Chroniques de la CLEU - No 15 - Decembre 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.
Issue: 15
Date: December 1980
Publisher: C.L.E.U. (COMMISSION LUXEMBOURGEOISE D'ETUDES UFOLOGIQUES)
Country: Luxembourg
Language: French

This issue of 'Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.' provides an overview of ufological activities and discussions, with a particular focus on events in Luxembourg and international perspectives.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the year 1980, noting a mini wave of UFO sightings over the Grand Duchy in October. The editor speculates whether these sightings might be a consequence of increased press coverage of the C.L.E.U. commission, which has made their address known. Out of 17 recorded observations in October, two bright stars were identified, while others were harder to classify due to the objects' behavior. The editor also shares personal experiences from a vacation in the USA, where they spoke with a US Air Force technician who confirmed the military's interest in the phenomenon and mentioned recent UFO sightings and photographs in Montana. The technician also stated that official bodies always investigate UFO sightings and that he himself had observed unidentified flying objects during his 20 years of flying. The editorial emphasizes that both the USA and France take the UFO phenomenon seriously and advocates for cooperation with other governments. It suggests that simple recognition of their studies and coordination with official services, such as the gendarmerie, would be sufficient to advance research. The editor also notes that press contacts are well-established and hopes that in case of future sightings in Luxembourg, the C.L.E.U. will be contacted promptly to preserve evidence from the public. The goal is to sensitize official circles in the coming years.

Article: NLO et "ENLONAUTES", A la Lumière du Folklore

This article, translated from Russian by M W. Raymond Drake, explores the connection between UFOs (NLO) and folklore. The author, Valeri I. Sanarov, references the works of W. Raymond Drake, who has written extensively on ancient astronauts and related topics. The article notes that terms like NLO, UFO, and 'flying saucer' are familiar in the Soviet Union, with information published in newspapers and scientific magazines. Various theories attempt to explain UFOs, including natural phenomena, extraterrestrial visitors, or fiction. The article mentions the US 'Project Blue Book,' which officially concluded in 1969 that there was no UFO problem, classifying sightings as either hoaxes or known scientific phenomena. However, the author argues that the UFO phenomenon has a direct link to folklore because much of the evidence is based on eyewitness accounts. The number of reported encounters with flying saucers and 'enlonautes' (UFO crews) is increasing, with hundreds of thousands of observations documented and analyzed.

The article then delves into the characteristics of UFO sightings and 'enlonautes' from a folklore perspective. It describes the objects as mysterious flying entities, often circular or cylindrical, and sometimes in the classic 'flying saucer' shape – a rotating disc with a dome and flashing lights. When these objects land, 'people' are sometimes seen inside or nearby. The author likens these accounts to original stories told by eyewitnesses, emphasizing their circumstantial nature, detailing the moment, location, and sometimes including sketches. These narratives are compared to Russian 'bilichka' tales, which describe encounters with another world that are unusual, unexplained, and frightening. The article highlights that UFO accounts often emphasize the incredible nature of the event and describe extraordinary phenomena with a sense of terror. One account from Arles, France, details a witness experiencing intense, irrational terror and physical symptoms upon approaching a large, semi-circular dome-shaped object.

Further examples are provided from Venezuela, where villagers observed a discoidal object, and Italy, where a witness described a strange, delicate being in a black suit. The article notes that police and local investigators collect detailed reports, including meteorological data and sometimes psychiatric evaluations, to establish a connection with the event. Encounters are often sudden and unpredictable, sometimes preceded by strange sounds or lights. A statistical study indicates that most UFO encounters occur between 7 PM and 10 PM, often in secluded areas like riverbanks, clearings, or hillsides. The article also discusses the appearance of 'enlonautes,' noting that while some are described as having unusual features like fur, horns, or green skin, many are depicted as normal-looking humans.

