CERPI - no 27 - avril 1980

Magazine Overview

CERPI is a bimonthly magazine dedicated to the study of unexplained phenomena, published by the Centre d'études et de recherches des phénomènes inexpliqués (CERPI) located at 51 rue St Pallais, 17100 Saintes, France. This issue, number 27, is dated April 1980 and priced at 5 French Francs. The cover features a quote from Blaise Pascal about the infinite nature of things surpassing reason, alongside an illustration related to ufology and other unexplained phenomena. The magazine is a member of the C.E.C.R.U. (Centre Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique).

Editorial: St-Porchaire and La Rochelle Phenomena

The editorial addresses recent strange occurrences reported in St-Porchaire and La Rochelle. The author, likely the head of investigations, expresses initial skepticism about a new OVNI (UFO) phenomenon reported in St-Porchaire, fearing it might be another 'foireuse' (botched) investigation. The editorial highlights the common issue where press coverage of a witness report leads to excessive attention from the curious and amateur investigators. This can cause witnesses to either refuse further contact or to embellish their accounts, creating an 'imbroglio' of truth mixed with fabricated details. The editorial also notes that media publicity can lead to a repetition of phenomena, not necessarily because the reports are false, but because people are mistaken. An example from St-Porchaire is given, where an initial OVNI sighting on March 3rd was later identified as Venus, a bright planet, due to its apparent movement and position in the sky. The editorial concludes by urging UFO groups to use the press as a starting point for investigations but to avoid publishing unverified reports, especially for statistical purposes.

Calendar C.E.R.P.I.

The magazine includes a calendar of upcoming events for CERPI members. Monthly meetings ('Réunion de fin de mois') are held on the last Saturday of each month, with specific dates and locations provided for May and June 1980. Bureau meetings ('Réunion de bureau') take place on the first Friday of each month, with hosts and locations listed for June through October 1980. All members are welcome to attend bureau meetings as observers.

Astronomy: Apocalypse 1982

This section addresses predictions of the end of the world in 1982 due to a planetary alignment. The author, Bernard Delhoume, aims to provide a more grounded perspective. He confirms that an interesting planetary conjunction will occur in April, May, and June 1982, where several planets will be visually close in a specific sector of the sky (between 202 and 266° longitude héliocentrique). However, he clarifies that this is not a perfect alignment and will not cause cataclysmic events. Using Newton's law of gravitation, the article calculates the gravitational pull of other planets on Earth compared to the Moon. It finds that Jupiter exerts the strongest pull among the planets, but it is less than 1% of the Moon's influence. Even combining Venus and Jupiter, their effect is only 95% of the combined planetary influence, and the Moon's remains dominant. The article notes that significant gravitational perturbations would only occur if Venus and Jupiter were in conjunction, which happens roughly every seven years. Furthermore, similar planetary configurations occurred in 1445, 1624, and 1803 without any catastrophic consequences. The conclusion is that while the end of the world might occur in 1982, planetary alignments will not be the cause.

Ephemerides

This section provides astronomical information for May and June 1982:

• May: Meteor showers (Capricornides from the 10th to 25th, Aquarides from the 15th to 31st). Planets: Mercury visible in the evening after sunset. Venus will be very bright, reaching its peak on the 9th. Mars will be visible all night near Regulus. Jupiter will be visible near Regulus. Saturn will be visible for most of the night in the constellation Virgo.
• June: Meteor showers (Sagittarides around the 14th, Lyrides from the 10th to 21st, Ophiuchides from the 17th to 26th). Planets: Mercury visible briefly after sunset. Venus will become less visible. Mars will be visible near Regulus. Jupiter will be visible in the evening. Saturn will be visible in the evening between Virgo and Leo.

The section also offers recommendations for beginners in astronomy, listing three books: "Le Guide Explo. de l'Astronomie" by P. de la Cotardière, "Atlas d'Astronomie" by J. Herrmann, and "A l'affût des étoiles" by P. Bourge. Readers seeking more information are directed to write to Bernard Delhoume.

