CERPI - no 18 - septembre 1978

Magazine Overview

Title: CERPI
Issue: No. 18
Date: September 1978 (Volume 78-51)
Publisher: CERPI (Centre d'études et de recherches des phénomènes inexpliqués)
Country: France
Language: French
Cover Headline: UFOLOGIE

This issue of CERPI, a French bimonthly magazine dedicated to unexplained phenomena, presents a mix of UFO investigations, astronomical articles, and parapsychological topics. The cover prominently features the organization's name and a quote from Blaise Pascal, alongside thematic labels like 'UFOLOGIE', 'PARAPSYCHOLOGIE', and 'ENIGMES'. The issue number and date are clearly indicated as No. 18, September 1978.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by the Vice-President of Charente-Maritime, addresses the group's members, emphasizing the pleasure derived from their research activities. It notes that while members join CERPI out of personal interest, there's a need for specialization within the group's diverse activities, particularly between UFO investigations and parapsychology. The editorial reassures those solely interested in UFOs that they will not be pressured into other areas of research, fostering a welcoming environment for focused participation.

Content Highlights

Subscription and Advertising Information:
Details are provided for subscription rates within France (26 F for 6 issues) and advertising tariffs for interior pages (110 F for a full page, 60 F for a half page, 35 F for a quarter page). Classified ads are 3 F per line, with free listings for members.

Editorial Committee and Affiliations:
The editorial committee includes Claude Souris, Guy Wascowiski, Alain Kim, Robert Souris, and Bernard Marsin. CERPI acts as the French delegation for CUFOS (Center For Ufo Studies) in the Charente and Charente-Maritime departments, with Dr. J. Allen Hynek as CUFOS director and Jean-Louis Brochard as the national delegate for CUFOS-France.

• Table of Contents (Sommaire):
• The issue features a comprehensive table of contents:
• Editorial (Page 1)
• Astronomie: Mars (Pages 2-3)
• Cosmographie: Le Soleil (Page 4)
• Enquêtes C.E.R.P.I.:
• St-Palais s/mer No. 61 (Pages 5-6)
• St-Just No. 63 (Page 8)
• Saintes No. 70 (Pages 9-10)
• Séminaire Enquêteur (Page 11)
• Service de presse (Page 12)
• Le G.E.P.A.N. et Nous (Pages 13-14)
• Le C.U.F.O.S.-FRANCE (Page 15)
• Parapsychologie:
• Expérience C.E.R.P.I. (Pages 16-19)
• Apparitions mariales (1) (Pages 20-23)
• San-Sébastien de Garabandal (Pages 20-23)
• Les illusions d'optique (1) (Page 24)
• Mots croisés (Page 25)

Astronomy: Mars (Pages 2-3):
This section provides detailed information about the planet Mars, including its characteristics, appearance, and orbital data. It notes that Mars is the fourth planet in the solar system, named after the Roman god of war. Its observable features include a brick-red color with greyish spots, a bright polar ice cap, and surface channels. The article details Mars's diameter (6710 km), mass (0.108 times Earth's), density (4.09 relative to water), and gravity (0.38). It also discusses its revolution and rotation periods, its axial tilt, and its distance from the Sun, which varies significantly. Mars has two moons, Phobos and Deimos, discovered by Asaph Hall in 1877. The text includes definitions for sidereal and synodic revolutions.

Cosmography: The Sun (Pages 4-6):
This article continues a discussion on equinoxes, solstices, and seasons, focusing on the apparent movement of the Sun. It explains sidereal time (T) as the hour angle of the vernal equinox and how it relates to an star's right ascension (α) and hour angle (H) via the formula T = H + α. The daily apparent movement of the Sun is described as following a path close to a celestial sphere parallel. The concept of the true solar day is introduced as the interval between two consecutive passages of the Sun across the meridian, which is approximately 4 minutes longer than a sidereal day. The sidereal year is defined as the time it takes for the Sun to complete one circuit of the ecliptic, corresponding to 365.2563 true solar days.

Enquêtes C.E.R.P.I. (Investigation Reports):

• Enquête No. 61: St-Palais-sur-Mer (Pages 5-7): This report details a sighting on a Sunday morning in the spring of 1953 by Robert Gourbeuil (44 years old) and his son Bernard (14 years old). They observed two matte off-white, lenticular objects, described as resembling two plates stacked on top of each other, at a height of 80-100 meters. The objects were spaced about 15 meters apart and exhibited a horizontal back-and-forth movement of 15-20 meters for 3 to 5 minutes before disappearing rapidly towards Royan (South/South-East). The objects were estimated to be 40-50 mm in apparent size at arm's length.

