Vaucluse Ufologie - No 22-23 - Juin-Septembre 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: VAUCLUSE UFOLOGIE

Issue: N° 22/23

Date: January 1983

Publisher: GREPO (Groupement de Recherche et d'Etude du Phénomène O.V.N.I.)

Type: Quarterly Information Bulletin

Country: France

Language: French

Overview: This double issue of Vaucluse Ufologie marks the return of the publication after a break. The editorial reflects on the group's continuity and its role within national and European ufological organizations. The issue prominently features interviews conducted in 1980 with Jean Giraud, author of "Les Soucoupes Volantes," discussing his extensive UFO investigations and evolving perspectives on the phenomenon. It also includes a table of contents listing various articles and investigations.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Jean-Pierre and Lilyane Troadec, announces the return of Vaucluse Ufologie after a "double sabbatical year." They acknowledge the passing of their Honorary President, Camille Ferrier, and pay tribute to his fidelity and friendship. Despite challenges, GREPO continues its activities, participating in national and European ufological meetings and maintaining its local bi-monthly meetings. The editorial notes a perceived lack of militancy among ufological groups but affirms the group's structural continuity. Vaucluse Ufologie will continue to be published, albeit episodically, based on available information and the team's availability. GREPO remains a member of the Fédération Française d'Ufologie (FFU) and the Comité Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique. Jean-Pierre Troadec has been appointed Secretary General of the FFU for one year, with plans for a congress in Lyon in 1983. The issue contains interviews promised since March 1981, acknowledging that the views expressed reflect the authors' perspectives in 1980 and may have evolved since. The interviews are presented as transcriptions of oral conversations, aiming to preserve spontaneity. The editorial concludes with New Year's wishes for 1983.

Table of Contents

The table of contents lists several articles and interviews:

• Interviews conducted by J.P. and L. Troadec in 1980:
• Jean Giraud (p. 3)
• Bertrand Meheust (p. 12)
• Thierry Pinvidic (p. 18)
• Jean Luc Rivera (p. 29)
• Investigation conducted by Alain Barnicaud:
• The Bible and UFOs (p. 34)
• The point of view of Xavier Molle (p. 37)
• Landing lights and aircraft fires (p. 39)
• Diagrams by R. Faurdin (p. 40)
• Clouds (continuation of an article from issue #16) by R. Faurdin (p. 41)
• In conclusion... (p. 45)

Interview with Jean Giraud

This section features an extensive interview with Jean Giraud, conducted in Montluçon on August 17, 1980. Giraud, author of "Les Soucoupes Volantes - Le Grand Refus," discusses his lifelong interest in the unusual, dating back to childhood curiosity about the sky. His interest in ufology specifically began around age 10-11, coinciding with the 1954 wave of sightings. He recalls being influenced by popular science publications of the time, such as "Planète" and "Le Matin des Magiciens."

He recounts the creation of the group 03100 in Montluçon, which started with a conference and evolved into a regular meeting at the Maison des Jeunes. Initially comprising about thirty people, the group has since dwindled to about 6-7 core members. Giraud states that the group's formation was motivated by the 1973-74 UFO wave.

Giraud began his ufological career with "OURANOS," which was the first publication to accept his articles. He had previously submitted articles to other magazines like GEPA and LDLN, with GEPA never responding and LDLN providing a polite but vague reply. OURANOS, through Delval, was enthusiastic and offered to publish his work, requesting research proposals.

He mentions having written around 500 investigations, initially for LDLN and OURANOS, and would have sent them to GEPA if they had responded. Giraud highlights a particular investigation published in the first issue of "Soucoupes Volantes CHAUVIGNY-MAGONIA" as being particularly striking due to the witness's personality and the unusual nature of the phenomenon, which deviated from the classic "flying saucer" narrative.

