Chroniques de la CLEU - No 21 - Juin 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.
Issue: No 21
Date: June 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." presents a detailed exploration of the phenomenon known as "angel hair," alongside reports on ufological conferences and the challenges of integrating ufology with scientific inquiry.

Editorial

The editorial acknowledges a slight delay in publication, attributing it to difficulties in resolving photo issues for an article on the 'theodolite' and the time required for editing investigation reports. It stresses that the work of the C.L.E.U. is essentially voluntary, with members balancing their ufological activities with professional and family commitments. The editorial also appeals for timely payment of membership dues to ensure the continued publication of "Les Chroniques."

Future meetings are announced to be held outdoors near Belvaux, offering opportunities for shelter, grilling, and observation. Volunteers are also sought for the next CNEGU meeting in the Meuse region, scheduled for September/October. The editorial notes that Christian Petit, Alain Solmit, and J.P. Suardi attended the previous CNEGU in the Vosges, with a report to be published later.

Key Articles and Reports

Chantal Roob, Member of CLEU, in London: Report on the 2nd International Ufological Congress

Chantal Roob reports on the 2nd International Ufological Congress organized by Bufora in London on May 24, 1981. She translated various presentations, including one by Bertil Kuhlmann, founder of Data System International, titled "Relationship between Researchers/Ufologists and Scientists." Kuhlmann highlighted that ufology is not yet recognized by the public, scientists, or authorities. He pointed out the lack of effective international collaboration in ufology and questioned how to achieve it. Kuhlmann suggested that politicians, authorities, and scientists are aware of UFO cases but, lacking in-depth study and courage, only release incomplete or subjective information to the public. He argued that scientific studies require significant funding, which could be obtained by convincing leaders to allocate resources and by demonstrating the value of such studies to scientists. Developing national cooperation in information collection and exchange was proposed as a means to foster international cooperation. He emphasized the need for better quality information, standardized methodologies, terminology, and a clearer definition of the UFO phenomenon, suggesting the focus should be on unidentified objects rather than solely UFOs. Kuhlmann also shared his experience in Sweden, where he participated in founding the "National Federation for UFO Studies," involving information research, investigations, and computer analysis. He stressed the importance of data quality for scientific acceptance, citing an IBM 370 computer analysis of 50 cases using a social science research program.

Analysis of the 'Angel Hair' Phenomenon (Part 3): Observations in Portugal

This section delves into observations of "angel hair" in Portugal, building upon previous articles. The author thanks J. Fernandes of CEAFI in Porto for providing additional cases and encourages readers to contribute further information. The phenomenon is deemed important for scientific study due to its potentially "material" aspect. The article promises to explore explanations in the next installment, comparing "angel hair" with filaments produced by aeronautical spiders and analyzing the characteristics of reported cases. The proposed explanation, based on physical processes, will be detailed in the fifth article.

The observations presented are noted for being from the same country and, in some instances, the same location. Some are supported by witness testimonies. The author draws information from M. Fernandes' correspondence and photocopies, as well as documentation related to the Fatima events. The context of the Fatima apparitions is examined, specifically the fall of an enigmatic substance with properties similar to "angel hair."

The Fatima Events and 'Angel Hair'

The article questions whether the Fatima events could represent an "extremely daring experiment" by extraterrestrials. It concludes that while the hypothesis of an extraterrestrial "experiment" cannot be excluded, the sincerity of the visionaries and the Church's cautious stance are not in doubt. The Bishop of Preiria opened a canonical process in May 1922, ultimately declaring the children's visions worthy of credit and permitting the cult of Our Lady of Fatima.

Early Observations of 'Angel Hair'

The article then details historical observations of phenomena resembling "angel hair":

• October 12-13, 1857, Ponte de Lima, Portugal: A "rain of flakes or threads" was reported, described as extremely light, resembling spider webs, and falling from a clear sky. Witnesses noted they were elastic, more resistant than spider webs, and resembled white cotton fibers.
• September 13, 1917, Fatima, Portugal: A fall of "petals of flowers" occurred, which disappeared rapidly. This event is placed within the context of the Fatima apparitions, where the "Lady" appeared to three shepherd children.
• May 13, 1918, Fatima, Portugal: During a pilgrimage, a new fall of "white balls" was described.
• May 13, 1923, Fatima, Portugal: The phenomenon recurred, with witnesses describing "almond flower petals" falling from a great height, disappearing before reaching the ground. The substance was described as white and brilliant.
• May 13, 1924, Fatima, Portugal: Another similar event occurred, with "rose petals" falling from the sky, disappearing rapidly. A witness reported one petal falling on her shoulder, which vanished when she tried to grasp it.

