Chroniques de la CLEU - No 29 - Juin 1984

Magazine Overview

Title: Les Chroniques de la C.L.E.U.
Issue: No. 29
Date: June 1984
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." focuses on the "ETI myth" and its deep roots in Western culture, tracing its development from the Copernican revolution to the rise of the OVNI (UFO) phenomenon. The magazine features an editorial by Monique Petit acknowledging a slight delay in publication and highlighting the C.L.E.U.'s active participation in local events, including a successful stand at the Luxembourg National Fête.

Editorial

Monique Petit's editorial addresses the readers' potential questions about the next issue, noting that this is the first delay after a regular run of 28 issues over seven years. Despite a calm period in ufological news, the C.L.E.U. remains active. Christian Petit, the president, is noted for explaining the OVNI phenomenon and the C.L.E.U.'s activities to the Grand Duke Héritier Henri and his wife. The editorial also recounts the C.L.E.U.'s participation in the Luxembourg National Fête, which included games for children, presentations, and a lottery, proving to be a great success and encouraging future participation in similar events. A team of five C.L.E.U. members also competed in a relay race in Esch/Alzette, placing 21st out of 31 groups. The editorial thanks several families for their collaboration during the popular fête, where their stand attracted 600 visitors. Christian Petit had the opportunity to present some issues of "Chroniques" to the Grand Ducal Court.

Articles and Content

Editorial: The ETI Myth and Plausibility Structure

Alain Schmitt, from C.L.E.U., presents an in-depth analysis of the "ETI myth" as a significant expression of the extraterrestrial leitmotif in Western culture, particularly since the Copernican revolution. He argues that this myth is a crucial component of a "plausibility structure" that makes the emergence of a living folklore, such as the OVNI phenomenon, possible or even probable. Schmitt's article is part of a series aiming to analyze the structural and functional aspects of what sociologists call a "plausibility structure," referencing works by Berger and Luckmann.

Schmitt defines a plausibility structure as a structured part of a culture's knowledge or Weltbild that enables individuals to judge new information or situations. He posits that myths, scientific theories, philosophies, and everyday life all contribute to these structures. The ETI myth, specifically, is examined in the context of Western culture before the overt appearance of the OVNI folklore around 1945.

He identifies the Copernican revolution as a foundational aspect of this plausibility structure, fundamentally altering the perception of the physical world and leading to significant theological, philosophical, and scientific shifts. This shift moved Earth from a privileged position to one where celestial bodies were seen as suns and planetary systems.

Schmitt highlights the extensive literature produced since the late 17th century on the "plurality of inhabited worlds," which discussed the astronomical and theological implications of the new cosmology. This literature, including philosophical essays, poems, and scientific works, is categorized into philosophical-anthropological, scientific, quasi-religious, and theological domains. Key periods of culmination for this literature were the 17th and 19th centuries, with figures like Flammarion and Lowell, and later the 20th century with exobiology, astrophysics, and science fiction.

The existence and readership of this literature, reaching millions, is presented as a social fact demonstrating the widespread dissemination of the ETI myth. Schmitt argues that this literature, particularly science fiction from 1910-1945, integrated and popularized the Copernican Weltbild, the ETI myth, and esoteric Western culture, creating a scientifico-technological worldview.

He then poses two key questions for analysis:

A) What is the objective, material success of the Copernican and scientifico-technological Weltbild in manipulating and dominating nature, particularly in space exploration?
B) What is the sociological evidence that the ETI myth had a real influence in Western culture before 1945, potentially leading to the OVNI folklore?

Schmitt provides several points of sociological evidence, including:

1. Literature on the ETI myth: His previous article on the ETI myth in Western culture since the 16th century serves as primary evidence. The reception of this literature, especially science fiction between 1920 and 1940, is emphasized. The discussions surrounding Percival Lowell's "canaliculi" on Mars and Flammarion's popularization of the "plurality of inhabited worlds" are cited as significant social movements.
2. Sociolinguistic study: Renard's (1982) study on the word "extra-terrestre" shows a shift in meaning around the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coinciding with the rise of SF and astronautics, suggesting a material influence on language.
3. Psychopathology and Zeitgeist: Schmitt notes that mental illnesses and their phenomenology are dependent on the dominant Weltbild and Zeitgeist of a society. He suggests that "OVNI syndrome" cases likely emerged after 1945, but questions whether similar phenomena existed before 1945, referencing Percival Lowell and a case study by Théodore Flournoy involving a schizophrenic patient who imagined a life on Mars.
4. "Typical" OVNI cases: He mentions that some ufologists cite "typical" OVNI cases before 1945, but expresses doubt about the quality of references, while his analysis of the plausibility structure anticipates nascent OVNI folklore before 1945.
5. Chronological Table: A table outlines key events and literature from 1600 to 1947, including discussions on the moon-hoax (1835), phantom ships (1896/97), H.G. Wells' "The Invasion from Mars" (1938), and the emergence of OVNI folklore (1947).