• Enquête No. 62: St-Palais-sur-Mer (Pages 7, 9): This investigation concerns a sighting by Robert Gourbeuil (55 years old in 1964) in June 1964. At approximately 12:10 PM, he observed a single, large, bright green and orange-green cigar-shaped object, estimated to be 8-10 cm long at arm's length and 8-10 km away. The object's contours were sharp, and it appeared significantly larger than a Zeppelin. It moved in a rectilinear trajectory towards the North/North-East at a moderate speed for 3 to 4 minutes. Gourbeuil was surprised by the sighting and later recalled a newspaper report about a luminous cigar seen over Pau.

• Enquête No. 63: Saint-Just-Luzac (Pages 8, 10): This report documents an observation by Robert Gourbeuil (68 years old in 1977) and his wife Marie on May 22, 1977, around 1:30 AM. While driving back from Île d'Oléron, they saw a luminous yellow sphere with a surrounding radiance, approximately 3 to 4 meters in diameter, hovering about 40-50 meters away and close to the ground. The object was described as immobile and resembling a "hedgehog" due to its brilliance. They did not stop to investigate further due to Marie's advice. The duration of observation was linked to the time it took their car to travel 60-80 km/h.

Other Sections:

• Le G.E.P.A.N. et Nous: This section likely discusses the French government's UFO investigation group, GEPAN, and its relationship with CERPI.
• Le C.U.F.O.S.-FRANCE: Further details on the activities and role of the CUFOS French branch.
• Parapsychologie: This part of the magazine explores parapsychological phenomena, including an "Expérience C.E.R.P.I.", Marian apparitions (specifically San-Sébastien de Garabandal), and optical illusions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CERPI are UFO sightings and investigations, particularly within France, and astronomical observations. The magazine maintains a serious approach to documenting unexplained phenomena, presenting detailed witness accounts and investigative reports. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of research driven by personal interest and advocates for specialization within the group's activities to enhance the quality of their investigations. The publication also serves as a platform for disseminating information about related organizations like CUFOS and GEPAN, and exploring broader topics such as parapsychology and optical illusions.

This issue, number 70, of the magazine CERPI, dated August 26, 1978, is primarily focused on UFO phenomena and related research, with a significant portion dedicated to a specific sighting and explorations into parapsychology and organizational efforts in the field.

Case Study: Saintes Sighting

The issue details an investigation by Claude SOURIS, an investigator for CERPI, concerning an observation that took place on Sunday, August 13, 1978, at 5:30 PM local time in Saintes, Charente-Maritime, France. The observation occurred at the residence of Mr. Poulet, located in the Boiffiers area, on the southern periphery of Saintes, near the Charente River and 40 meters above sea level. The area is approximately 3 kilometers from Air Base 722. The weather was clear, with partial cloudiness, a light wind, and an outdoor temperature around 30°C. The sun was behind the witnesses.

Nine witnesses were present: Mr. Michel Poulet (a 43-year-old military man), his wife (41), their three daughters (18, 17, and 15), their son (14), and Mr. and Mrs. Gérard Desnoyers (49 and 46) with their son Serge (26).

Initially, the observation was made with the naked eye. Mr. Poulet then used 10x50 binoculars, but the vision was not perfectly clear. He subsequently used a reflex camera with a 135mm telephoto lens to take two photos (slides).

The witnesses reported seeing two objects in the sky, in addition to a passing airplane. The objects were described as being very high, at about 35° East, and appeared to be at a slightly lower altitude than airliners. Their movement was rapid and followed a rectilinear North-South trajectory. Initially, Mr. Poulet thought they might be seagulls due to their movement, then considered weather balloons or aircraft, but ultimately dismissed these possibilities.

The objects were observed to have a vertical rotation movement, likened to a falling leaf, and their color changed between white and metallic grey. This color change might have been due to the reflection of the sun and alternating exposure to light and shadow as they moved.

The airplane, which was moving in the opposite direction (South to North), slightly above the UFOs, changed course to perform a loop around one of the objects before continuing its route North. It was identified as a possible Boeing quadriréacteur.

The objects then continued their trajectory and quickly disappeared over the horizon. The entire observation lasted between 15 and 20 minutes.

