40 - BUFOI Magazine - No 40 - mars 1976

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFOI
Issue: N°40
Date: March 1976
Publisher: Not explicitly stated, but editors are Mr and Mme Keith W. Flitcroft Lambotte in Belgium.
Country: Belgium
Language: French
Price: 250 FB (ordinary subscription)
Cover Headline: "dans le cadre de l'organisation mondiale de recherches sur les objets volants non identifiés - I. G. A. P. -"
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial

The editorial addresses the common question of why BUFOI is published irregularly. It explains that the bulletin is the result of the work of a very small team spread across the country, requiring significant correspondence and meetings. The editorial highlights that coordinating individuals with different backgrounds and occupations is challenging, and mail exchanges can be unpredictable, leading to delays. It also acknowledges that printing errors, which are irreparable once finalized, can occur. The editorial contrasts BUFOI with glossy, art magazines, stating that its purpose is not commercial but to provide substantive articles and information not easily found elsewhere. The publication's challenges are presented as a testament to its intrinsic value and focus on content over packaging.

Key Articles and Sections

George Adamski: L'expérience de G. Adamski

This section, dedicated to George Adamski, discusses his experiences with extraterrestrials in the ten years following his death in 1965. It addresses widespread beliefs that his encounters were supernatural or psychic, which Adamski himself reportedly refuted. He insisted that his experiences were real, occurring in a three-dimensional universe without mysticism. The article suggests that Adamski's commitment to truth and logic was paramount, and he could have easily claimed his visitors were from other solar systems but chose not to fabricate. The piece posits that individuals who bring new ideas for human betterment often face skepticism and distorted stories. It emphasizes the need to uphold Adamski's legacy by preserving the truth of his experiences.

Cosmologie: Ce qu'avait dit Adamski...

This section examines scientific findings related to space, particularly Venus and the Moon, in light of Adamski's statements. It critiques the hasty conclusions drawn from the Russian space probe's experience with Venus, arguing that more data is needed before declaring it an "inferno." The article revisits lunar phenomena, referencing Albert Ducrocq's 1959 observation about lunar magnetism and how subsequent Apollo missions revealed a lunar magnetic dipole and buried magnetic slabs, contradicting earlier theories. It also discusses the presence of lunar "clouds" and a significant water geyser observed by Apollo instruments, which required an atmospheric pressure to sustain. The text notes that Nobel laureate Harold Urey changed his views on the Moon's origin, leaning towards the theory of it detaching from Earth, which aligns with Adamski's 1955 statements that excluded the "captured vagabond asteroid" theory. A 1975 London symposium involving NASA and Soviet scientists is mentioned, where it was suggested the Moon formed within the Earth's mantle, a finding that would please Adamski's supporters. The article concludes that sensational statements following space missions are rarely significant and that transient lunar phenomena (TLPs) are likely artificial rather than natural fluorescence.

Primhistoire et Histoire: Comment s'y prirent-ils?

This section's title suggests a discussion on historical or prehistoric methods, but the content is not provided in the scanned pages.

UFO dans le Monde

This section title indicates coverage of UFO sightings globally, but its content is not detailed in the provided scans.

Sottisier: La Terre creuse

This section, titled "Sottisier" (a collection of foolish or absurd statements), focuses on the "Hollow Earth" theory. The content is not detailed in the provided scans.

Phénomènes Fortéens

This section title suggests a discussion on "Fortean Phenomena," which typically refers to unusual or unexplained events. The content is not detailed in the provided scans.

Dangers Nucléaires: La protection de la population

This section title indicates a discussion on nuclear dangers and population protection. The content is not detailed in the provided scans.

Dans la Presse

This section title suggests a review of press coverage. The content is not detailed in the provided scans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of BUFOI revolve around the reality of extraterrestrial contact, the scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena (particularly UFOs and lunar anomalies), and the philosophical implications of humanity's place in the cosmos. The editorial stance is one of dedication to uncovering and presenting the truth, even if it challenges conventional scientific or societal views. BUFOI positions itself as a source of serious information, distinct from sensationalist publications, and emphasizes the importance of logic and evidence. The magazine appears to be a platform for disseminating information and fostering a deeper understanding of UFO phenomena and related scientific and philosophical questions, largely through the lens of George Adamski's work and the IGAP initiative.

This issue of MEUSE LA LANTERNE, dated October 23, 1975, focuses on space exploration, particularly the Soviet Venus 9 mission, and delves into ufology and theories about ancient technology. The cover headline boldly proclaims 'Venus is a hell where man will not be able to land for 100 years,' setting a dramatic tone for the exploration of the planet.

