Chroniques de la CLEU - No 20 - Mars 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.
Issue: No. 20
Date: March 1982
Publisher: Commission Luxembourgeoise d'Etudes Ufologiques (C.L.E.U.)
Country: Luxembourg
Language: French

This issue of "Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U." is dedicated to exploring the multifaceted nature of the UFO phenomenon, with a particular focus on defining it and understanding the psychological and sociological factors involved.

Editorial and Staff

The editorial team is listed, with Christian PETIT as President and Editor, Monique PETIT as Secretary, and Alain BALTENWEG as Treasurer and Head of Services. Other contributors include Victor DI CENTA (Imprimerie), Silvère FEDELI (Resp. Serv. Enquêtes), Philippe CECCATO and J.P. SUARDI (Astronomy), Robert JANDER (Electronique), Joel TORTERAT (Photographie), and Raoul ROBE (Dessinateur).

The C.L.E.U. is noted as a member of CECRU (European Coordination Committee for Ufological Research) and CNEGU (North-East Committee of Ufological Groups). Reproduction of articles is authorized with attribution, except for comic strips which are the exclusive property of GPUN and CLEU.

The editorial shortens itself to make space for longer articles, mentioning that the 11th session of C.N.E.G.U. in Marienthal will gather about thirty ufologists. It highlights C.N.E.G.U. as a valuable tool formed by five groups and expresses hope for numerous attendees at observation evenings planned for the year.

Articles and Content

Essai d'une définition du phénomène OVNI (Essay on a Definition of the UFO Phenomenon)

This extensive article grapples with the difficulty of defining the UFO phenomenon due to its complexity. It presents several definitions from prominent researchers:

1. J.A. Hynek: Defines a UFO phenomenon as lights or objects in the sky whose presence, trajectories, and general character are unexplainable in verifiable physical terms, even after intensive study.
2. W.K. Hartmann (Colorado Report): Defines a UFO as essentially an unidentified object or apparition considered strange by the observers.
3. T. Pinvidic: Proposes a more complex definition involving a 'thematizing consciousness' that causes physical effects, educates, and camouflages itself by manipulating beliefs. It suggests a high-level sociological integration and selective reinforcement of individuals to influence others, with these individuals often being unwitting participants in a program.
4. M. Monnerie: Views it as a transposition of observation influenced by myth and autosuggestion, stating that each case is particular and a flexible definition is not possible, likening it to a well-known rumor mechanism.
5. C.G. Jung: Suggests that when something extraordinary occurs, the unconscious mind projects onto it, imbuing the object with numinous and mythical qualities. He notes that UFOs possess a visible surface and reflect radar echoes.

The author critiques these definitions, noting they are often incomplete or restrictive due to lack of information or pre-existing explanatory biases. The article emphasizes that definitions should be compatible and contain others. It argues that UFO definitions treat the phenomenon as a historical fact rather than something subject to experimental study. The definitions introduce a segmentation into witness/investigator and the phenomenon itself, which is often equivocal and not experimentally approachable.

The author proposes that a definition must incorporate the dynamic aspect of the phenomenon, requiring at least four levels of description. The GEPAN definition is presented as an example:

• Part A: The UFO phenomenon is constituted by the continuous existence, worldwide since WWII, of people reporting sightings of lights or unusual objects, sometimes accompanied by physical recordings (photos, radar echoes) or ground traces. Many of these testimonies, after methodical analysis, cannot be attributed to fabrication or misinterpretation and remain unexplained.
• Part B: A research scheme that respects the original character of the stimulus, which is generally not experimentally reproducible.

The article then delves into a four-level model to explain the UFO phenomenon:

• Level 1: The Stimulus (Primary Phenomenon): This is what is classically called a "UFO." Historical-judicial analysis (statistical or elementary testimony analysis) does not reveal the primary phenomenon but gathers facts for experimental study. Instrumental approaches like radar detection or photographic evidence are suggested. The author believes that by moving away from "classical" scientific methods, one can empirically grasp the primary phenomenon. This level involves phenomena or objects in the atmosphere, on or near the ground, with their own dynamics.
• Level 2: The Witness(es) and Testimonies: At this level, the dynamics of the phenomenon begin to play a role. It becomes difficult to differentiate the primary phenomenon's characteristics from the witness's interpretation. This involves the psychology of the witness(es) and perception, including group dynamics. Testimonies are the raw material, a transcription of the observation into the witness's language, which is easily interpretable but depends on the interpreter's 'innocence.' Witnesses often try to explain the phenomenon within their existing worldview, driven by a fundamental human need to explain and orient themselves.
• Level 3: The Investigator/Researcher-Ufologist: This level involves interactions with a third party (family, colleagues, friends, or authorities like police, gendarmerie, media). The investigator/researcher is crucial. The article discusses the role of rumor in UFO information, amplified by mass media. This creates a vicious circle where information is confirmed, distorted, and spread. The ufologist, often an amateur scientist, firmly believes in UFOs and tries to persuade others. They operate within a sociopsychological environment influenced by ufology, acting as intermediaries for information to reach the public and often writing most UFO books.
• Level 4: The Sociopsychological Environment: This encompasses the individual within society, the masses (sociology), public authorities (police, gendarmerie, army), political, cultural, economic, and social circles, natural and human sciences, and religious life. Mass media are highlighted as playing a significant role in circulating information between individuals and public opinion.

