Groupe 5255 - No 02 - 1980 Decembre

Magazine Overview

This document is the second issue of the publication from GROUPE 5255, a study and research group for UFOs (OVNI), identified as "Semestriel N°2" and dated December 1980. The group is based in the Haute-Marne and Meuse regions of France. The cover prominently features the group's name and the regions of focus, along with illustrations related to aviation, radar, and a celestial body, hinting at the content within.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Christine ZWYGART, addresses the challenges of volunteer work, particularly in ufology, where immediate personal satisfaction is rare and difficulties are common. It emphasizes that a group's existence depends on the time and energy of its members and expresses gratitude for any contribution, no matter how small. The editorial then presents "Ten Good Ways to Kill an Association," a list of behaviors that undermine group efforts, such as never attending meetings, arriving late, constant criticism, avoiding responsibility, and failing to contribute actively. The piece concludes with a call for collaboration and responsibility to ensure the group's continued work.

Articles and Content

Les humanoides en HAUTE-MARNE et en MEUSE (Humanoids in Haute-Marne and Meuse)

This section, authored by René THOME, delves into reported sightings of humanoid beings in the two departments. The group has documented seven cases, with five in Haute-Marne and two in Meuse. The article details these encounters:

• HERTRUD Observation (October 10, 1954): A road worker reported seeing a small, hairy being in an orange garment enter a cigar-shaped craft with portholes that landed nearby. Traces were found, but the case was dismissed by authorities as a fabrication.
• CHAMOUILLEY Case (October 10, 1976): A young woman encountered a tall humanoid (over two meters) with blond hair, wearing a phosphorescent suit and welder-like glasses, blocking her path on the road. The being advanced towards her before she fled.
• NEUILLY-L'EVEQUE Case (October 15, 1954): A mason saw a 1.50m tall homunculus near a crashed, saucer-shaped object.
• MONTLANDON Case (October 19, 1954): A 14-year-old girl reported seeing a flying saucer-like object land, piloted by a man in a white soutane. Investigations found no physical traces.
• FORET de DARSOIS Case (Summer 1956): A woman encountered two small figures, about 1.20m tall, wearing white, seamless suits and black helmets with visors.
• Bois du Ham, LAC du DER Case (February 2, 1975): Three witnesses observed a luminous white sphere, followed by a tall, luminous silhouette (2.50m to 3m) resembling a firing unit. Infrared photos were taken but were unusable.
• Bois du Ham, LAC du DER Case (February 3, 1975): The same location saw a luminous cylinder, over 3m high, rotating and disappearing. Infrared photos were again inconclusive.
• DUGNY-SUR-MEUSE Case (Autumn 1951): Factory workers reported a red-orange globe landing, from which a beautiful, Nordic-type "lady" emerged, holding a child. The experience was accompanied by a strong sense of cold.
• DUGNY-SUR-MEUSE Case (June 1975): Children playing near a stream reported seeing a cloud-like entity under a bridge. A young girl, Edwige K..., had a more detailed encounter, describing a tall, blond-haired lady floating above the water, who spoke to her.

The article notes that most humanoid observations involve one to two individuals and are anthropomorphic, with a head and four limbs identified in most cases. It also mentions that three of the seven cases involved a nearby UFO, while the others did not.

Other Content

• Cover: The cover highlights a "CAS RADAR OPTIQUE" (Radar-Optical Case) in WASSY, Haute-Marne, from February 1974, and mentions the BA 113 air base.
• New Year's Greeting: Page 2 features a New Year's greeting for 1981 from GROUPE 5255 and the regional delegation of "LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT."
• Ufological Meeting Announcement: Information about the upcoming Nord-Est Committee of Ufological Groups (CNEGU) meeting in CLEFCY on January 31st and February 1st, 1981.
• International Sky Surveillance: A note to follow the directives of "LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT" and S.V. E. P. S.
• Table of Contents (Sommaire du Numero 2): Lists articles including an editorial, humanoids in Haute-Marne and Meuse, group activities, specific sighting reports (Harsois Forest 1956, Ancerville-Gue 1978, Wassy radar-optical 1974), UFO humor, investigator training, radar detection of UFOs in 1980, a catalog of known observations in Haute-Marne and Meuse for 1979, a study of UFO types observed since 1954, and miscellaneous notes.
• Article Reproduction Policy: Articles can be reproduced with clear attribution to the review and GROUPE 5255.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are humanoid encounters and UFO sightings, with a strong focus on the Haute-Marne and Meuse regions. The editorial stance, as expressed by Christine ZWYGART, emphasizes the importance of active participation, collaboration, and responsibility within a ufological research group. The publication appears to be a serious effort to document and investigate unexplained phenomena, encouraging members to contribute to the collective knowledge base. The group also engages with other ufological organizations and promotes their events.