Photographic Evidence and Analysis

• 1924, Fatima, Portugal: M. A. Rebelo Martins, Vice-consul of Portugal in the USA, took a photograph of a strange luminous beam originating from an unseen source. The photograph, confirmed by witnesses and a notary, shows a divergent beam with darker points. The analysis suggests a rectilinear propagation from a distant source.
• 1923-1924, Fatima, Portugal: Photographer J.B. Freitas observed and documented "small white flowers" resembling snowflakes falling from the sky, which disappeared abruptly about three to four meters from the ground.

Later Observations and Scientific Analysis

• 1938, Baiao, Alto Duro, Portugal: Strange events resembling those at Fatima were reported, involving a "Lady" and witnesses observing "small things" falling from above, resembling snow and disappearing between the fingers.
• October 17, 1957, Fatima, Portugal: A "rain of billions of white flakes" was observed, described as very light and not disappearing before reaching the ground, adhering to trees and bushes. The substance was analyzed by chemist C. Anca, who concluded it was likely vegetable fibers, possibly from wild plants or parasitic fungi, due to its combustion properties and structure.
• October 17, 1957, Evora, Portugal: Religious sisters clearly observed a "whitish rain" above the College of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.
• November 2, 1959, Evora, Portugal: A fall of "angel hair" was observed in conjunction with the sighting of two unidentified aerial objects. The substance was collected and subjected to microscopic examination, revealing an enigmatic microbe with three tentacles.
• June 26, 1960, Evora, Portugal: Another fall of "angel hair" occurred, and Professor Antonio Amaral identified a small creature similar to the one found in the 1959 samples.
• June 26, 1960, Lisbon, Portugal: M. H. Ferreira observed "white particles" falling from the sky, resembling spider webs and remaining suspended. He also noted a stationary white object in the sky.
• October 9, 1961, Tondela, Portugal: The population witnessed "long white threads" resembling spider webs falling from the sky, clinging to electrical and telephone wires, and remaining for a long time.
• February 10, 1970, Lisbon, Portugal: Madame Julia R.L. observed "small white filaments" falling from the sky, which disappeared rapidly on her coat. The filaments were described as being as wide as a hand, white, and transparent.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the detailed documentation and analysis of the "angel hair" phenomenon, often linked to UFO sightings and religious apparitions, particularly in Portugal. The publication emphasizes the importance of collecting and scientifically investigating such phenomena, while acknowledging the voluntary nature of its work and the challenges of gaining mainstream scientific acceptance. The editorial stance is one of diligent reporting and a call for continued research and member participation.

This issue of "Le Theodolite" (Volume 9, Issue 10, dated April 1980) is published by SOBEPS and focuses on practical observational techniques for both unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) and celestial bodies. The cover headline, "Comment observer le ciel à l'oeil nu?" (How to observe the sky with the naked eye?), introduces a significant portion of the content dedicated to astronomy.

The Theodolite: An Observation Device

The main article, authored by René THOME and Roger THOMÉ (Group 5255 / L.D.L.N. Haute-Marne et Meuse), details the design and construction of a specialized device called the "Theodolite." This apparatus is designed for field investigations of UAP, enabling an observer to determine the angular height of an object in the sky or on the horizon. The device is described as portable, compact, and relatively lightweight, intended to fit into a bag or cover. It features a sighting system and a dial for angular measurement. A key feature is the integration of a Polaroid camera system, allowing for instant photographic documentation of the observed phenomenon and its environment. The article discusses the challenges encountered, such as precisely indicating the object's position on the photograph, and explains the solutions developed, including a sliding ruler for the camera's wide-angle lens.

The construction details include the use of "Altuglass" plastic for the main body, wooden handles, and a commercially available 360° comparator. The article emphasizes the device's utility for investigators, noting its potential for improvement and encouraging readers to share their ideas. It also highlights its usefulness during night sky surveillance to avoid errors.