Regarding his current view of the UFO phenomenon in 1980, Giraud describes it as a complex and "rotten" problem. He contrasts his earlier, naive belief in extraterrestrial visitors with his current uncertainty. He feels that much of the research is based on unreliable data and that many theories, while attractive, are built on shaky foundations. He acknowledges that his own ideas have evolved over time, admitting that his writings from the past may not reflect his current thinking.

Giraud expresses a critical view of ufologists who remain "happy fools," suggesting that a serious approach to ufology can be psychologically taxing and potentially lead to mental distress. He advocates for maintaining a critical distance from the subject, comparing it to not taking the devil too seriously. He believes that while ufology can be enriching, it should not consume one's entire life, and that ufologists should have other occupations and interests.

He discusses his book "Le Grand Refus," calling it a product of youthful enthusiasm and an "incredible mess" that needs further study. He emphasizes the importance of thorough investigation, which may take years, and the need to gain the witness's trust and intimacy. He also stresses the value of collaboration with competent scientists, particularly in medicine and psychology, to better understand witnesses.

Giraud suggests that while it's important to investigate all cases, including those from the distant past or space, the focus should be on finding simple, logical explanations. He believes that the 1897 airship wave, while historically interesting for understanding public perception, offers little concrete information about the phenomenon itself, and that most cases can be explained by conventional means, though he acknowledges the possibility of genuine unknowns.

He advises against taking ufology too seriously, suggesting that it can be a path to delusion if not approached with a healthy detachment. He believes that one should always question oneself and be open to the possibility of error, citing Rémi Chauvin's view that one has the right to make mistakes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of ufological research, the personal evolution of researchers, and the challenges of interpreting UFO phenomena. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of continued research while advocating for a balanced and critical approach, warning against excessive seriousness that could lead to psychological strain. The publication aims to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints and investigations within the ufological community, particularly concerning the Vaucluse region and broader French ufology.

This issue of "L'Écho des Ovnis" features interviews with two prominent figures in French ufology: Bertrand Meheust and Thierry Pinvidic. The content delves into various aspects of UFO research, including historical cases, psychological interpretations, and the relationship between UFOs, mythology, and religion.

Interview with Bertrand Meheust

Bertrand Meheust, author of "Science Fiction et Soucoupe Volante," discusses his approach to ufology, which began in 1964. He recounts how he initially encountered the work of Aimé Michel and later became involved in investigations with GEPAN. Meheust critiques the prevailing ufological views of his time, particularly regarding the 1896-1897 UFO wave, arguing that many ufologists had a preconceived notion that flying objects were absent in the US during that era. He claims to have taken an inverse approach, using French press archives to demonstrate the presence of numerous flying objects.

Meheust explains that his discovery was not a result of active searching by other ufologists like Hynek, Monnerie, or Christiane Piens, but rather their failure to consider the possibility. He has shared his findings with Christiane Piens and Monnerie, and plans to do so with American researchers.

Regarding the 1954 UFO wave, Meheust dismisses the work of Barthel and Brucker, stating their efforts to 'reduce' cases were superficial. He acknowledges that some cases have been debunked by serious investigators, but asserts that Barthel and Brucker did not successfully reduce the 1954 wave.

Meheust addresses the 'Antonia case,' calling it 'bidon' (bogus) and stating he provided the witness's details but does not insist on its veracity. He also refutes claims that he invented the witness, suggesting the case was problematic because he introduced psychoanalysis into UFO research.

He views psychoanalysis as a potentially dangerous tool that can be used to make people say anything. However, he used it to show the parallels between abduction narratives and content from patients on a psychiatrist's couch, without claiming psychoanalysis could solve the phenomenon. He emphasizes that he merely pointed out the coincidence and did not suggest sending witnesses to psychiatrists.

Meheust is skeptical of contactee cases like Adamski's, viewing them as primarily neuro-psychiatric phenomena. He believes that in genuine UFO cases, there's a 'window effect' separating the witness from the phenomenon, making them passive observers. When witnesses interact with the phenomenon, it often reflects their own philosophical or religious preoccupations.