This issue of OVNI-PRESENCE, identified as issue number 12 of volume 1, published by GROUPE 5255, focuses on two distinct aerial phenomena and humanoid encounters. The cover date is 'Juin, Juillet ou Août 1956', and the primary language is French. The issue includes detailed witness testimonies, investigative reports, and illustrative reconstructions.

Article 1: Observation Diurne de Deux Humanoides dans la Forêt de Marsois (Haute-Marne) en 1956

This section details an encounter that occurred in the Marsois Forest, near Nogent-en-Bassigny, Haute-Marne, in June, July, or August 1956, around 7 AM. The witness, Mme L., a 52-year-old woman, was on a morning walk when she encountered two small humanoid beings. The beings were approximately 1.20 meters tall, with stocky bodies, short, arched legs, and wore white, one-piece suits without visible seams or buttons. They also wore black mittens and black boots. Their heads were covered by round, black helmets with visors that appeared transparent and reflected sunlight, obscuring their facial features. The witness described their eyes as strange, yellow, and brilliant, without pupils or eyelashes, and noted that they seemed to exert a hypnotic power.

The encounter took place near a dolmen known as 'La Pierre Alot'. The humanoids walked calmly towards Mme L. and stopped about 10 to 15 meters away, observing her silently. They moved their heads up and down. Mme L. asked who they were but received no response. She felt a sense of unease and anxiety but remained in control of her faculties. The beings then turned and walked into the thicket, their footsteps and the sound of breaking branches being audible. After they disappeared, Mme L. found that the electric lamp she had left on a bench near the encounter site was missing the next day.

An investigation revealed that a nearby tenant and her husband had previously noticed powerful white searchlights illuminating the area for several nights. Additionally, a house adjacent to the site caught fire without a rational explanation, and this house was currently unoccupied.

The article includes a hypothesis that the beings might have been pranksters, but dismisses this due to their unusual demeanor and the circumstances. It also notes that 'La Pierre Alot' is situated on a telluric line extending towards Vitry-les-Nogent. The observation is categorized as a humanoid sighting without a visible object. The article concludes by stating that Mme L. is a credible and balanced individual, despite suffering from a serious illness that prevented her from revisiting the site.

Illustrations accompanying this section include a plan of the region, a plan of the observation site, a robot portrait of the humanoids, a depiction of the two humanoids, and a reconstruction of the observation.

Article 2: Observation d'un phénomène aérien non identifié depuis Ancerville-Gue (Meuse), par deux témoins

This report details an event that occurred on Thursday, October 12, 1978, around 6:40 PM, near Ancerville-Gue in the Meuse department. The witnesses, Mr. and Mrs. T., were walking with their dogs when they observed a punctual, orange-red object moving rectilinearly from North to South-East, towards the village of Chamouilley in Haute-Marne. The object was described as having the apparent size of 'N°3' on the L.D.L.N. COMPARATOR. Using 12x50 Asahi Pentax binoculars, they observed the object, which appeared as an orange 'ball' without navigation lights or visible structure. It emitted no sound.

After about two minutes, the 'ball' suddenly disappeared. This disappearance occurred vertically above an electric pylon. Immediately after, two distinct, whitish condensation trails formed, much larger than those produced by Caravelle or Boeing aircraft. These trails diverged significantly. About 20 seconds later, a cigar-shaped object appeared between the trails. Through binoculars, this object appeared to be about 3 centimeters long, was aluminum-colored, very luminous, and appeared solid. The luminosity came from the object itself, not from the setting sun. The witnesses reported that the cigar-shaped object then seemed to 'explode' into many pieces, emitting a very bright white light and flashes. The witnesses were particularly struck by the complete absence of sound throughout the observation, including during the 'explosion'.

