Extraterrestres, Les - Series 2 - No 03 - juillet 1977

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'Les Extraterrestres' magazine, dated July 1977, number 3, is dedicated to the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The cover prominently features the title 'Les EXTRATERRESTRES' and the subtitle '-Objets Volants Non Identifiés-', with a striking graphic of radiating lines converging on a central circle. The magazine positions itself as a specialized information source for the general public, emphasizing a serious, scientific approach and inviting contributions from researchers, scientists, and academics.

Editorial Stance and Publication Details

The editorial clarifies that the science-fiction-like title 'Les Extraterrestres' was adopted for administrative reasons but does not detract from the serious nature of the publication. The magazine is open to all researchers and scientists. The editorial rules state that any submitted document implies free reproduction, with authors solely responsible for their content. Published articles become the property of the magazine, with reproduction permitted only if the source, author, and magazine's address are clearly indicated, in accordance with French law of 1957.

Publication is controlled by a three-member editorial committee elected annually. The magazine encourages reader participation by submitting articles, observations, and theories. It also requests press clippings related to UFOs. Subscription details are provided, with all subscriptions beginning on January 1st. Readers changing their address are asked to provide the last address label and 3 Francs in stamps. Contact information for the magazine's editorial and administrative offices in St Denis Les Rebais is provided.

Key Articles and Themes

Aerodynes Magnetohydrodynamiques (Aerodynes Magnetohydrodynamics)

This section, authored by Dr. Jean-Pierre Petit and Dr. Maurice Viton, delves into the scientific principles behind potential UFO propulsion systems, specifically focusing on magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). Dr. Petit, a former aeronautical engineer and plasma physicist, states his initial approach is purely scientific, exploring the possibility of supersonic flight without shockwaves. He notes that the discoid shape of UFOs aligns with their theoretical designs. The article discusses the challenges of developing powerful electric motors for such craft, combining fusion and MHD.

The core of the article explains the Lorentz force, which acts on a gas carrying an electric current in a magnetic field. It explores different configurations for MHD accelerators, including linear and cylindrical designs. A key concept discussed is the Hall Effect, which influences the behavior of charged particles in a plasma within a magnetic field, leading to spiral current paths and potential applications in propulsion.

Experimental work by Dr. Petit in 1967 is mentioned, involving a linear MHD converter that generated significant electrical power from a high-speed plasma flow. This led to the question of whether MHD could create a shockwave in front of an aerodyne to mitigate or eliminate its sonic boom.

The article further details spherical and cylindrical configurations for MHD aerodynes, involving solenoids to create magnetic fields and electrodes to generate plasma. The interaction of these forces is analyzed, noting that higher magnetic fields and current densities are desirable but present engineering challenges, such as electrode erosion.

A pulsed MHD motor concept is presented, utilizing a spherical chamber filled with heavy hydrogen. This system involves a solenoid, electrodes, and a capacitor to create an implosive shockwave, potentially leading to a high-power laser effect and energy release through fusion. The authors speculate on the possibility of a compact, high-frequency motor operating on this principle.

L'Ufologie (Ufology)

The editorial, written by Henri Dizier, provides a historical overview of ufology, starting with Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting. It highlights the development of ufology as a science, acknowledging its challenges, including the picturesque, incoherent, and esoteric aspects often associated with its proponents. The editorial praises the sustained efforts of independent researchers and scientists in advancing the field, suggesting it may lead to a radical revision of our understanding of the world. It mentions the development of technical investigation methods and theoretical explanations for UFO phenomena.

The article also references a recent study titled 'UN CONVERTISSEUR MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIQUE D'UN GENRE NOUVEAU' (A Magnetohydrodynamic Converter of a New Kind), suggesting that its discoidal configuration and performance could apply to observed aerial craft. The magazine promises to explore technical realizations, projects, and hypotheses that will present ufology free from incompetence and hysteria in future issues.