Parapsychology and Hypnosis

The issue also features an article on parapsychology and the CERPI's involvement, detailing an experience with a 26-year-old individual, referred to as L.K., who requested to be hypnotized. L.K. recalled being a witness to a UFO phenomenon between 1960 and 1968, but the specifics of the event and the object remained vague in his memory.

Under hypnosis, L.K. was guided to regress in time. The process involved relaxation techniques and visual and auditory suggestions. He was asked to recall the time he saw the UFO above the swimming pool in Jonzac. Under hypnosis, he described the object, pointed to it with his arm, and experienced sensations similar to those he felt at the time.

Under hypnosis, L.K. was asked to draw the scene. The resulting drawing, described as remarkable for its detail, depicted the scene as if viewed from an aircraft. An ongoing investigation is being conducted with other presumed witnesses to this event.

A subsequent session on May 6, 1970, focused on exploring PSI (parapsychological) faculties. This session involved a discussion on hypnosis and parapsychology, followed by a descent to different levels of consciousness. Experiments included a failed attempt at sensitivity transport and a semi-successful attempt at vision of a card in a sealed envelope. The session concluded with regressions to ages 10, 7, and 2, and a return to the 1964 UFO sighting in Jonzac. L.K. cited names of other witnesses who were present at the time. The drawing made under hypnosis was described as a reproduction of the scene as seen from an airplane.

UFO Research Organizations

The magazine includes a section discussing the relationship between CERPI and CUFOS-France, an organization founded by Dr. J. Allen HYNEK, a prominent UFO specialist. CUFOS-France, established in 1976, aims to collect UFO information nationally and is part of the international CUFOS. The article highlights the collaboration between CERPI and CUFOS-France, with CERPI acting as a regional partner to gather and transmit UFO data.

Another article addresses the GEPAN (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés), a public official body created in 1977 under the CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) to study UFO phenomena. The article reports on a meeting between GEPAN and private UFO groups in Toulouse on September 12, 1978. The author expresses a pessimistic outlook regarding GEPAN's ability to assist private groups, noting that GEPAN seems to expect more from them than it offers in return. The article points out GEPAN's limited resources, with only two full-time staff and forty others working part-time, resulting in very few completed investigations.

Seminars and Meetings

Information is provided about upcoming CERPI seminars and meetings. A seminar titled "RYTHMES DU CERVEAU" (Rhythms of the Brain) was scheduled for December 9 and 10, 1978, in Saintes. Details for inquiries were provided. Additionally, an "enquêteur" (investigator) seminar was scheduled for October 21, 1978, lasting the entire day, with participants sharing a meal. Information on the conditions for becoming a CERPI investigator is also outlined.

The calendar section lists upcoming monthly meetings of CERPI at the end of each month (September 30, October 28, November 25) and bureau meetings for auditors (October 6, November 3, December 1).

Publications Received

A list of publications received by CERPI in their press service is included, featuring titles such as "Les Extra-terrestres," "Vaucluse Ufologie," "O.V.N.I. 43," "Argus des phénomènes spatiaux," "Ufo Informations," and "Antenne 888."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the scientific investigation of UFOs, the role of official and private organizations in UFO research, and the exploration of parapsychological phenomena like hypnosis. The editorial stance appears to be one of active investigation and collaboration within the UFO research community, while maintaining a critical perspective on official bodies and emphasizing the importance of independent research and vigilance.

This issue of 'LES APPARITIONS MARIALES' (Volume 1, Issue 19), dated July 1964, focuses on supernatural and unexplained phenomena, with a strong emphasis on Marian apparitions and UFO sightings. The magazine, published by CERPI, is primarily in French and appears to be a specialized publication in the ufology and parapsychology domain.

UFO Observation (July 1964)

The issue begins with an addendum detailing an unidentified flying object (OVNI) observation from an unspecified date in July 1964. The event occurred on a Thursday between 18:00 and 18:15. It was witnessed by over a dozen people. The object was described as triangular in shape, at an altitude of approximately 50 meters, and at a distance of 50 meters from the zenith. Its color was noted as 'tin or aluminum color.' The duration of the sighting was about 1/4 hour, and no sound was reported. Peculiarities included square plates underneath and balls all around the object.

Garabandal Apparitions

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the Marian apparitions in San Sebastian de Garabandal, Spain, referred to as 'LA VIRGEN DEL CARMEN.' The article details the events starting from June 18, 1961, when Archangel St. Michael appeared to four young girls: Maria Cruz Gonzalez (11), Jacinta Gonzalez (12), Conchita Gonzalez (12), and Maria Dolores Mazon (Loli, 12). These girls, unrelated by blood, were told that Our Lady would appear on July 2nd. Our Lady of Mount Carmel subsequently appeared multiple times, delivering messages and, in Conchita's case, receiving declarations from Jesus Christ.

