CERPI - no 22 - juin 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: CERPI
Issue: 22
Date: June 1979
Publisher: CERPI
Country: France
Language: French
Price: 5 Francs

This issue of CERPI, a bimonthly magazine dedicated to the study of unexplained phenomena, presents a diverse range of content, including articles on ufology, parapsychology, archeology, astronomy, and cosmography. The cover prominently features the organization's name and its mission statement: "Centre d'études et de recherches des phénomènes inexpliqués" (Center for the study and research of unexplained phenomena), along with an address in Saintes. A quote from Blaise Pascal, "The last step of reason is to recognize that there is an infinity of things that surpass it," sets a philosophical tone.

Editorial Stance and Activities

The editorial, titled "Chers Ami(e)s," emphasizes CERPI's commitment to making ufology accessible to the public through "open door" days and "slide-debate" sessions. The aim is to sensitize the public to UFO phenomena and related subjects, countering any perception of the field as being for the mentally disturbed. The editorial highlights the receptiveness of young people and encourages schools to invite CERPI for presentations. These events are offered free of charge within the Charente and Charente-Maritime departments, with only travel costs requested for distant locations, underscoring the group's openness and voluntary spirit.

The magazine details the structure of these events, including "porte-ouverte" (open door) days which feature displays of study materials and telescope observations, and "diapos-débat" (slide-debate) evenings focused on UFOs or parapsychology. The article "Venez nombreux pour aider lors de ces séances" (Come in large numbers to help during these sessions) is signed by "Le Vice-Président."

The "Calendrier C.E.R.P.I." section outlines the dates and locations for the bureau's monthly meetings, open to all members as auditors. These meetings are scheduled for the first Friday of each month, with specific hosts and addresses provided for July through December 1979. Additionally, two end-of-month meetings are announced for August and September.

Articles and Investigations

Astronomy: The Sun

Several pages are dedicated to astronomy, focusing on the Sun. The article "le Soleil" describes the Sun as a celebrated celestial body revered by various ancient cultures. It is identified as the central star of our solar system, one of an estimated 150 billion stars in our galaxy. The Sun's journey around the galactic center is estimated to take 250 million years, and it is moving towards a point called "APEX" in the constellation Hercules at a speed of 20 km/second.

Detailed characteristics of the Sun are provided, including its diameter (1,391,000 km), volume (1,295,000 times that of Earth), mass (333,432 times Earth's), surface gravity, and average density. Its revolution around the galaxy and rotation period (25-30 days) are also discussed. The article touches upon the Sun's surface features like sunspots and phenomena such as the chromosphere, corona, and solar winds, noting their impact on Earth, including auroras and magnetic disturbances.

The "Constitution et environnement" section further elaborates on the Sun's structure, distinguishing between the photospere, chromosphere, and corona, and detailing the internal structure where thermonuclear reactions occur. The Sun's lifespan is estimated at approximately 4 billion years, with an expected end in another 5 billion years, at which point its core will transform, potentially making Earth uninhabitable.

Cosmography: The Sun

The "Cosmographie" section continues the discussion related to the Sun and celestial mechanics. It explains concepts like latitude, solstices, and the division of Earth into tropical, temperate, and glacial zones based on the Sun's apparent path. The phenomenon of twilight (crépuscule) is described, distinguishing between civil and astronomical twilight, and noting that certain latitudes experience no true night during summer.

Investigations: Chaniers Case

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to "Enquêtes C.E.R.P.I." (CERPI Investigations). Report n° 78 details an investigation conducted by Guy WASCOWISKI and Jean-Louis CASTEL concerning an event that occurred in Maine-Mondain, Chaniers, in the autumn of 1975. The witness, Maryse MAGAUD, a 47-year-old canteen worker, reported seeing an oval object resembling an electric arc that emitted flashes and rays. The sighting lasted approximately 15 seconds, at a distance of about 200 meters, during the evening twilight. The witness described being very frightened and unable to observe the object's movement. She also recalled that gendarmes had reportedly seen a similar phenomenon near Cadeuil.

Other Sections

The magazine also includes a "Reçu en service de presse" (Received for press service) section, listing various UFO and paranormal research publications that CERPI has received. This includes bulletins from organizations like FACETTES, G.N.E.O.V.N.I., G.I.U., G.E.O.S., UFO-INFORMATIONS, and others from France and Belgium.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ufology, astronomy, and the scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena. CERPI positions itself as a serious research organization aiming to educate the public and demystify subjects often relegated to the fringes of belief. The editorial stance is one of openness, scientific rigor, and a commitment to voluntary work, emphasizing the importance of accessible information and public engagement. The magazine actively seeks to document and analyze reported phenomena, as evidenced by the detailed investigation report.

This issue of "L'ENQUETE O.V.N.I." (The UFO Investigation), issue number 82, published by CERPI, focuses on UFO phenomena. The cover date is August 1978, and the magazine details an investigation into a sighting that occurred in Fontenet, France.

