological data sites (wunderground.com), flight tracking services (flightradar24.com), and astronomical information sites (calsky.com), which aid in verifying circumstances and potentially resolving cases without field visits.

Future Platform for Knowledge Management and Collaborative Strategy

Michaël Vaillant presents the GEIPAN initiative to create a future platform for managing knowledge and fostering collaborative work in UAP research. This modular platform aims to standardize data description, allow contributions from various actors, and create a shared scientific resource.

Operational Database for UAP Phenomena

Xavier Pasco, Annick Jacquart, and Luc Dini discuss the development of an operational database for UAP phenomena. The system emphasizes document traceability, quality assessment, and the creation of coherent analyses to support rigorous investigation principles.

The "Lumières dans la nuit" Review: Analysis of a Database

Thomas Margout presents an analysis of the "Lumières dans la nuit" review, focusing on UAP studies from 1988 to 2012. The research involves cartographic and graphic analysis of the data, examining witness sociology, and understanding the review's role in reflecting the community's concerns and aspirations.

Presumed UFO Abductions: An Evaluation Essay

Claude Maugé provides an essay on evaluating presumed UFO abduction cases. He outlines a methodology for analyzing such reports, considering the source, the witness's background, the nature of the testimony, and its plausibility in relation to known phenomena.

Format for Ufological Data and Metadata

Jean-Marc Wattecamps discusses the challenges and proposals for standardizing the format of ufological data and metadata. The aim is to create a container format that facilitates systematic coding, statistical analysis, and information sharing within the UAP research community.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the critical importance of rigorous methodology in UAP investigation, the challenges posed by witness testimony and data analysis, and the growing role of technology and collaborative platforms in advancing the field. The editorial stance clearly favors a scientific and systematic approach to understanding these phenomena, emphasizing the need for standardized procedures and interdisciplinary collaboration.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated July 2014, is dedicated to the systematic observation and analysis of Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena (UAP). The cover headline, "Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés: Elaboration de standards," sets the tone for a comprehensive exploration of how to approach UAP data.

CAIPAN 2014: Standardization and Analysis

The magazine extensively covers the CAIPAN 2014 workshop, an international event organized by CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) in Paris on July 8-9, 2014. The workshop brought together ufologists, psychologists, astronomers, and representatives from the Gendarmerie and Air Force to discuss methods and tools for improving the collection and analysis of UAP information. Xavier Passot's conclusion highlights the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration. The GEIPAN (Groupe d'Étude et d'Information sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés) presented its analysis of hundreds of UAP reports, noting the fragility of much of the available data (unique or few testimonies, long delays between observation and reporting, poor quality photos). The workshop aimed to consolidate existing information and explore ways to progress in studying the probable origins of these phenomena.

Key areas for improvement discussed included refining witness interviewing techniques (drawing from police and gendarmerie methods), using specialized tools to verify photo authenticity, and pooling UAP case databases from various sources for broader studies. The potential for correlating UAP observations with data from automatic surveillance systems like meteor detection networks (FRIPON) and radar systems was also explored. Recent advances in psychology are seen as vital for extracting the most reliable information from human testimony, helping witnesses better articulate their experiences and discerning the most credible elements of their accounts.

Psychological and Sociological Aspects of UAP Testimonies

Pierre Lagrange, in his article "A propos de l'exigence de symétrie dans les discussions sur les aspects psychologiques et sociologiques des témoignages sur les ovnis," critiques the often "asymmetrical" arguments used in UAP research. He argues that social science arguments, while widely used, often lack rigor and apply different standards to UAP witnesses than to other individuals. Lagrange emphasizes that witnesses should not be expected to recognize objects like satellites or planets if they haven't been taught to observe them under specific conditions, and that the visual appearance of these objects in the sky differs significantly from scientific depictions. He calls for "symmetrical" arguments in UAP research, mirroring those used in normal scientific fields.

Thomas Rabeyron's presentation, "De l'importance du contexte psychologique et émotionnel lors de l'analyse de témoignages de phénomènes aérospatiaux non Identifiés," delves into the psychological and emotional context of UAP witnesses. He stresses that understanding the witness's life situation and emotional state is essential for assessing the credibility and coherence of their accounts. Rabeyron notes that the integration of UAP experiences into a person's psyche can lead to significant repercussions, ranging from fascination to rejection. He also touches upon the challenges of integrating UAP experiences, especially when associated with psychological distress or when the person feels misunderstood.

Specific Phenomena and Projects

Foudre en Boule (Ball Lightning): Raymond Piccoli discusses "ASPECTS, MANIFESTATIONS ET CLASSIFICATION DE LA FOUDRE EN BOULE ET DES PHÉNOMÈNES ORAGEUX LUMINEUX TRANSITOIRES." He explains that "foudre en boule" is a popular term for a complex phenomenon with varied aspects that are difficult to reproduce in a lab. Piccoli proposes a classification system with three categories: 1) Foudre en boule (ball lightning), characterized by spherical shape, size up to fifty centimeters, and short duration; 2) Foudre globulaire (globular lightning), which may not be spherical and can change shape; and 3) PLOT (Phénomène Lumineux Orageux Transitoire), atmospheric luminous phenomena occurring during or outside of storms, sometimes associated with seismic activity or volcanic eruptions. Observations not fitting these categories are classified as UAP. He also mentions other phenomena that can be mistaken for ball lightning, such as power-flashes, St. Elmo's fire, meteorites, and bolides. The laboratory is developing specific observation tools and programs like C.O.S.L.S.S and R.S.L.S.S.

