Chroniques de la CLEU - No 28 - Mars 1984

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U." (Commission Luxembourgeoise d'Etudes Ufologiques) is dated March 1984, issue number 28. The cover features a stylized line drawing of stacked flying saucers and other aerial objects. The magazine is published in Luxembourg.

Editorial

The editorial, dated March 23, 1984, reflects on a public debate-evening organized by C.L.E.U. The event aimed to provide better information to the public about the UFO phenomenon, which the editorial states is often poorly informed. The author notes that the event did not achieve the expected public success, though members of the commission attended in large numbers. The editorial criticizes those who exploit the phenomenon for sensationalism, distorting the truth, and those who systematically denigrate it. It emphasizes that C.L.E.U. focuses on rigorously investigated, truly unidentified cases that pose more questions than answers, motivating their continued research. The editorial also announces C.L.E.U.'s participation in a radio broadcast on RTL on March 29th, where Monique Petit and Claude Hallé presented the commission's activities.

Table of Contents

The issue includes an editorial, an article titled "Le cheminement et l'expression du mythe ETI (Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence) dans la culture occidentale à partir du seizième siècle: résumé" by Alain SCHMITT, a report on the C.L.E.U. General Assembly, an article by Thierry PINVIDIC, and sections on "Dans la presse" (In the press), "Nos annonceurs" (Our advertisers), and "Divers" (Miscellaneous).

Article: The Journey and Expression of the ETI Myth in Western Culture from the Sixteenth Century (Summary)

This article by Alain SCHMITT is a continuation of a previous piece on the ETI (Alien) myth dating back to the 16th century. It assumes familiarity with definitions of myth and ETI. The article presents findings from three years of ongoing research, including a list of secondary literature consulted. The author notes the immense primary literature from past centuries. The core argument is that Western culture has, since the 16th century, carried a myth of ETI. These ETI are described as humanoid, superior to humans scientifically and morally. A myth is defined as a belief structure that tells a story of supernatural beings, representing an exemplary model for human life and the world's unfolding. The ETI myth serves a dual function: it addresses the problem of spatial-temporal infinities and solitudes revealed by the Copernican worldview, positioning humanity as part of a "Great Cosmic Family" or an "Intergalactic Federation." Secondly, it offers an exemplary model for scientific paradigms, portraying ETIs as hyper-technologically advanced humanoids with a superior ethic.

The ETI leitmotif is thus seen as a mythical superstructure of Western culture, justifying science and presenting the universe as inhabited by a Collective Humanity. The article aims to show how this myth has been expressed and perceived in Western culture over the last four centuries, emphasizing the strong connection between the Copernican revolution and the ETI myth. Texts discussing the new worldview are highlighted as containing the most allusions to hypothetical extraterrestrial intelligences.

The article categorizes the origins of the ETI myth into four main currents:

• A. Folklore and Living Oral Traditions: This includes rumors, word-of-mouth, and living folklore. The author notes that figures like "beings from the sky" or "light beings" are present in ancient traditions, both Judeo-Christian and pagan. The duality of sky-earth and descending beings is a constant in religious history. The folklorist Golowin is cited for reports of "Sternenmenschen" (star people) visiting Earth.
• B. Literature: This encompasses various literary genres that have adopted and adapted these themes. The article traces the influence from early tales and the "Cosmic Voyage" genre to the development of science fiction (SF). It highlights how writers like Voltaire, Verne, and Wells drew upon these themes. SF is presented as a catalyst for ideologies that spread the ETI myth.
• C. Philosophical and Anthropological Currents (Literature): This section explores how literary genres like "Staatsroman" (state novel) and "utopia" evolved into science fiction. It also discusses the influence of philosophical and esoteric traditions, including those related to the new worldview and Christian mysticism. Authors like Goethe, Fontenelle, Kant, and Bruno are mentioned for their contributions to this intellectual landscape.
• D. Quasi-Religious Thought: This category includes currents that have used the ideas of a plurality of worlds and the new Copernican worldview to construct philosophical or theological systems based on belief and religious sentiment. Emanuel Swedenborg's work is highlighted for its early descriptions of inhabitants of other planets, blending Christian concepts with the idea of extraterrestrial beings. Allan Kardec's "The Book of Spirits" and the Mormon religion are also cited as examples influenced by these ideas.

