GEPO No 09 - Siecle Inconnu - OVNINFO - No 9 - nov - dec 1977 (GEPO)

Magazine Overview

Title: Siècle Inconnu
Issue: N°9 - 2F
Date: November-December 1977
Publisher: OV.M.I.NFO

This issue of Siècle Inconnu, a bi-monthly publication, presents a diverse range of topics, including unexplained phenomena, scientific history, and societal critique. The editorial note acknowledges the challenges of producing the magazine amidst criticism but highlights the growing readership. It also apologizes for printing quality issues due to a change in paper.

Articles

"Le Mot" (Editorial)

The editorial reflects on the difficulties of publishing Siècle Inconnu, noting constant criticism but also a growing base of supportive readers. The editors express a desire to improve the magazine's quality and quantity. They apologize for the printing imperfections in this issue, attributing them to a change in paper that resulted in "rather unfortunate smudging." The editorial also touches upon the vulnerability of individuals and the tendency of critics to target them. It previews the content of the current issue, emphasizing that most articles are exclusive to Siècle Inconnu. These include "Naissance d'un mythe" on the Bermuda Triangle, "La société de consommation et la Pollution" by Michel Le Mouel, and the first part of a series on "Les Grandes Hommes" featuring Copernicus and Ptolemy. The editorial also mentions coverage of the national parapsychology congress, films, the space shuttle, and the Rosicrucian order. The OVHINFO newsletter is noted as being somewhat sparse but true to its title. The next issue (N°10) is promised to hold surprises. It is also mentioned that this issue was printed in double circulation for advertising purposes.

"Mystères: Le Triangle Maudit - Naissance d'un Mythe"

This article delves into the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle, acknowledging its notoriety for unexplained disappearances. It suggests that while not all disappearances are supernatural, about 10% may be attributable to natural phenomena. The author notes the human tendency to seek explanations for the unknown. The article defines the geographical area of the Bermuda Triangle, encompassing the Sargasso Sea, the Bahamas, the Greater Antilles, and parts of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. It posits that the name itself contributes to the enduring mystery, drawing a parallel to the term "flying saucer." The narrative traces the origin of the name "Triangle Maudit" (Cursed Triangle) and "Triangle du Diable" (Devil's Triangle) before settling on "Triangle des Bermudes." The article highlights Christophe Colomb's (Christopher Columbus) early encounters with the region, noting his logbook entries from September 13 and 15, 1492. On September 13, he recorded a strange deviation in his compass, which he attributed to the magnetic pole. On September 15, he and his crew observed a "great trail of fire" that vanished into the ocean, an event later linked by scientists to a meteorite. On October 11, 1492, Columbus reportedly saw a greenish light near the Bahamas that preceded a storm, prompting him to warn Governor Bobadilla.

"Le Triangle Maudit - Naissance d'un Mythe" (Continued)

This continuation of the article on the Bermuda Triangle elaborates on the historical context. It explains that the initial descriptions of disappearances occurred within a triangular area. The article emphasizes the mysterious nature of the Sargasso Sea, known for its dense seaweed that can immobilize ships. It reiterates the account of Columbus's compass anomaly and the sighting of a fiery trail, which scientists later suggested corresponded to a meteorite passage. The text also mentions Columbus's observation of a greenish light on October 11, 1492, near the Bahamas, which he interpreted as a sign of an impending storm, leading him to warn Governor Bobadilla's fleet.

"Écologiquement Votre: La Société de Consommation et La Pollution"

This section critically examines the relationship between consumer society and pollution. It argues that consumerism creates artificial needs, driven by advertising, with the primary goal of corporate survival and profit rather than genuine human necessity. While living standards and incomes may have risen, the author contends that people are not happier and are constantly incited to consume more. The article points out the declining quality and repairability of products, citing the difficulty of getting appliances repaired in the USA as an example. It also notes the negligence of certain professions, such as doctors in the US who are unwilling to make house calls. The piece highlights the severe traffic congestion in the US, despite extensive highways, and warns that Europe is not immune to this degradation. Pollution from automobiles is presented as a significant issue, adding to industrial emissions that fall as acid rain, harming agriculture and forests. The author stresses the importance of safeguarding nature and the biosphere for human progress, advocating for a shift towards technology serving humanity and an end to nuisances, waste, and pollution. It mentions warnings from scientists like Alexis Carrel and Jean Rostand, and the commandant Cousteau's observation of a 40% loss of marine life. The article cautions that the growing "ecology market" is being exploited by industries and commercial interests, urging vigilance against movements that become overly commercialized or co-opted by the system. It also warns against the appropriation of ecological concerns by political parties.