Venus 9 Mission and the Re-evaluation of Venus

The lead articles discuss the groundbreaking achievements of the Soviet Venus 9 and Venus 10 probes, which successfully landed on Venus and transmitted photographic data. Contrary to prevailing scientific beliefs that depicted Venus as a hellish inferno with geysers of molten lead and rivers of sulfur, the images from Venus 9 revealed a landscape of polished pebbles. This finding challenged established astronomical theories, particularly regarding the planet's atmosphere. The article highlights that the atmosphere, rather than being an opaque screen, harmoniously diffuses light, making the surface well-lit. It also disputes the existence of extreme pressures and furnace-like temperatures, suggesting that the 'furnace temperature' on Venus is a myth. The clarity of the images, which showed no sharp shadows, indicated a diffuse light source, contradicting the expectation that the dense atmosphere would obscure the surface. The probes were equipped with powerful flashes, which proved largely unnecessary due to the ambient light.

The article strongly aligns these findings with the earlier claims of ufologist George Adamski, who, as far back as 1955, asserted that a planet's atmosphere does not obstruct light. The author, Marc Hallet, positions Adamski as vindicated by the Venus 9 data, contrasting his foresight with the 'hasty affirmations' and 'ignorance' of his detractors. Hallet emphasizes that the photographic evidence from Venus is more reliable than theoretical calculations or physical measurements that may be flawed.

UFOs and Extraterrestrial Encounters

Beyond the Venus mission, the magazine revisits the topic of UFOs, referencing George Adamski's work and claims. It mentions Adamski's assertion that numerous artificial structures exist on the Moon, that lunar topography has undergone profound changes, and that flying cigar-shaped craft have been observed. Furthermore, it is claimed that all space missions were surveilled by UFOs, and that American astronauts on the Moon were visited by extraterrestrial craft. A specific photograph presented at conferences allegedly shows an alien craft identical to one Adamski photographed in 1952, and similar encounters are said to have occurred during at least two Apollo missions.

The 'Dans le Monde' section reports on ongoing UFO sightings worldwide. It notes a reduction in the detailed reporting of such incidents to focus on more progressive ufological analysis. A specific case is detailed: an investigator-ufo, Mr. J.P. Troadec, learned from a bookseller in Carpentras that she had personally witnessed a flying saucer. The witness, a respected sexagenarian, was initially reluctant to provide details, fearing exploitation of the phenomenon. She recounted an encounter from about twenty years prior near Marseille, where she, her husband, and two friends encountered a metallic craft suspended about a meter above the ground. The craft was described as being three meters high and ten meters in diameter, with a transparent perimeter and a glass-like surface.

Primhistory and Ancient Technology

The issue also explores 'Primhistory and History,' questioning how ancient peoples achieved remarkable feats. The article suggests that primitive ingenuity and 'tricks' might explain complex ancient constructions, rather than solely relying on advanced technologies attributed to lost civilizations. Two key examples are presented:

1. The Assouan Obelisk: This massive obelisk, measuring 41 meters, broke before being fully detached from the rock. Professor Kjetllsen proposes that ditches on either side, approximately 70 centimeters wide, were created by two enormous milling wheels, with 150 vertical milling traces identified along the ditch.
2. Hoysalesvara Temple in India: This temple, carved directly into a mountain, features columns that resemble large pieces of wood sculpted on a mechanical lathe. The parallel striations and impeccable polish suggest a level of precision that might be difficult to achieve with rudimentary tools, raising questions about the capabilities of ancient peoples.

The author concludes by pondering whether modern humans are less intelligent than ancient peoples in finding simple solutions or if our ancestors possessed comparable technical skills, deeming both possibilities 'fantastic.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently champions alternative perspectives, particularly in ufology and the interpretation of historical and scientific data. It positions George Adamski as a visionary whose predictions are being validated by modern discoveries, such as the Venus 9 mission. The editorial stance is critical of mainstream scientific consensus when it appears to contradict observable evidence or established alternative theories. There is a strong emphasis on photographic evidence as a primary source of truth, especially in the context of UFO sightings and planetary exploration. The 'Primhistory' section reflects a fascination with ancient mysteries and a willingness to consider unconventional explanations for monumental constructions, suggesting a continuity of advanced technical knowledge across human history.

Title: PHENOMENES
Issue: FORTY (18)
Date: January 16, 1976
Publisher: PHENOMENES
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of PHENOMENES, titled "HORRRRIBLE!", presents a critical look at various phenomena, including UFO sightings, the 'Hollow Earth' theory, and nuclear dangers. The magazine aims to debunk sensationalist claims and provide a more grounded perspective.