The article emphasizes the interconnectedness of these currents, noting how folklore, literature, philosophy, and quasi-religious thought have mutually influenced each other in shaping the ETI myth. It argues that this complex cultural framework, existing before 1945, made the emergence and acceptance of the ETI myth plausible.

Key Figures and Organizations

The issue lists key personnel of C.L.E.U., including President Christian PETIT, Secretary Monique PETIT, Treasurer Lily SCHORTGEN, and various heads of departments for research, translation, and correspondence. Alain SCHMITT is credited as an author and correspondent. C.L.E.U. is noted as a member of CNEGU (Comité Nord-Est des Groupements Ufologiques).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the historical and cultural evolution of the ETI myth, its roots in folklore, philosophy, and religion, and its manifestation in literature, particularly science fiction. The editorial stance is one of objective investigation, seeking to inform the public about the UFO phenomenon while distinguishing between rigorous research and sensationalism or denial. The organization emphasizes its commitment to studying unexplained cases and providing objective information.

Bibliography

A bibliography is provided, listing secondary literature relevant to the article's themes, including works on science fiction, the sociology of knowledge, the Copernican revolution, mythology, and the psychology of panic. Authors cited include Barmeyer, Benz, Berger/Luckmann, Blumenberg, Cantril, Durkheim, Eliade, Erzgraeber, Festinger/Riecken/Schachter, Flammarion, Golowin, Gove, Graaf, and Green.

This issue of "Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.", dated February 1984 and covering activities from 1983, serves as a detailed record of the organization's events, financial health, and future outlook. It also includes significant contributions to the field of ufology through an extensive bibliography and a list of research proposals.

C.L.E.U. General Assembly and Activities (1983)

The general assembly of C.L.E.U. was held on December 17, 1983, in Esch/Alzette. President Christian PETIT thanked the members and noted the commission's existence since 1976. He proposed the idea of a European congress featuring renowned ufologists. The financial report indicated a healthy balance of 5,186 francs, with Mme Lily Schortgen temporarily replacing the treasurer, Alain BALTENWEG.

• The calendar of activities for 1983 included:
• Preparation of an RTL broadcast.
• Monthly meetings at "La Fiorentina".
• Participation in the 14th CNEGU in Damary-les-Lys.
• Friendly evenings with meals and debates.
• Observation nights in Belvaux.
• Field research for a seminar.
• A slide show presentation.
• Diffusion of an interview on RTL.
• Observation of Kayl.
• Film projection.
• Seminar rehearsals and field reconstitution.
• A session with the Luxembourg Amateur Astronomers.
• Regular publication of "Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.".

Divers (Miscellaneous)

The committee leadership was renewed, with Mme Lily Schortgen taking over as treasurer. An inquiry was planned regarding a past observation. Discussions at CNEGU revealed the dissolution of the CECRU and the formation of a restructured French Ufology Federation (FFU). The press service decided to review the distribution list for the review due to irregular publications from some groups. Future presentations were planned on topics such as Earth from Space, planets, and space missions.

Planned Activities for 1984

Activities for 1984 included monthly meetings, a debate on March 23rd, a social event on March 18th, observation nights, participation in CNEGU events in Alsace and the Vosges, poster preparation for exhibitions, a lottery, and regular publication of "Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.".

"Le voyage imaginaire" and ETI Folklore by Alain SCHMITT

Alain SCHMITT's article, dated February 1984, explores the concept of the "imaginary voyage" and its connection to ETI folklore. He traces its origins from ecstatic mystical journeys to the "Cosmic Voyage" and later literary explorations of space and unknown lands. This theme, he argues, forms the basis for "naturwissenschaftliche-techn. Staatsroman" (scientific-technical state novel) and science fiction, providing a plausible framework for living folklore about UFOs.