"Écologiquement Votre: La Société de Consommation et La Pollution" (Continued)

This continuation of the ecology section discusses the political aspect of environmentalism. It notes that politicians are increasingly adopting ecological rhetoric to gain favor, promising green spaces and sanitation measures. The article asserts that it is the responsibility of ecological movements to hold these politicians accountable once elected. It emphasizes that taxpayers ultimately bear the cost of environmental remediation. The author expresses skepticism about past industrial policies, suggesting that industrialization and agricultural mechanization have led to rural depopulation and the creation of "inhuman and monstrous" cities. The piece calls for a societal shift towards a more sustainable path, where humans are the ultimate goal, not merely a means to an economic end. It suggests that the economy should serve humanity's true purpose. The article is attributed to Michel Le Mouel.

"Astonomie: Définir Cosmogonie - Généralités"

This article defines cosmogony as the study of various mythological and scientific doctrines that explain the formation of the universe. It notes that ancient religions offered narratives of creation involving celestial bodies, deities, and earthly elements. Ancient cosmogonies are characterized as being simultaneously religious, philosophical, and poetic, often presented as divine revelations. The author points out that these narratives typically present a fundamental idea: the existence of a generative being and an undifferentiated mass (akin to nothingness) from which the universe originates. The creation is seen as the action of a divine generator upon this chaotic mass, more of an organization than a true creation in the philosophical sense. The article also mentions the concept of creation through a process analogous to sexual reproduction, involving male and female principles among deities. It contrasts this with the cosmogony of the Bible and the Book of Genesis.

"Astonomie: Les Grandes Hommes (suite & Fin)"

This section profiles two significant figures in astronomy: Nicolas Copernicus and Claude Ptolemy. Nicolas Copernicus (1473-1543), a Polish astronomer, is credited with proposing the heliocentric model in his "De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium," asserting that the Earth revolves around the Sun. This theory initially faced opposition due to its conflict with religious scriptures but was presented by his publisher as a hypothetical conjecture. Galileo Galilei later built upon Copernicus's system, facing less resistance. The article notes that Copernicus's work, published shortly before his death, detailed discoveries made with imprecise instruments, many of which were later confirmed.

Claude Ptolemy (1st century), a Greek scholar from Alexandria, made contributions across various scientific fields. His major work, "Almagest," summarized ancient astronomical knowledge, including the work of Hipparchus, and presented his own astronomical system. He is also known for his eight-volume geography and his mathematical theory of sound ("Harmonies"). The article mentions his "Optics" and a chronological table of kings. It suggests that understanding Ptolemy's theories requires delving into geometry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, scientific inquiry, and societal critique. There's a clear interest in UFO phenomena, historical mysteries like the Bermuda Triangle, and the intersection of science and belief systems (cosmogony, ancient religions). The editorial stance is critical of consumerism and pollution, advocating for environmental awareness and a more human-centered approach to societal development. The publication aims to present exclusive content and foster a community of like-minded individuals interested in these subjects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, scientific inquiry, and societal critique. There's a clear interest in UFO phenomena, historical mysteries like the Bermuda Triangle, and the intersection of science and belief systems (cosmogony, ancient religions). The editorial stance is critical of consumerism and pollution, advocating for environmental awareness and a more human-centered approach to societal development. The publication aims to present exclusive content and foster a community of like-minded individuals interested in these subjects.

Title: Courrier
Issue: 10
Date: January 16 (predicted from 'SORTIE PREVUE LE 16 JANVIER')

This issue of 'Courrier' features a 'COURRIER' section with reader feedback, a 'MISE AU POINT' section offering critical commentary, and a 'DES RECORDS FOUS ? FOUS OF FOUS!' section detailing unusual world records.