He does not believe there is a deliberate cover-up of UFO information by French authorities, stating they are simply overwhelmed. He also feels that television coverage of UFOs is limited to anecdotal, 'pipi de chat' (cat's pee) information, not a deliberate suppression.

Meheust expresses strong criticism of the GEPAN under Poher, calling its work 'tripette' (worthless). He notes that Monnerie, Barthel, and Brucker are now promoting Poher's work, possibly with the endorsement of Schatzman. He has no current relationship with GEPAN under Esterle.

He does not see the Union Rationaliste as inherently harmful to ufologists, comparing it to ufology itself, which has both good and bad practitioners. He criticizes Schatzman as a 'borné' (narrow-minded) rationalist but acknowledges that some rationalists are very interesting. He emphasizes that everyone, regardless of their affiliation, has flaws and virtues.

Meheust considers Aimé Michel potentially more dangerous to ufology than Schatzman because his work might be accepted uncritically, whereas Schatzman's views are generally dismissed by ufologists.

In conclusion, Meheust expresses happiness and a love for ufology.

Interview with Thierry Pinvidic

Thierry Pinvidic, author of "Le Noeud Gordien ou la fantastique histoire des OVNI," explains his entry into ufology was prompted by Guy Tarade's book "Soucoupes volantes et civilisations d'outre-espace." Initially drawn to science fiction and mysticism, he later focused exclusively on UFOs, finding the field to be more seriously investigated.

Pinvidic admits to a need for compensation, having aspired to astrophysics and astronomy but finding the mathematical requirements beyond his academic capabilities. He then turned to biology, but it did not fulfill his major interests. His lifelong fascination with space and astronomy led him to learn about celestial bodies and galaxies from a young age.

He discusses his book, which explores the connection between science fiction and UFO phenomena. He notes that while his book includes illustrations, a comprehensive collection of visual material is primarily American and difficult to access. He also acknowledges that comic strips and films often lag behind literature in adopting new themes.

Pinvidic challenges Jean Giraud's (Moebius) assertion that UFOs are purely a product of imagination. He argues that while imagination plays a role, there are aspects of UFO phenomena that do not fit into existing mythical frameworks, suggesting a degree of novelty.

He elaborates on the idea that UFO imagery, particularly in close encounters, can be 'familiar' not to the individual witness's mental universe, but to the collective myths and mental images of the species. He uses the example of glossolalia in mystical phenomena, where individuals speak in languages they haven't learned but which exist in the collective human consciousness.

Pinvidic classifies contactee cases as primarily neuro-psychiatric, contrasting them with genuine UFO cases where a 'window effect' separates the witness from the phenomenon. He suggests that when witnesses interact with UFOs, it often reflects their personal philosophical or religious beliefs.

He believes ufology is currently experiencing a period of 'malaise' due to the excessive naivety of some ufologists who projected overly 'thingified' models from science fiction. When rationalist critiques emerged, many swung to the opposite extreme of disillusionment.

Pinvidic suggests that the UFO phenomenon is becoming increasingly elusive, leading to a decline in interest from some groups and ufologists. He compares this to the early days of archaeology, which began with amateurs and evolved into a specialized scientific discipline. He posits that as ufology becomes more complex and less about fulfilling romantic dreams, those attracted by its mythical aspects may withdraw.

He emphasizes the importance of private UFO research groups in France, seeing them as essential for organizing and specializing, much like country doctors refer patients to hospitals. These groups quadrille the territory and provide a necessary structure.

Pinvidic's current research focuses on placing UFO discussions in a historical context, arguing that the phenomenon is not exclusive to the 20th century. He believes that previous debates about angels and spirit phenomena in theology and history contain similar arguments to those surrounding UFOs. He is also interested in the religious implications of UFOs, noting the tendency of some to embrace these connections uncritically (cultists) while others reject them entirely, fearing a deviation from science. He advocates for critical thinking, which involves critiquing both cultist projections and the denial of religious structures within the UFO phenomenon.