The entire observation lasted approximately three minutes, and the dogs showed no abnormal reactions. The witnesses have good eyesight and are not confused by military aircraft, as they are accustomed to frequent passages of military planes from the nearby BA 113 base at Saint-Dizier.

Details provided include the witnesses' ages (29 and 22), Mr. T.'s profession as a tool fitter, and their address. The object's colors were specified using Pantone references: orange for the ball (N° 164U) and aluminum for the cigar (N° 4200). The binoculars used were Asahi Pentax 12x50, with a 5.5° field of view and anti-reflection treatment.

Additional notes clarify that the cigar-shaped object had no wings, navigation lights, or visible nozzles. It was static and immobile. The condensation trails seemed to follow the path of the orange ball. The apparent length of the cigar was estimated at 3 centimeters. The double condensation trail was significant, extending from the HT electric pylon. The report also mentions that military JAGUAR aircraft from the 7th Fighter Wing were conducting maneuvers in the region about ten minutes before the observation.

NOS ACTIVITES (Our Activities)

This section outlines two ongoing projects by GROUPE 5255:

1. An exhibition on UFO phenomena at the MAISON DU LAC, in GIF AUMONT-CHAUFAUBERT, from June 9th to 30th, with weekend animations.
2. An observation camp near NOGENT-EN-BASSIGNY (Haute-Marne), tentatively scheduled between July 14th and August 15th.

The group invites interested individuals to contact them to offer their help, participation, ideas, and suggestions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are humanoid sightings and unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP). The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of these events, presenting witness testimonies and observational data with a degree of scientific rigor, including detailed descriptions, hypotheses, and supplementary information. The publication aims to gather and disseminate information on these unusual occurrences, encouraging public participation and interest.

This issue of 'Observation' from October 1978 details a significant UFO sighting that occurred on October 12, 1978, near Ancerville-Gue (Meuse), France. The report includes detailed sketches of the event's phases, witness accounts, and meteorological and aerial activity data for the region. It also revisits a related radar case from February 1974 involving a French Air Force MIRAGE III fighter jet and an unidentified object detected by the Saint-Dizier Air Base.

Observation of October 12, 1978

The primary focus is an event witnessed on the evening of October 12, 1978, around 18:40. The observation is divided into four phases, illustrated with diagrams. Phase 1 depicts a """"boule"""" orangée (orange ball) moving rectilinearly from Northeast to East-Southeast. Phase 2 shows the emission of two grey condensation trails following the passage of the initial object. Phase 3 describes the appearance of a cigar-shaped, oblong, and very luminous object resembling aluminum. Phase 4 details the 'explosion' of this object, characterized by silent flashes akin to magnesium. The notes indicate that phases 3 and 4 were observed using 12x50 binoculars by Mr. R. T., and both witnesses reported the explosion as intensely luminous to the naked eye and through the binoculars.

The report includes meteorological data from the Saint-Dizier Air Base for October 12, 1978, noting a ground temperature of +15.7°C, a station pressure of 1007.3 mb, 76% humidity, and a wind from the Northeast at 8 knots. The cloud ceiling was 2/8 Cirrus at 7000 meters, with good visibility. Aerial activity information from the Saint-Dizier aerodrome control indicates that military aircraft, specifically JAGUARs, were active until 23:00, but the Aero-Club Robinson reported no flights during the evening. Gendarmerie and ALAT (Army Light Aviation) helicopters were not active in the region.

Radar Case of February 1974

The issue also delves into a radar detection incident from February 1974, involving a MIRAGE III fighter jet and an unidentified object (OVNI) detected by the radar of the Saint-Dizier Air Base (BA 113). The investigation was conducted by Mr. FAUDRIIN René and Mr. THOME Roger, L.D.L.N. investigators.

Preamble

This section discusses the general nature of UFO encounters, noting that they often occur during routine military flights and typically appear as balls, spheres, ovoids, discs, cigars, or cylinders. The maneuvers suggest intelligent control. The presence of these objects is linked to surveillance, and in some cases, their appearance coincides with military exercises, raising questions about whether it's mere coincidence.

Case 1: Wassy Region

In February 1974, a French military aircraft from the Tactical Air Force (FATAC) encountered an OVNI near Wassy, Haute-Marne. The incident involved radar detection by the local aerodrome control (CLA) of BA 113.