Report: 7th Session of the CNEGU at Hollenfels Castle

This section provides a report on the 7th session of the CNEGU (Comité Nord Est des Groupements Ufologiques) held at Hollenfels Castle in Luxembourg on September 6-7, 1980. The event was hosted by the C.L.E.U. and attended by four groups: C.L.E.U., GPUN, C.V.LDLN, and group 5255. The program included participant reception, agenda preparation, mail processing, codification, investigator training, a film screening on Mexico and Peru, and an observation session. The report describes the castle setting as conducive to work and relaxation. A notable point was the absence of the GAU and GTROVNI groups, which led to a discussion about membership and a proposed new clause for participation agreements. The session also included a common meal and discussions on symbology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reporting and analysis of UFO sightings, the comparison of these sightings to folklore and mythology, and the importance of official investigation and international cooperation in ufology. The editorial stance is one of advocating for a serious approach to the UFO phenomenon by state entities and encouraging collaboration between different organizations and governments. There is a clear emphasis on the need for systematic research, evidence preservation, and the sensitization of official circles.

This issue of "Chroniques" (Issue 11, dated 1980) is a publication from the CNEGU (Centre National d'Études et de Recherches Ufologiques) and related groups, focusing on UFO sightings, investigations, and related topics. The magazine is primarily in French and covers events and discussions from late 1980.

CNEGU Meeting and Activities

The issue details the proceedings of a CNEGU meeting, including discussions on protocol modifications. A key point was the requirement for prospective members to attend two sessions annually to avoid exclusion. A proposed amendment by Christine Stygart concerned the management of meeting organization.

A significant discussion revolved around the creation of a "catalog of shapes" to standardize descriptions of UFOs, making it easier for witnesses and investigators to communicate. François Diolez and André Pichon took on the task of developing this catalog. A test involving 50 forms was conducted, highlighting the difficulty in naming observed phenomena.

The meeting also featured a film by Christian Petit on the Nazca lines, followed by an observation night. Two amateur astronomers from Luxembourg shared their telescope and knowledge, answering numerous questions from members.

Sunday was dedicated to training investigators, with a technical form presented by François Diolez. The report also lists the ongoing work of various affiliated groups, including:

• C.L.E.U.: Astronomy, Catalog of shapes, Night photos.
• Groupe 5255: Meteorology, Catalog of misidentifications, Aircraft signaling, Atmospheric phenomena, Night photos, Useful addresses, Geology (faults).
• GPUN: Geology (rocks, faults), Infrared photos, Aeronautics (silhouettes), Correspondence.
• C.V.LDLN: Topography, Infrared photos, Archives (research), Astronomy (ephemerides), Catalog of shapes, Radar detection.

It was noted that several groups were working on similar topics, and a suggestion was made to form commissions for synthesis and to develop unique technical sheets for better exhaustiveness, such as the catalog of shapes or night photos.

In astronomy, CNEGU expressed interest in studying celestial knowledge, ephemerides, celestial objects and misidentifications (meteors, planets, eclipses, comets, artificial satellites), and identification instruments.

Gilles Wunsch raised reservations about the analysis of observation maps but acknowledged their merit for long-term parameter compilation. CNEGU proposed focusing solely on investigated cases.

René Faudrin contributed new symbols to complement the existing list.

The next CNEGU session was announced for January 1981, to be organized by C.V.LDLN in the Vosges.

René Faudrin also brought up the project of a French Ufology Federation, sparking a lively discussion.

The meeting concluded around 6:00 PM.

UFO Reports and Investigations

Luxembourg/Cents, August 18, 1980: An investigation by Chantal Roob and André Pichon detailed an observation by a witness in Cents. The object was described as circular, yellow-orange, immobile at 900 meters for 45 seconds, then approaching slowly and silently. It later ascended and descended, then accelerated rapidly and disappeared. The witness, familiar with aircraft, ruled out an airplane. The airport confirmed no air traffic at that time, and the collective antenna reported no malfunctions.

Luxembourg City, October 13, 1980 (Reported in "Républicain Lorrain"): Several witnesses reported a luminous, rectangular object moving in the sky. It changed shape, becoming elongated, and moved towards the capital, observed for about a minute. This report reignited debate about flying machines in Luxembourg.

Lérida, Spain, October 20, 1980 (Reported in "Républicain Lorrain"): Police officers observed unidentified flying objects that responded to their blue light signals. The objects were described as having strong luminosity and flew at low altitude.