Case Study: Texas Monster Sighting

The issue begins with a report from Texas concerning a "flying thing" with a wingspan of 4.5 meters, sighted by two children near the Rio Grande. The creature left behind large, bird-like footprints measuring 30 cm in length and 20 cm in width. A local policeman also reportedly saw the "monster" and described it as having a similar wingspan. Another witness, a farmer, described encountering two large eyes and a form about 1.2 meters tall, crowned with a head resembling a bat's. The article notes that the mystery remains unsolved, pending the animal's capture, and mentions a $40,000 reward offered for its capture. Dr. Don Farst from the Brownsville zoo speculated it could be a large condor, but questioned how it would end up in Texas.

The 'Hollow Earth' Theory: A Critical Examination

The central part of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed critique of the 'Hollow Earth' theory. The author, Marc Hallet, traces the theory's popularization to Brinsley Le Poer Trench's 1974 book "Secret of the Ages," but argues that Trench merely repackaged ideas previously promoted by Ray Palmer and Gray Barker. This theory posits that the Earth is hollow and inhabited by a race that possesses flying saucers.

Hallet criticizes the theory as absurd and based on "fiction and heterogeneous facts." He highlights Ray Palmer's significant role in spreading this idea, particularly through his publication "Flying Saucers." Palmer allegedly presented science fiction stories from the 1940s as authentic accounts from an initiated researcher. The article references Martin Gardner's critique of the "Shaver Mysteries," a serial published by Palmer based on stories by Richard Shaver, which described degenerate dwarfs living in subterranean caverns. These stories, presented as reality, convinced many readers.

Palmer's attempts to support the 'Hollow Earth' theory with NASA satellite photos of the poles are also scrutinized. The magazine points out that apparent "holes" in these photos were simply areas where the sun was below the horizon during winter, or zones of ice and clouds photographed in summer. Despite facing contradictory evidence and reader mail, Palmer continued to promote the theory, even issuing challenges for photographic proof of details on the polar ice caps.

The article further explains that modern authors on the 'Hollow Earth' theory have largely copied each other. It identifies Amadeo Giannini as a key figure who allegedly supported the idea with Admiral Byrd's statements, taken out of context or fabricated. However, the magazine notes that even in 1965, an article by Delmar Bryant attempted to correct the context of Byrd's statements and debunk Giannini's arguments using documents from the Admiral himself.

Hallet concludes that the 'Hollow Earth' theory is a "sad truth" built on a foundation of literary fraud and misinterpretation, with Palmer, Barker, and Bernard being either perpetrators or unwitting victims.

Nuclear Dangers and Population Protection

The final section of the magazine addresses the dangers of nuclear pollution. It details the strict protocols in place in Belgium, where the gendarmerie and civil protection have received instructions for nuclear pollution incidents. The article quotes "Le Soir Illustré" from January 23, 1975, stating that in the event of a serious accident at a nuclear power plant or a radioactive container breach, the Belgian gendarmerie is ordered to "seal off the contaminated sector." This measure implies that the population within the affected area would be sacrificed to prevent further contamination.

Similarly, the French plan O.R.S.E.C-R.A.D. reportedly prohibits any communication about the gravity of a nuclear situation to the public. The article connects these concerns to the warnings of George Adamski, who reportedly fought against the ideology of the "peaceful atom." The author suggests that Adamski's warnings, made ten years after his death, are proving to be prescient.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of PHENOMENES adopts a skeptical and critical stance towards sensationalist claims within ufology and fringe science. The "Sottisier" (Gag reel/Joke column) explicitly aims to critique "nonsense spread far and wide by the barons of ufology." The magazine prioritizes factual analysis and debunks theories based on fiction, misinterpretation, or alleged hoaxes, as seen in the detailed examination of the 'Hollow Earth' theory. It also highlights potential dangers, such as nuclear pollution, and critiques official responses to such crises. The editorial stance is one of advocating for critical thinking and a grounded approach to extraordinary claims.

Title: MEUSE LA LANTERNE
Issue: 10-12-75 (dated 6 11-75)
Volume: 6
Publisher: MEUSE LA LANTERNE
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of MEUSE LA LANTERNE, dated November 6, 1975, focuses on two significant, albeit disparate, topics: the global threat posed by nuclear energy and a historical theory about extraterrestrial contact with an African tribe. The cover prominently features a stark warning about nuclear power, with the headline "Nuclear energy is a threat to the world. The peaceful atom does not exist."