Reader Correspondence and Commentary

The 'COURRIER' section includes a letter from Michel Le Mouel praising the magazine's information despite modest means. Another reader, identified as 'revue Kadath', offers a sharp critique of Von Daniken, calling him a charlatan and not a true archaeologist or professor.

Unusual World Records

The 'DES RECORDS FOUS ? FOUS OF FOUS!' section highlights a world record attempt for ricochets at Maokinak, USA, where Tellefson managed 13, falling short of Rolf Anselm's record of 17 from 1932. It also mentions Corey Fletcher and Kevin Farrel, two Americans who set a record for the longest duration standing on one foot, holding the position for seven hours and thirty minutes.

Book Review: La science face aux extra-terrestres

A prominent feature is the review of Jean-Claude Bourret's third book, 'La science face aux extra-terrestres'. The book reportedly explains why Jimmy Carter and Kurt Waldheim sent messages to extraterrestrials via the Voyager probes, and promises 'stupefying testimonies'. The book is published by EDITIONS France Empire and is 336 pages long, priced at 36 Francs.

Technical Information: Space Shuttle

Under the heading 'G.E.P.O SIECLE INCONNU', a technical sheet for a 'NAVETTE' (Shuttle) is provided. It lists the constructor as NASA (USA), with dimensions including a length of 37.27m, height of 17.25m, and wingspan of 23.79m. The weight is 84.8 tons, and empty weight is 38.5 tons. Test astronauts mentioned are Fred W. Haise, Charles G. Fulleton, Richard H. Truly, and Joe M. Engle. Test flights involved a BOEING 747 and a shuttle. The American name is SPACE SHUTTLE, and the unofficial name is ENTERPRISE. Altitude is listed as mini/maxi 185-965 km, and speed is 30,000 km/hour.

Revue de Presse (Press Review)

This section reviews several other publications:

• NOSTRA: A magazine focused on mysteries, including observing UFOs, fourth dimension travelers, African secret languages, Freemasons and politics, and the fear of vampires. It also covers recovered UFO fragments, English witchcraft, Lourdes miracles, astral body detachment, psychic abilities, astronautics, the paranormal in Brussels, and the Bible's connection to extraterrestrials. Subscription details are provided: 3 months for 36.00 francs, 6 months for 70.00 francs. The address is 29, rue Galilée, Paris 75016.
• OCTAZINE: Described as a literary magazine published by the (NAS, Collège Nemurois d'Anticipation Scientifique in Belgium. It's a pocket-sized publication with color covers, reader mail, humor, and a complete fanzine. It targets both young and older readers interested in ED (likely Erotica/Eroticism), SF (Science Fiction), and anticipation. The issue N°8 is reviewed, featuring articles like 'L'insoutenable d'Altarus' by P. Ferran, 'Gond/Beneluxoon 77' by Goud/Beneluxoon, 'Treize à la douzaine' by Léon Mormont, 'Demain, les porcs' by P. Ziegelmeyer, 'Distances' by Jules Supervielle, 'Le Fond des choses' by G. Govesbet, 'Les Troglodytes' by Claude Dumont, and 'Réaction' by Noé Gaillard. The cover art is by Victor Lefobre. Subscription is 250 FB (30FF). The address is BP 29, 5000 NAMUR2, Belgium.
• BARABAJAGAL: A bimonthly ecological and libertarian review. It addresses the new generation with information on nuclear issues, ecology, minorities, the exploitation of workers and women, communities, and non-violence. The address is 03250-De Meyet-de-Montagne.
• LA AUTRE MONDE: A monthly magazine about the strange and unusual. Issue N°13 celebrated its anniversary with an investigation into the 'Gardens of Dindhorn', a look at ancestors and Celts, an exclusive interview with a human guinea pig for extraterrestrials, and other articles. Issue N°14 features an exclusive interview with the Grand Master of AMORC, telepathic healing, and the 'Age of Aquarius'. Subscription is 12 issues for 72 francs, 6 issues for 36 francs. The address is 23, rue Clauzel, 75009 PARIS.
• ASTROMETEO: A bulletin from the ARFA (Association de Recherches Françaises d'Astrométéorologie). It's described as a scientific journal of great interest, particularly noted for its presentation and the diversity of subjects covered, including earthquakes, stars, planets, time, etc. The address is 2, avenue Azam, 33600 PESSAC (France).
• KADATH: An excellent, simple yet luxurious, and soberly presented bimonthly review chronicling 'disappeared civilizations'. Issue N°8 includes an open letter to M. Erich Von Daniken, a pyramid in Brittany, the 'Barnenez', the scattering of spheres in Costa Rica, and 'Fongatahu' with 'irritating vestments in Polynesia'. Issue N°28 covers 'the Montes de Paracas', an inquiry into transpacific contacts, and 'the time's circles in the Carpathians'. Subscription details are available via 'librairie Nouvelle Promo' at 3, rue St Philippe du Roule, 75008 PARIS.
• L'INCONNU: Continues in the same style, offering articles on the Rosicrucian order, Hynek's UFO theories, extra-sensory powers, and new living dead. Issue N°21 features an article on UFOs with photos, though the text notes they might not be very convincing. Subscription is 12 issues for 60 francs in France. The address is II, rue Amélie, 75007 PARIS.

