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Chroniques de la CLEU - No 06 - Septembre 1978

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Overview

Title: Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U. Issue: No. 6 Date: September 1978 Publisher: C.L.E.U. (Commission Luxembourgeoise d'Etudes Ufologiques) Country: Luxembourg

Magazine Overview

Title: Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.
Issue: No. 6
Date: September 1978
Publisher: C.L.E.U. (Commission Luxembourgeoise d'Etudes Ufologiques)
Country: Luxembourg

This issue of 'Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.' presents a collection of articles and reports related to ufology and scientific discoveries. The cover features an illustration of the Luxembourg City Cathedral with several UFOs, setting a thematic tone for the publication.

Editorial

The editorial discusses the growing need for ufological groups to connect and collaborate, leading to the creation of the C.N.E.G.U. (Comité du Nord-Est des groupes ufologiques) in Nancy. This committee aims to coordinate efforts in the northeastern region and to provide representation at larger European meetings like the C.E.C.R.U. The editorial also mentions international contacts made in Mexico, Argentina, and Puerto Rico, indicating an expansion of the commission's network and ambition. It emphasizes a commitment to simple, rational ufology and criticizes other publications for presenting unsubstantiated UFO reports without precise details like location and date. A recent UFO sighting above Luxembourg in June is mentioned, with an ongoing investigation.

Articles and Reports

Evolution de la Vie: de nouvelles découvertes

This section highlights recent scientific findings related to evolution and life forms:

  • Early European Remains: Prehistoric human remains discovered off the coast of Zeeland, Denmark, are estimated to be 240,000 years old, predating Neanderthal (50,000 years) and Cro-Magnon (100,000 years) man.
  • Unknown Animal Under Ice: An unknown animal, resembling small trees (2.5-5 cm) encased in a fine shell of sand grains, was discovered by American scientists under the ice of the Ross Sea in Antarctica. These organisms, named 'Agglutinated aborescent foraminifera', survive in extreme conditions.
  • New Form of Life - Methanobacteria: Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a new form of microscopic life, methanobacteria, which does not fit into the traditional categories of animals or bacteria. These organisms live without oxygen, derive energy from simple compounds, and produce methane. Dr. Woese suggests they represent a third form of life, appearing in the first billion years of Earth's existence due to their resilience to extreme temperatures and lack of oxygen.

Des OVNI dans le ciel de Luxembourg

This is a detailed report of a UFO sighting in Contern, Luxembourg, investigated by Christian Petit.

  • Date and Time: Wednesday, September 16, 1976, between 18:00 and 18:20.
  • Witnesses: Z. Franco (monteur), C. René, and Raoul.
  • Location: Contern, near the Dupont de Nemours factory, east of Luxembourg City.
  • Observation Conditions: Dusk, with a cloudy sky but occasional clear patches. The witnesses were slightly away from the factory area.
  • Object Description: Three round and ovoid objects, approximately 7-8 cm in diameter, with a brilliant gold color. They appeared very beautiful and moved left for about 10 degrees, then right, before returning smaller (likely due to distance) and disappearing.
  • Duration: 20 minutes.
  • Anomalies: A compass needle deviation and a strange sensation (dizziness) were reported by an investigator on the ground, possibly due to factory equipment, but also potentially attracting the UFOs.
  • Witness Credibility: The primary witness, Franco, is noted as being very interested in UFOs and practicing astral projection, which slightly diminishes his credibility but does not invalidate his testimony. He is described as having a superior spirit, curious and eager to learn.
  • Official Response: A letter from the Luxembourg Airport Commander (Ed. Jené) dated December 15, 1976, states that no aircraft were registered on radar in the Contern region on the specified date and time, and no unidentifiable echoes were detected. A weather report for the date indicated good visibility and moderate cloud cover.

Une civilisation inconnue dans le Système Solaire

This article speculates about the existence of an unknown civilization that may have influenced the solar system.