Cosmographie: Apparent Movement of the Sun

This article explains the consequences of the Sun's apparent movement, focusing on the inequality of seasons and the concept of mean solar time versus legal time. It describes how the Earth's elliptical orbit causes the Sun's apparent speed to vary, leading to unequal durations of the four seasons. The average durations are given as: Spring (92 days, 20 hours), Summer (93 days, 15 hours), Autumn (89 days, 19 hours), and Winter (89 days, 19 hours). The article mentions that the point of the Sun's closest approach to Earth (perigee) is currently shifting, causing variations in season lengths over a 26,000-year cycle. It then defines the 'mean solar day' based on a hypothetical 'mean sun' moving at a constant speed, which is used to establish standard time. The difference between local time, universal time, and legal time is also briefly discussed, noting that noon in Paris occurs at 11:33 AM in Brest and 12:22 PM in Strasbourg.

Enquêtes C.E.R.P.I. (Investigations): St-Porchaire, n° 96

This section details an investigation into a UFO sighting that occurred on March 5, 1980, in Le Bourg, St-Porchaire, Charente-Maritime. The witnesses were Madame Courpron, her 18-year-old daughter Chantal, and her three sons. The phenomenon was observed at 10:22 PM and lasted for 15 minutes. The object was described as lenticular, red-orange, and luminous, appearing to move towards the horizon in successive steps. It emitted light pulses and was estimated to be twice the diameter of the moon. The report was filed with the gendarmerie of St-Porchaire. Accompanying the report are drawings: a map of the area, a sketch of the UFO, and a view of the phenomenon as seen through the car's windshield.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CERPI include Ufology, Astronomy, and the critical examination of phenomena. The editorial stance emphasizes a cautious and evidence-based approach to investigating unexplained events, particularly UFO sightings. It highlights the importance of distinguishing between genuine observations and misidentifications or embellishments, often exacerbated by media attention. The magazine aims to provide rational explanations where possible (as seen in the astronomy section) while also documenting and investigating unexplained cases through detailed reports like the St-Porchaire incident.

This issue of CERPI (Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches des Phénomènes Inexpliqués) focuses on unexplained phenomena, featuring UFO sightings and a historical case of alleged teleportation, alongside information on hypnotism courses.

Enquête N° 94: Langrune-sur-Mer, February 1976

This section details an investigation conducted by Claude SOURIS on April 1, 1980, concerning an observation made in February 1976 in Langrune-sur-Mer, Calvados. The witness, Madame BRES Elvira, a 32-year-old housewife and private pilot, reported seeing an object on a stormy winter morning around 9:00-9:15 AM. The weather conditions were poor, with a low, dense, cottony cloud ceiling and strong winds from the sea.

Madame BRES was driving and noticed a very orange, rectangular mass at the level of her vision, approximately the size of a building floor. She initially saw only the left part of the object as it disappeared very quickly. She considered taking a photo but realized she had no film. She then drove closer to observe it.

As she drove along the sea, she saw the orange rectangle diminishing in size. She pursued it for about 1 km at 80 km/h, feeling the object was moving away. Stopping to observe, she noted the object was below the cloud ceiling (maximum 150m). It had changed color to a lighter orange and stabilized. Then, a white smoke or vapor emerged from its center, and the object split into two rectangles of the same proportion, with a slight separation. It then turned yellow, then increasingly white, before disappearing perpendicularly, becoming smaller and smaller. The entire phenomenon lasted 1 to 2 minutes and was silent.

The report includes a sketch of the observation, showing clouds, the sea, a road, and the OVNI (Unidentified Flying Object).

Enquête N° 95: Echillais, March 1980

This investigation, conducted by Claude SOURIS and Jean-Louis CASTEL on April 5, 1980, concerns an observation made on March 3, 1980, around 9 PM, near Echillais, Charente-Maritime, at a location called "La Renaissance" on Départementale 238.

The witnesses were Mr. ROULIN Jean, a 61-year-old farmer, and Mr. X, a 29-year-old factory worker, both from Ste-RADEGONDE.

They were driving towards Rochefort when Mr. ROULIN pointed out an orange "parachute" moving horizontally to their left, parallel to their route. The object's shape was described as an overturned soup plate, with an apparent diameter of one and a half parachutes (estimated at 7 to 10 meters). It appeared to be between them and the St-Agnant airbase, about 3 kilometers away. They lost sight of it, possibly due to rows of trees or their own movement. It was low on the horizon, between 10 and 20 degrees, moving regularly and horizontally. The phenomenon lasted about one minute.

The report includes a map of the area and an enlargement of the U.V.N.I. (Unidentified Very Natural Object).

