Univers OVNI - No 1 - 1996 mars-mai

Magazine Overview

Title: Univers OVNI
Issue: Numéro 1
Date: Mars/Mai 1996
Publisher: Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux (CERPA)
Country: France
Language: French

This inaugural issue of Univers OVNI, 'LA REVUE DE TOUTE L'UFOLOGIE' (The Review of All Ufology), aims to provide comprehensive information on UFO phenomena without bias. The editorial, 'Edito', acknowledges financial difficulties but expresses joy in presenting this new publication, emphasizing CERPA's status as an independent, non-profit association. It calls for contributions from researchers and the public to enrich the magazine. The editorial board is listed, along with key personnel and collaborators for this issue.

Table of Contents

The issue features a diverse range of articles, including:

• Vibrations aériennes en Provence: Investigating mysterious vibrations and exploring the 'Aurora' aircraft hypothesis.
• L'autopsie d'un extraterrestre: Examining the controversial Roswell alien autopsy film.
• L'Extraterrestre né de parents terriens: Proposing that the Roswell autopsy subject might be a human with genetic malformations.
• La machine infernale: Discussing the nature of UFO phenomena.
• Sale temps pour les voyageurs du temps: Exploring time travel theories.
• La Recherche «officielle» OVNI en France: Reviewing official French investigations into UFOs.
• DOSSIER INDE: A special section on India, covering Vimanas and modern manifestations.
• Nouveaux livres: Reviews of recent UFO-related books.
• Flashes, Observations dans le monde, Observation au Col de Vence, Voyage en Russie: Shorter reports and observations.
• La Boutique du CERPA, La Revue des revues, Courrier, La Vie des associations: Sections related to the organization and community.

Vibrations aériennes en Provence: Aurora, le coupable parfait

This extensive article by Philippe Leclerc questions the 'Aurora' hypothesis for the mysterious vibrations experienced in Provence in August 1993. The author details the phenomenon, noting its seismic-like nature but with unusual characteristics, such as an atmospheric origin detected by hydrophones. He dismisses the 'Aurora' explanation by highlighting inconsistencies and the secrecy surrounding such advanced aircraft. Leclerc draws parallels with historical 'BONI' (Bruits d'origine et de nature inconnues - Noises of unknown origin and nature) events, suggesting a pattern of unexplained phenomena that have been deliberately misinterpreted or obscured. The article also critiques the media's role in promoting simplistic explanations and potentially misleading information.

L'Inde: des Vimana aux OVNI

This section explores the ancient Indian concept of Vimanas, described in Sanskrit texts as flying machines, and draws parallels between these ancient descriptions and modern UFO sightings. It suggests a possible link between ancient aerial technology and contemporary UFO phenomena, hinting at a long-standing presence of advanced aerial craft.

La créature de Roswell: Terrien ou Extraterrestre?

This article by Jean Sider critically analyzes the famous Roswell alien autopsy film. Sider meticulously debunks the claim that the creature is extraterrestrial, presenting evidence that it is likely a human with severe genetic malformations, possibly related to the Turner-Albright syndrome. He points out inconsistencies in the story surrounding the film's acquisition and presentation, particularly the claims made by Ray Santilli. Sider argues that the film is a deliberate fabrication, possibly intended for financial gain or as a disinformation campaign to discredit the Roswell incident.

L'autopsie d'un extraterrestre ! (Article by Jean Sider)

This article further details the Roswell incident and the controversy surrounding the alleged alien autopsy film. Jean Sider provides a comparative analysis of the creature in the film versus descriptions from Roswell witnesses, highlighting significant morphological differences, particularly in the number of fingers. He concludes that the film is a fabrication and discusses the media's role in sensationalizing the story. Sider also mentions that the film might have been originally intended for a science fiction movie but was repurposed for disinformation.

Le congrès de Sheffield

This report covers the 1995 International UFO Congress in Sheffield, UK, which featured the screening of the Roswell autopsy film. The article notes the mixed reactions from the audience and specialists, with some finding the film disappointing and unconvincing. It mentions the presence of prominent ufologists and the denial of rumors about Kodak and NASA's involvement in authenticating the film. The report also touches upon other presentations at the congress.