His research involves studying UFO documents, religious criticism, theology, and the history of spiritualism and angelology. He acknowledges that some UFO cases involve healings, but is unaware of stigmatized cases, which he associates with mystics.

Pinvidic discusses the case of Dr. X, whose healing was spectacular, and an Argentinian man who reportedly regrew teeth. He stresses the need to examine medical expertise in such cases.

He concludes that there is a strong resemblance between prophetic phenomena and UFO phenomena. He presents two hypotheses: either UFOs are a psycho-social construct, or they represent phenomena that have always existed and are linked to religious development. He finds the latter hypothesis more compelling, despite its complexity, and is currently exploring its consequences.

Regarding contactees, Pinvidic believes that while some cases like the Andreasson affair are robust, many others involve 'filous' (tricksters) or 'fous' (madmen). He likens it to a pyramid with a real core and a mass of human-generated fantasies. He questions whether the phenomenon induces these fantasies or if human imagination projects them onto the phenomenon.

In terms of his past, present, and future research, Pinvidic states he has refined his position. He initially questioned whether UFOs represented a radical novelty or a partial one. He now believes there is a degree of novelty, requiring a 'trigger' or 'relay' to transition from fiction to the 1947 phenomenon. His current focus is on identifying this relay mechanism.

He identifies critical points and thresholds in UFO research, particularly the transition from observing a phenomenon that eludes scientific investigation to recognizing it as an intelligence. He believes we have enough material to identify the existence of a phenomenon that consistently defies proposed models. The challenge lies in crossing the threshold to intentionality, as science typically rejects attributing intentions to matter. However, if UFOs are indeed intelligent, they possess intentionality, creating a critical threshold where the effort of scientific investigation may become unjustified.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The issue consistently explores the intersection of ufology with psychology, religion, and science fiction. There's a critical examination of established ufological methods and a call for rigorous, nuanced investigation. The interviews suggest a move away from simplistic explanations towards a more complex understanding of the phenomenon, acknowledging both its potential reality and the human psychological and cultural factors involved in its interpretation. The editorial stance appears to favor critical inquiry and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom within the field.

This issue of OVNI magazine, identified as issue number 22 from volume 1 and dated 1980, focuses on the intricate methodologies and challenges within UFO research. The publication is in French and appears to be from France.

Key Articles and Discussions

The central theme revolves around the scientific approach to studying UFO phenomena, with a particular emphasis on the Magonia project. The interviewee expresses a deep personal interest in UFOs, seeing it as a way to compensate for a lack of progress in biology and driven by a need for research.

The Magonia Project and Research Methodology

The interviewee explains that the Magonia project, initiated around 1975-1977, aims to develop the necessary tools for rigorous UFO research. This involves understanding how people distort observations and how memory filters information, necessitating simulations and the development of analytical frameworks. The project involves collecting responses from a wide range of people across France and internationally, with a growing number of university consultants, including 19 in 1980, 12 of whom are doctors.

The research is expected to take considerable time, with preliminary statistical analysis potentially taking one to five years. The process involves transmitting raw statistics, restitutions of files, and listings to consultants for their own analyses and suggestions, leading to refined research plans and detailed data analysis.

Challenges in Witness Testimony and Information Processing

A significant portion of the discussion addresses the difficulties in gathering reliable witness testimony. The interviewee notes that conducting an effective investigation is extremely challenging due to the way information is distorted and filtered by memory. The project aims to measure these phenomena, including how observations are reported and how information degrades.

Historical UFO Waves

The magazine touches upon historical UFO waves. The 1954 wave in France is described as potentially a 'journalistic wave of flying saucer delirium' possibly grafted onto a real foundation, noting the sheer volume of press articles from that era. In contrast, the 1973-1974 wave is seen as having been investigated differently, with less emphasis on extraterrestrial narratives, leading to greater confidence and quicker access to witnesses.

