37 - BUFOI Magazine - No 37 - 1974

Magazine Overview

This issue of BUFOI, number 37, is a French-language magazine dedicated to the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. It is published by an organization that appears to be part of a global research effort on UFOs, with a stated frequency of every two months. The cover features a prominent image of a flying saucer. The magazine's editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry into subjects often dismissed by mainstream science, advocating for a broader understanding of humanistic ideas, parapsychology, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact.

Editorial

The editorial section, written by K.W. Flitcroft, highlights the rapid pace of events and the growing interest in humanistic ideas, parapsychology, telepathy, and alternative medical treatments. It notes a shift in scientific and mathematical theories, suggesting a convergence of Western science with Eastern knowledge. The editorial posits that the appearance of flying saucers has not only spurred space exploration but also prompted a re-evaluation of life, science, and philosophy. It aligns BUFOI's mission with George Adamski's long-standing effort to educate people about the reality of extraterrestrial life and to foster acceptance without fear. BUFOI aims to present factual information, avoiding superstition and mysticism, and leveraging its extensive documentation.

The editorial further addresses the skepticism faced by new ideas, particularly those related to UFOs and extraterrestrial contact. It criticizes rigid scientific cliques that lack imagination and dismiss new concepts. BUFOI asserts its commitment to planetary education and raising global culture to a level where contact with other civilizations can be embraced. The current issue is presented as a continuation of this policy, offering selected information deemed acceptable for public consumption. The magazine is also expanding its scope to cover a wider range of topics and invites reader feedback and suggestions for future articles.

Groupe du Silence: Une Mise au Point Définitive

This section addresses a controversy stemming from a RTB (Belgian Radio and Television) broadcast on September 6, 1974, which declared George Adamski's UFO film to be a blatant fake. The authors express shock at this 'anti-scientific' stance and state that they had previously addressed this incident in their publication. They feel compelled to respond to what they perceive as an attack directed against them and their representation of UFO phenomena. While regretting the need to engage in polemics, they feel it is necessary to counter accusations of spreading falsehoods. They emphasize that this clarification will be their only intervention in such a debate, aiming to set the record straight and then withdraw from the fray.

The article details exchanges with RTB representatives, Mr. Konen and Mr. Vangermée, who initially assured BUFOI that Adamski's film would not be unfavorably commented upon. However, the broadcast contradicted this assurance. BUFOI criticizes Mr. Konen for his subsequent actions and the way the program was conducted, suggesting it was more of a publicity stunt and a personal settling of scores than a serious information broadcast. They note the lack of a right of reply on television, unlike in print media, highlighting the powerful influence of television.

The authors point to Mr. Clerebaut, Secretary General of SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Études des Phénomènes Spatiaux), as the likely orchestrator of this 'lamentable affair.' They reference an article in SOBEPS's publication, Inforespace, where Clerebaut praises the RTB broadcast and mentions SOBEPS members involved in its production. BUFOI questions Clerebaut's motives for positioning SOBEPS as the sole authority on ufology in Belgium and for not participating in the broadcast himself. They suggest Clerebaut avoids debates with individuals seeking truth about UFOs, preferring to control the narrative and ensure his organization receives maximum publicity.

Discussion of "Experts"

The article then scrutinizes the "experts" associated with SOBEPS, questioning their scientific credentials and suggesting they are primarily loyal to Mr. Clerebaut. It recounts an instance where a Belgian researcher was dismissed from SOBEPS for not conforming to Clerebaut's style, implying that adherence to Clerebaut's directives is prioritized over scientific independence.

Critique of Pierre Guérin

The article focuses on astrophysicist Pierre Guérin, who declared Adamski's film a fake based on a brief viewing. BUFOI questions his judgment and critical faculties, citing a past instance where Guérin praised a different UFO film as the 'best document in the world on UFOs,' only to later retract or modify his statement. They present transcriptions of Guérin's earlier statements, highlighting his strong endorsement of the film, which contrasts sharply with his later assertion of it being a 'super-impression' or fake. BUFOI concludes that Guérin is incompetent in matters of film trickery and is easily influenced, acting as a 'kamikaze' who makes pronouncements without sufficient basis.

They suggest that Mr. Clerebaut may have used Guérin to discredit Adamski and BUFOI, which officially represents Adamski. The article also criticizes other "experts" involved with Inforespace, stating that some lack scientific titles and are merely obedient to Clerebaut. It mentions that articles submitted by author F. Boîte were manipulated by the SOBEPS committee before publication, with BUFOI possessing written proof of these discrepancies.