L'autopsie de Roswell

This section, likely a continuation or related piece, delves deeper into the Roswell autopsy film controversy. It discusses the public and media reactions, including critical articles in magazines like Science & Vie and Le Canard enchaîné. The article highlights the financial motivations behind the film's distribution and the inconsistencies in the story presented by its promoter, Ray Santilli. It also explores the possibility that the creature depicted might be a human with rare genetic anomalies, referencing historical cases of polydactyly.

L'Extraterrestre né de parents terriens... ou comment s'enrichir sans trop se fatiguer

This article, by Jean Sider, strongly argues that the creature shown in the Roswell autopsy film is not extraterrestrial but a human with severe genetic malformations, likely a rare case of Turner-Albright syndrome. Sider meticulously dissects the claims made by Ray Santilli, the film's distributor, pointing out numerous contradictions and factual errors. He suggests the film might be a deliberate hoax, possibly for financial gain or to discredit the Roswell incident. The article also criticizes the media's sensationalist coverage of the film.

Les leçons des vieux textes

This section presents two older texts that reflect on the nature of UFO phenomena. The first, by Brian Jeffery, argues that UFOs are not necessarily extraterrestrial visitors but a manifestation of a complex, intelligent phenomenon that deliberately deceives and manipulates human perception. Jeffery suggests that the phenomenon changes its appearance and context to suit circumstances, making it difficult to classify. The second text, by R. Alessandri, discusses the historical evolution of UFO explanations, from 'flying machines' in the early 20th century to 'extraterrestrials' after WWII, suggesting that the phenomenon adapts its presentation to fit prevailing beliefs. Both texts emphasize the intelligent and deceptive nature of UFOs, challenging conventional explanations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions simplistic explanations for UFO phenomena, particularly the 'Aurora' aircraft hypothesis and the extraterrestrial origin of the Roswell autopsy subject. There is a strong emphasis on critical analysis, debunking hoaxes, and exploring the possibility of a more complex, intelligent, and possibly deceptive force behind UFO sightings. The editorial stance is one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to question official narratives and sensationalist claims, and to consider that UFOs might represent a phenomenon that fundamentally challenges our understanding of reality. The magazine aims to be a platform for all aspects of ufology, promoting research and critical thinking.

This issue of UNIVERS OVNI, dated March 1996, features a prominent cover story titled "SALE TEMPS POUR LES VOYAGEURS DU TEMPS !" (Bad Times for Time Travelers!). The magazine delves into various aspects of ufology, including theoretical physics, ancient texts, official investigations, and book reviews.

The Impossibility of Time Travel

The lead article, "SALE TEMPS POUR LES VOYAGEURS DU TEMPS !" by Robert Alessandri, argues that time travel, while a popular science fiction theme, is fundamentally impossible due to the chaotic nature of the universe. Drawing parallels with the "butterfly effect" in meteorology, Alessandri explains that even the slightest perturbation, like a butterfly flapping its wings, can lead to massive, unpredictable changes over time. This inherent chaos means that any attempt to travel to the past, even for observation, would inevitably alter the course of history, leading to paradoxes. The article suggests that the laws of physics might act as a "cosmic censorship," preventing such paradoxes from occurring in practice, even if theoretically possible under extreme conditions like black holes.

Vimanas: Ancient Indian Flying Machines

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to "L'INDE : DES VIMANA AUX OVNIS" (India: From Vimanas to UFOs), exploring ancient Indian literature and its potential connection to UFO phenomena. The article defines "Vimana" as a flying chariot or divine vehicle, citing texts like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. It presents descriptions of these Vimanas, some of which are depicted as advanced, metal-based aircraft with sophisticated propulsion systems, even mentioning solar energy and photographic capabilities. The text distinguishes between these mechanical Vimanas and the more poetic descriptions of divine chariots pulled by celestial horses. The article also touches upon the philosophical and religious context of India, suggesting that UFO sightings might be perceived as manifestations of deities or heroes.