Astronomical Observation Guides

The issue then transitions to astronomical observation, with detailed guides on how to identify constellations using the naked eye. The primary method explained involves using the Big Dipper (Grande Ourse) as a reference point. The article provides step-by-step instructions, illustrated with diagrams (Figures 1, 2, and 3), on how to trace lines connecting stars to locate other constellations such as the Little Dipper (Petite Ourse), Polaris, Cassiopeia, Pegasus, Fomalhaut, Ursa Major, Arcturus, Virgo, Leo, Hercules, and Corona Borealis.

Further astronomical guides are presented in Figures 4, 5, and 6, detailing alignments for identifying constellations like Auriga (Capella), Gemini (Castor and Pollux), Orion, Taurus (Aldebaran, Hyades, Pleiades), and Canis Minor (Procyon). These guides are presented as collaborative work, with Philippe CECCATO (member of CLEU) contributing to the section on Orion.

Ephemerides

An "Ephemerides" section provides astronomical data for May and June. It explains that the times given are Universal Time and advises adding 2 hours for French daylight saving time and 1 hour for standard time in France, Luxembourg, and Belgium. It defines "Radiant" as the point from which meteors appear to emanate. The section details the visibility of Mercury in the evening around May 9th and in the morning around June 26th, and Venus in the morning in mid-May, noting its position relative to the sun at the end of June.

References and Contact Information

The first page lists numerous references, primarily related to Fatima apparitions and UAP cases, citing various journals, books, and articles from the period. This suggests a broader context of UAP research and historical cases that may have been discussed in previous issues or related publications. The magazine also includes a call for readers to send in press clippings, specifying the origin and date of publication, and requests that correspondence requiring a response include a stamped envelope or an international reply coupon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the practical aspects of UAP investigation, particularly the development of observational tools, and the fundamental practice of astronomical observation. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging active participation and empirical investigation, whether in the field of UAP or amateur astronomy. The detailed instructions for building the "Theodolite" and identifying constellations suggest a commitment to providing readers with actionable knowledge and tools for their own research and observation. The inclusion of historical references related to Fatima indicates an interest in exploring potential connections between religious phenomena and UAP reports.

Title: Chroniques
Issue: no 22
Date: September/October 1982
Publisher: C.L.E.U.
Country: Luxembourg
Language: French

This issue of Chroniques provides a blend of astronomical observations and ufological research and news. It details celestial events visible in the summer of 1982, alongside reports from ufology group meetings and discussions on UFO phenomena.

Astronomical Information

The issue begins with a section on visible planets and meteor showers. Mars, Jupiter, and Saturne are noted for a magnificent gathering visible in the evening in the region of the Ear of Virgo. Mercury is described as barely visible in early July and reappearing in the evening in late August. Venus is visible in the morning before sunrise, and Mars's brightness diminishes in late July.

• Meteor shower information includes:
• Capricornides: May 10-25, radiant Theta-Capricorne.
• Aquarides: May 15-31, radiant Delta-Verseau.
• Lyrides: June 10-21, maximum on June 16, radiant Vega.
• Ophiuchides: June 17-26, maximum on June 20, radiant Eto-Ophiuchus.
• Aquarides (second mention): From July 15, maximum on July 31, radiant Delta-Verseau.
• Perseides: Visible until August 20, maximum on August 12, best observed in the evening before moonrise.
• Cygnides: August 15-22, maximum on August 20, radiant Delta du Cygne.

Moon phases are listed for May (PL 8, DQ 16, NL 23, PQ 29), June (PL 6, DQ 14, NL 21, PQ 28), July (PL 6, DQ 14, NL 20, PQ 27), and August (PL 4, DQ 12, NL 19, PQ 26).

Ufology Meetings and Discussions

The bulk of the issue focuses on the activities of ufology groups, particularly the C.N.E.G.U. (Comité Nord-Est des Groupements Ufologiques) and its member organizations.

11th CNEGU Session (March 27-28, 1982)

The 11th session of the C.N.E.G.U. took place in Marienthal, Luxembourg, organized by the C.L.E.U. Participants included representatives from Groupe 5255, GPUN, CVLDLN, Control, and CLEU.