Operation Suricate: Stéphane Dier presents "OPERATION SURICATE," a citizen science initiative focused on systematic sky observation. The network connects participants across France and globally to report unusual phenomena in real-time. While not an investigative body, Operation Suricate aids witnesses by connecting them with local investigators or GEIPAN. The project emphasizes observational pedagogy, aiming to train observers and help them distinguish between genuine phenomena and misidentifications (like satellites or Iridium flares). The article highlights the network's significant reach, with approximately 700 participants in a July 2013 operation and involvement from over fifteen countries.

Hessdalen Phenomenon: A brief mention and a photograph are included regarding Erling Strand and the luminous phenomena in the Hessdalen valley, Norway, with a reference to photos taken in the 1980s.

Book Review: "CHASSEUR D'OVNI" by Jean-Marie Bigorne

Franck Boitte reviews Jean-Marie Bigorne's book, "CHASSEUR D'OVNI: Le temps présent" (The Present Time). Bigorne, described as one of the last French ufologists, has compiled 16 particularly interesting cases from his extensive investigation files. The review notes Bigorne's discreet nature and his background as a customs inspector. It highlights his 1977 study with J. Bonabot on UFOs in the Franco-Belgian mining basin and mentions his previous citations in ufological publications. The review also touches upon Bigorne's personal evolution from investigator to witness, as evidenced by his account of a "majestic plural" observation. The book's content includes detailed case descriptions, with a table summarizing factual data, witness accounts, and Bigorne's own "confidence indices" (IC) and "enchantment or attempted enchantment" (E) classifications. The review also includes a quote from Bigorne expressing his indecision about the reality of a specific incident, suggesting a possibility of hallucination or a need for further investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the need for rigorous, standardized methods in UAP research, the critical importance of understanding the psychological and sociological factors influencing witness testimony, and the value of multidisciplinary approaches. The magazine advocates for a more scientific and less biased approach to UAP studies, encouraging collaboration between official research bodies, scientific institutions, and the ufological community. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious, evidence-based investigation while acknowledging the complexities and often subjective nature of the phenomena and the reports surrounding them. There is a clear emphasis on improving data quality and analytical frameworks to move beyond anecdotal evidence.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, dated July 2014 (Issue 79), features a prominent review of the book "OVNI et intelligence extraterrestre LA REVELATION" by Didier Leroux and Jean Goupil. The magazine also covers a reported near-collision incident in Australia involving an aircraft and a UAV, and includes reader mail and articles discussing the current state and challenges of ufology.

Book Review: "OVNI et intelligence extraterrestre LA REVELATION"

The magazine dedicates significant space to the book "OVNI et intelligence extraterrestre LA REVELATION" by Didier Leroux and Jean Goupil. The review highlights the book's exploration of interstellar travel, the challenges of such journeys, and the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI) and nanotechnology in future space exploration. The authors suggest that extraterrestrial visitors might utilize intelligent machines rather than biological beings, and that advanced technologies could simulate paranormal phenomena like materializations and telepathy. The book is presented as a significant contribution to the field of ufology in France, aiming to demonstrate that UFOs and their capabilities are not beyond human comprehension but rather represent an advanced civilization.

Aviation Incident: Quasi-collision in Australia

The issue reports on a quasi-collision incident that occurred on March 19, 2014, near Perth, Australia. An aircraft from Skippers Aviation encountered an unidentified object described as cylindrical and grey, identified by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau as a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) with no human presence on board. The pilots were forced to take evasive action to avoid a collision.

Ufology and Case Analysis

Several articles and sections within the magazine address the methodology and challenges of ufological research. A table categorizes UFO cases based on their degree of strangeness and credibility, suggesting an inverse relationship between the two. The magazine critiques the storytelling approach in some ufological publications, emphasizing the importance of factual accuracy and rigorous investigation. It also discusses the difficulties in categorizing and analyzing certain types of UFO reports, particularly those involving non-physical or highly unusual phenomena (RR4/5).

Reader Mail and Contributions

The "Courrier des lecteurs" section features correspondence from subscribers, including a reader from Tahiti who expresses a lack of new information in recent UFO reports and a desire for more precise details. Régine Maso, who centralizes reader mail, invites contributions and opinions on ufology, emphasizing the importance of "free speech" for readers. The magazine also includes a note to authors regarding submission guidelines, requesting raw text files and separate image files to facilitate publication.