Fontenet UFO Sighting

The primary article details an investigation (Enquête C.E.R.P.I. n° 82) conducted by Claude SOURIS and Jacqueline QUIE concerning a UFO sighting in the village of Fontenet, Charente-Maritime, France, in late August 1978. Five witnesses, including Pascal, Christian, and Dominique CORNET, Florent, and Francis BRUNETEAU, reported observing the object. The sighting took place between 11 PM and midnight, during the last quarter of the moon. The object was observed at a distance of 40 to 60 meters and appeared to be about 13 cm across when held at arm's length, suggesting a size of approximately 12.50 meters in diameter. The witnesses described the object as 'sombrero'-shaped with a bright white 'globule' on top, resembling a lamp, and featuring flashing colored lights (green, yellow, red) around its perimeter, which appeared to be part of a rotating assembly rather than individual blinking lights. The object made no noise and moved slowly at first before stabilizing and then departing rapidly towards Varaize. One witness stated the object was so large it covered a significant portion of the buildings.

CERPI Investigation Procedures

The magazine outlines the functioning of the CERPI's UFO investigation service. The process involves several steps:

1. Provenance of the initial information: This can come from witnesses directly, through events like "Porte Ouverte" or "Diapo Débat," press appeals, the CERPI journal, general press, Gendarmeries, or similar organizations.
2. Internal Circuit within CERPI: Information is received and registered by the Head of Investigations (Claude SCURIS for 1979). The information is then relayed to the nearest investigator. If the informant is willing and capable, they may become an assistant investigator.
3. Investigation with Witnesses: Investigations are typically conducted by two people, preferably one experienced investigator and one trainee. The initial contact can be via a questionnaire, a phone call followed by a visit, or a direct approach if the opportunity is rare. Testimonies should ideally be collected at the location of the observation and, if there are multiple witnesses, separately. Investigators are advised to record the initial testimony without interruption or commentary to capture the witness's unfiltered impressions. Questions should be posed in a friendly, conversational manner. The lead investigator compiles the final report, while the second assists by noting discrepancies or unclear points.
4. Writing the Final Report: This involves filling out several specific forms, including 'parameters,' 'event history,' 'witness drawing,' and a location map (IGN). The report is then reviewed by the investigation manager.
5. Distribution of Photocopies: Final reports are distributed to the investigation manager, the CERPI office in Saintes, GEPAN, CUFOS, and OURANOS Belgium.

Common and Special Investigation Equipment

CERPI investigators are expected to possess common equipment such as a portable tape recorder, a camera (preferably Polaroid), a ruler, a regional map (IGN 1:25,000), a compass, a stopwatch, a pocket goniometer, a simplified theodolite, a color comparator, colored pencils or markers, blank paper, tracing paper, questionnaires, and an investigator's guide.

For landing investigations, CERPI possesses specialized, costly equipment, including a 20-meter chain, 30-40 cm painted stakes, a ball of string, adhesive labels, plaster, a painter's knife, a tape measure, test tubes, jars, scissors, and coring equipment. They also list a thermometer, barometer, ohmmeter, magnetometer, electrostatic discharge detector, and metal detector.

Magnetic Detector Construction

The issue includes instructions for building a simple and inexpensive magnetic detector (approx. 25 Frs) designed to detect magnetic variations that might indicate UFO activity. The article provides diagrams and a list of necessary materials, including plywood, a buzzer, an I.L.S. contact, magnetic catches, a battery, brass, screws, and sheet metal. It emphasizes the importance of smooth pivots and balanced mobile parts for the detector's sensitivity.

Historical Case: Disappearance of a Regiment

Another significant section recounts a strange incident during the battle at "mont 60" in Sulva Bay, during WWI. A British regiment, the First Fourth Norfolk, numbering several hundred men, marched into a peculiar cloud formation and disappeared. Despite British and Turkish efforts, the regiment was never found, and Turkey denied any knowledge of its capture or encounter. The account is presented as a true event, signed by witnesses and attributed to an extract from Jacques Vallée's "Passport to Magonia."

CERPI Activities and Seminars

The magazine also announces upcoming CERPI activities, including "Soirée-Parapsychologie" and "Diapos-Débat UFO" events in various locations in France during April, May, and June 1979. It also announces a seminar for investigators scheduled for Saturday, October 20, 1979, in a regional restaurant.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the systematic investigation of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of detailed witness testimony, rigorous data collection, and the use of scientific methods and equipment. It also highlights the historical significance of UFO cases and encourages public participation in investigations through its organized structure and training programs. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, aiming to provide factual accounts and analytical frameworks for understanding UFOs.

This issue of CERPI, a French publication focused on ufology and unexplained phenomena, features a prominent article titled 'Disparition d'un régiment' (Disappearance of a Regiment) and covers various related topics including seminars on parapsychology and historical sightings.

Disparition d'un régiment

The main article recounts a strange incident during the Battle of Mont 60 at Sulva Bay, involving the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (A.N.Z.A.C.). On a clear morning, observers noted several unusual clouds shaped like 'loaves of bread' hovering over Mont 60. Notably, these clouds remained stationary despite a light breeze. Below these, a larger, compact cloud, approximately 800 feet long and 200 feet high and wide, was observed on the ground. This cloud was described as pale grey and appeared solid.