The Facts

A MIRAGE III fighter jet, returning to its base in Strasbourg, was flying over the Wassy area when the pilot spotted a luminous, unusual sphere below his aircraft. He alerted air traffic controllers at Saint-Dizier. The object was described as static at low altitude and not resembling a conventional aircraft, lacking navigation lights.

Air Base 113 Control Tower

Two controllers, Sergeant-chef B. and Captain F., were on duty. Following the MIRAGE III pilot's report, they detected a fixed radar echo at the object's reported position, 16 km from the base. The echo was unusual, as there were no natural or artificial obstacles in that area. Initially, they considered it a low-altitude helicopter or a lost balloon, but these hypotheses were quickly dismissed due to the object's characteristics and the operational context (night flight, restricted airspace).

Hypotheses

Various hypotheses were considered and rejected. A helicopter on a winch operation would require coordinated maneuvers not feasible at night over a town. A small touring plane was unlikely due to IFR limitations for night flight. Military aircraft and civilian planes are expected to respond to identification requests. Radar interference was also deemed improbable given the controllers' experience.

Radar and Controllers Detect an OVNI

The radar echo remained fixed for about 30 minutes. The controllers then observed the echo begin to move northward in a rectilinear, ascending trajectory, initially slow like a helicopter, then accelerating to the speed of a MIRAGE or JAGUAR. It passed north of Saint-Dizier and then accelerated to a supersonic speed, far exceeding that of modern aircraft. The object's extreme acceleration suggested it was not a conventional aircraft, as it would have exploded in flight. The radar contact was lost at the edge of the BA 113's detection zone, between Sainte-Enghould and Clermont-en-Argonne.

Discussion and Miscellaneous Information

• The MIRAGE III pilot was the first to spot the OVNI, and he reported it to the Saint-Dizier air traffic controllers, who then became interested in the radar echo.
• The pilot witness could not be located, and no official report was filed with military authorities upon his return to Strasbourg.
• The radar phases were clearly observed by the controllers, confirming the phenomenon as an OVNI.
• The witnesses, including the controllers, were described as responsible, balanced, serious, and highly qualified individuals with extensive experience.
• The controllers were convinced they had tracked an unidentified object with extraordinary supersonic speed.
• A limitation of the case is the lack of notes taken by ground witnesses at the time of the event.
• The radar scope diagram for BA 113 is presented, showing the object's trajectory and phases. The diagram is noted as being 'cut' for military security reasons.
• The primary witnesses were Captain F. and Sergeant-chef B., who initially did not discuss the event with other controllers.
• The MIRAGE III pilot did not file a report, suggesting he may have kept the observation to himself.
• Sergeant-chef B. stated that while a helicopter might hypothetically explain some aspects, the object's speed and behavior definitively ruled out rational explanations.
• Important note: The names of military witnesses and investigators are withheld for security reasons.
• It is emphasized that no notes were taken during the incident, and the event was only retained by the air traffic controllers. However, information is believed to exist in a specific logbook.
• It is considered a drawback that air traffic controllers are not tasked with investigating UFO phenomena.

Radar Graphic

A radar graphic from February 1974 illustrates the phases of the OVNI detection. The legend explains: Phase 1: Fixed radar echo for 30 minutes over Wassy. Phase 2: Slow displacement of the OVNI. Phase 3: OVNI reaches the speed of a MIRAGE aircraft. Phase 4: OVNI's brutal acceleration to supersonic speed (exceeding Mach 9). Phase 5: Disappearance of the OVNI and loss of radar echo. The graphic also shows the route of the MIRAGE III towards Strasbourg and identifies key locations like Wassy, Saint-Dizier, and Sainte-Menehould.

Geological Map Extract

An extract from a geological map is included, showing geological fault lines and the trajectory of the OVNI. It also indicates the route taken by the MIRAGE III and the point where the radar echo was lost. The study is attributed to Group 5255, L.D.L.N., Haute-Marne/Meuse, and Mr. Thomé Roger.

UFO Humour

The issue also includes a humorous comic strip titled 'UFO Humour,' depicting aliens observing human evolution and commenting on their observations.