Ufology in France vs. the United States

Regarding international comparisons, the interviewee believes that while many US academics are interested in UFOs, France is more advanced in developing theoretical frameworks and hypotheses about the phenomenon. The rhetorical aspect of ufological research is seen as more developed in Europe.

The Role of Private UFO Groups

The utility of private UFO groups is questioned, with the interviewee suggesting that compilation work is the most valuable contribution. While acknowledging the importance of information gathering, the interviewee feels that private groups currently have limited impact on actual research, primarily serving to preserve information that may later be studied by scientists.

The 'Montluçon 1980' Test

A specific test conducted at the Montluçon UFO Congress in April 1980 is detailed. Participants were shown a Dali painting for 30 seconds and then asked to describe it, including a trick question about an inkwell. The analysis of the results revealed that while some minor details were accurately reported, many participants introduced elements not present or distorted details, highlighting the suggestibility of witnesses and the potential for interviewer bias.

Physical Traces and Photographic Evidence

The discussion extends to physical traces, with a mention of research into the correlation between high-tension lines and UFO incidents. Regarding photographic evidence, a 'document' is considered interesting only if analyzed, with negatives available, and accompanied by a clear deposition of observation conditions, visual observations, and photographic equipment analysis. The case of the New Zealand film studied by Bruce Maccabee is cited as an example of rigorous photographic analysis.

The State of Ufology

The interviewee expresses a sense of malaise within ufology, suggesting that significant progress requires a thorough examination of related fields such as altered states of consciousness, the sociology of the paranormal, myths, and superstition. Without this foundational work, reliable discourse on UFOs is deemed impossible.

Sociological Aspects of UFO Phenomena

A strong emphasis is placed on the social aspect of the UFO phenomenon, aligning with the views of Jacques Vallée. The interviewee believes that ufology, regardless of the existence of UFOs, is fundamentally a subject for reflection, with its social implications being paramount.

Interview Techniques

The concept of a 'centered interview' is explained as a psychological technique to focus the witness's narrative without introducing bias. This method aims to extract information effectively by guiding the witness back to the core topic when they deviate.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical need for rigorous scientific methodology in UFO research, the inherent challenges and biases in witness testimony, the historical context of UFO sightings, and the sociological dimensions of the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a more scientific, analytical, and psychologically informed approach to ufology, moving beyond anecdotal evidence and speculative theories towards a deeper understanding of the underlying human and social factors involved.

This issue of NOSTRA magazine, dated February 25, 1981, focuses on ufology, with a particular emphasis on humanoid sightings and the controversial intersection of biblical texts with extraterrestrial phenomena. The magazine features interviews, investigative reports, and analytical articles.

Interview with Jean-Luc Rivera

The issue begins with an interview with Jean-Luc Rivera, a collaborator on the book "Apparitions d'Humanoides" by Eric Zurcher. Rivera discusses his entry into ufology, sparked by science fiction and early UFO literature. He admits to not having published any personal investigations, deeming them not significant enough. Rivera offers his perspective on French ufology, categorizing groups into 'marginal' elements that harm the field, well-meaning but unfocused groups, and a third group doing effective work that is elevating French ufology globally. He also praises the potential of G.E.P.A.N. Rivera details his collaboration with Alain Gamard on the "HUMCAT" (HUManoid CATalogue) project, which aims to be an exhaustive compilation of humanoid sightings worldwide, working in conjunction with Ted Bloecher, the US specialist.

Rivera explains that the French catalogue is integrated into the larger HUMCAT, which currently contains around 2,500 cases. He clarifies that "contact" cases are included but distinguished from pure humanoid observations. He discusses the inclusion of controversial cases like Raël's, noting they are catalogued with a negative mention to aid in identifying hoaxes. The purpose of including such cases is to learn from them and expose other deceptions. Rivera notes that while France has many humanoid observations, pinpointing specific regions is difficult as it correlates with investigation density. He describes French humanoid sightings as often being small in stature with large heads, or of normal size.