Witnesses, including twenty-two men from the Field Company n° 1 N.E.Z. and the author, observed this phenomenon from trenches at Rhododendron Spur, about 2,500 yards southwest of the ground cloud. The ground cloud was situated near a dry creek bed or a collapsed road (Kaiajik Dere).

Subsequently, a British regiment, identified as the First Fourth Norfolk, comprising several hundred men, was seen marching towards Mont 60. As they reached the cloud, they entered it without hesitation and disappeared. Approximately an hour later, after the last soldier had entered, the cloud rose slowly and rejoined the other stationary clouds. Shortly after, all the clouds departed northward towards Thrace (Bulgaria) and were no longer visible.

The incident led to the regiment being reported as 'disappeared' or 'exterminated'. Upon Turkey's surrender in 1918, Great Britain requested the return of the regiment. Turkey denied ever capturing or having contact with the regiment, stating they were unaware of its existence. The article emphasizes that a British regiment in that era typically numbered between 800 and 4,000 men. The witnesses attest that the regiment was never captured by the Turks. The author, writing on the fifth anniversary of the A.N.Z.A.C. landing, declares the incident to be absolutely true. The article is an excerpt from 'Passport to Magonia' by Jacques Vallee.

Installation of a Detector

A brief section provides installation advice for a detector, warning against exposure to drafts that could cause malfunctions. It advises against placing it near large metal masses, radio or television sets, or acoustic speakers due to magnetic interference. A note explains that the buzzer and I.L.S. (likely a type of sensor) are themselves magnetized, and the equilibrium position is a compromise between these forces and magnetic north. The best placement, it suggests, is in the bedroom.

Seminars and the Subconscious

Several pages are dedicated to seminars and the concept of the subconscious. One article, 'rythmes du cerveau' (rhythms of the brain), discusses how seminars can open a path to understanding that humans possess more than just objective senses. It suggests developing intuition and receptivity to a more subtle, internal perception that objective senses might misinterpret. The subconscious, when properly accessed, can provide instant or delayed answers to questions and problems. The article stresses that the more serious the problem, the deeper it imprints on the mind, and allowing the subconscious freedom leads to its optimal functioning. It highlights that the subconscious is always available to help if asked and listened to. The author, A. Landais, concludes by quoting from The Kybalion: 'The lips of Wisdom are closed, except to the ears of Understanding,' adding his personal desire to 'open my ears.'

Another section announces that the seminar 'RYTHMES DU CERVEAU' (Rhythms of the Brain), initially scheduled for October 6-7, has been postponed to October 13-14. Interested individuals are asked to contact Abel LANDAIS in Saintes at least fifteen days in advance.

A 'LOCAL C.E.R.P.I.' section mentions that the Municipality of Saintes has announced the resumption of their local premises, with a proposal expected from the Mairie.

CERPI Activities

A list of CERPI's activities for the second quarter of 1979 is provided: 'SOIREE-PARAPSYCHOLOGIE' at M.J.C. de Cognac (April 21), 'DIAPOS-DEBAT UFO' at Foyer Rural de St-Sorlin-de-Conac (May 5), 'PORTES-OUVERTES' at the mairie of Jonzac (May 20), and 'DIAPOS-DEBAT UFO et SOIREE PARASPY.' at La Tremblade (June 12). The organization thanks its members for their participation.

Membership and Subscription

There are sections for 'Bulletin ADHESION' (Membership Bulletin) and 'Bulletin ABONNEMENT' (Subscription Bulletin). The membership options include 'membre sympathisant' (sympathizing member) for 50f plus a 20f subscription, and 'membre actif' (active member) for 40f plus 20f. Student/military active members pay 20f plus 20f. The subscription is for 6 issues per year at 26.00f, including postage. Both bulletins require contact information and payment to be sent to specific addresses.

Historical Sighting: 'L'ARMEE FANTOME'

A page is dedicated to 'L'ARMEE FANTOME' (The Phantom Army), referencing a sighting observed above the city of Bâle in 1557. This is presented as another piece of evidence for 'Phénomène fortéen' (Fortean Phenomena), a term associated with Charles Fort's work on unusual events. The article notes that this engraving, from 'Histoires prodigieuses' by Pierre BOAISTEAU (1597), remains an enigma, whether ufological or not. The description of the event mentions luminous crosses and banners, a terrible noise, and the flight of herds.

Crossword Puzzle

A crossword puzzle titled 'UFOLOGIE' is included, with horizontal and vertical clues related to various topics, including historical events, mythology, and ufology. The solution to a previous puzzle (n° 23) is also provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CERPI strongly focuses on unexplained historical events, particularly military disappearances linked to potential UFO encounters, as exemplified by the 'Disparition d'un régiment' article. The magazine also promotes parapsychology and the exploration of the subconscious as areas of study, evidenced by the seminar announcements and the article on 'rythmes du cerveau'. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into anomalous phenomena, grounded in witness testimony and historical records, while also encouraging personal development through understanding the subconscious. The inclusion of Charles Fort's work and Jacques Vallee's research suggests a connection to the broader field of Fortean studies and ufology.