Saturday, March 27:

• The session began with a welcome at the Centre National de la Jeunesse.
• The agenda included discussions on GEPAN (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés), credibility indices, case presentations, and the CECRU (Comité Européen de Coordination à la Recherche Ufologique).
• GPUN raised concerns about problems encountered by groups dealing with GEPAN.
• Michel Piccin (Control) summarized criticisms of the CECRU, particularly its focus on French cases while presenting itself as a European organization.
• Alain Schmitt (CLEU) presented a view on UFOs from German ufologists using slides.
• Case Presentations:
• Michel Piccin presented a case from 20 km south of Paris (July 8, 1980), which was later identified as a child's balloon.
• Another observation in Paris involved luminous spheres, identified after investigation as laser projections from a company.
• Roger Thomé (Groupe 5255) and André Pichon (CLEU) also presented their investigations.

Sunday, March 28:

• Discussions continued on credibility indices and their codification.
• Catalogue 63-78: GPUN requested groups to contribute to this catalogue for documentation.
• Catalogue of Forms: François Diolez (Vosges) and André Pichon (CLEU) presented a draft catalogue of UFO forms, with all groups asked to submit their findings.
• Reflection on the OVNI Phenomenon: It was suggested that groups prepare themes for future CNEGU sessions:
• CLEU: Preparation of an investigation seminar.
• GPUN: Study of the intelligence of the OVNI phenomenon.
• Groupe 5255: Study of the phenomenon/witness interaction.
• CVLDLN: Study of the 'supposed' intelligent behavior of the phenomenon, including effects on witnesses and the environment (e.g., engine stops).
• It was decided that researchers should request documentation from other groups for their studies but share specific case facts with the concerned individuals.
• Alain Schmitt (CLEU) gave a presentation on literature concerning the extra-terrestrial hypothesis.
• The next CNEGU meeting was scheduled for June 5-6 in Bulgneville, Vosges.

Upcoming CNEGU Agenda

• The agenda for the next CNEGU meeting includes:
• Submission of the 1981 catalogue based on summary case files.
• Presentation of investigations.
• Study and explanation of technical files.
• Presentation on the extra-terrestrial hypothesis by Alain Schmitt (CLEU).

Publications and Fiction

"Les Visiteurs" Comic Book

A new comic book titled "Les Visiteurs," created by Ral Rob and printed by C.L.E.U., is announced for release in September 1982. It is described as a fiction work between "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and "La soupe aux choux," exploring the OVNI phenomenon within a human context and objectively describing luminous phenomena, burnt vegetation, and orange spheres.

Bibliography

• "OVNI" by Yurko Bondarchuk: Translated by Cecile Kandalaft, published by Editions de l'Homme (Montreal, Canada), distributed in Belgium by Editions Vander. The book is praised for synthesizing UFO descriptions from Canada and the US, covering aspects like appearance, color, and behavior, and detailing the Canadian government's efforts to maintain secrecy regarding UFO phenomena in its airspace.
• OVNI de Hombourg-Haut: A report from Républicain Lorrain (May 16, 1982) about a luminous, blinking sphere observed in Hombourg-Haut, initially causing alarm but later identified by gendarmes as a prank involving a luminous kite.

C.L.E.U. Membership and Activities

Becoming a Member

• C.L.E.U. relies on its members for support. Membership options include:
• Active Member (400 FB): Allows participation in activities, meetings, and access to regular "Chroniques." May join the investigator network after training.
• Corresponding Member (250 FB): Receives regular "Chroniques" and is tasked with sending in press clippings about UFOs, citing sources and dates.
• Sympathizing Member: Provides financial support.

Membership fees can be paid to CCP Luxembourg no 6958-71 or Banque Internationale account 5-130/7180.

C.L.E.U. Calendar

• August 20, 1982: Observation evening.
• September 3, 1982: Observation evening.
• September 24, 1982: Meeting at La Fiorentina.
• September/October 1982: CNEGU Meeting.

Contents of "Chroniques" no 22

• Analysis of Angel Hair (conclusion).
• Report on the 12th CNEGU session.
• Rare and little-known atmospheric electrical phenomena (Groupe 5255).
• Investigation in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of astronomy and ufology, the organizational efforts within the European ufology community (particularly CNEGU and its member groups), and the dissemination of information through publications like "Chroniques." The editorial stance appears to be one of active research, information sharing, and critical analysis of reported phenomena, as evidenced by the detailed case investigations and discussions on credibility. The C.L.E.U. emphasizes self-reliance and encourages member participation to sustain its activities.