  • Hypothesis: The author, Yvan Bozzonetti, proposes that a trans-Martian planet, possibly destroyed or ejected from its orbit, could have been caused by a collision with a large celestial body or an unknown civilization. The lack of debris and minimal impact on other planets' orbits makes conventional explanations difficult.
  • Alternative Explanations: The article explores gravitational collapse as a mechanism for a celestial body's disappearance without environmental disruption, but notes this is typically associated with massive stars, not planets. The possibility of the object passing into another universe after collapse is also considered.
  • Extraterrestrial Civilization: The author suggests that an advanced extraterrestrial civilization might have once inhabited the solar system, potentially leaving behind installations on the Moon and other planets.
  • Connection to Technology: The article briefly mentions Yvan Bozzonetti's work on 'Fantastiques découvertes dans l'espace' and 'La propulsion des soucoupes volantes', linking his theories to future industrial applications. It cites the development of a magnetic levitation train in Japan that reached a record speed of 357 km/h in July 1978.

Comment faire des photographies d'OVNI la nuit

This practical guide by Georges Pauly offers advice on photographing UFOs at night.

  • Challenge: Many UFO photos are ruined due to uncertainty about exposure settings (shutter speed and aperture).
  • Methodology: The study involved using a Konica 300mm telephoto lens and a Konica Autoreflex T3 camera with Kodak Tri X film (27 Din, developed at 29 Din). The moon, at an elevation of 15-20 degrees, was used as a test subject.
  • Experimental Setup: 17 photos were taken in two series: one with automatic exposure disabled, varying shutter speeds from 1 to 1/30 second with an aperture of 3.5; and a second series with automatic exposure (AE) enabled, varying shutter speeds from 1 to 1/1000 second.
  • Results: Detailed tables show the aperture and shutter speed combinations used for each photograph, providing data for future UFO photography attempts.

Des OVNI en Moselle

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Les médecins psychiques

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Phénomènes astronomiques en 1978

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Le CNEGU

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Lu pour vous dans la presse

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Les manifestations physiques des OVNI

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Les OVNI au conseil communal

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Bibliographie et articles divers

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings and investigations, the importance of scientific rigor and detailed reporting in ufology, and the exploration of scientific discoveries that challenge conventional understanding. The editorial stance is one of promoting rational, evidence-based research and fostering collaboration among ufologists. The publication aims to be a straightforward source of information, distinguishing itself from sensationalist or unsubstantiated reports.

Title: Le Monde Inexpliqué
Issue: 12
Volume: 1
Date: January 1979
Publisher: SOBEPS
Country: France
Price: 15 F
Cover Headline: OVNI: L'ENQUETE CONTINUE (UFO: The Investigation Continues)

This issue of Le Monde Inexpliqué, a French publication focused on unexplained phenomena, delves into various topics including UFO investigations, astronomical observations, and paranormal healing. The magazine features detailed reports on UFO sightings, astronomical data for 1978, and an in-depth article on 'psychic doctors'. It also announces the formation of a regional ufological cooperation committee.

Photographic Experiments with Lunar Photography

The issue begins with a detailed technical report on photographic experiments aimed at capturing images of the moon. The author describes the development process using Ilford Microphen developer and Ilfospeed paper. Two series of photographs were taken. The first series (photos 2-7) was taken with manual exposure, and the author notes that the photos were slightly blurred due to an uncomfortable position and inadequate support for the camera. Photo 7, taken under specific conditions (3.5 aperture, 1/30 sec), is considered usable and sharper than photo 14, which was taken with automatic exposure (AE) under similar conditions (3.5 aperture, 1/30 sec).

The second series (photos 9-19) utilized automatic exposure (AE), resulting in a 3.5 aperture. Photos 9-12 were deemed unusable due to clouds and the moon's movement causing blur. Photos 13-17 are praised for their excellent sharpness and phototechnical quality. However, from photo 18 onwards, the negative quality deteriorates, resulting in a grayish sky. Increasing exposure (e.g., photo 18, second print, 11/6'') led to a loss of detail and sharpness, making the moon appear darker. Despite these challenges, the author notes that even with an exposure time of 1/1000 second, some detail of the moon was still visible, which is considered extraordinary.