Nancy, France, November 1, 1980 (Reported in "Républicain Lorrain"): A police patrol observed two bright, voluminous objects. Initially mistaken for UFOs, they were later identified as the planets Saturn and Venus, exceptionally visible due to atmospheric conditions and a rapid temperature drop causing frost.

Bergem, Luxembourg, September 29, 1980 (Reported in "Tageblatt"): Inhabitants observed a luminous object for a few minutes, stating it was neither an airplane nor a planet.

Vandoeuvre and Chaligny, France, September 20, 1977: A detailed report from the Groupe Privé Ufologique Nancéien (GPUN) describes an observation by Michelle B. and two friends of three luminous yellow spheres moving across the sky. Her husband later reported a similar yellow-orange disk. The phenomena were described as luminous, silent, and circular. The witness M. B. was noted as being a technician in an air base and an amateur astronomer, lending credibility to his testimony.

Mysterious Places on Earth: Santorini

This section, written by E. Eischen, explores the island of Santorini and its connection to the legend of Atlantis. Santorini, located in the Aegean Sea, is described as the remains of a massive volcanic cone. A colossal eruption approximately 3,500 years ago, estimated to be four times stronger than the Krakatoa eruption, devastated the Mediterranean region. According to archaeologist Spyridon Marinatos, the Santorini volcano might have been the ancient capital of Atlantis, swallowed by the sea in a single day and night. The island's characteristics, including its black, red, and white stones, hot and cold springs, and circular shape, align with descriptions of Poseidon's metropolis.

Ephemerides

This section provides astronomical information for November and December, including:

• Mercury: Observable in the morning towards the end of November.
• Venus: Clearly visible in the early morning.
• Mars: Difficult to observe, located in the Scorpion and Sagittarius constellations.
• Jupiter: Increasingly observable in the Virgo constellation.
• Saturn: Located near Jupiter.
• Meteor Showers: Taurides (peak around Nov 8), Leonids (peak around Nov 18), Geminides (peak around Dec 14), Ursides (peak around Dec 22).
• Lunar Phases: New Moon (NL), First Quarter (PQ), Full Moon (PL), Last Quarter (DQ) for November and December.

References are made to "Ciel et espace" magazine. Philippe CECCATO is listed as a member of CLEU.

Flash: Space News

Halley's Comet Program: A Franco-Russian space program is proposed, involving a mission to Halley's Comet. This is an extension of the Soviet "Venera" program to Venus. The French will contribute balloons to be released into Venus's atmosphere. The mission timeline includes the launch of a space station in December 1984, rendezvous with Venus in June 1985, and a fly-by of Halley's Comet in February 1986, about 10,000 to 50,000 km from its nucleus. Halley's Comet returns every 76 years.

Special CNEGU Issue

Announces the upcoming release of "Spécial CNEGU no 2" in December 1980, which will contain statistics, maps, and reports on UFO encounters from 1979 in Northeastern France and Luxembourg.

Directory of Organizations

Lists ufological and related organizations in Portugal, Italy, and other locations, including addresses for publications and research centers.

CLEU Library

Details the organization of the CLEU library service, including borrowing conditions: a 400 FB deposit, a 20 FB fee per book (5-10 FB for magazines), and a limit of one book and one magazine at a time. A list of available books is provided, including titles by Jimmy Guieu, Jean-Claude Bourret, Léonard Stringfield, and Major Donald E. Keyhoe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, their investigation, and the scientific study of related phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on cataloging observations, standardizing terminology, and training investigators. The magazine also touches upon astronomical events and geological mysteries, suggesting a broad interest in unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry and data collection, as evidenced by the detailed reports and the emphasis on credible witness testimony and investigative procedures. The formation of a national federation for ufology indicates a desire for greater organization and collaboration within the field.

This issue of "Ufologie" magazine, dated December 1980, focuses on providing a comprehensive list of ufology-related organizations and their publications, acting as a press service bulletin. It also includes articles on space exploration and the broader topic of extraterrestrial contact.