Official UFO Research in France

Another key section, "RECHERCHE OFFICIELLE EN FRANCE" (Official UFO Research in France), details the French government's involvement in investigating UFOs. It describes the role of the C.O.I.A. (Centre opérationnel inter-armées) and the D.R.M. (Direction du renseignement militaire), highlighting their use of real-time data and advanced surveillance systems. The article mentions the involvement of various military branches and intelligence agencies, as well as the existence of specialized units for intelligence gathering and electronic warfare. It also discusses the SEPRA (Service d'expertise des phénomènes de rentrées atmosphériques) at CNES, which succeeded GEPAN, and its director, Jean-Jacques Velasco. The section touches upon the political awareness of the UFO phenomenon, referencing a quote from François Mitterrand and past interactions with high-ranking officials.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

The magazine includes reports of UFO sightings, particularly in India, detailing incidents from the 1950s to the 1980s. These reports describe various phenomena, including cigar-shaped objects, spheres of light, and objects exhibiting advanced maneuverability and electromagnetic effects. The article "MANIFESTATIONS D'OVNIS MODERNES EN INDE" (Modern UFO Manifestations in India) compiles several such reports, noting the cultural context in India where UFOs might be integrated into a religious or mythological framework.

Book Reviews

Several books on ufology and related topics are reviewed:

• Budd Hopkins: Enlèvements extraterrestres, les témoins parlent (Extraterrestrial Abductions, Witnesses Speak): Praised as a serious study of abductions by a leading expert.
• David M. Jacobs: Kidnappeurs d'un autre monde (Kidnappers from Another World): A more scientific approach to abductions, analyzing numerous cases and concluding they are real extraterrestrial experiments.
• Gildas Bourdais: Enquête sur l'existence d'êtres célestes et cosmiques (Inquiry into the Existence of Celestial and Cosmic Beings): Explores the connection between UFOs and religious visions, with a balanced perspective.
• Jean Sider: Ovnis: dossier secret (UFOs: Secret Dossier): Explores the idea of a vaguely defined intelligence manipulating humanity, moving beyond the simple extraterrestrial hypothesis.
• Jean Sider: Contacts Supra-terrestres - leurres et manipulations (Supra-terrestrial Contacts - Lures and Manipulations): Continues Sider's exploration of paranormal phenomena and their connection to UFOs.
• Armand Delsemme: Les Origines cosmiques de la vie (The Cosmic Origins of Life): A scientific overview of cosmology and the evolution of life, with a brief mention of UFOs.
• Roger Faligot et Rémi Kauffer: Le Marché du Diable (The Devil's Market): Investigates irrationality, including psychics, cults, and secret societies, with some debatable conclusions.
• Alain Gillot-Pétré: les Charlatans du Ciel (The Charlatans of the Sky): Critiques astrologers, UFO believers, and meteorologists, though the review suggests the author lacks understanding of the subjects he criticizes.

Flashes

This section provides brief news items, including:

• A UFO hotline in the USA.
• The death of Bernardin, director of the Crazy Horse Saloon, who had a UFO sighting.
• The passing of Perrin de Brichambaut and Philippe Schneyder, notable figures in French ufology.
• A UFO conference in Marseille by Monseigneur William Schaffner.
• A UFO discussion on France 3 featuring ufologists.
• A UFO conference in Paris by Jean-Gabriel Greslé.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, mythology, and unexplained phenomena. There's a clear skepticism towards simplistic explanations, particularly from the "socio-psychological" school of thought, and a leaning towards more direct, albeit sometimes speculative, interpretations of UFO evidence. The editorial stance appears to favor serious investigation into UFOs, acknowledging the complexity of the phenomenon and the potential for advanced, non-human intelligence. The recurring theme is the search for truth, whether through scientific inquiry, historical analysis of ancient texts, or examination of official investigations, while also acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the possibility of manipulation or deception.

UNIVERS OVNI, Issue No. 1, published in March 1996 by CERPA, is a French-language magazine dedicated to ufology. This inaugural issue features a prominent report on a new observation at the Col de Vence, France, alongside other UFO sightings from around the world, including Mexico and China. It also delves into the investigation of the 1990 UFO wave in France, a travelogue of a ufological trip to Russia, and reviews of UFO-related media.

Observations Around the World

Mexico Sighting

On Thursday, March 23, 1995, over 300 people in Ahacatlan, Nayarit, Mexico, witnessed four luminous, round objects hovering motionless for nearly ten minutes. According to a journalist, three of the objects then departed at high speed, followed by the fourth.