Events and Conferences

Information is provided about "Les Rencontres Ufologiques" in Paris, a monthly meeting for UFO enthusiasts. The magazine announces an upcoming conference on September 2, 2014, featuring Mary Rodwell, President of the Australian Close Encounter Resource Network (ACERN), who will discuss UFO phenomena in Australia. The event is presented as a unique opportunity for the French public to meet an international ufology personality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation, factual accuracy, and critical analysis in ufology. It highlights the challenges of distinguishing between credible evidence and sensationalism or fabrication. The editorial stance appears to favor a scientific approach to understanding UFO phenomena, while acknowledging the complexity and often inexplicable nature of many reported cases. There is a recurring theme of questioning official narratives and encouraging open discussion among enthusiasts. The magazine also appears to be critical of certain popular ufological narratives that it deems to be based on storytelling rather than solid evidence.

This issue of UFOmania magazine, number 79, is dated July 2014. The cover prominently features the headline "BOB VOUS DIT TOUTE LA VERITE" with a website address BOB-TOUTELAVERITE.FR, suggesting a focus on revealing truths about UFO phenomena.

Reader Contributions and Editorial Stance

The issue begins with a letter from Guy Coatanroch (81) who reflects on a previous survey about the magazine's readership, noting a perceived decline in active ufologists. He advocates for a magazine that informs and presents all approaches to the phenomenon, without succumbing to internal disputes ('querelles de chapelles') that discourage readers and researchers. He emphasizes the importance of listening to witnesses and allowing readers to form their own opinions.

Another reader, Claude Calderon (17), expresses his delight at having his text published in a previous issue and praises the magazine for its informed readership. He discusses the idea that our minds might be manipulated by unknown intelligences, drawing parallels to folklore and hauntings. Calderon also offers his work for potential inclusion in the magazine, encouraging the team to continue their efforts.

Book Reviews and Publications

The magazine features a "LIVRES" (Books) section highlighting several publications:

• A PARAÎTRE le nouveau FAUCHEREAU: An upcoming book by Remy Fauchereau compiling UFO cases from the "Yonne" region, including new cases since 2009. It is described as an inventory of cases with over 100 pages and color photo-montages. It is priced at 16.00 euros plus 3.00 euros for shipping.
• Inventaire 1872-2014 des manifestations O.V.N.I. dans l'Yonne by Rémy Fauchereau: This book is a catalog of 103 cases from October 1952 to June 2005, covering a range of phenomena from explainable to inexplicable. It is 252 pages and published by Vent Terral.
• Marliens et les cas similaires (les dossiers de S.O n°5) by P. Vachon and P. Seray: This publication details strange traces found in a field in Marliens near Dijon in 1967, linking it to other similar cases and the Valensole affair. It is a 5th opus of the SO dossiers, aiming to open reflection on the nature of these traces.
• UFOMANIA 812-46 DINER UFOLOGIQUE EN TARN, LOT ET AVEYRON: explications...: This section announces planned ufology gatherings in the Tarn, Lot, and Aveyron regions to foster local interest and build a network of enthusiasts. Didier Gomez is the contact person for these events.
• Le Guide pratique de l'enquêteur de terrain: A practical guide for UFO investigators, updated in May 2008.
• OVNI Contacts (DVD) by Planète OVNI & Artcastle Productions: A DVD featuring interviews from the first European UFO meetings in Châlons-en-Champagne in October 2005.
• OVNI Contacts << first encounters >> (double DVD) by Artcastle-productions: Another DVD release from Artcastle-productions.
• 2èmes Rencontres Rapprochées, Graulhet, 2006: A DVD documenting the second Close Encounters event in Graulhet.
• L'Eure des OVNIS by Didier Gomez: A book by Didier Gomez published by Lacour in 2001.

Additionally, the magazine lists its back issues available for purchase, with detailed descriptions of the contents of each issue from N°48 to N°78, covering various themes like Marian apparitions, humanoid encounters, Belgian UFOs, and the GEIPAN organization.

Upcoming Publication

Page 4 announces UFOmania magazine n°80 À paraître en septembre 2014, featuring a cover story titled "La grande mystification" by Jean Sider, subtitled "Des forces intelligentes 2 inconnues?". The description highlights Sider's exploration of aquatic phenomena, ball lightning, unknown animals, and the catastrophic consequences of encounters with unknown intelligence. It also touches upon media disinformation regarding UFOs and suggests that UFOs are part of a larger, emerging explanation for paranormal phenomena. Another book by Jean-Marie Bigorne, "CHASSEUR D'OVNI: MÉMOIRES D'UN ENQUÊTEUR DE TERRAIN", is also featured, detailing his personal investigations and encounters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes ufology as a field of serious investigation, encouraging detailed case analysis and the sharing of information among enthusiasts. There's a clear emphasis on French and European UFO cases, with a particular focus on regional investigations (Yonne, Tarn, Marliens). The editorial stance appears to be open to diverse perspectives within ufology, while also acknowledging the need for scientific rigor and critical thinking, as evidenced by the discussion on avoiding internal disputes and the promotion of practical investigation guides. The magazine also seems to engage with broader themes of paranormal phenomena, unexplained events, and the potential for manipulation of human perception by unknown forces.