Press Service Bulletin

The majority of the content is dedicated to listing ufology organizations and their respective journals or reviews. These are categorized by country:

France:

• AESV: Association d'Etudes sur les Soucoupes Volantes, 40, rue Miguet, 13100 Aix-en-Provence.
• GEOS: Revue "Les Extra-Terrestres", Groupe d'Etudes des Objets Spatiaux, 77510 Saint-Denis-les-Rebais.
• AAMT: Association des Amis de Marc Thirouin, 29, rue Berthelot, 26000 Valence.
• SVEPS: Société Varoise d'Etudes des Phénomènes Spatiaux, Revue "Approche", 6, rue P. Guérin, 83000 Toulon.
• CFRU: Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques, Revue "Ufologia", b.p. 1, 57601 Forbach 1.
• IDLN: Lumières dans la Nuit, "Les Pins", 43400 Le Chambon s/Lignon.
• CSERU: Comité Savoyard d'Etudes et de recherches Ufologiques, 16, Quai Ch. Ravet, 73000 Chambéry.
• GNEOVNI: rte de Béthune, 62136 Lestrem.
• SPEPSE: Domaine de Montval, 6, rue A. Sişlay, 78160 Marly le Roi.
• GREPO: 45, rue du Bon Pasteur, 69001 Lyon.
• GEPO: St Symphorien de Lay 42470.
• GLRU: M. Peyret G. Moutoulon, 43300 Langeac.
• GPUN: 15, rue Guilbert de Pixérécourt, 54000 Nancy.
• Groupe 5255: Mlle Christ. Suygart, 20, rue de la Maladière, 52000 Chaumont.
• C.V.LDLN-: 1, rue des Cèdres Bleus Chavelot, 88159 Thaon-les-Vosges.
• Palmos: 1, rue Parlier, 34000 Montpellier.
• Veronica-: 1, rue Vauban, 30000 Nimes.
• CERPI: 51, rue St Pallais, 17100 Saintes.
• CEMOCPI: 19, rue Massenet, 42270 St Pries en Jarez.

Belgique:

• SOBEPS: 74, av. Paul Janson, 1070 Bruxelles.
• GESAC: 141, Léopold I Laan, 8000 Bruges.

Canada:

• UFO QUEBEC: b.p. 53, Dollard des Ormeaux, Canada Q.

Angleterre:

• MAPIT: 92, Hillcrost Road, Offterton, Stockport.

Espagne:

• STENDER: Balmes, 86, entresuelo 2a, Barcelone 8.
• UNEICC: Fernando Cerda Guardia c/Santurce, I, I°-A, Madrid 17.

Space Exploration and Extraterrestrial Messages

The magazine features several articles related to space exploration:

Saturn: Surprise After Surprise

Reports from the "Voyager 1" space probe reveal complex details about Saturn's rings, indicating they are composed of hundreds of small rings of dust and ice, contrary to previous beliefs. The probe also detected "dark fingers" within the rings. "Voyager 1" was scheduled to approach Saturn's clouds on November 12, 1980, while "Voyager 2" was en route to reach the planet in August 1981.

Unmanned US Spacecraft to Land on Jupiter in July 1987

The United States plans to launch an unmanned spacecraft named "Galilée" in 1984 to explore Jupiter. The contract for its construction is with Hughes Aircraft. The launch, originally planned for March 14, 1981, from Cape Canaveral, Florida, was contingent on a crucial 20-second test of the shuttle's three booster rockets scheduled for February 7, 1981.

Carter's Voice for Extraterrestrials

"Voyager 1", after approaching Saturn, was set to leave the solar system in December, carrying a 90-minute message for extraterrestrials. This message includes the voices of U.S. President Jimmy Carter, UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim, and greetings in 60 languages. The message, encoded on a copper disc, is expected to have a lifespan of a billion years.

References

The articles on space exploration cite the following publications: "Républicain Lorrain", "La Meuse", and "La Lanterne".

