GEOS International - No 6 - mai-juin 1970

Magazine Overview

This issue of GEOS INTERNATIONAL, number 6, published by the Groupe d'Études des Objets Spatiaux de France, is dedicated to the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The cover features a prominent illustration of the Earth with a flying saucer above it, set against a starry background, and the headline "PUBLIÉ PAR LE GROUPE D'ÉTUDES DES OBJETS SPATIAUX DE FRANCE."

Table of Contents

The issue's table of contents lists several key articles:

• "AU SUJET DES OBSERVATIONS FAITES PAR LES COSMONAUTES" (Regarding Observations Made by Cosmonauts) - p. 5
• "LE POINT SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES" (The Point on Flying Saucers) - p. 8
• "NOS INFORMATIONS" (Our Information) - p. 11
• "NOS INQUETES" (Our Investigations) - p. 12
• "LA COMETE BENNETT" (The Bennett Comet) - p. 14
• "INFORMATIONS FORTEENNES" (Forteenne Information) - p. 15
• "LES UNIVERS PARALLELES" (Parallel Universes) - p. 21
• "SERVICE DOCUMENTATION" (Documentation Service) - p. 25

The editorial and administrative details are also provided, including the Director General Gérard LEBAT, and the publication's address in Saint-Denis-les-Rebais.

AU SUJET DES OBSERVATIONS FAITES PAR LES COSMONAUTES

This article, authored by Jacques POTTIER, aims to provide a more technical and documented perspective on observations made by cosmonauts. It addresses previous articles in GEOS International concerning anomalies in Apollo missions, clarifying that while reports might have been imperfect, they were made in good faith. The author notes that partial information from press agencies and raw NASA data can be misleading, emphasizing the need for verification and synthesis. The article references phenomena observed during the Mercury and Gemini programs, highlighting the enhanced visual acuity of cosmonauts in space, capable of distinguishing ships from hundreds of kilometers away. It also discusses the numerous objects, such as ice particles from waste water, and debris from rocket stages, that orbit Earth alongside spacecraft. The article points out that while NASA reports on these observations are often delayed, leading to a lack of public information, two recommended books offer comprehensive details on these issues.

LES VOLS APOLLO

Written by Robert FUTAULLY, this section delves into the technical aspects of the Apollo missions, which are often overlooked despite their widespread televised coverage. It clarifies that the bright points observed outside the cabin of Apollo 8 were actually ice particles from daily waste water and fuel cell excess water, which were released at scheduled times and observed by ground stations. The article also mentions luminous phenomena accompanying each injection into translunar orbit, which were visible to the naked eye and observed from France, but were sometimes misinterpreted as UFOs. Regarding Apollo 12, the article explains that the observed "something" was the S-IVB stage, as announced by NASA. It details the phenomena caused by the ejection of gases from the engines during separation and the subsequent draining of liquid oxygen from the S-IVB stage. An anomaly occurred when the planned draining of liquid hydrogen failed, preventing the S-IVB from achieving its intended heliocentric orbit and leaving it in a highly elliptical Earth orbit. This failure, though not critical to the mission, meant that radar tracking was not prioritized. The article also touches upon the private communication circuits used by the LEM and command module, ensuring secure communication with Houston, and suggests that a degree of technical secrecy is natural given the advanced technology of the Apollo program.

EN PREVISION D'APOLLO 13

This subsection, also by Robert FUTAULLY, discusses the planned trajectory of Apollo 13, including its launch and injection into a translunar trajectory. It notes that the S-IVB stage was intended to be intentionally crashed onto the Moon. The article mentions that the mission director stated it would be possible for the Apollo 13 crew to observe the S-IVB, with a separation distance not exceeding 3,000 km. It also suggests that this phenomenon might be observable from France. The author expresses hope that the Apollo 13 cosmonauts, who are on the list of recipients for technical reports on luminous phenomena from Apollo 12, will be better informed. A footnote clarifies that due to Apollo 13's trajectory, it would be behind the Moon during the planned crash, making observation impossible.