The conclusion of the photographic experiment highlights that using 400 ASA black and white film with a 300mm telephoto lens at an aperture of 3.5, exposure times of 1/125 to 1/250 second were sufficient to capture details of the moon, described as being the size of a football at 50 meters.

Investigation Report: January 30, 1974

This section details an investigation conducted by Michel Turco with three witnesses (Messieurs Turco, Granjean, and Bongras) in the Bouzonville-Boulay-Tromborn region of France. The observation took place on a plateau near Boulay under a full moon and starry sky.

Observation:
At approximately 19:30, a light was observed on the horizon, resembling the color of Mars. Over a few moments, the light moved rapidly to the left, becoming progressively brighter and changing color to a brilliant yellow. It then moved to the right at high speed, its luminosity decreasing. The light was described as having no visible support, appearing flat and visible from only one angle. It was compared to the beam of a powerful car headlight in the sky. The light reappeared approximately every 9 minutes. A small red point was observed moving around the main light, sometimes appearing as two red points before disappearing.

The observation lasted between 30 to 40 seconds. The witnesses were unable to distinguish any form of the object, noting that even vehicles at a greater distance were clearly visible. The color progression was from dark red-copper to brilliant yellow.

Second Observation Location:
Moving to a second location 2 km away, the 'thing' continued its rhythmic back-and-forth movement without changing appearance. A civilian airplane crossed the object's path about 2-3 minutes before its arrival. Later, a military airplane appeared 10 seconds after the light's passage, possibly pursuing it. Both aircraft then took the same direction, interrupting the 9-minute cycle.

No audible noise was perceived. The total observation period at both locations was from 19:30 to 21:10. The light appeared twice at regular intervals of about 9 minutes. Four airplanes were visible that evening, making confusion impossible. Subsequent observations in the following days were hampered by bad weather.

Diagrams:
Page 3 includes diagrams illustrating the observed phenomenon. Diagram I depicts the sequence of the light's appearance, color change, movement, and disappearance, along with the red points. Diagram II shows a different trajectory where red points appeared differently. The angles relative to magnetic north (30°-60°, 130°-135°) and the horizontal (10°-5°, 5°-25°) are also provided.

Psychic Doctors

This section reproduces an article by Michel Le Mouel discussing 'psychic doctors'. The article posits that ufological problems should not be solely confined to UFO observations.

Historical Context:
Since antiquity, the sick have sought help from healers using methods like magnetism, prayers, drugs, and herbal remedies when conventional medicine failed.

The Role of Psychic Doctors:
Psychic doctors, or spirits, can only heal through terrestrial doctors (mediums). After death, these spirits retain their intellect and professional skills. After a period of training in the afterlife, some return to practice their art on Earth, assisted by human doctors. The spirit of the invisible doctor substitutes itself for the medium, controlling their body. The psychic fluid of the communicator passes through the medium's hands. Patients are examined without removing their clothes, with the entity's hands lightly touching the body. Consultations typically occur in dimly lit rooms with drawn curtains, using only a bedside lamp for light.

Characteristics of Psychic Doctors:
These invisible doctors, despite having their eyes closed, can see perfectly. They do not perceive objects or furniture but retain the physical characteristics of their past lives, enabling them to continue their healing work. The 'subtle body' adapts to the physical body, contracting or dilating beneath the skin. It is composed of electrical cells and provides energy to the physical body, playing a crucial role in supporting physical life. Magnetic force holds these subtle body cells together, causing it to adhere to the physical body like a magnet throughout earthly life.

Cause of Illness:
Illness arises when the vibration frequency of the spirit is not in harmony with the physical body. The spiritual realm possesses the energies that give life to the physical body. Invisible doctors draw their healing power from the spirit and transmit it to the subtle and physical bodies of the patient.