Les Groupements Français (French Ufology Groups)

This section lists various ufological research groups across France, providing their names, acronyms, and postal addresses. This includes groups like C.R.U.N. (Nice), Groupe PALMOS (Montpellier), G.R.E.P.O. (Le Pontet), C.S.E.R.U. (Chambery), UFOLOGIA (Forbach), G.N.E.O.V.N.I. (Lestrem), Centre National de Recherches (Quimper), Groupement Langeadois de Recherches Ufologiques (Langeac), Groupement d'Etudes des Mystérieux Objets Célestes (Romilly/Seine), and G.T.R. OVNI (Troyes).

En Quêtes Inédites (Unpublished Investigations)

This section features a detailed report from André REVOL about an observation on September 15, 1976, near Saint-Marcellin, France. The incident involved the Ginouves family and was reported to the local gendarmerie. Preceding the visual sighting, the family's television experienced interference, and their cat became agitated. A strong heat was felt outside the house, followed by the appearance of a bright, incandescent, elliptical object about 300 meters away. The object descended slowly, hovered near the ground behind trees, and then disappeared abruptly after about three minutes. The ambient temperature was estimated at 30 degrees Celsius during the event. The following day, no physical traces were found at the presumed landing site. The report also mentions a neighbor, Mr. Dubolo, who heard a supersonic bang and experienced a temporary power outage. Another witness, Mrs. Menon, reported seeing a white disc in the distance on the same evening.

Other Sections

The magazine also includes a 'Sommaire' (Table of Contents) listing articles such as 'Aérodynes magnétohydrodynamiques', 'Congrès international sur les OVNI', 'Les enquêtes inédites de nos correspondants et amis', 'OVNI détecté par un radar', 'Project Starlight International', 'Liberté d'expression en ufologie', 'Synthèse de la nuit de veille du 19 mars dernier', and book reviews.

A 'Bibliographie' section lists relevant scientific papers and articles, primarily concerning magnetohydrodynamics and UFOs, with several entries by Jean-Pierre Petit.

Announcements for public meetings in Paris organized by 'Les Extraterrestres' are included, offering debates and working sessions for readers interested in contributing to the magazine. Information about a planned international UFO congress in Acapulco, organized by AEROMEXICO, is mentioned, though the magazine was unable to participate due to late notification.

An article titled 'L'ARMEE DE L'AIR S'INTERESSE AUX OVNI' (The Air Force is Interested in UFOs) reports that the French Air Force's detection and control center is beginning to collect radar and observation testimonies from its personnel, a personal initiative by the center's commander.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific exploration of UFO phenomena, with a strong emphasis on theoretical physics and engineering, particularly magnetohydrodynamics. The magazine aims to present a serious, evidence-based approach, distinguishing itself from sensationalist reporting. It actively encourages reader contributions and collaboration, positioning itself as a platform for open scientific inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance is one of objective investigation and a desire to advance the understanding of UFOs through rigorous scientific methods.

This issue of LES EXTRATERRESTRES focuses on UFO phenomena, featuring a prominent report on a radar detection in France and an in-depth look at the research efforts of Project Starlight International.

OVNI DETECTED BY RADAR

The lead article details a series of radar observations made in Northern France on the nights of December 13th and 14th, 1976. René Faudrin, an air force radar surveillance operator, reports on three distinct observations. The first, around 2 AM, involved a fast track descending towards Lyon, with radar plots spaced 10-15 nautical miles apart. The second, more significant observation around 3 AM, detected multiple tracks descending from the Givet region (Ardennes) and the Nancy region, also with plots spaced 10-15 nautical miles apart, moving at high speeds. Each radar sweep lasts 10 seconds. The third observation, around 3:30 AM, noted tracks moving from the Reims-Chatillon-sur-Marne region towards Nancy, again with similar spacing. Attempts to obtain altitude measurements were difficult, but one reading estimated an object at 35,000 feet (10,500 meters). The article highlights the unusual nature of these detections, given the low air traffic at night, and the experience of the seven observers. The calculated speeds for these tracks ranged from 6700 to 10,000 km/h, far exceeding those of conventional aircraft.