LE POINT SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES

This extensive article by Serge HUTIN, Doctor of Letters, provides a historical overview and analysis of the flying saucer phenomenon. It defines "Unidentified Flying Objects" (UFOs) and "mysterious celestial objects," noting that the term "flying saucer" became popular after the official sighting of such objects on June 24, 1947. The article recounts the famous sighting by pilot Kenneth Arnold, who described nine brilliant, disc-shaped objects moving at high speed. It highlights the subsequent global media attention, followed by official "black-out" directives. The author stresses the importance of distinguishing between genuine sightings and those from hallucinated or hoaxing individuals, citing an example where only two out of 111 observations in 1962 were mentioned by French radio. A specific sighting from August 29, 1952, near Villacoublay, describes two objects: one circular and violet with green circles, and another red, both of the same shape. The article also includes a newspaper clipping from "Le Populaire du Centre" dated September 21, 1966, describing a luminous ball with a green trail observed in Ennegat. The author then presents Jacques Vallée's classification of UFO observations into four types: Type I (ground or near-ground spherical or discoidal craft with physical effects), Type II (cylindrical formations with diffuse clouds, often called "flying cigars"), Type III (discoidal or spherical objects that tilt or oscillate before disappearing at high speed), and Type IV (abnormal or ill-defined objects moving in the atmosphere). The article notes that such phenomena have been observed since antiquity, with early hypotheses leaning towards theological or magical explanations before the advent of flight technology. It references a 1561 Nuremberg Gazette report describing luminous spheres and tubular objects.

MODERN OBSERVATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS

The article continues by citing modern observations, including a large flying object observed in the United States between April 9 and 19, 1887, described as approximately 70 meters long and 10 meters in diameter, emitting powerful beams of light. It mentions a 1924 sighting in the Himalayas by Nicolas Roerich of a metallic, disc-shaped object moving at high speed. The author also refers to a 1938-39 study by César de Vesmes that documented numerous aerial phenomena. The core characteristics of these "flying saucers" are emphasized: absolute technical perfection, complete silence, and the absence of reported failures. They are capable of instantaneous acceleration from zero to speeds of 15,000 or 20,000 km/h, speeds that would be unsurvivable for humans with current terrestrial technology. The article suggests that these evolutions imply intelligent guidance or advanced automatic devices. When approached, these craft typically exhibit sudden acceleration, sharp turns, and rapid disappearance. Aimé Michel's study of French observations revealed a pattern he termed "orthotenie," where observation points align in series of three, four, or more along straight lines. The article notes a significant increase in UFO sightings in waves, citing 1954, 1957, and 1966-67 as periods of heightened activity, and questions whether these waves follow a plan.

NOS INFORMATIONS

This section presents various UFO reports from different locations:

• O.V.N.I. DANS LE CIEL ARGENTIN: A report from Tucuman, Argentina, dated December 23, 1969, describes a young farmer's sighting of a large, oblong object, approximately seventy meters long, with two luminous white discs rotating at its center. The object was accompanied by a strong wind and a persistent sulfurous odor was noted the following day, with nearby tree leaves slightly burnt.
• EXTRA-TERRESTRE?: A report from "Le Parisien Libéré" (January 28, 1970) details a case in Santiago, Chile, where a twelve-year-old boy claims a luminous ray caused a geometric burn mark on his shoulder.
• UN MYSTERIEUX OBJET VOLANT DANS LE CIEL POITEVIN: A report from Poitiers, France, describes a mysterious flying object, perceived as a luminous ball with a "hair-like" appendage, which hovered before disappearing at sunrise. It is noted that similar sightings have been reported elsewhere, including a comet-like object seen in the Midi.

NOS ENQUETES

This section details an investigation into a sighting in the province of Toledo, Spain:

• UN ETRANGE OBJET EST APERCU DANS LA PROVINCE DE TOLEDO: An article from A.B.C. (February 10, 1970) reports that on the night of February 9, 1970, Don Eladio DURAN, the concierge of the National Institute of Secondary Education in Toledo, observed a strange object. Described as larger than a star, with an imprecise, massive, and pointed shape, it emitted brilliant yellow luminous jets that later turned red as it moved eastward. Another witness, Don Marcelino CASAS, also saw a similar object emitting intense light before it suddenly disappeared.