Clerebaut's Scientific Standing and Adamski's Legacy

The article questions Mr. Clerebaut's scientific credentials, noting that his telephone directory lists him as a butcher. It contrasts this with his alleged statement that Adamski was not serious because he sold hamburgers. BUFOI points out that while selling meat doesn't preclude scientific honesty, Clerebaut's own conduct is questioned. They note that despite receiving BUFOI's circular about the RTB broadcast, Clerebaut and his associates have not responded to BUFOI's offer for a public debate, which BUFOI sees as a test of their scientific objectivity.

BUFOI reiterates its offer to provide a recognized film expert for a confrontation, believing that a public debate would dismantle Clerebaut's arguments, which they claim are built on a foundation of "seriousness," "competence," and "objectivity." They accuse Clerebaut of refusing such a confrontation, labeling it as his "scientific spirit." The article also alleges that Clerebaut's reporting in Inforespace is incomplete, omitting details that would contradict his narrative, such as Pierre Guérin's initial 'delirious' statement about the Vosges film. They accuse SOBEPS of censorship and manipulation of articles.

Finally, the article references a photograph of a flying saucer taken by Adamski, published in a Belgian newspaper at the time SOBEPS was gaining recognition. The caption noted that Adamski had founded a movement with witnesses worldwide, but the article implies that this aspect is overlooked or downplayed in the current debate.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of BUFOI strongly advocates for an open and critical approach to UFO phenomena, challenging established scientific and media narratives. The magazine positions itself as a defender of George Adamski and his work, contrasting his perceived integrity with the alleged lack of objectivity and manipulative tactics of organizations like SOBEPS. Themes of scientific integrity, media bias, the nature of evidence (particularly film evidence), and the importance of public education regarding extraterrestrial life are central. The editorial stance is one of persistent inquiry, a willingness to engage with controversial topics, and a commitment to presenting information that challenges conventional thinking, while inviting reader participation in the ongoing dialogue.

This issue of MEUSE LA LANTERNE, dated December 1974, features a prominent cover story from The New York Times detailing the disappearance of several tons of enriched uranium and plutonium from the USA, with the Atomic Energy Commission unable to account for their whereabouts. The magazine also delves into the enduring mystery of Atlantis and explores various theories and evidence related to lost civilizations and ancient cataclysms.

DANGERS ATOMIQUES. LA NOUVELLE ATLANTIDE

The section "DANGERS ATOMIQUES" focuses on the potential risks of nuclear energy and testing. It recounts a false national alert in February 1971, followed by a hydrogen bomb test in November 1971 in the Behring Sea, which was equivalent to 250 times the Hiroshima bomb. Despite assurances of safety, the explosion had significant environmental impacts, including landslides, the rupture of a dam, and the destruction of marine life. The article notes that protests against nuclear tests had little effect.

It also mentions the radioactive rain that fell on Japan twenty days after an explosion, and the fallout from a French nuclear test on Mururoa Atoll in June 1974 that reached Argentina. The text raises concerns about the potential for accidental irradiation and the adequacy of authorities to respond to such events, citing a scandal involving radioactive water in Visé as an example of mismanagement.

The article further discusses the "peaceful atom," noting the increasing reliance on nuclear energy for profit and the launch of Japan's first atomic ship, the Mutsu. It highlights the potential for magnetic field perturbations caused by nuclear explosions, which may affect living beings, as observed by an atomist who used his dog's reactions to detect them.

A LA RECHERCHE D'UN MONDE ENGLOUTI.

This extensive article explores the legend and potential reality of Atlantis. It begins by referencing Plato's descriptions of Atlantis, locating it west of the Pillars of Hercules. Egerton Sykes is credited with defining the geographical limits of the sunken lands as the Azores, Cape Verde, Saint Helena, and the Antilles. The article presents geological evidence, such as the discovery of seabed sand by Professor Ewing in 1949, suggesting a former coastline in the Atlantic.

It also touches upon other submerged city legends, like Ys, and mentions the discovery of a submerged city off the coast of Marseille in July 1973. Dr. Maxime Asher of the University of California is cited for locating vestiges of an Atlantean culture near Cadiz, refuting claims that they were Roman or Phoenician ruins due to their unique architecture.

The article discusses the geological history of the Earth, with estimates of its age ranging from 27 million to over 5.6 billion years. It posits that continents have shifted and climates have changed dramatically over millennia. The theory of continental drift, championed by Alfred Wegener, is discussed, noting its eventual acceptance by the scientific community following discoveries of underwater mountain ranges.