Society: L'Ordre Rosicrucien AM.O.R.C.

This section details the Rosicrucian Order AMORC, described as an ancient and mystical global organization aiming to help individuals lead happier and more useful lives by awakening their latent faculties. It emphasizes the application of cosmic and natural laws, promoting idealism, metaphysics, and current sciences. The Order states it is not a religion or a sect, and members have diverse opinions. It is a non-profit association with its own publishing and research services. Membership is open to anyone aged 21 or over who has a clear conscience. Information requests should include 3 stamps (1.00F) and be sent to AMORC Sorine MO, Chateau d'Omonville, Le tremblay, 27110 LE NEUBOURG (France). The reader is advised to mention 'SIECLE INCONNU'.

Spatial Techniques: The Era of the Shuttle

This article discusses the advent of the space shuttle, following Apollo and Skylab, as a 'space taxi' for near-Earth travel. It highlights the shuttle's reusability and its potential to increase mission efficiency and reduce costs. The current phase is described as test flights, which are nearing completion. The shuttle will be propelled by two booster rockets and a supplementary tank. The landing strip is over two kilometers long and made of concrete. After landing, the shuttle is towed three kilometers on a special highway. The article anticipates the shuttle opening doors to a new era starting in 1979. It also briefly mentions space news: Viking had nothing to report, Voyager was doing well, OTS was finished for a time after its launch vehicle exploded, Soyuz 2 failed to dock with the Russian orbital station SALIOUT 6, and France is building a civilian observation satellite.

Cinema Reviews

The 'CINEMA GENERIQUE' section reviews three films:

• LES GRANDS FONDS (The Deep): An American film by Peter Yates, distributed by WC, produced by Casablanca Filmworks. It stars Robert Shaw, Jacqueline Bisset, Nick Boljk, and Louis Gosset. Based on a novel by Peter Benchley, it follows a young couple exploring the underwater Bermuda Triangle, where they discover a wreck, mysterious ampoules, and a Spanish medallion. Bandits attempt to steal these items, but the film's terror is emphasized. It's a superproduction costing 4 billion Francs, with music by John Barry and Donna Summer.
• ENFER MECANIQUE (The Car): An American film by Elliot Silverstein starring J. Brolin, K. Lloyd, and J. Marly. It is forbidden for those under 13. The plot involves a mysterious black car with opaque windows and no license plate terrorizing an American town. The car is described as roaring like a beast, and its final cry is questioned.
• LA GUERRE DES HOUDI.85 (Star Wars): An American film by John George Lucas, starring Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, and Peter Cushing. The music is by the London Symphony Orchestra. It is hailed as the most fantastic science fiction film ever made, set in a distant galaxy with terror, mutants, robots, and spectacular sets. It is from 20th Century Fox.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'Courrier' appears to cover a wide range of topics, with a strong emphasis on the unusual, mysterious, and speculative. Recurring themes include ufology, extraterrestrial encounters, parapsychology, and alternative science. The 'Revue de Presse' section indicates a broad interest in niche publications covering science fiction, ecology, and esoteric subjects. The editorial stance seems open to exploring unconventional ideas, as evidenced by the inclusion of reviews for magazines like 'Kadath' and 'L'Inconnu', and the critical yet engaged tone in reader feedback. The magazine also encourages reader participation, as noted in the 'N'OUBLIEZ PAS' section.