China Encounter

In February 1995, while a Boeing 737 was descending for landing at Guizhou airport in China, the pilot detected an unknown object on his anti-collision system at an altitude of 24,000 meters. The object, initially diamond-shaped at 2,000 meters, transformed into a circular, yellow-red form. The pilot altered course, landing safely, while the phenomenon remained visible on radar for an hour before disappearing towards the mountains. Civil aviation authorities concluded it was a UFO. The magazine also notes a previous UFO sighting in a forest north of Guiyang in November 1994.

New Observation at Col de Vence

On the night of April 4-5, 1995, five CERPA members observed a phenomenon at the Col de Vence, France. Initially mistaking a bluish, opaque cloud-like object for a shooting star, they approached and saw a sphere approximately fifteen meters in diameter, hovering about four meters above the ground and rotating without sound. The observation lasted three minutes before the sphere ascended vertically at high speed. The next day, they found displaced stones and evidence of earth being 'plowed' in the area. The report connects this to Templar traditions and cosmo-telluric forces. The observation was reported to the gendarmerie, and an investigation by CERPA is detailed, including information from the gendarmerie and a report in 'Nice Matin'. The article also mentions another witness who saw a large, reddish, vaporous shape moving towards Nice the same night, raising questions about whether it was the same phenomenon. A subsequent visit to the site revealed large blocks of stone had been moved, though an expert suggested this happened months prior. A tape recorder left running captured strange crackling noises.

CERPA Investigation

The CERPA investigation into the Col de Vence sighting is presented. The gendarmerie of Vence reported the observation, but the SEPRA (Service d'expertise des phénomènes de rentrées atmosphériques) of CNES did not deem it necessary to investigate. A 'Nice Matin' reader suggested methane emissions, which the article dismisses. The CERPA team found another witness who observed a large, reddish, vaporous shape. The investigation noted that large stones in the doline had been moved, but an expert suggested this occurred months before the sighting. A tape recorder captured strange noises. The article concludes by noting that the site is known for unexplained phenomena, including stone-throwing.

A Look at UFOs in the World

Overview of a Conference on UFOs (FNAC, Toulouse, March 13, 1995)

The article summarizes a conference featuring Yves Lignon and Jean-Jacques Velasco of SEPRA. They discussed the official approach to UFOs (termed PANI - Phénomènes aérospatiaux non identifiés) and the differences between state and private investigations. Regarding the November 5, 1990, wave, SEPRA attributed it to a Russian rocket, dismissing witness accounts of varied shapes and pilot testimonies. Velasco claimed France has no photos confirming UFO sightings, a statement criticized by the author. The article also touches on radar echoes being dismissed as noise and the Trans-en-Provence ground trace case, noting abnormal iron and zinc levels and temperature elevation. The SEPRA's 'Simovni' device for simulating light phenomena is mentioned. Statistics suggest 30% of cases are explainable, 30% unexploitable, and the most enigmatic occurred between 1974-1978.

'Science' Magazine on UFOs

This section critiques a dossier in 'Science & Vie' magazine from May 1995, which proposed Michael Persinger's theory of magnetic fields inducing hallucinations as a 'new piste' for explaining UFO sightings. The author argues this theory is not new and has significant objections, such as the weak link between earthquakes and UFOs, and the difficulty of explaining hallucinations mimicking UFO observations. The article also criticizes 'Science & Vie' for focusing solely on alien abduction narratives and dismissing physical evidence, contrasting this with Carl Jung's more cautious approach.

'Invaders are Back'

A brief mention of the return of alien-themed media, including TV films and the movie 'Independence Day', highlighting the resurgence of extraterrestrial invasion narratives.

The CERPA Voyage

Trip to the Land of Soviets and Cossacks

This article details a private trip taken by CERPA and GEFRU members to Russia in the summer of 1994. The journey aimed to meet Russian ufologists and explore the country's ufological landscape. The group traveled through Poland to Moscow, where they met with Boris Chourinov and Anatoli Listratov, key figures in the Moscow Ufological Society. They also visited the Aura-Z research group, which publishes a prestigious ufology magazine. The trip continued to Saint Petersburg, described as a beautiful city with rich history and architecture. They also visited Peterhof, the former tsarist residence. The article notes the proliferation of ufological groups in Russia, some of which are less scrupulous, and the challenges of international collaboration due to communication costs. The authors express optimism about future discoveries in Russia with increased freedom of expression.