Two major ancient landmasses, Laurasia (northern) and Gondwana (southern), are presented as fundamental to Earth's geological development. The article suggests that Atlantis may have comprised elements from both, and that the movement of these continents, particularly the expansion of Gondwana, might have led to the destruction of Atlantis.

The New York Times: several tons of uranium and plutonium produced in the USA have disappeared

This news report, attributed to AFP and published in The New York Times, details the disappearance of several tons of enriched uranium and plutonium from the United States. The Atomic Energy Commission cannot confirm the location of these materials, raising concerns that they may have fallen into the hands of terrorists seeking to build nuclear weapons. The article notes that only small quantities are needed to create such a device. While some of the loss is attributed to statistical methods, a portion is believed to be due to theft, with examples of government employees smuggling nuclear material out of guarded facilities cited.

Key Incidents and Mentions

• Adamski Foundation: Mentioned in relation to information about Adamski needing approval from the Foundation or affiliated organizations.
• BUFOI: An organization that, along with the George Adamski Foundation, is part of IGAP. They issue a statement about their position on information concerning Adamski.
• B-52 Incident (1966): A collision between a B-52 bomber and a refueling plane over Spain resulted in the alleged loss of four H-bombs, leading to a significant military operation by the 6th Fleet.
• Dr. Maxime Asher's Research: Faced obstacles and pressure to abandon her research into submerged Atlantean ruins near Cadiz.
• Submerged City Discovery (1973): A group of underwater explorers found a submerged city off the coast of Marseille.
• Nuclear Test Fallout: Radioactive rain on Japan and fallout reaching Argentina from French tests are noted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of ancient mysteries, lost civilizations (particularly Atlantis), and the potential dangers posed by modern technology, especially nuclear power and weapons. There is a clear skepticism towards official explanations regarding nuclear incidents and a concern for the lack of transparency and public safety. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, questioning authority and highlighting unexplained phenomena and potential threats to humanity, whether from ancient cataclysms or contemporary technological risks.

This issue of PHENOMENES FORTEENS, dated '21' and published by Marc HALLET, delves into a variety of unusual and potentially alarming topics, with a strong focus on nuclear safety, unexplained phenomena, and historical mysteries. The cover headline highlights the alleged poisoning of Karen Silkwood with plutonium, a case that is explored in detail within the magazine.

Nuclear Safety and Contamination

The issue begins with a report on the Japanese nuclear ship Mutsu, which experienced a significant radioactivity leak shortly after its launch. The repair involved a crude method of using boiled rice, and the incident revealed "grave negligence" in its construction, with tests being "forgotten." The ship was found to be "five million times too radioactive."

Following this, the magazine turns its attention to nuclear power plants, citing a New York Times investigation that uncovered 3333 safety violations in US plants between June 1973 and June 1974, with 98% of these being "very serious" and constituting a "real danger." This led to a third of US reactors being shut down for checks. The article questions the safety of nuclear power, suggesting that regulations are not always followed and that Europe may also be experiencing similar "nuclear crises."

In Belgium, the article notes a lack of public debate regarding the implementation of nuclear power plants, with "Inter-environnement" attempting to promote discussion. A French-language Belgian television program is criticized for presenting a one-sided view on the dangers of nuclear plants, and a 75-minute documentary by Claude Otzenberger was reportedly vetoed by the ORTF.

The magazine then paints a grim picture of a potential nuclear meltdown scenario, triggered by an earthquake or equipment failure, leading to the release of "tons of radioactive magma into the atmosphere."

The Karen Silkwood Case

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the case of Karen Silkwood, a 28-year-old nuclear technician who died in a car accident. The American union of chemical and nuclear employees claims she was murdered to prevent her from exposing "VERY BAD" working conditions at the Kerr-McGee plutonium plant in Oklahoma. The union's report suggests her car was pushed off the road by another vehicle and that someone had attempted to poison her with plutonium. Evidence cited includes traces of plutonium found in her stomach and urine, and poison traces in her refrigerator. Her colleagues reportedly believed she had "ENEMIES" at the plant due to her union activities. The report also confirms Silkwood's claims about poor safety conditions, noting that the Kerr-McGee plant had experienced 17 radioactivity alerts, contaminating 73 workers and forcing a two-week closure.

UFOs and Unexplained Objects

The magazine also explores UFO phenomena. A case from April 1974 in Jacksonville, Florida, describes the discovery of a metallic sphere on the Betz family's lawn. The US Navy studied the object, which measured 20 cm in diameter and weighed about 10 kg. Despite initial radiograph attempts yielding no results due to weak equipment, the Navy spokesperson stated the object was terrestrial. However, the article questions this conclusion, pointing out the sphere's magnetic field, its vibration, and its ability to move autonomously. The Navy's explanation of the movement being due to an uneven floor is dismissed.