UFOLOGIE: Les cas célèbres: Cas de télé-transport (Case of Teleportation)

This section, extracted from F.S.R. (Flying Saucers Review) of March 1965, recounts a historical case of alleged teleportation.

On the morning of October 25, 1593, a Spanish soldier suddenly appeared in the Plaza Mayor of Mexico-City. He was wearing the insignia of his regiment, which was then guarding Manila, Philippines, over 9,000 miles (14,000 km) away across the Pacific Ocean.

The soldier had no idea how he got to Mexico-City, only knowing he was no longer in Manila. He also stated that Don Gomez Perez Dasmarinas, the Governor of the Philippines, was dead. This rumor spread rapidly in the capital.

Spanish authorities in Mexico, unable to explain how the soldier traveled without damaging his uniform, imprisoned him as a deserter from the Manila garrison.

Weeks passed, and the soldier remained in his cell. News from Spain, traveling by regular ship to Manila and then across Mexico via Acapulco and the Sierra, was slow. Eventually, news arrived in Mexico-City confirming that Don Gomez Perez Dasmarinas had been assassinated by mutineers on the very day the soldier appeared in Mexico-City.

The Holy Tribunal of the Inquisition took charge of the soldier, who still could not explain his journey from Manila to Mexico. He could only say it happened in less time than it takes a hen to lay an egg.

The Inquisition ordered the soldier to be sent back to Manila for further investigation. Based on numerous testimonies, it was confirmed that the soldier was indeed on duty in Manila on the night of October 24, 1593, and was arrested in Mexico-City the following morning, 14,000 km away. The case is supported by documents from the Augustinian and Dominican orders, as well as a book by Dr. Antonio de Morga. The report concludes that the only label for such a case is "tele-transport."

Institut d'Enseignement et de Recherches Hypnotiques (I.E.R.H.)

This section promotes courses offered by the I.E.R.H. on hypnotism. It highlights that hypnotism is a science of the future, a present reality, and a fact of the past. The courses are designed to help individuals discover, experiment with, and develop their PSI faculties (clairvoyance, telepathy, psychometry, etc.) through intensive and safe training. The program aims to master subconscious powers and demonstrate that hypnosis is conducive to para-psychological research.

The courses are described as serious, practical, and yielding proven results. The I.E.R.H. claims anyone can become a hypnotist by understanding human psychology and adapting their behavior. The curriculum includes techniques for creating influence and mastering hypnotic induction phases. The studies last 12 months, with 24 regular course dispatches. Students receive personalized support from a professor and a diploma recognized by major Canadian hypnotism schools upon completion.

The cost for the full course is 1,200 F (including 200 F registration fees) for a lump-sum payment, or a payment plan of 400 F upfront and four monthly installments of 200 F. The magazine offers to put interested individuals in touch with I.E.R.H.

Puzzles and Subscriptions

The issue includes a crossword puzzle (Solution in issue n° 28) and a word puzzle (Solution n° 26). It also contains a "Bulletin ADHESION" for joining the C.E.R.P.I. and a "Bulletin ABONNEMENT" for subscribing to the CERPI journal, providing details on membership fees, subscription costs, and contact information for Yvette SOURIS.

La Vision d'Ezechiel (The Vision of Ezekiel)

This article interprets the biblical Book of Ezekiel from a modern, technological perspective, particularly concerning descriptions of divine manifestations and celestial phenomena. The author suggests that Ezekiel's account, when read in light of recent technological advancements like air and space travel, can be reinterpreted as a description of a technological craft and its occupants.

The article posits that Ezekiel encountered a technological device, possibly a "service module" or "shuttle," designed for atmospheric or near-space travel, piloted by humanoids who delivered a message. The author encourages readers to imagine this craft, considering Ezekiel's limited vocabulary and likely fear. The description of "animals" with metallic features, wings, and feet is analyzed as a potential description of the craft's propulsion system or components, possibly relating to engines (explosion, reaction, or electric) which produce noise and movement, thus being metaphorically linked to the animal kingdom.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CERPI demonstrates a consistent focus on unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO sightings and historical anomalies like teleportation. The magazine actively investigates and documents such cases, presenting them with details of witnesses, locations, and dates. The inclusion of information about I.E.R.H. and its courses in hypnotism and para-psychology suggests an editorial stance that embraces the exploration of the paranormal and the potential of the human mind beyond conventional scientific understanding. The magazine also engages its readership through puzzles and subscription drives, fostering a community of interest in these subjects.