Diagnosis:
Psychic doctors can examine each organ through the subtle body without the hindrance of overlying tissues. The 'aura'—a luminous emanation reflected by the body's organs—aids spiritual healers in diagnosis. Healthy organs reflect a defined color, while diseased organs show a color change.

Treatment:
Operations performed by these doctors are rapid, rarely exceeding fifteen minutes. Invisible assistants aid the doctors. Some patients experience painful sensations during operations, akin to incisions on an anesthetized body, while others feel great peace afterward. Not all invisible doctors can practice their mission due to the rarity of excellent mediums.

Famous Mediums and Miraculous Healings:
The article mentions José Arigo, a famous Brazilian medium who was incorporated by the German doctor Fritz. The emanations from these spirits are described as extraordinary. These 'doctors of the impossible' achieve healings often described as miraculous, with their authenticity confirmed by medical professionals who attest that patients who did not respond to conventional treatments were deemed incurable.

Remote Treatment:
While direct consultations in the psychic doctor's cabinet yield the quickest results, remote treatments are also provided for patients who have difficulty traveling, provided they have had at least one in-person examination. In some cases, psychic treatment is applied directly through the patient's spirit, without a medium. However, remote treatments are generally less effective than direct contact, and at least one consultation with the spiritual healer is recommended.

The article concludes by emphasizing the benevolent work of these invisible healers and their earthly associates.

Astronomical Phenomena Visible to the Naked Eye in 1978

This section provides a monthly guide to visible planets and celestial events in 1978, intended to help distinguish them from potential UFOs.

  • September:
  • Mercury: Visible in the East as the 'morning star' around the 4th. Distance: 135,120,000 km.
  • Venus: Reaches magnitude -4.2, shining brightly in the West, setting earlier each day. Distance: 87,750,000 km.
  • Mars: Disappears into solar rays, less visible than Venus. Distance: 337,950,000 km.
  • Jupiter: Visible in the morning in the East. Distance: 879,900,000 km.
  • Saturn: To be sought in the East before sunrise. Distance: 1,539,150,000 km.
  • Moon: New Moon on the 23rd, First Quarter on the 10th, Full Moon on the 16th, Last Quarter on the 24th. Total lunar eclipse on the 16th, partially visible in Belgium.
  • October:
  • Venus: Reaches maximum brightness on the 3rd, then disappears into sunset. Distance: 55,650,000 km.
  • Jupiter: Observable in the second half of the night in the East/Southeast. Distance: 820,650,000 km.
  • Saturn: Rises earlier each day. Distance: 1,508,250,000 km.
  • Moon: New Moon on the 2nd and 31st, First Quarter on the 9th, Full Moon on the 16th, Last Quarter on the 24th. Partial solar eclipse on the 2nd (invisible in Belgium). Meteor shower (Draconids) around the 9th. Autumn constellations like Pegasus and Orion are visible.
  • November:
  • Mercury: Visible as the 'evening star' around the 16th in the West. Distance: 167,550,000 km.
  • Venus: Passes between Earth and the Sun on the 11th, becoming invisible. Closest distance: 40,500,000 km. A transit of Venus across the Sun is mentioned for June 8, 2004, with the last occurrence on December 6, 1882.
  • December:
  • Venus: Becomes visible again in the morning in the East. Distance: 40,500,000 km.
  • Jupiter: Its brightness increases as its distance to Earth decreases. Rises around 21:30 on the 11th. Distance: 749,250,000 km.
  • Saturn: Rises earlier each day. Observable in the East during the second half of the night. Distance: 1,448,250,000 km. Occultation of the star Alpha Tauri by the Moon on the 16th.
  • Stars: Winter constellations like the Pleiades, Aldebaran, and Orion become visible. Cassiopeia, forming a 'W' shape, is also mentioned.

Reference: Inforespace, published by SOBEPS, 74, av. Paul Janson, 1070 Bruxelles.