INVESTIGATION REPORT

A follow-up investigation by Carlos MURCIANO on March 7, 1969, is presented. The report notes the context of student exam failures at the "seccion Delegada del Instituto de Enzenânza Media" in Madridejos (Toledo). Don Eladio DURAN, the witness, is described as a former soldier, father of many children, disciplined, and not very talkative about the subject. His account details seeing a strange light at the height of two trees, which he recognized as unlike anything he had ever seen, causing him momentary panic. He alerted professors Monsieur SUAREZ and Monsieur FÁJIN, who also witnessed the object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of GEOS INTERNATIONAL are the persistent mystery of UFOs, the scientific and technical investigation of these phenomena, and the documentation of sightings from various parts of the world and historical periods. The magazine adopts a serious, investigative stance, aiming to provide detailed and documented information, distinguishing itself from sensationalist reporting. There is a clear emphasis on technical analysis, particularly concerning space missions like Apollo, and a commitment to exploring both contemporary and historical accounts of unidentified aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider the evidence and the technical challenges involved in understanding these events.

This issue of "Informations Fortéennes" focuses on "LES FAITS MAUDITS" (Cursed Facts), continuing the work of Charles Fort in documenting unexplained phenomena. The magazine explores UFO sightings, mysterious disappearances at sea, and the potential for extraterrestrial life.

Unexplained Sightings and Disappearances

The issue begins with an account of a UFO sighting where a witness describes an object shaped like a cone, emitting a matte yellow light that turned matte red as it moved slowly and obliquely. The object was the size of the full moon and made no noise. Another account mentions Don Marcelino Casas, a professor from Toledo, who witnessed a similar object that projected intense light and descended towards his car before disappearing.

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the mystery surrounding the disappearance of solo navigator Donald C. Crowhurst. On July 10, 1969, the British liner "PICARDY" discovered Crowhurst's trimaran, the "TEIGNMOUTH ELECTRON," adrift and empty. Crowhurst had been participating in a solo round-the-world race organized by the "Sunday Times." Despite extensive searches, no trace of him was found. Various hypotheses are discussed, including falling overboard, equipment malfunction, or even more fantastical explanations like abduction by pirates or a spy submarine. His wife expressed a terrible hypothesis that he might have been underwater, but his diving equipment was found on board.

Adding to the maritime mysteries, the issue details the discovery of four other empty yachts in the "Latitude 35" region between June 30 and July 8, 1969. These vessels, including the "TEIGNMOUTH ELECTRON," were found intact, with their automatic pilots engaged, and no occupants. The meteorological services reported clear weather, deepening the enigma of these disappearances.

Comet Bennett and Extraterrestrial Life

The magazine also features an article on Comet Bennett, discovered by Bennett in Pretoria on December 28, 1969. It was visible to the naked eye and became increasingly bright, reaching magnitude 1 when visible in France. Its tail extended 12 degrees across the sky. Scientific studies of the comet revealed a mass of hydrogen a thousand times larger than the sun.

Professor Guissepe Bonfe discusses the concept of parallel universes and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence. He posits that advanced civilizations might have developed millions of years before humanity and could be communicating with Earth through UFOs. The article highlights a shift in scientific opinion, with figures like Professor A. Hyneck and Professor Herman Oberth acknowledging the reality and significance of UFO phenomena, citing thousands of unexplained reports.

Dr. W. H. Pickering, director of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, is quoted stating his belief in extraterrestrial life on other planets, particularly Mars. He discusses ongoing research programs and the challenges of space exploration, including the vast distances between stars and the limitations imposed by the speed of light and time dilation.

Conclusion

The issue concludes by posing the question of what happened to Donald Crowhurst and the occupants of the other yachts, and what makes the "Latitude 35" region so mysterious. It emphasizes that while explanations are difficult, extraordinary coincidences are unlikely, leaving the nature of these events as a profound enigma.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and maritime mysteries. The editorial stance, as implied by the "LES FAITS MAUDITS" subtitle and the continuation of Charles Fort's work, is to investigate and document these anomalies without immediate dismissal, encouraging open-mindedness and further research into subjects that challenge conventional scientific understanding. The magazine presents various accounts and hypotheses, leaving the reader to ponder the unresolved questions.