Reviews of Reviews

This section provides summaries of various ufological bulletins received by CERPA, including 'Inforerespace', 'La Ligne Bleue Survolée', 'Ufomania', 'UFO' (Italy), 'UFOS: Mir NLO' (Russia), and 'Magazyn ufologiczny' (Poland). It highlights articles on topics such as crop circles, PANI, the 5th November 1990 wave, and ufological research methods.

Mailbag

Jean-Pierre Petit on the Ummo Affair

Jean-Pierre Petit responds to an article in 'AMA' magazine regarding the Ummo affair. He humorously dismisses claims made by Spanish contactees, suggesting the Ummites themselves dictated their statements. Petit asserts his continued scientific work, mentioning publications in 'Nuovo Cimento' and 'Astrophysics and Space Science', and announces upcoming books.

Robert Alessandri on '5 Novembre 1990: le creux de la vague'

Robert Alessandri receives a critique of his book on the November 5, 1990, UFO wave from Gilles Munsch. Munsch praises the book's thoroughness but points out several minor errors in dates, directions, and terminology. He also criticizes the book's author, Franck Marie, for perceived lack of rigor and biased interpretations, suggesting that 'Banque-Ovni' may react negatively to Alessandri's work.

'5 Novembre 1990: le creux de la vague' - Book Review

This review of Robert Alessandri's book states that the SEPRA, citing NASA, explained the November 5, 1990, sightings as the disintegration of a Russian Proton rocket stage. However, many ufologists reject this explanation due to contradictions. The review suggests that SEPRA's errors might stem from incompetence rather than deliberate concealment. The book aims to clarify atmospheric re-entry phenomena and explain the 1990 wave, providing a solid basis for future research.

CERPA Activities and Publications

CERPA Shop

This section lists books, video cassettes, and other items available for purchase from CERPA, including works by notable ufologists like Jean Sider, Jacques Vallée, and Budd Hopkins, as well as CERPA's own publications and videos on UFO phenomena and sites.

CERPA's Activities and the Year 1995

The magazine reports on CERPA's activities in 1995, including the organization of the fourth international ufology conference in Marseille, which featured speakers like Budd Hopkins and Jean-Pierre Petit. It also mourns the loss of three members: Jacqueline Bau, Gilles Pfauwadel, and Sylvain Nardielo. The section also mentions the annual meeting organized by Francine Fouéré and the 'Heure de vérité' events organized by CEOF in Marseille.

The Life of Associations

This section provides updates on various ufological associations. It details CERPA's activities, including its international conference and the passing of members. It mentions the 'Heure de vérité' events organized by CEOF and the 'Les Amis de Jean Miguères' association, formed in memory of contactee Jean Miguères. It also notes that 'Ufomania' has moved and that the 'C.V.L.D.L.N.' (Cercle vosgien Lumières dans la nuit) has merged with CNEGU, with its publication continuing under a new name.

Products

A Flying Saucer in Your Living Room!

This advertisement promotes the 'URANE' model flying saucer, a decorative item with various light effects, priced at 360 F plus shipping. An AC adapter is available separately.

'The Extraterrestrial' from Roswell: The Autopsy Video!

This advertisement features a video cassette titled 'L'AUTOPSIE D'UN EXTRATERRESTRE EN VIDÉO !' presented by Jacques Pradel. It claims to show the integral film of an alien autopsy, along with analyses by experts and reflections from various personalities. The price is 135 F plus shipping.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance appears to be one of critical investigation, valuing both official and private research while scrutinizing claims and methodologies. There's a strong emphasis on detailed reporting of sightings, analysis of evidence, and fostering a community through CERPA's activities. The editorial tone is informative and encourages reader participation, as seen in the calls for subscriptions, adherence, and the distribution of the magazine. The issue also reflects a growing interest in international ufology and the media's portrayal of UFO phenomena.