International Sky Surveillance

This section reports on UFO observations compiled by members of the SERU (near Aix-les-Bains) and other groups.

March 11, 1978:
At 23:48, a yellow light, faster than a jet, was observed moving from west to east. Two photos were taken. The object disappeared instantly when a photographer turned on their flashlight. The observation lasted 20 seconds. The author notes the simultaneous occurrence of disordered flashlight movements and the object's sudden disappearance.

April 8, 1978:
No unidentifiable observations were reported to SVEPS.

  • May 8-9, 1978:
  • 22:45: A luminous point, described as a 'shooting star', pierced the cloud layer and moved north.
  • 23:40 - 23:55: Red lights were observed in the north at 60° above the horizon.
  • 24:00: A white luminous phenomenon was observed near Cassis, moving towards Toulon.
  • 00:15: The phenomenon was confirmed, with an increasingly intense light appearing next to it.
  • May 9, 1978:
  • 00:50: A red ball-shaped object was reported above Cassis, remaining almost immobile for over an hour. Another point of light appeared nearby.
  • 01:20: A white luminous phenomenon was observed near La Ciotat.
  • 01:55: An orange 'lightning flash' was reported above Arles.
  • 02:37: A white luminous ball was observed moving south.
  • 02:42: A white luminous ball was reported moving at a 160° bearing.
  • 05:00: A triangular object with unusual shape and signaling moved rapidly north-south at an estimated altitude of 1500-2000m without noise.

Commentaries on Observations 3, 4, and 6:
The observations of a white point of light above Cassis or La Ciotat, remaining almost immobile for over an hour, are interpreted as likely being the planet Venus. The other object is suggested to be Jupiter. The article notes that these two planets were in conjunction on May 29th.

Observation No. 10:
This observation is considered more interesting than the others, with a promised diagram.

The report mentions that bad weather has prevented participation in all observation nights. All previous reports were negative and regularly sent to SVEPS for synthesis. Future observation nights are scheduled for August 26, September 23, October 21, November 18, and December 9.

Creation of the Northeast Committee of Ufological Groups

On Saturday, May 27, 1978, ufological groups and independent researchers from the Northeast region of France met in Nancy to form an "amicable cooperation committee".

Participants:
The meeting included representatives from La CLEU, le GAU, le GPUN, the group 5255, and LDLN/88.

Nature and Objectives of the CNEGU:
The CNEGU aims to establish agreements between individuals and groups studying UFO phenomena in the Northeast region. Its objective is to foster common and coordinated actions for a better study of the phenomenon, without the intention of forming a federation or a binding official union.

Organization:
The CNEGU will meet quarterly for a weekend. Each participant group will take turns organizing these meetings. The participants decided to implement new friendly agreements through immediate common actions.

  • Practical Applications:
  • Systematic exchange of information (documents, magazines, etc.).
  • Exchange of annual local catalogs, compiled during a working commission at the beginning of each year and distributed to all CNEGU members. This catalog will be a synthesis of local catalogs, presented chronologically, including regional UFO observations (press clippings, summarized inquiries, etc.).
  • Creation of an observation file for each department, updated with information from all members. A standardized form (13.5x20cm) has been created, including a questionnaire about the observation, the stamp or name of the observer, and references to the inquiry or press information. Each participant commits to filling out this form whenever they have information on a UFO observation in their region. This system will provide researchers with all necessary information for classification.
  • Centralization of press articles into a review. La CLEU has volunteered for this data collection through its bulletin "Les Chroniques de la CLEU".
  • Coordination of sky surveillance, with participants agreeing to follow dates proposed by SVEPS of Toulon and communicate their results.
  • Availability of exceptional equipment.
  • Creation of an informant network for the entire Northeast region.
  • Financial aid for research through public information campaigns. A special issue of CLEU will compile everyone's work, to be produced during a joint working day.
  • A telephone network has been established.
  • External Relations of the CNEGU:
  • With CECRU: This regional committee, in line with the research coordination proposed by CECRU, may simplify reports between Northeast researchers and CECRU. However, as some CNEGU participants are not CECRU members, the committee will remain autonomous and independent. Upon agreement, CNEGU can transmit decisions or work to CECRU as information.
  • With GEPAN: Regional catalogs will be communicated to GEPAN, and they will be informed of exceptional cases based on member opinions.