Schmitt then details the "moon-hoax" of 1835, where the "New York Sun" published articles alleging discoveries on the Moon by Sir John Herschel. These articles described humanoids, winged creatures, and unusual landscapes, contributing to the imaginative landscape of the time.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The central theme of this issue is the historical and cultural construction of belief in extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI) and its connection to the modern OVNI phenomenon. The magazine adopts an analytical and historical approach, examining how shifts in scientific understanding (like the Copernican revolution) and cultural narratives (literature, science fiction) have shaped societal perceptions and created a "plausibility structure" for such beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into ufology, acknowledging its cultural significance while grounding the discussion in historical context and sociological analysis.

This issue of the "Revue ufologique" (Ufological Review), dated May 1984, delves into the complex interplay between myths, social psychology, and the phenomenon of UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI).

The 'Vale of the Triads' and Lunar Beings

The issue begins with an excerpt describing an encounter in the "Vale of the Triads" with beings identified as a superior species, larger and more refined than previous specimens. These beings were observed eating a large yellow fruit and appeared to be happy and polite. The text then transitions to a description of social interaction among these beings, noting their apparent amity and the absence of carnivorous species, which brought the observers pleasure.

Herschel's Lunar Observations and ETI Tropes

The text references descriptions of early observations, attributed to Herschel fils and commented upon by Dr. Andrew Grant (alias R.A. Locke). It highlights the poetic and utopian aspects of these accounts, noting the presence of ETI clichés within an imaginary journey through celestial spheres. The article mentions Grant's further comments on observations made in March 1835.

'Valley of Rainbows' and the Vespertilio-homo

Another observation from the 'Valley of Rainbows' on Mount Atlas describes a superior species of "Vespertilio-homo." These beings are noted for their personal beauty, surpassing those previously described, and are compared favorably to imaginative representations of angels.

The ETI Myth and Judeo-Christian Tropes

The author connects the imagery of angels to the "Vespertilio-homo," suggesting associations with Batman, angels, fairies, and flying figures from Greek mythology. The text also mentions encountering the "Unicorne," implying a return to a paradisiacal state where original sin has not occurred.

The New York Sun's 'Invasion from Mars' and Public Hysteria

The article discusses the immense popularity of the New York Sun newspaper and its publication of a sensational story that led to massive demand for its illustrated brochure. This event is linked to the "hysteria" that spread across Europe, with millions of brochures sold. Notably, the New York Sun later admitted the story was a hoax. The text also references H.G. Wells's description of insect-like selenites.

The Habitability of the Moon and Communication Projects

Despite the hoax, belief in the Moon's habitability persisted. In 1847, Herschel fils published his observations, which, while showing a desert-like Moon, left open the possibility of life on its other side. By 1855, proposals emerged, such as von Littrow's idea to construct illuminated geometric figures in Siberia to signal humanity's presence to lunar inhabitants. The article notes that numerous other communication projects, appearing realistic under the guise of "objective" science and ETI plausibility, were conceived.

Phantom Flying Objects and the Influence of Science Fiction

The interpretation of "phantom locomotive flying boats" observed in the US (1896-97) and New Zealand (1910) is discussed. These sightings were influenced by the growing discussion about life on Mars and other planets. While some attributed them to ingenious inventors, newspapers suggested extraterrestrial origins. The article highlights the competing "plausibility structures" of science fiction and scientific speculation.

Cantril's Study on the 'War of the Worlds' Broadcast

Cantril's 1940 study on the panic caused by Orson Welles's radio adaptation of H.G. Wells's "The Invasion from Mars" is presented as a key work. The study, based on interviews, details how the broadcast led to widespread panic, with listeners fleeing their homes or preparing for death. The author emphasizes that a radio broadcast can induce a mass phenomenon by tapping into a shared "Weltbild" (worldview) and a common frame of reference.

The Social Construction of Reality and UFO Folklore

The article argues that a myth's ability to generate folklore depends on its material infrastructure. The ETI myth, as a World 3 object (ideas and theories), requires a World 1 support (material reality) to become folklore. The author posits that the rapid changes in World 1 during the first half of the 20th century, particularly in aeronautics, astronautics, and industrial mechanization, made the ETI myth less speculative and more plausible.