Further instances of metallic spheres falling to Earth are mentioned, including incidents in Australia, Argentina, and Spain between 1963 and 1972. These objects, unlike the Jacksonville sphere, reportedly had a visible vertical axis maintained by a nut.

The article also references the "meteor of Stembert," a lead object that emitted heat sufficient to turn vegetation to ash. Despite examination at the Institute of Astrophysics in Liège, its origin and purpose remained unexplained.

Ancient Civilizations and Cataclysms

The issue touches upon theories of ancient civilizations and potential cataclysms. It speculates that a nuclear accident might have caused the annihilation of Atlantis and Mu, leading to humanity's face being radically changed and survivors becoming degenerate. The construction of massive underground shelters by the Chinese, capable of housing 700 million people, is presented as a possible sign of a premonition of an atomic cataclysm.

A poetic passage by Kalidasa is quoted, describing a magnificent tree that is destroyed by fire, drought, and earth, symbolizing a lost civilization. The text draws a parallel between this ancient event and humanity's current situation, questioning if modern man will be wiser.

Other Incidents and Information

A radioactive powder escaped from a container in France in late 1974, dispersing along a railway line and requiring recovery efforts.

The magazine also notes that in August 1974, US strategists advanced the nuclear war countdown clock by three minutes, reducing the decision time to 9 minutes. The article questions if this is a path to wisdom and poses a rhetorical question about survival if a similar situation had occurred during a 1971 false alarm.

Literature Review

The "LITTERATURE" section reviews recent books on primhistory. It mentions "La Planète Inconnue" by Peter Kolosimo, and two books by Erich Von Daniken. A new work by Robert Charroux, "L'Enigme des Andes," is highlighted as captivating due to its direct approach to discovery. Charroux's work is said to present invaluable documents on the Ica primhistorical library, characterized by stone engravings and childlike drawings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are nuclear safety and its potential dangers, unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), and the exploration of ancient mysteries and lost civilizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official explanations, particularly from governmental or military bodies, and a concern for public awareness regarding the risks associated with nuclear technology and the unknown. The magazine champions investigative journalism and highlights the importance of objective reporting, while also critiquing the methods of some investigators who may pressure witnesses. There is a clear undercurrent of warning about humanity repeating past mistakes, particularly concerning the destructive potential of atomic energy, drawing parallels between modern society and ancient civilizations that allegedly destroyed themselves.

This issue of "DANS LE MONDE" (Page 28-35) from 1974, published by MEUSE LA LANTERNE, delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, scientific theories about life in the universe, and historical accounts. The publication exhibits a critical yet open-minded approach to ufology, often contrasting its perspective with what it terms 'narrow-minded scientism'.

Book Review: Les Chroniques des Mondes Parallèles by Guy Tarade

The issue begins with a review of Guy Tarade's 1974 book, "Les Chroniques des Mondes Parallèles." The reviewer praises Tarade for his ability to present diverse information without becoming disorganized, noting his excursions into the unusual. The book is presented as a valuable reference for researchers, particularly for its exploration of the connection between archaeological sites and UFO observations. It highlights Captain Bruce Cathie's theory of a planetary grid system used by UFO occupants for navigation, citing Tarade's account of a megalith being mysteriously placed in a vineyard without vehicle traces as potential evidence. The author's approach is described as realistic and progressive, standing in contrast to the perceived rigid scientism of some ufologists.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

Lille, France: A Burning Roof and Static Electricity

A report from Lille details an incident where a tenant, M. Michel Hocq, reported a partially melted roof and reddened beams. This phenomenon, observed during the night of June 28-29, was also witnessed by five neighbors. Troublingly, several car batteries in the area were found to be completely drained the following morning. Investigators suggest the cause might be static electricity, possibly from a storm. Metal fragments, believed to be melted zinc, were collected for analysis in Paris.

Martigues, France: A Phosphorescent Object

In Martigues, a phosphorescent object, described as changing color from green to red, was observed moving slowly over the city around 9 PM. The object, shaped like a luminous circle, eventually became stationary in the southeast part of the city before disappearing. This sighting was reported by several inhabitants.