The next meeting will be hosted by GPUN at 15, rue Guilbert de Pixérécourt, 54000 Nancy. It will take place in September (exact date to be confirmed based on availability) over a weekend.

Read in the Press

This section compiles UFO-related news items from various newspapers.

Républicain Lorrain, February 14, 1978:
Reports of over fifty successive "flying saucer" appearances in the triangle formed by Swansea, Mid-Wales, and Broad Haven have begun to worry the Welsh. Two serious witnesses, directors of a company, described an "enormous cigar-shaped machine, at least six meters long," that passed at a hundred meters from their car, flying so low it could have hit a double-decker bus. It made no noise and seemed about to crash before disappearing into a field. The British UFO research association is taking these reports seriously and investigating.

Républicain Lorrain, May 25, 1978:
Thirty unidentified flying objects (UFOs) reportedly flew over Mendoza, Argentina (980 km west of Buenos Aires), disappearing into the foothills of the Andes. This was the second group UFO event in western Argentina in a week, following a similar sighting of forty UFOs in the San Luis region (400 km west of Buenos Aires).

Républicain Lorrain, May 17, 1978:
A Polish farmer claims to have spent time aboard a UFO, invited by extraterrestrials. The extraordinary event allegedly occurred on May 17th near Lublin, Poland. The farmer described encountering "two strange creatures, dressed in a kind of autonomous black diving suit," moving with supple hops. Their faces were green, and their eyes oblique. They communicated with monosyllables. Invited aboard a "strange vehicle," the farmer found himself among other creatures who examined him with a device resembling a radioscopy apparatus. He was offered "a sort of transparent jelly," which he refused. Villagers who arrived at the scene could not see the craft but noted rectangular traces on the damp earth, as reported by the "Kurier Polski."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, presenting detailed investigative reports, witness testimonies, and astronomical data. There is a clear effort to provide technical details for photographic evidence and astronomical sightings, aiming to differentiate them from potential UFOs. The inclusion of articles on psychic healing and the formation of ufological cooperation committees suggests a broad interest in paranormal and fringe topics, with an editorial stance that encourages investigation and information sharing within the ufological community. The publication appears to be a platform for reporting on a wide range of unexplained events and phenomena, with a particular emphasis on UFO sightings and related research in France and internationally. The tone is generally serious and investigative, aiming to present factual accounts and analyses, even when dealing with extraordinary claims.

This issue of UFO-Nachrichten, dated April 28, 1978, focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena reported in early 1978. The cover story highlights a mysterious squadron observed over Saint Symphorien de Lay.

Article: Strange Discovery Near Pierre-de-Bresse (Nice-Matin, April 28, 1978)

M. Ernest Joly, a 52-year-old farmer from Pierre-de-Bresse (Saône et Loire), made an unusual discovery on his land. In the middle of a one-hectare field, he found an 8-meter wide furrow, 40 centimeters deep at its center, with pointed ends. Within a 10-meter radius around this cavity, several cylindrical anchor points, 6 to 8 centimeters in diameter and 12 to 14 centimeters deep, were observed. The furrow and anchor points showed a greyish substance and an extraordinary polish, with samples collected by the gendarmerie. Specialists from Paris and Metz were expected to investigate.

Article: UFO Sighting Over Belgrad (Tageblatt, July 12, 1978)

On July 9, around 8:00 PM, hundreds of Belgrad residents, including a TV cameraman, reported seeing a brightly shining white UFO moving west at an approximate altitude of 1000 meters. The Belgrad airport radar did not detect any object. The cameraman reportedly filmed the UFO for about 4 minutes and intended to present it on television. The report was translated by Monique Sassel (CLEU).