This issue of 'astronomie serie', identified as 'voaabulaire général nº3', delves into the concept of cosmology and announces an upcoming parapsychology congress. The content is primarily in French, with a focus on scientific and philosophical concepts.

Cosmology: A Historical and Philosophical Exploration

The main article provides a definition of cosmology as the grand synthesis explaining all inorganic and living world phenomena by tracing them to their true cause. It notes that ancient Greek philosophers, rather than observing the world, attempted to invent it. Among these, Aristotle's cosmology is highlighted as the most famous. His key tenets include the world being eternal, finite, full, and governed by its own laws. Celestial bodies are described as incorruptible and divine, while terrestrial bodies are formed from the combination of four elements: fire, air, water, and earth.

The text also discusses the atomic cosmology of Democritus, famously expounded by the Latin poet. According to this system, the entire universe is composed of atoms of various shapes that fall through space, with their accidental combinations creating bodies. In modern times, Descartes proposed a cosmological system where the world is full and finite. He suggested that movement occurs through "whirlwinds" (tourbillons) formed by these atoms, which in turn dictate the movement of other bodies. This system achieved significant success, even after the discovery of universal gravitation by Newton.

The issue also includes a brief definition of 'cosmogony' as the knowledge of the world's places and climates.

Premier Congrès National de Parapsychologie Appliquée

The issue announces the first National Congress of Applied Parapsychology, held in Lyon on December 17th and 18th. This event was organized in response to a need for information and aimed to bring together researchers and enthusiasts. Speakers included Jean Pierre Girard (PSI subject), Raymond Réant (clairvoyant), CHRIS (hypnologist), and Régine Sers (sensitive), who would share their work and experiences. The congress, organized by the hypnologist CHRIS, was intended to be free of any specific school affiliation and focused on presenting results and direct experiences, contrasting with events that might only feature theories and commentary. The ambition was to allow attendees to meet and question those actively involved in current parapsychology.

The program included sessions on clairvoyance, telepathy, and hypnosis, featuring experiences, debates, and demonstrations on Saturday, December 17th, and continuing with PK effects and hypnosis on Sunday, December 18th.

For further information, interested parties were directed to the group's headquarters or to write to the Secretariat General at 59, faubourg Boutonnet, 34000 Montpellier. A telephone number (67) 92.06.06 was also provided.

Upcoming Features

The 'Prochainement dans Siecle Inconnu N° 10' section previews upcoming articles:

• "Le triangle maudit" (The Cursed Triangle) - an exclusive dossier by Dominique Delille.
• "LA LISTE NOIRE" (The Blacklist) - an exclusive and unedited ufology feature.
• "DES VAISSEAUX SPATIAUX DE L'ANTIQUITE AU XXème Siècle" (Spacecraft from Antiquity to the 20th Century) - a dossier by Michel Le Mouzl.
• "L'ATOME QUESTIONS" (The Atom Questions) - a nuclear dossier, a study of the review.
• "COSMOGONIE" (Cosmogony) - the second part of an astronomy article by Carole Dupuis.

Additional upcoming content includes "A propos des météorites" (About Meteorites), "Revue de PRESSE" (Press Review), "L'actualité cinématographique" (Cinematic News), and "Les livres, les festivals, les informations" (Books, Festivals, Information).

A supplement, "OVNINFO bulletin du GEPO", is also mentioned.

The issue is noted as having 30 pages and a price of "2F TOUJOURS".

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue touches upon broad scientific and philosophical themes, particularly cosmology, and also engages with the burgeoning field of parapsychology. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and information dissemination, presenting historical perspectives on cosmology and providing a platform for contemporary parapsychological research and discussion. The inclusion of ufology and atomic questions suggests an interest in a wide range of scientific and speculative topics.