Aurora, Texas, USA: A 1897 Airship Crash

The issue recounts an anecdote from the Times Herald of Norristown, PA, about a 91-year-old woman, Mary Evans, who remembered an event on April 19, 1897. Her parents had gone to see the site where an 'airship' had crashed near Judge Proctor's well. The pilot was reportedly buried in the local cemetery. The crash caused excitement and fear, as aviation was not yet established. The object's composition, described as 75% iron but lacking typical iron properties (non-magnetic, shiny, soft), was noted by a physics professor, Dr. Tom Gray, who found it unusual but refrained from drawing conclusions about its origin.

Saturn Rocket Debris

Two articles discuss the re-entry of the second stage of the Saturn rocket. One reports a fiery object falling between the Diamante and Atuel rivers in Argentina, 1200 km west of Buenos Aires, causing a significant explosion and illuminating the region. This event on Friday morning led to security forces being dispatched, though the object's nature was unknown, with speculation it could be the 25-ton Saturn rocket. Another report, dated Saturday, states that the second stage of the Saturn rocket re-entered the atmosphere over the South-East coast of Africa. The majority of the 38-ton debris was consumed, with the remainder falling into the Indian Ocean. While initial fears of widespread debris impact were high, NASA later announced the alert was over, with no significant fragments officially reported to have reached land.

Scientific Perspectives on Extraterrestrial Life and the Universe

Professor Jules Duchesne's Conference

Professor Jules Duchesne, holder of the chair of 'Structure of Matter' at the University of Liège, gave a conference titled "Life in the Universe." He asserted that extraterrestrial life is certain, though he did not specify it as human life. Duchesne explained that the universe is 'organo-centric,' meaning interstellar space is rich in organic molecules like methane, ammonia, and hydrogen. He noted the striking similarity between interstellar space and Earth in terms of atomic composition. He also discussed the cyclic nature of the universe, proposing a model of expansion and contraction rather than indefinite expansion.

The 'Cyclic Universe' Theory

Professor Duchesne presented the theory of a cyclic universe, suggesting phases of expansion followed by contraction and recycling. This contrasts with the idea of indefinite expansion and is presented as a more agreeable possibility within his universal faith. He also touched upon the future of humanity, mentioning the sun's increasing luminosity making Earth uninhabitable in billions of years, and the potential for creating a dust screen around Earth.

The 'Vimanas' and Future Travelers

A reader, 'Ronan Ab Lug,' contributes a theory suggesting that UFOs, referred to as 'Vimanas,' originate not only from extraterrestrial or subterranean sources but also from the future. This reader claims that descendants from the future travel back in time, citing historical figures like Nostradamus and St-Germain as examples of individuals who lived among us after traveling from the future. The theory posits that these future travelers aim to subtly prevent a total atomic war.

Public Opinion and Municipal Actions in the USA

US Municipalities and Extraterrestrials

The issue reports on actions taken by US municipalities regarding UFOs and extraterrestrials. In Ocean Spring, Mississippi, a municipal council rejected a proposal to regulate UFO activities but passed an ordinance prohibiting discrimination against extraterrestrials. In Palacios, Texas, Mayor Bill Jackson announced that the municipal airport would welcome any flying saucer. An association in Austin, Texas, installed blinking lights hoping to attract UFOs.

American Belief in UFOs

A poll conducted in Princeton, New Jersey, revealed that 51% of Americans believe in flying saucers, while 28% consider them imaginary. This indicates a significant portion of the population holds a belief in UFOs. A previous poll in 1966 showed similar percentages.

Communication: George Adamski

An announcement for the next issue of BUFOI states it will commemorate the tenth anniversary of George Adamski's death. The issue will recall key events from his life between 1952 and 1965, providing information that may be difficult to find elsewhere, particularly from the George Adamski Foundation or the International Get Acquainted Program. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to ensure they receive this special issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, scientific inquiry, and historical accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, valuing realistic and progressive approaches over what it perceives as rigid or dogmatic scientism. There's a clear interest in presenting diverse theories, from scientific hypotheses about life in the universe to more speculative ideas about future travelers and ancient civilizations. The publication aims to inform its readers about current UFO events, historical cases, and the ongoing scientific and public discourse surrounding these topics, encouraging readers to think critically and remain open-minded.

This document is identified as issue number 24 of the magazine titled "BUFOI". The publication's address is listed as 13 Berkenlaan, 2610 Wilrijk - Antwerpen. The scans provided are of extremely poor quality, rendering the majority of the content illegible.

Content Analysis

Due to the illegibility of the scanned pages, a detailed analysis of the articles, themes, or specific incidents reported within this issue is not possible. The only discernible information includes the magazine's title, issue number, and publisher's address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Given the lack of legible content, it is impossible to determine any recurring themes or the editorial stance of this particular issue of BUFOI.