Bibliography

The issue contains an extensive bibliography, divided into two parts. The first part lists numerous works, primarily from the 17th to 19th centuries, that deal with themes of "plurality of worlds," "cosmic voyages," and early speculative fiction. Authors include G. Bruno, Th. Campanella, R. Descartes, P. Borel, F. Godwin, S. Cyrano de Bergerac, A. Kircher, Chr. Huygens, B. Le Bovier de Fontenelle, D. Defoe, Voltaire, J. Kant, E. Swedenborg, J.H. Lambert, M.-A. Roumier, Guillaume Derham, F.C. Oetinger, C. Lavater, Retif de la Bretonne, Rev. S. Noble, Dr. Th. Chalmers, A. Maxwell, W. Whewell, E.A. Poc, A. Locke, P.S. de Laplace, C. Fourier, Sir. D. Brewster, A. Dumas, J. Verne, and C. Flammarion. The second part lists more contemporary works and articles, including those by HAINES R.F., HALBWACHS M., HOFLING C.K., JACOBS D.M., JUNG G.G., KAPFERER J.N./DUBOIS B., KUHN T.S., LOWE V.A.P., MEHEUST B., PETERS T., PLANK R., RENARD J.B., RICHTER H.E., SCHWONKE M., STAPLEDON O., SULLIVAN W., TIPLER F.Y., VALLEE J., VERSINS P., WATZLANICK P., WINICK Ch., and ZACHARASIEWICZ W.

This bibliography is presented as a summary, not exhaustive, intended to illustrate the proposed theses and guide further research.

Research Proposals for Ufologists

Thierry PINVIDIC presents a list of 34 research ideas for "good volunteers" in ufology, many of which have been initiated but remain incomplete. These proposals cover a wide range of topics:

• Terminology and Bibliography: Working on dynamic terminology and compiling a comprehensive bibliography of conventional studies.
• Case Analysis: Developing criteria to distinguish explained from unexplained cases, analyzing "flying saucer cults," and examining the "elusiveness" of cases.
• Sociological and Psychological Aspects: Studying UFO cults, the relationship between UFO phenomena and rumors, the sociology of UFO waves, and the psychological aspects of contactees.
• Cultural Context: Investigating the variations of ufological themes based on cultural context and their correspondence with local folklore.
• Methodology: Developing a "dynamic" methodology for UFO investigations, analyzing the content of ufological discourse, and evaluating the number of worldwide cases.
• Objections to the High Strangeness Hypothesis (HPS): Cataloging objections to the HPS and assessing its testability.
• Witness Independence: Defining witness independence and the "absence of influence" from literature.
• UFO Themes: Cataloging UFO themes, their appearance dates, and their historical development.

PINVIDIC emphasizes the need for a collaborative effort, stating that "the more numerous we are (to work), the better informed you will be."

Deontological Code Suggestions

Suggestions for a "code of ethics" for the FFU are provided, including:
1. Facilitating access to documentation through the Mutual Data Transmission Agreement (AMTD).
2. Systematically listing personal archives and keeping them updated for research purposes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, historical context, and interdisciplinary approaches within ufology. It highlights the evolution of ideas about extraterrestrial life and phenomena through literature, folklore, and scientific inquiry. The C.L.E.U. appears committed to organizing events, fostering discussion, and encouraging systematic investigation into UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging the challenges and complexities of the field. The inclusion of a detailed bibliography and numerous research proposals indicates a desire to advance the scientific and academic understanding of ufology.

This issue of OVNI Présence, bulletin no. 27, published in September 1983 by AESV in Switzerland, focuses on the methodology of ufological research and reports on recent UFO sightings and space exploration news.

Article: 40 Propositions for FFU and Ufology in General

This section features an article by Thierry Pinvidic, who outlines 40 propositions aimed at improving the study of UFOs. He emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation methods, protection of cases, and proper training for investigators. Key recommendations include:

• Case Protection: Maximizing the protection of cases to allow for thorough study and prevent premature or inaccurate publications.
• Investigator Training: Providing minimum training to avoid current errors, always using integral recordings, and employing a standardized report format.
• Methodology: Using the "center interview" technique, systematically conducting neighborhood inquiries, and establishing sky maps for observations.
• Objectivity: Encouraging investigators to state their opinion on UFOs during the investigation and asking "researchers" to express their opinions when their work is not explicit.
• Critical Review: Actively seeking criticism of one's work from individuals with different perspectives on the UFO phenomenon.

Pinvidic notes that ufology is a field with much work to be done, offering passionate and rewarding experiences. He likens serious ufology to rock climbing or aerobics, requiring dedication and a desire to explore.