Project Starlight International

The issue introduces Project Starlight International (PSI), a US-based private scientific organization founded by the Understanding of Man, Inc. PSI aims to find a direct scientific approach to the UFO problem, focusing on detection, pursuit, and contact. Key figures include director Raymond Stanford, photography director Samuel H. Young, and installations director Robert Dunnan. PSI's research facility, located 24 km northeast of Austin, Texas, is equipped with instruments for detection and communication with UFOs. The article recounts two significant incidents involving PSI: in May 1972, a UFO reportedly responded to a light signal with a coded message, and on October 2, 1972, a UFO performed two sharp 90-degree turns at high speed, which was observed and photographed.

PSI utilizes advanced equipment, including the 'UFO/VECTOR' system, which comprises a modulated laser transmission system, a precision magnetometer, a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, and TV units. They also plan to incorporate devices for detecting gravitational modifications and ion changes. The organization is open to collaboration and suggestions from researchers and scientists.

UFO Photograph from Texas

A photograph taken on October 2, 1974, near Austin, Texas, by PSI researchers is presented. It shows an undulating trail and two distinct 90-degree turns made at high speed by a white-yellowish object. Analysis by Raymond Stanford and Samuel H. Young concluded that no known human-made aircraft could have performed these maneuvers. The estimated angular speed during the turns suggests a speed of over 18,000 km/h. The photograph was taken with a 700mm telephoto lens, and the object's lights were visible for 2 to 4 seconds. The article notes that while atmospheric instability might explain some visual effects, the sharp turns are significant. The report also mentions a similar observation by two computer specialists, Daniel Harris and John P. Goodman, in Cedar Park, Texas, on the same evening, suggesting a connected event.

UFO Observation at Manise Air Base, Spain

This section details an incident at the Manise Air Base in Spain, reported by soldiers Ramon B. and Antonio U. on September 10th (year not specified, but context suggests around 1974-1976). At 4 AM, they observed a bright, ovoid object with an intense, immobile light, appearing to descend from the sky. The object was described as resplendent and haloed, its light blinding. It remained stationary for about ten minutes before suddenly disappearing. When they reported the incident, they were dismissed as 'visionaries.' The article notes that the base commander reportedly sent the two soldiers on leave shortly after, possibly to suppress the information.

Book Reviews

Two book reviews are included:

• "CES MYSTERIEUX OVNI" by Antonio Ribera: Translated from Spanish and published in 1976, this book is described as a comprehensive study of UFO phenomena from the post-WWII era up to 1955. The reviewer notes its thoroughness but criticizes the 10-year translation delay, making much of the information outdated. The book covers historical cases, reactions of official bodies, and includes extensive annexes on related topics like ancient sightings and mythology.
• "SUR LA PISTE DES ANGES NON IDENTIFIES" by Maurice Guiguand: This book is strongly discouraged for serious UFO research, being characterized as esoteric rather than objective. While it dedicates several chapters to UFOs, its content is deemed speculative and unconvincing, focusing on symbolism and unproven hypotheses about UFOs being 'non-identified angels.'

Other Sections

The magazine also includes a section on the "Service de Documentation," listing numerous books available for purchase on UFOs and related topics. It also offers enlargements of UFO photographs and reproductions of ancient artwork related to mysterious phenomena. An advertisement for "ASL SERIGRAPHIE" is present, offering custom printing services. The issue concludes with subscription information for "LES EXTRATERRESTRES" magazine and a brief mention of upcoming reviews.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detection and investigation of UFOs, the scientific approach to ufology, and the presentation of case studies with detailed observations and measurements. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and a desire to present factual accounts, encouraging readers to share their own experiences. There's a clear emphasis on the need for serious, scientific investigation into the UFO phenomenon, contrasting with more speculative or esoteric approaches. The magazine aims to inform and document, providing resources for those interested in the subject.