This issue of SPACE LINK, dated June 1970, delves into speculative theories concerning UFO phenomena, parallel universes, and the potential for advanced civilizations to transcend the known laws of physics. The magazine presents a blend of scientific speculation, anecdotal evidence, and book reviews, all within the context of ufology.

Theoretical Framework: Parallel Universes and Faster-Than-Light Travel

The lead article posits that exceeding the speed of light would allow one to leave our universe's time and space, entering a parallel universe. This concept, once relegated to science fiction, is presented as a necessary consideration for understanding inexplicable phenomena, such as the behavior of K-mesons, which might be influenced by forces from another universe. Physicist Luigi Fantappie is cited, suggesting that reality might require a broader system than just our universe's space-time to be fully explained, encompassing larger transformation groups and greater degrees of freedom.

The author's theory on UFOs is directly linked to these ideas. It proposes that a highly advanced Galactic civilization, millions of years ahead of humanity, could possess unknown energy forms capable of altering matter and fundamental physical constants like gravity and the speed of light. This would enable them to create a force field that allows objects to disappear from our universe and enter another, where matter does not obey the same laws. This access to a parallel universe is suggested as the key to understanding how UFOs can cover vast interstellar distances in short periods, overcoming the difficulties of accepting an extraterrestrial origin.

The article argues that an advanced civilization might have solved the problem of space and time, enabling them to traverse dimensions beyond our current scientific understanding. It dismisses the idea that this is mere extravagance, asserting it's the only hypothesis that offers a starting point for explaining UFO phenomena, which have eluded ordinary scientific explanation for a decade. The Russian astronomer Kozyrev is quoted predicting that future human technology will allow the manipulation of time, a concept crucial for interstellar travel.

UFO Behavior and Animal Reactions

The magazine then focuses on specific aspects of UFO behavior that support the parallel universe hypothesis. Two key observations are highlighted:

1. Instantaneous Appearance and Disappearance: Radar operators and pilots worldwide have reported UFOs appearing on screens suddenly, as if from nowhere, and vanishing just as quickly. While rapid acceleration has been proposed as an explanation, the article finds it unconvincing.
2. Animal Terror: Animals, particularly horses and dogs, often exhibit extreme distress, even before a UFO is visually or audibly detected. This reaction, even to the silent approach of UFOs, contrasts with their usual indifference to the noise of airplanes. The article suggests that animals might possess a more developed extrasensory perception, sensing the UFOs as a phenomenon from a parallel dimension or a realm of psychic activity beyond rational comprehension.

This parallel dimension is proposed as the same one used by UFOs to traverse immense intergalactic distances.

Satellite Visibility and Book Reviews

The issue includes practical information for enthusiasts, such as the visibility of the PAGEOS 1 satellite in May and June 1970, detailing specific observation times and directions. It also features a review of "Le Livre Noir des Soucoupes Volantes" (The Black Book of Flying Saucers) by Henry Durrant, published by Robert Laffont in the "Enigmes de l'Univers" series. The book is highly recommended for its detailed and referenced accounts.

Obituary and Ufology Community News

A somber note is struck with the announcement of the death of Jacques-Gérard Dohmen, a significant figure in the ufology community. Dohmen was the President of the "D" Group and a founding member of the Belgian Ufologic Federation. The magazine expresses condolences to his family and friends, acknowledging his contributions to their cause.

Documentation Service and Recommended Reading

SPACE LINK offers a documentation service to help readers acquire books on UFOs and related topics, both in French and English. A comprehensive list of recommended titles is provided, including works by Aimé Michel, Charles Fort, Paul Misraki, Guy Tarade, and Jean Sendy, as well as English-language studies like the Condon report and works by Jay David and Coral Lorenzén. The service is presented as a non-commercial effort to support the members' research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of unconventional scientific theories to explain UFO phenomena. The magazine strongly advocates for considering hypotheses beyond current scientific paradigms, particularly the concept of parallel universes and advanced dimensional travel. There is a clear editorial stance that ignoring or dismissing UFOs due to their inexplicability by today's science is a grave error. The publication actively encourages reader participation through collaboration, article submissions, and the sharing of press clippings, underscoring its commitment to advancing the study of ufology.