He mentions similar research in Brazil, Australia, and the US, though he finds some US samples too small. Rivera confirms ongoing collaboration with researchers in the US, Canada, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, and Australia, with weaker ties to South America. He highlights abduction cases, particularly from the US and South America, as particularly strange and significant, noting they constitute about 10% of the HUMCAT cases since the 1970s.

Rivera expresses optimism for French ufology, seeing it as creative and dynamic. He contrasts this with American ufology, which he finds more organized but less innovative. He notes the commercialization of UFOs in the US, from merchandise to political propaganda. He believes the commercial aspect is also present in France, citing the success of Raël and the sale of UFO-themed merchandise by serious publications.

Regarding key figures, Rivera acknowledges Jacques Vallee and Major Keyhoe as important references in ufology, with Vallee particularly stimulating critical thinking.

Investigation: Alain Barnicaud

This section details an investigation by Alain Barnicaud into a sighting by a 28-year-old parking attendant near Avignon on the night of March 3-4, 1981. The witness, initially skeptical, reported seeing a group of three double lights, described as an elongated orange mass, moving like a reaction aircraft. The objects performed complex maneuvers, including curves and intermingled movements, before accelerating and disappearing. The witness estimated the altitude at 1000m and the observation duration at one minute. He later saw a fast-moving orange light that emitted a blue flash. The witness's credibility is noted as being good, and he is described as sincere and not prone to alcohol abuse.

A sketch illustrates the phenomenon, showing the movement of the objects and their formation.

E.T. and the Phenomenon

This brief section comments on the media frenzy surrounding Steven Spielberg's film "E.T.", noting the extensive coverage in French and international press and television. It highlights the film's emotional impact, quoting actress Ornella Muti.

The Bible and UFOs

This extended section explores the controversial theory that UFOs and extraterrestrials are connected to biblical events and figures. It features an article by Dr. Barry H. Downing, a physicist and Presbyterian preacher, who argues in his book "The Bible and Flying Saucers" that UFOs are a reality and that biblical figures like Moses and Elijah encountered extraterrestrials.

Downing suggests that these beings, described as superior to humans and from the far reaches of the galaxy, acted as messengers of God, dictating biblical texts and influencing human history. He interprets biblical events such as the parting of the Red Sea, the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai, and the conversion of Saint Paul as potential UFO encounters. He believes this interpretation does not contradict the concept of God but rather re-examines the methods of divine communication.

Priest Xavier Molle critically analyzes Downing's thesis. Molle argues that Downing and similar proponents of the 'ufological interpretation of the Bible' often misunderstand biblical sciences and selectively use texts. He points out that many biblical narratives were written centuries after the events they describe and have undergone oral transmission and textual revisions, often with specific religious intentions. Molle emphasizes the importance of understanding Hebrew and ancient Semitic cultures, as well as the development of Israelite religious thought, which evolved over time, culminating in the concept of Yahveh as the sole God.

Molle refutes the idea that the Bible is filled with constant miracles or divine interventions, stating that the miraculous is relatively limited. He clarifies the role of 'angels' as intermediaries of Yahveh, not necessarily extraterrestrials, and criticizes the notion of extraterrestrials being the agents of divine revelation. He argues that Downing's interpretation, while attempting to reconcile science and religion, ultimately dilutes Christian faith and could lead to a schism within religious communities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the detailed cataloging of humanoid sightings, the nature of ufological research and organizations in France and abroad, and the controversial interpretation of religious texts through the lens of UFO phenomena. The magazine presents a balanced approach, featuring both proponents of these theories and critical analyses, suggesting an editorial stance that encourages open discussion and critical examination of evidence and interpretations within the field of ufology.