Article: UFOs Over Teheran (Ufo-Nachrichten, April 4, 1978)

Twenty UFOs, each approximately 20 times the size of a jumbo jet, were reportedly sighted over Teheran. Three air traffic controllers, two Iran-Air pilots, and one Air France pilot were witnesses. The control tower observed these objects 320 km south of Teheran, between Isfahan and Schiras, on their screens. They were moving at a speed of 5000 km/hour at an altitude of about 15 km. Following the control tower's alert, several pilots confirmed the sighting. An Air France pilot described turbulent movements during the passage of these large luminous flying objects and transmitted light signals towards them, to which the UFOs reportedly responded. An investigation was opened. The report was translated by Gusty Metzdorf (CLEU).

Article: Solar-Powered Balloon Flight (Républicain Lorrain, February 8, 1978)

A balloon powered by solar energy made an inaugural flight near Minneapolis, Minnesota. Aerostier M. Frédrick Eshoo, an Iranian billionaire, conceived the idea of using solar rays to heat the air inside the balloon instead of traditional propane gas. The balloon's envelope is 18 meters in diameter, half opaque to allow solar rays to reach the other half. An electrical system allows the transparent part to be oriented towards the sun. If the sun is not shining, the traditional method is used.

Article: When a UFO Passes By (Christian Petit)

This article, part of a series for newcomers to ufology, discusses the effects of UFO encounters, specifically focusing on 'Type II encounters' which involve ground traces and effects on witnesses and animals. The author previously covered electromagnetic effects such as engine stalls and headlight failures in vehicles, and interference with onboard electrical and radio equipment.

Effects on Witnesses:

Witnesses may experience oppression and heat, leg tingling that can lead to temporary paralysis, nausea, headaches, and drowsiness for several days. Psychologically, they might feel indescribable fear, shock, and memory loss.

Effects on Animals:

Animals exhibit panic, seeking escape and agitation, their heightened instincts alerting them to the phenomenon.

Physical Traces of Landings:

  • Physical traces are considered the most significant evidence from UFO landings. Examples include:
  • Saucer Nests: Circles 5 to 15 meters in diameter with vegetation laid down and crushed in a specific direction, found in Queensland, Australia (1966) and Aumetz, France.
  • Holes: Clean holes possibly made by landing gear (Quarouble, 1954).
  • Disturbed Earth: Earth that is moved or dried (Marliens, 1967).
  • Vegetation Damage: Burned or torn vegetation, leading to sterile soil.
  • Rock Alterations: Calcination of rocks making them brittle and crystallization of materials.

The author emphasizes that samples from these sites can provide valuable information if analyzed by serious groups. Chemists within the author's group have offered to conduct analyses.

Article: Passage of a Mysterious Squadron Over Saint Symphorien de Lay (GEPO Inquiry)

On March 21, 1978, around 10:30 PM, Mme Odile Chevenier of Saint Symphorien de Lay (Loire) observed a formation of luminous points moving at high speed on her balcony. She was fascinated by the spectacle. She called her husband, M. Jean Chevenier, but the formation disappeared quickly. Mme Chevenier stated they were not airplanes due to the absence of noise. The observation lasted less than 30 seconds. Mme Chevenier, a former schoolteacher, is not particularly interested in UFOs but found the phenomenon disturbing. No other corroborating reports had surfaced at the time of the inquiry.

Article: Ufology and CLEU at the Communal Council (Esch/Alzette)

The Luxembourgish Ufological Studies Association was a significant topic at the Esch/Alzette Communal Council meeting on July 18, 1978. The press reported that the "ufological society" received only a meager 1,000 F subsidy, with many jokes made about the subject, indicating a lack of understanding or belief in UFOs among the council members. M. Wolter was the sole council member who tried to convince others, but the council largely dismissed ufology as a "fanciful activity." However, ufology did make an entry into the council proceedings.