The Rise of UFO Folklore Post-1947

Following World War II, the "foo-fighters" observed by aviators were often interpreted as secret weapons, contributing to the nascent UFO folklore. By 1947, the "extraterrestrial" hypothesis began to dominate explanations for UFO sightings, surpassing theories of secret weapons, intraterrestrials, or natural phenomena. The article notes the emergence of contactees and UFO-based sects in the late 1940s and early 1950s.

The Role of Science Fiction and the Space Age

Science fiction and the Second World War are identified as crucial ideological and material supports for the ETI myth's effectiveness. The author suggests that the historical trajectory of aeronautics, astronautics, and related scientific fields, combined with the ETI myth, created a potent social plausibility structure. The article also mentions the "Danikenism" or "archaeoastronautics" phenomenon of the 1960s, where books by Erich von Däniken sold millions, demonstrating the fertile ground for such ideas.

Philosophical Frameworks and Plausibility

The author discusses Nicolai Hartmann's doctrine of existential strata (inorganic, organic, soul, and spirit) and Karl Popper's three worlds (physical objects, psychological states, and products of the mind) to explain the development and persistence of the ETI myth. The ETI myth is situated within World 3, gaining traction as World 1 (material reality) evolved with technological advancements.

Sociological and Psychological Perspectives

The article proposes several levels of analysis for understanding the ETI myth and folklore: sociology (sociology of knowledge, social psychology), social and cultural analysis of the 20th century (millenarism, anomie, desacralization), and cybernetic/synergetic models of complex systems (Chaos Theory). These frameworks help explain how beliefs and rumors can emerge and spread.

Bibliography

The issue concludes with an extensive bibliography of works related to science fiction, UFOs, mythology, sociology, and the history of ideas, providing a comprehensive list of references for further research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the construction and evolution of belief systems, particularly concerning extraterrestrial intelligence and UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be analytical and critical, seeking to understand the social, psychological, and historical factors that contribute to the formation and acceptance of these beliefs. The author emphasizes the role of "plausibility structures" and the influence of cultural narratives, including science fiction, in shaping public perception. The issue aims to demystify the ETI phenomenon by examining its roots in human psychology and societal trends rather than solely focusing on the physical reality of sightings.

This issue of EPHEMERIDES, published by the COMMISSION LUXEMBOURGEOISE D'ETUDES UFOLOGIQUES, covers astronomical phenomena and ufological activities, with the September 1984 issue focusing on planetary visibility, a solar eclipse, and the comet Halley.

Astronomical Ephemerides (April - July 1984)

The publication provides detailed information on the visibility of planets and celestial events for the months of April, May, June, and July 1984. Universal Time (UT) is provided, with instructions to add 2 hours for summer time and 1 hour for winter time in France, Belgium, and Luxembourg to obtain local legal time.

April

• Mercury: Visible early in the month after sunset, towards the Northwest, reaching maximum elongation on the 2nd and becoming unobservable by the 22nd.
• Venus: Difficult to observe as it rises shortly before the Sun, remaining so until June 15th, located in Pisces.
• Mars: Observable throughout the month, rising earlier each night. It will be in conjunction with the Moon on the 17th and 23rd, approximately 55' north of it.
• Jupiter: Visible in the latter half of the night in Sagittarius.
• Saturn: Observable all night in Libra, also in conjunction with the Moon on the 17th at 2 AM, north of the Moon.
• Moon: Key phases listed as HL on 01/04, PQ on 09/04, PL on 15/04, DQ on 23/04.

May

• Mercury: Difficult to observe early in the month, sought around the 19th in Pisces, then Aries.
• Venus: Unobservable as it rises shortly before the Sun, located in Aries and then Taurus.
• Mars: Visible for a large part of the night, becoming less visible as the month progresses. Mid-May, it will be visible due South at an altitude of 23° above the horizon in Libra.
• Jupiter: Observable throughout the month in the latter half of the night. Mid-May, it will be South at approximately 18° above the horizon in Sagittarius.
• Moon: Key phases listed as NL on 01/05, PQ on 08/05, PL on 15/05, DQ on 22/05, NL on 30/05.
• Saturn: Visible throughout the month in Libra.

Solar Eclipse

A narrow annular solar eclipse occurred on May 30, 1984, visible as a partial eclipse in France, lasting less than 40 minutes before sunset in Paris.

June

• Mercury: Difficult to observe. It can be sought in the morning before sunrise in the Northeast early in the month. It becomes completely unobservable until the 23rd as it approaches the Sun, reappearing in the evening in the Northwest shortly after sunset. It will be in Taurus and then Gemini.
• Venus: Unobservable throughout the month.
• Mars: Observable for a large part of the night early in the month (Libra), and in the first part of the night later in the month. It will be near Saturn, to the North in Libra.
• Jupiter: Visible in Sagittarius, but very low on the horizon. In conjunction with the Moon.
• Saturn: Visible in the first part of the night throughout the month in Libra.
• Moon: Key phases listed as PQ on 06/06, PL on 13/06, DQ on 21/06, NL on 29/06.