Article 1: "L'énergie nucléaire est une menace pour le monde L'atome pacifique n'existe pas"

This article reports on a strong warning issued by two American Nobel laureates in physics and chemistry, Hannes Alfven and Harold C. Urey. Speaking before a parliamentary commission in California, they declared that the proliferation of nuclear power plants would lead to the "annihilation" of the world. They highlighted two major dangers: the radioactive waste produced by these plants and the threat of an atomic war. According to the scientists, the constant production of toxic plutonium represents a "veritable death threat" to humanity.

They emphasized the difficulty and complexity of neutralizing the harmful effects of radioactive residues, particularly plutonium, warning that human errors could poison the entire planet. Furthermore, Alfven and Urey criticized the sale of nuclear reactors to other countries, arguing that this practice makes the use of this "murderous material" uncontrollable by the recipients.

The two laureates concluded that the use of nuclear energy for peaceful or military purposes is inseparable. They asserted that all efforts to control atomic warfare would be in vain if the commercialization of nuclear reactors continues.

Article 2: "Bientôt, nous serons tous les otages du chantage nucléaire"

This piece, referencing a report from the Dutch newspaper "Volkskrant" and a study by the "Mitre Corporation" for the American government, explores the potential for nuclear blackmail by terrorists and organized criminals. The report suggests that well-organized groups could theoretically attack nuclear power plants, causing the release of deadly radioactivity or stealing materials usable for nuclear weapons.

It posits that organizations such as Palestinian movements, the Irish Republican Army, or South American extremist revolutionary groups could sabotage a nuclear plant out of vengeance or occupy it, threatening to detonate it if their demands are not met. Once in possession of radioactive elements or nuclear material, these groups could "blackmail a large part of the world."

The study further notes that members of criminal organizations have demonstrated the capacity for patient and methodical work, which could enable them to bypass security measures. They might gather technical details about surveillance and security systems and coerce plant personnel into providing necessary information.

Article 3: "DES TRACES D'OXYDE DE CARBONE DANS L'ATMOSPHERE DE JUPITER"

This short article reports on the recent discovery of traces of carbon monoxide in Jupiter's lower atmosphere, a finding that surprised scientists. An international team of American researchers from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena and the University of Texas made this discovery.

Jupiter is now the fourth planet in the solar system, after Earth, Venus, and Mars, to show evidence of carbon monoxide. The molecules were detected down to at least 50 kilometers below Jupiter's visible cloud tops, in a region where the atmospheric pressure is double that of Earth's atmosphere. Previously, Jupiter's atmosphere was believed to be composed mainly of hydrogen and helium, with smaller amounts of methane, ammonia, ethane, acetylene, phosphine, and water vapor.

Article 4: "Une tribu africaine a-t-elle été visitée par des extra-terrestres ?"

This article presents a theory by American historian Robert Temple concerning the Dogon tribe of Mali. Temple suggests that the Dogon had contact with extraterrestrials thousands of years ago. According to this theory, the Dogon have long claimed the existence of a star called "Sirius B," which was only discovered by Western scientists in 1862. Sirius B is located 8.5 light-years from Earth and is not visible to the naked eye.

The Dogon's religious festivals reportedly allow them to pinpoint this star annually through sand drawings. They also allegedly know that Sirius B completes an orbit every 50 years, intersecting the trajectory of Sirius A. When asked how they possess this knowledge, the Dogon elders reportedly say, "Nommo told us," and their legends revolve around this "Nommo" who supposedly came from Sirius B.

The article also includes a mention of an object observed and photographed in South America, with a sketch provided by a witness. The testimony is described as being of exceptional quality and could force specialists to reconsider their opinions on George Adamski.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to cover a range of topics, including scientific discoveries, potential global threats, and speculative theories about extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance, as indicated by the cover headline and the content of the first article, is highly critical of nuclear energy, viewing it as an inherent danger to humanity regardless of its intended use. The inclusion of the article on potential nuclear blackmail further reinforces this theme of caution and concern regarding nuclear technology. The magazine also seems open to exploring unconventional historical and astronomical theories, as evidenced by the piece on the Dogon tribe and the discovery on Jupiter.

Tags: nuclear energy, peaceful atom, atomic bomb, radioactive waste, plutonium, nuclear reactors, terrorism, nuclear blackmail, Mitre Corporation, Jupiter, carbon monoxide, Dogon tribe, Sirius B, extraterrestrials, George Adamski, UFOs, space exploration, scientific discovery, global threat.

Themes: Nuclear threat, UFOs, Extraterrestrial contact, Space exploration.