News from the Press

This section compiles recent news items related to UFOs and space:

Un inconnu dans le ciel (An Unknown in the Sky)

This article, likely from *Est-Républicain* around January 15, 1984, discusses a mysterious celestial body discovered by the IRAS satellite. Scientists are perplexed by this "neutral field" object, which has been observed twice. Hypotheses range from a giant gas planet within our solar system to a distant galaxy. The object emits infrared radiation but is invisible optically. Its distance is unknown, and it has not shown movement, puzzling astronomers. Further observations are planned, but a definitive answer may await the launch of the NASA Space Telescope in late 1986.

La foudre traverse un Ilyouchine (Lightning Strikes an Ilyushin)

Reported by the Tass agency, a Soviet Ilyushin-18 aircraft was struck by lightning. A "fireball" entered the cockpit, passed over the passengers, and exited the rear. While no one was injured, the lightning strike disabled the flight instruments, forcing an emergency landing. Two holes were found in the aircraft's fuselage.

Bon voyage Pioneer 11! (Bon Voyage Pioneer 11!)

This piece, dated January 29, 1984, celebrates Pioneer 11's historic achievement on June 13, 1983, as the first man-made object to leave the solar system. Launched in 1973, the probe continues to send data from interstellar space and carries a golden plaque with images of humans and a diagram of the solar system, intended for potential extraterrestrial civilizations.

Est-Républicain Reports on UFO Sightings (November 1983)

• November 18, 1983: A fireball of yellow-orange color was seen moving from west to east over Petite-Raon, France. Witnesses initially thought it was a burning plane. The object exploded, and its colors reportedly shifted from red to green to white.
• November 19, 1983: In Nancy and its region, witnesses reported a luminous ball moving west to east, described as having a white and orange trail. One witness initially mistook it for fireworks but was intrigued by its sustained flight. Another account mentioned three red points that coalesced into a fireball.
• November 20, 1983: The Moselle region reported numerous UFO sightings, with the gendarmerie of Metz collecting over a dozen "interesting" testimonies. Descriptions included a white, bluish ball with a fiery tail moving south-west to north-east (Novéant), a green oblong object (Pouilly-sur-Moselle), a white rocket-like object moving horizontally with a blue flame (Mondelange), a non-luminous cylindrical object with a blue flame moving silently west to east at low altitude (Talange), and a green spherical object moving horizontally at high speed (Rombas). Most sightings were fleeting, lasting only five to ten seconds. The article suggests a possible hypothesis of a dislocated satellite fragment burning up in the atmosphere.

Commission Luxembourgeoise d'Etudes Ufologiques (CLEU)

This section details the structure and membership of the Luxembourg Commission for Ufological Studies (CLEU).

• Membership Tiers:
• Active Investigator (500 FB): Receives CLEU Chronicles, can publish articles, participate in activities, attend meetings for free, and potentially become an investigator.
• Correspondent (350 FB): Receives CLEU Chronicles and provides written or spoken information from the press or their surroundings.
• Supporter (200 FB): Supports the commission and receives a CLEU sticker.
• Honorary Member: Details for bank transfers are provided.
• Benefits: Members receive the CLEU Chronicles regularly. Those joining mid-year receive back issues.
• Calendar of Events: Upcoming events for 1984 include:
• March 1 - July 1, 1984: Immediate draw tombola (lottery).
• April 27, 1984: Presentation on "Planets" with slide projection.
• May 13, 1984: Dinner-Debate at Petit Casino, Differdange.
• June 22, 1984: Observation evening in Belvaux.
• June 16-17, 1984: 18th session of CNEGU in Gérardmer.
• Upcoming Contents (No. 29): Archive research, "La Navette" (The Shuttle), CNEGU report, and low-altitude observation in Leudelange.
• Meetings: Meetings for members are held at the headquarters, La Fiorentina, rue d'Audun, Esch/Alzette, starting at 8:00 PM, to discuss ufological news.
• Tombola: The sale of tombola tickets is authorized by the Esch/Alzette commune. Members are encouraged to help sell tickets, with prizes ranging from 500 to 2000 francs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine emphasizes a serious, methodical approach to ufology, advocating for rigorous investigation, data collection, and critical analysis. It highlights the importance of investigator training and the need for objective reporting. The publication also serves as a platform for disseminating news from the press regarding UFO sightings and space exploration, while also functioning as a communication channel for its member organization, the CLEU, promoting its activities and membership. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting disciplined research within the field of ufology, encouraging active participation from its readership.