July

• Mercury: Visible in the evening after sunset (Northwest) throughout the month, with its longest elongation on the 31st. It will be sought in Gemini, then Cancer, then Leo.
• Venus: Visible after sunset in the Northwest, but still difficult to observe. Observation is expected to improve in early August. It will be sought in Gemini, then Cancer, and finally Leo.
• Mars: Observable throughout the month, but only in the early part of the night, with decreasing visibility due to its conjunction with the Moon. Located in Libra.
• Jupiter: Visible low on the horizon throughout the night and month. In conjunction with the Moon on the 11th. Located in Sagittarius.
• Saturn: Visible throughout the month, primarily in the early evening, with decreasing visibility over time. Located in Libra.
• Moon: Key phases listed as PQ on 05/07, PL on 13/07, DQ on 21/07, NL on 28/07.

The Comet Halley Arrives and Blinks

This section reports on an "unexpected phenomenon" for astronomers: Comet Halley is observed to be flashing. These observations were made using telescopes in Canada, France, and Hawaii, and analyzed in Nice. The brightness of the comet's nucleus shows rapid variations in luminosity that repeat nightly, with a cadence faster than 24 hours. Astronomers from the Paris Observatory, part of the Institut national d'astronomie et de géophysique du CNRS, have captured photometric images of this phenomenon. Specialists emphasize the need for continued observation before the comet approaches the Sun too closely, which could obscure its nucleus due to outgassing. As the comet nears Earth, observations are intensifying, with five space probes (two Soviet, one American, one Japanese, and one European) scheduled to observe it "up close" starting next year. The European probe "Giotto" will come closest, within 500 km of the nucleus, launched by an "Ariane" rocket in July 1985. This endeavor represents extraordinary international cooperation among ground-based astronomers and space missions.

COMMISSION LUXEMBOURGEOISE D'ETUDES UFOLOGIQUES (CLEU)

The CLEU operates solely on its members' contributions, without external financial support. The organization outlines its membership structure:

• Membre actif enquêteur (Active Investigator Member): 500 FB plus a photo ID. Benefits include receiving the CLEU Chronicles, the right to publish articles on ufology, participation in activities, free entry to conferences, the possibility of becoming an investigator, and a free CLEU sticker.
• Membre correspondant (Corresponding Member): 350 FB. Benefits include receiving the CLEU Chronicles and providing written or spoken information gathered from the press or their surroundings. Also receives a free CLEU sticker.
• Membre sympathisant (Sympathizer Member): 200 FB. Benefits include supporting the commission and receiving a free CLEU sticker.
• Membre d'honneur (Honorary Member): Details for CCP Luxembourg (no. 6958-71) and Banque Internationale Luxembourg (account no. 5-130/7180) are provided for international payments.

Members receive the CLEU Chronicles regularly. New members joining mid-year will receive back issues from that year.

The organization encourages members to share their press clippings, specifying the source and date of publication.

Calendar and Upcoming Events

• July 27, 1984: Meeting at La Fiorentina.
• August 11, 1984: Observation night starting at 19:30 for the grill, at the location known as "Galgenblerg" in Belvaux.
• September 1984: CNEGU meeting (location and date to be defined).
• September 1, 1984: Observation night.
• September 28, 1984: CLEU meeting at La Fiorentina.

Contents of Issue No. 30

• Catalogue of CNEGU Observations - Year 1982
• Continuation of an article by Alain Schmitt
• Report on the latest CNEGU meetings

(Content subject to available space and current events, with reservations.)

Rendez-vous in September 1984

Members are informed that they will not be individually notified in writing about participation in congresses and international meetings. CLEU meetings are held at their headquarters, La Fiorentina, rue d'Audun in Esch/Alzette, starting at 8:00 PM. These meetings aim to update members on ufological news, and attendance is encouraged.

Tombola

The CLEU has obtained an extension for its instant-win lottery ticket sales until October 1, 1984. Members are asked to assist by selling tickets and collecting them from the president's home.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CLEU emphasizes its self-reliance, funded solely by its members. The publication actively solicits contributions from its readership in the form of press clippings. The editorial stance appears to be focused on disseminating information about astronomical events and ufological research, encouraging member participation, and fostering a community around these interests. The inclusion of detailed astronomical ephemerides alongside ufological reports suggests a broad scope within the field of unexplained phenomena and skywatching.