This issue, titled "LA VISION D'EZECHIEL" (The Vision of Ezekiel), focuses on an interpretation of the biblical prophet Ezekiel's visions, particularly his description of a divine craft, presented through the lens of modern UFOlogy. The cover features a drawing by J.L. Castel, an adherent of C.E.R.P.I., depicting this craft under the title "LA GLOIRE DE DIEU" (The Glory of God).

Interpretation of Ezekiel's Vision

The text delves into the details of Ezekiel's vision, suggesting that the 'divine chariot' described in the biblical text could be an advanced technological craft. The article explores the physical characteristics of this craft as interpreted from the biblical account.

Craft Description and Components

According to the text, the upper 'wings' could be rotor blades (two or four), and the side wings might be connecting arms to the main cabin. It is noted that rotor blades would stop when stationary, a characteristic observed and deemed significant. The four rotors appeared to have tangent areas. The craft is depicted with a central cockpit, identified as a crystal structure, containing a seat for the pilot and possibly resembling eyes (hublots).

The habitable part is described as "a wheel within a wheel." Two interpretations are offered: either the four propulsors are connected to a separate annular structure containing fuel tanks (labeled A in the diagram), or the central part itself resembles a wheel with a substantial or tiered hub (labeled B in the diagram).

Interpretation (A) allows for imagining a supporting structure (four propulsors + annular reservoir) within which the central part could be interchangeable, adapted for transporting personnel, cargo, or equipped for observation or other missions.

Propulsion and Movement

Further details suggest the central cabin could accommodate a second type of propulsion system for extra-atmospheric travel. The engines might be 'ducted fans' at the tip of the blades, explaining the "fire that circulated between the beings" (I. 13). Ezekiel emphasizes the unified movement of the beings and the wheels, obeying "the spirit that was in the wheels (the pilot)" (I. 21).

Ezekiel's terror and revolt are mentioned, followed by a baptism of air, experiencing acceleration of three or four 'G's, with the "hand of Yahveh strongly upon me."

References and Further Study

• The article provides references for further study, including "The Holy Scriptures, new world translation." Specific points for research include:
• Engine noises (1. 24) (2. 12) (2. 13).
• Telepathic message transmission using visual (rayon) or hypnotic methods for induction (1. 28) (2. 2) (3. 22) (3. 23) (3. 16) (6. 1).
• The materialization of a phenomenon that can move and be called "Glory of God" (10.9 to 13) (3. 24) (4.4) (1. 28) (8.4) (9.3) (10. 18) (11. 22 and 23).
• Weapons that could be related to explosives (10. 2, 3 and 4).
• Sightings of humanoids or occupants of aerial vehicles (8. 2 et 3) (9. 3, 4 et 5) (10.5) (10.8) (40. 3).
• Visions of massacres by these occupants (9.3, 4 et 5).

Etymological Origin of Ezekiel

The etymological origin of Ezekiel is given as Hebrew YEKHEZQUEL, meaning "force of the ELOHIMS."

Biblical Text Excerpt (Ezekiel Chapter 1)

The issue includes an excerpt from the Book of Ezekiel, Chapter 1, detailing the prophet's vision. Key elements from this text include:

• The opening of the heavens and visions of God.
• The appearance of four living creatures, each with four faces (man, lion, bull, eagle) and four wings.
• Their feet like calves' feet, shining like polished copper.
• Human hands under their wings.
• Their movement being direct, without turning.
• The sound of their wings like vast waters or a mighty army.
• A voice from above the expanse, and a sapphire-like throne with the appearance of a man.
• The presence of fire and electrum, with a surrounding brightness described as the "glory of Jehovah."
• Wheels beside the living creatures, described as "a wheel within a wheel," with a structure like chrysolite, and their movement synchronized with the creatures.
• An expanse above their heads resembling a terrifying crystal.

Geographical Context

A map titled "LE MONDE ANTIQUE" (The Ancient World) is included, showing various locations relevant to the biblical narrative, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Levant, with cities like Ur, Babylon, Memphis, and Jerusalem marked.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the interpretation of ancient religious texts, specifically the Book of Ezekiel, as descriptions of advanced technology, likely extraterrestrial in origin. The editorial stance appears to favor this interpretation, presenting it as a serious subject for research and study, encouraging readers to explore the provided references. The magazine positions itself as a platform for exploring the intersection of ancient history, religion, and modern ufology.