The article contrasts this dismissive attitude with the work of France's GEPAN (National Center for Space Studies), whose scientific council deemed it "impossible today to exclude or recognize the abnormal character of the reported facts" concerning UFO observations. GEPAN recommended the continuation of its activities within CNES. The article criticizes the Esch/Alzette council for affirming that UFOs do not exist, implying they possess scientific expertise in the matter.

GEPAN Scientific Council Communication

The article includes the full text of a communication from the GEPAN Scientific Council. It states that public interest in the environment warrants scientific studies on subjects that capture attention, rather than outright rejection. The formation of a Study Group within CNES was deemed justified, offering guarantees through its location and technical resources. The multidisciplinary approach, including human sciences, was appreciated. The council acknowledged the unusual nature of the study and the objectivity demonstrated by GEPAN researchers, particularly in statistical studies. Based on the dossiers presented, the council found it impossible to exclude or confirm the abnormal nature of the reported facts and could not definitively state the scientific interest of these facts. The council offered several suggestions:

  • Improve data collection by shortening the time between observation and reporting to GEPAN, enabling more direct advice to the gendarmerie.
  • Refine the statistical selection and processing procedures.
  • Study the potential formation of a multidisciplinary intervention team.
  • Acknowledge that statistical methods alone are insufficient, though indispensable.
  • Develop precise methodologies for case studies and investigations.

The council recommended the continuation of GEPAN's activities within CNES, with a mandate to coordinate national data collection and study the data. They also recommended sufficient resources be allocated and that vigilance be maintained regarding the diffusion and publication of studies, with the council to be consulted before any publication.

Article: Opinion from Républicain Lorrain (July 22, 1978)

This section includes an opinion piece from the Républicain Lorrain regional newspaper, referencing a Luxembourgish proverb about not eating what one doesn't know. It describes ufology's timid entry into the Esch/Alzette communal council, resulting in laughter and a small subsidy. The author notes that the operation, despite the "frank laughter," resulted in a subsidy of "0 francs."

Response from Ufologists

Ufologists expressed anger at what they considered an offense. The Luxembourgish Ufological Studies Association, founded in 1976 by Christian Petit and Gusty Metzdorf, publishes a quarterly bulletin, organizes information evenings, and holds conferences. They have offered their services to youth centers. The article notes that ufology associations exist worldwide, with 50 in France and a dozen in Belgium. It mentions Dr. Hyneck's involvement with Cufos and his role as a technical advisor for the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." Jean-Claude Poher of CNES created GEPAN for UFO studies. The former Minister of the Armed Forces, Robert Gallé, publicly acknowledged the scientific interest of UFO research, and French gendarmes frequently file investigation reports without finding them ridiculous. Many members of ufology associations are scientists, including chemists, physicists, and astronomers.

The magazine then publishes its own response to the local press, titled "The Associated Comedians." They express sadness at the commune of Esch-sur-Alzette's refusal of a 1000 F annual subsidy. They argue that calling ufology "comical" insults hundreds of scientists, many of global renown, and hundreds of thousands of witnesses who might be considered mentally alienated or seeking psychological balance. While respecting the council's desire to laugh, they state that what is comical to some is not to others. Their goal is information, not a subsidy. They advocate for mutual respect for intellectual and cultural choices, noting that respect seems to be a forgotten word.

Clin d'oeil (A Nod)

  • This section contains classified ads:
  • A request for old UFO books, addressed to Jean-Luc Proust in Lormont, France.
  • A sale of a Konica camera with a Reflex lens and a bayonet mount, offered by Christian Petit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, the physical evidence left behind by alleged landings, the psychological and physical effects on witnesses and animals, and the official scientific investigation of UFOs in France through GEPAN. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for serious scientific inquiry into UFO phenomena, contrasting the dismissive attitude of some local authorities with the more open approach of national scientific bodies. The magazine aims to inform the public about reported incidents and the ongoing efforts to understand them, while also defending the credibility of ufology against ridicule.