Activities of the Luxembourgish Ufological Studies Commission (CLEU) for 1980

The magazine provides a detailed summary of CLEU's activities in 1980:

• January 25: Presentation of UFO slides.
• February 22: Presentation of films on Mexico.
• March 1: Start of the tombola.
• April 4: Presentation of a film on Peru.
• April 5: Information stand on rue du Brill (pedestrian zone).
• April 14 - May 14: Exhibition in the windows of Rosenstiel stores in Esch and Luxembourg.
• April 24: Information stand at Magasin Rosenstiel in Esch.
• April 25: Information stand and meeting at the headquarters.
• April 26: Information stand at Magasin Rosenstiel in Esch.
• May 6: Information stand at Magasin Rosenstiel in Esch.
• May 8: Information stand at Magasin Rosenstiel in Luxembourg.
• May 10: Information stand at Magasin Rosenstiel in Luxembourg.
• May 17-18: Meeting of CECRU in Dijon.
• June 7: CLEU stand in the pedestrian street.
• June 14-15: Event "Le Luxembourg Mystérieux".
• July 5: CLEU stand in the pedestrian street.
• July 25: Presentation of new slides.
• September 6: Observation evening.
• September 20-21: CNEGU meeting in Luxembourg.
• December: General assembly.

Commission Luxembourgeoise d'Etudes Ufologiques (CLEU) Membership and Structure

The magazine outlines the membership structure and benefits of the CLEU:

Membership Tiers:

• Active Investigator: Cotisation 400 FB + photo. Benefits include receiving "Chroniques de la CLEU", the right to publish articles on ufology, participation in activities, free entry to conferences, potential to become an investigator, and a free CLEU sticker.
• Correspondent: Cotisation 250 FB. Benefits include receiving "Chroniques de la CLEU" and providing written or spoken information gathered from the press or their surroundings, plus a free CLEU sticker.
• Sympathizer: Cotisation 100 FB. Benefits include supporting the commission and receiving a free CLEU sticker.
• Honorary Member: A reminder to renew cotisations for 1981.

Financial Information:

• CCP Luxembourg no 6958-71
• Banque Internationale account no 5-130/7180
• For international members, use international transfer orders via CCP.

General Assembly 1980

The general assembly for 1980 was scheduled for December 12th at their headquarters, "La Fiorentina", rue d'Audun in Esch-sur-Alz, starting at 8:00 PM. The agenda included:

• President's address
• Cash balance report
• Activity report for 1980
• Activity program for 1981
• Presentation of new members
• Open discussion

CLEU's Self-Sufficiency and Publications

CLEU operates solely on its members' contributions and financial support. Members are encouraged to promote the organization and its publication, "Chroniques". Subscribing members (active or correspondent) receive "Chroniques" regularly, including back issues if subscribed mid-year.

Calendar and Contents of "Chroniques" No. 16

Upcoming Events:

• November 28, 1980: CLEU meeting at headquarters.
• December 12, 1980: General assembly at headquarters.
• January 9, 1981: Meeting at headquarters.
• Late January 1981: CNEGU meeting in the Vosges.
• February 20, 1981: Meeting at headquarters.

Contents of "Chroniques" No. 16:

• Luxembourgish Archives from 1954.
• A cigar-shaped object sighted over Luxembourg in September 1980.
• Parallel observation in Dippach.
• The most mysterious places on Earth.
• NLO and Enlonautes: in the light of folklore (continued).

Call to Action and New Year's Wishes

Members are invited to attend the March meeting for "Chroniques" No. 16. The magazine notes that individual notifications of participation in international congresses and meetings cannot be provided. Meetings at headquarters aim to keep members informed about ufological news. Other ufological groups are offered "Chroniques" free in exchange for their publications, with reciprocal advertising.

The issue concludes with an "Important" section encouraging readers to choose their membership type (active, correspondent, or sympathizer) and send in their 1981 cotisation by CCP. The editorial team wishes readers a "Happy New Year" and hopes to continue on their established path.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the cataloging of ufological organizations and their activities, alongside reporting on scientific space exploration and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of active engagement with the ufological community, providing a platform for information exchange and promoting the organization's activities. There is a clear emphasis on self-funding and member participation, as highlighted by the detailed breakdown of membership benefits and the call for renewals and new members.