The conclusion suggests that much of the perceived complexity of the UFO phenomenon is due to the sociopsychological background (levels 2, 3, and 4). The properties described in UFO literature are largely due to witness interpretations, investigator biases, and public opinion (rumor, myth). Given the limited information on the primary phenomenon, analyzing the sociopsychological aspects is a logical starting point.

Alain SCHMITT concludes that the witness and their social environment, consciously or unconsciously, produce what is commonly called the "UFO phenomenon" from a little-known primary phenomenon. This is presented as a provisional conclusion and working hypothesis. He prefers the term "extrahumain" (extra-human) over "extraterrestrial" as less tendentious.

Dans la Presse (In the Press)

• Un ovni observé par des policiers à Mulhouse: On February 13, 1982, about fifteen police officers in Mulhouse observed a large, luminous object described as moving slowly from northwest to southeast, which then disappeared.
• L'Ovni de Roanne... identifié: On February 23, 1982, crews and passengers of three airliners saw a luminous object moving from east to west near Roanne-Saint-Etienne. An investigation by GEPAN identified it as a meteorological balloon launched from Lyon-Satolas airport, which had reached an altitude of over 25,000 meters.

Ephémérides (Ephemerides)

This section provides astronomical information for February and March-April 1982:

• February 1982: Details on the visibility of Venus, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. It notes the Quadrantides meteor shower with a radiant near Beta Bouvier.
• Mars-April 1982: Information on the visibility of Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. It lists meteor showers including the Virginides (maximum 3), Lyrides (April 12-24, maximum 22), and Hydrades (from April 12, maximum 25). Lunar phases (PQ, PL, DQ, NL) are also provided for both months.

Mystère autour de la Terre (Mystery around the Earth)

A mysterious cloud, over 3 km long and of variable thickness, has been observed around the Earth at an altitude of 16-20 km for over a month. Meteorologists cannot determine its origin or composition. It is too large to be a radioactive cloud from a nuclear explosion. Possible explanations include a volcanic eruption in the Aleutian Islands or the Southern Hemisphere. The cloud has circled the Earth at least 4-5 times, and Japanese scientists are also unable to provide an explanation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific and sociological investigation of UFOs. The magazine adopts a rigorous, analytical approach, attempting to define the phenomenon and understand it through witness psychology, information dynamics, and environmental factors. There is a clear emphasis on moving beyond mere anecdotal accounts towards a more structured, albeit complex, understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the difficulties while advocating for systematic study, particularly through the lens of sociopsychology when direct evidence of the primary phenomenon is scarce. The inclusion of press reviews and astronomical data suggests an effort to contextualize UFO reports within broader scientific and public discourse.

This issue of 'Chronicles', published by the CLEU (Commission luxembourgeoise d'études ufologiques), dated June 1982, focuses on past UFO and 'angel hair' phenomena, alongside the activities and future plans of the organization.

'Angel Hair' and UFO Sightings: A Historical Review

The magazine presents a detailed chronological review of 'angel hair' phenomena and related UFO sightings, spanning from September 1, 1955, to October 6, 1976. These events are documented across various locations, including the United States (Michigan, Ohio, North Carolina, California, Tennessee), Australia, New Zealand, France, and Spain.