This issue of "UFO" magazine, volume 3, issue 17, published in 1983, focuses on a variety of topics related to aerial phenomena and atmospheric science. The cover prominently features information on aircraft lighting systems and a section on Marian apparitions. The magazine includes detailed articles on atmospheric notions, cloud formation, and classification, alongside reports of UFO sightings.

Aircraft Lighting and UFOs

The article "FEUX DES AERONEFS" (Aircraft Lights) details the regulatory lighting requirements for aircraft in flight or on aerodrome maneuvering areas. It explains that lights can be continuous or flashing and may include additional red and white flashing lights. The section "PHARES D'ATTERRISSAGE" (Landing Lights) discusses powerful landing lights, particularly on military and commercial aircraft. It notes that these lights are often the subject of UFO observations, especially by motorists near airbases who may not be familiar with the region. The author, René Faudrin, suggests that these powerful lights, when observed from a distance, can create the impression of a rapidly moving object.

Marian Apparitions

A separate report, "APPARITIONS MARIALES A LA TALAUDIERE" by J.P. Troadec, recounts the reported Marian apparitions in La Talaudière, near St-Etienne, France, which began in October 1981. It highlights the young seer, Blandine Piégay, aged 14, and mentions that hundreds of people witnessed these events. The last, the 90th apparition, occurred on October 25, 1982, at noon, with the Virgin Mary described as wearing black.

Atmospheric Notions and Cloud Classification

The magazine features a continuation of an article titled "Notions atmosphériques" (Atmospheric Notions), which delves into the formation and classification of clouds. It explains that atmospheric water exists as vapor, liquid droplets, or ice crystals. Cloud formation is attributed to air cooling, increased water vapor, or both. The article details various cooling processes, including convection, orographic lift (mountain ranges), and frontal systems, leading to different cloud types like cumulus and cumulonimbus. It also discusses cloud formation due to evaporation over water bodies. A significant portion of the article is dedicated to the international classification of clouds into ten genres based on altitude, form, and characteristics. A table provides specific altitude ranges (minimum, maximum, and average) for cloud bases in the region, covering Cirrus, Cirrocumulus, Cirrostratus, Altocumulus, Altostratus, Nimbostratus, Stratocumulus, Stratus, Cumulus, and Cumulonimbus. The author, René Faudrin, also briefly addresses lenticular clouds, noting their existence and classifying them as a type of cumulus.

UFO Sighting Report

A detailed report titled "Histoire incroyable, mais conclusion yraie. Ah, la maréchaussée !" by Alain Barnicaud, dated Avignon, May 23, 1979, describes a UFO sighting by two gendarmes from the C.D.E. Brigade in Courthézon. On the evening of Saturday, April 28, 1979, while on patrol between Courthézon and Chateauneuf du Pape, they observed a luminous, saucer-shaped object with approximately seven or eight orange-lit hubs. The object was stationary for about five minutes before disappearing. The gendarmes described it as potentially as large as an airplane. One witness stated, "Il n'y a pas de doute, ce n'est pas une illusion d'optique" (There is no doubt, it is not an optical illusion), adding that he and his colleague had only consumed water and a Coca-Cola, respectively.

Conclusion and Acknowledgements

The issue concludes with a playful "jeu des erreurs" (spot the difference) cartoon related to E.T. and Mars, suggesting a lighthearted approach to the magazine's themes. The final page includes acknowledgements to Richard Varrault and Daniel Mejean of C.L.L.D.L.N. for their assistance with their offset printing machine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, atmospheric science, and related eyewitness accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into UFO reports, while also providing educational content on meteorology and aviation. There's an effort to present factual information and witness testimonies, often with a focus on French sightings and phenomena. The inclusion of cloud classification and atmospheric science suggests a broader interest in phenomena that might be mistaken for UFOs, or that are part of the broader context of aerial observation.