The messages from Garabandal are described as typical of Marian apparitions, calling for penance, faith, Eucharistic life, conversion of heart and morals, love of God and neighbor, and including a conditional announcement of chastisement.

The article highlights several remarkable and disturbing events associated with the Garabandal case, many of which are also observed in other Marian apparition sites:

• Violent Thunderclaps: Perceived at the beginning of the phenomenon, similar to those at Lourdes and Fatima.
• Ecstatic Phenomena: Similar to those at Lourdes, Beauraing, and Banneux, where children experienced states of ecstasy.
• Telepathy: Described by the children, such as hearing a voice that told them not to worry and that they would see her again.
• Locutions: Inner voices perceived as clearly as spoken words, bringing great peace and joy.
• Clairvoyance (Voyance): The children's ability to know what was happening simultaneously in a distant city (Santander).
• Healing: Through objects blessed by the Virgin Mary after presentation by the children.
• Sudden Increase in Weight: Experienced during ecstasy on June 25, 1961, making it difficult for an adult to hold one of the children.
• Levitation: During ecstatic 'calls,' the girls appeared to move with great speed, as if on wings, barely touching the ground.
• Telepsychy: The successful use of mental requests, such as one made by Canon Don Valentin for a seer to visit him.
• Spontaneous Foreign Languages: The children acquired foreign languages without learning them.
• Materialization of the Host: On July 19, 1962, a host materialized on Conchita's tongue, witnessed by 2,000-3,000 people. The angel stated that the hosts were consecrated from tabernacles on Earth, similar to the St. Damiano case in Italy in 1965.
• Sensation of Weight: When the Virgin Mary placed the Child Jesus in their arms, the girls felt His weight.
• Transfiguration: Particularly visible on Conchita.
• Insensitivity to Pain: During ecstasy, children did not feel pinpricks or burns, unless caused by external agents unrelated to the apparitions.
• Contraction of Time: Experienced during ecstasy due to immense happiness.
• Holographic Image: On November 13, 1961, an image appeared where the Virgin and Child Jesus were not wet despite rain, while the observer was soaked.
• Power over Inanimate Objects: Observed in certain instances.
• Precognition: Several prophecies made at Garabandal have been realized.
• Sweet Odors: Emanating from blessed objects, described as a mixture of incense and rose.
• Automatic Writing: A girl produced automatic writing on July 20, 1963, while in telepathic communication with Christ.
• Survival After Death: Conchita received the answer 'One never dies' when asking about death and heaven.
• UFO-like Phenomena: One of the girls reported seeing 'something like fire' in the clouds, which everyone saw. The Virgin Mary appeared and said, 'I came inside it.' Another time, an étoiles with a long tail was seen under the Virgin's feet.
• Psychometry: The children could return objects to their true owners.
• Voice Recording: The voice of the Lady was recorded once using a tape recorder. An unknown voice also spoke to Conchita, saying, 'Do not be afraid. You will see me again.'

Additional Sections

The magazine also includes sections on:

• PSI (Facultés): Defined as the ensemble of paranormal phenomena.
• Post-Hypnotic Suggestions: Explained as suggestions made during deep hypnosis to be realized later.
• Optical Illusions: Featuring examples like the Penrose triangle and the Necker cube, questioning the nature of perceived reality.
• Yoga and Chakras: A visual representation of the seven chakras and a figure in a yoga pose.
• Crossword Puzzle: A crossword with horizontal and vertical clues related to ufology, civilizations, parapsychology, and enigmas.

Bibliography

A bibliography lists several works related to the Garabandal apparitions and mysticism, including 'Le journal de Conchita,' books by Erich Von Daniken and Jacques Vallée, and works by Aimé Michel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of religious apparitions (specifically Marian), UFO phenomena, and various parapsychological abilities. The magazine presents these phenomena as interconnected and worthy of serious investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained events, presenting detailed accounts and witness testimonies without overt skepticism, and suggesting that these events may point to a deeper, possibly spiritual or extraterrestrial, reality. The inclusion of optical illusions and yoga suggests an interest in altered states of consciousness and the nature of perception, further broadening the scope of unexplained phenomena explored.