Key incidents include:

• September 1, 1955, Edmore, Michigan: Slow-falling 'angel hair' in tufts, some as large as a platter.
• October 2, 1955, Richsville, Ohio: 'Silver spiderwebs' appeared after two disc-shaped objects vanished.
• October 10, 1955, Cincinnati, Ohio: A fall of 'angel hair' possibly linked to a UFO observation.
• October 28, 1955, Whisett, North Carolina: Over a hundred schoolchildren witnessed about ten 'steel ball bearing' objects, accompanied by falling 'angel hair'.
• August 10, 1956, Melbourne, Australia: Millions of spiderweb-like filaments descended, covering surroundings and disappearing within hours.
• April 28, 1957, Christchurch, New Zealand: A substance resembling spiderwebs fell, disappearing upon contact and observed to be dense at high altitudes.
• November 9, 1958, Humboldt County, California: A 'shower' of spiderweb-like material fell, making a boat appear ancient.
• March 6, 1959, Loches, France: A 'rain' of filaments, compared to glass fiber, covered a 2 km² area.
• October 14, 1959, Prato, Spain: A luminous circular object was followed by a fall of glass fiber-like filaments.
• August 5, 1961, Mt Hale, Australia: Objects moving in pairs were seen, followed by the fall of fine white fibers that vanished spontaneously.
• October 10, 1962, Montreal, Canada: White, fine filaments were found hanging from a boat, disappearing when held.
• November 7, 1965, Auch, France: Filaments analyzed by M. H. Mauras were found to be strongly attracted to static electricity and decomposed around 280°C, suggesting they were not synthetic fibers.
• October 12, 1966, Jonesboro, Tennessee: UFOs reportedly dropped 'sheets' that divided into filaments, described as sticky and causing skin irritation.
• September 18, 1968, Ste Anne, Canada: Three disc-shaped UFOs expelled a white, 'fluffy' substance that formed an arc between them.
• October 22, 1973, Sudbury, Massachusetts: A large amount of spiderweb-like material fell from the sky, covering a wide area.
• October 6, 1976, Valensole, France: A 'rain' of bright filaments resembling spiderwebs was observed, with one witness reporting a cigar-shaped UFO.
• October 12, 1976: A special case investigated by the Center for Ufo Studies involved stable filaments found 4 km apart, which analyses revealed to be spider-produced.

The article notes that while 'angel hair' observations may be rarer in recent decades, the phenomenon persists with similar characteristics, and explanations require further investigation beyond simple misinterpretations.

CLEU Activities and Organization

The issue details the activities and structure of the CLEU (Commission luxembourgeoise d'études ufologiques). The general assembly was held at 'La Fiorentina' in Esch-Alzette.

Key points from the assembly and ongoing activities include:

• President Christian Petit welcomed members and highlighted the growing interest in ufology commissions, mentioning GEPAN in France.
• The 1981 activity report noted participation in international congresses in Chaumont, Nancy, London, and Dijon.
• The CLEU publishes a regular bulletin of chronicles that reports on UFO phenomena worldwide.
• Treasurer Alain Baltenweg reported a healthy financial situation.
• Future plans include giving lectures and information sessions to organizations, setting up public information stands, and organizing a major CNEGU (Comité Nord-Est des Groupements Ufologiques) congress in Marienthal on March 27-28, 1982, with participation from French, Italian, Belgian, Swiss, and Luxembourgish groups.
• The CLEU will also participate in the CECRU in Switzerland and Italy.
• A lottery was decided upon to help finance the Marienthal gathering.
• The current committee was re-elected: Christian Petit (President), Monique Petit (Secretary), Alain Baltenweg (Treasurer), Silvera Fédéll (Investigations), Philippe Ceccato, and J.P. Suardi (Astronomy).

Membership information is provided, outlining three categories: Active Member (400 FB), Corresponding Member (250 FB), and Sympathizing Member. Members receive the 'Chronicles' regularly.

Contact information for the CLEU is provided via a post office box in Belvaux.

Upcoming Events and Publications

The calendar for 1982 includes:

• April 16: Meeting at La Fiorentina - Presentation on the extraterrestrial hypothesis by Alain Schmitt.
• June 5: Meeting at La Fiorentina - The extraterrestrial hypothesis by Alain Schmitt.
• June 6: CNEGU organized by C.V. LDLN (Vosges).
• June 25: Meeting at La Fiorentina - Study of UFOs in the USA by Chr. Petit.
• Week of May 17-21: Observation evening (date and location to be confirmed).

The table of contents for issue No. 21 includes:

• Investigation in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
• Analysis of 'angel hair' (Part 3).
• From our archives.
• How to observe the sky with the naked eye by Philippe Ceccato.
• Radar detection of UFOs in '80 by Groupe 5255.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the detailed documentation and investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly 'angel hair' and UFO sightings. The editorial stance, as expressed by Professor Auguste Meessen, is one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the persistence of these phenomena and the need for deeper investigation beyond simple explanations, while also noting the increasing detail in reports over time. The CLEU positions itself as a serious research organization, actively participating in international collaborations and disseminating information through its publications and meetings.