Formation of Investigators

A section titled 'Formation des Enquêteurs' (Formation of Investigators) outlines the activities of the NORD-EST GROUPETENTS UFOLOGIQUES. The GROUPE 5255 has begun research in areas such as aircraft signaling, atmospheric phenomena, night photos, useful addresses, and geology. Members are encouraged to share any relevant knowledge or information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the credibility of military witnesses and radar data in UFO investigations. The detailed analysis of the 1974 radar case and the 1978 visual sighting highlights the unusual characteristics of the observed phenomena, particularly their speed and maneuverability. The publication appears to support the view that these are genuine, unexplained aerial phenomena, often detected by military personnel and systems. There's a clear focus on rigorous investigation, even when faced with limitations like missing documentation or the need for witness anonymity due to security concerns. The inclusion of meteorological data and aerial activity logs suggests an effort to rule out conventional explanations. The 'Formation des Enquêteurs' section indicates a commitment to advancing UFO research through organized efforts and information sharing within the ufological community.

This document is an article titled "LA DETECTION RADAR DES O.V.N.I. EN 1980" (Radar Detection of UFOs in 1980), authored by Roger THOME and published by GROUPE 5255. It was published in 1980 and focuses on the challenges and findings related to the detection of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) using radar technology, particularly within the French military and civilian aviation context.

The Challenge of UFO Detection

The article begins by outlining the difficulties in tracking UFOs, especially when eyewitness accounts are involved. It highlights the problem of finding pilots who have witnessed UFOs, noting that official reports are scarce and often not filed. The author suggests that a specific instruction should exist within the French Air Force to mandate reporting of UFO observations by all personnel, from pilots to radar operators. The creation of G.E.P.A.N. at the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales in Toulouse is mentioned as a step towards addressing this, but witness willingness to report remains a key factor, with pilots being particularly reluctant.

The article criticizes the idea of a censorship policy, contrasting it with practices attributed to the U.S. Air Force. It emphasizes that radar optical cases demonstrate the presence of unidentified craft and their advanced maneuvering capabilities. The author poses questions about the origin, purpose, and identity of these objects, suggesting they are more likely artificial technology than natural phenomena.

Debunking Soviet Secret Weapon Theories

A significant portion of the article addresses the persistent belief in France that UFOs are secret Soviet aircraft. The author strongly refutes this, arguing that the Soviets are unlikely to possess the technology to create sophisticated jamming systems capable of fooling modern radar, especially for clandestine reconnaissance missions at low altitudes. Such missions would carry a high risk of detection, capture, or malfunction over enemy territory. The article points out that artificial satellites are now used for espionage at high altitudes, avoiding these risks. Furthermore, it argues that any truly secret military aircraft would not remain secret for long.

Technical Terminology and Radar Capabilities

The article provides a glossary of useful aeronautical terms, including 'Mach' (the ratio of an object's speed to the speed of sound), 'nautical mile,' and 'knot.' It also explains the function of radar, describing it as a system that determines the position and distance of an obstacle by reflecting radio waves. The process involves emitting short pulses of radio waves and measuring the time it takes for the reflected waves to return, which allows for distance calculation. The orientation of the antenna determines the direction. Modern radars are complex, computer-aided systems.

Speed Tables and Military Aircraft

Tables are presented showing the speeds of the fastest aircraft in the world in 1980, categorized by country and branch of service. For France, speeds are listed for the Air Force's Mirage III, Mirage IV, Mirage F-1, Mirage 2000, Jaguar E, and Jaguar A, as well as the civilian Concorde. For the U.S. Air Force, the SR-71, F-15 Eagle, and F-16 are mentioned. Sweden's SAAB VIGGEN and the Soviet Union's MiG-25 are also listed.

Radar Detection Limitations and Military Secrecy

The article delves into the reasons for the low percentage of UFO detections by radar. It explains that radar operators are highly trained and unlikely to confuse UFOs with conventional aircraft or propagation anomalies. The conclusion is that detected objects are likely genuine unidentified flying objects. However, official military reports are difficult to obtain due to the "forbidden domain of certain 'military secrets' concerning state security." The author notes the surprising indifference of the Saint-Dizier air base to a UFO observed for thirty minutes over a nearby town, despite its proximity. This lack of reaction is questioned, especially given the readiness of fighter squadrons.

The article posits that the military's strict security protocols and the sheer volume of air traffic (up to 9,000 echoes to track per controller) make it extremely difficult for radar operators to identify and report UFOs. Many operators are reluctant to report sightings due to fear of professional repercussions or being labeled as unreliable. Furthermore, the article suggests that UFOs might employ sophisticated electronic countermeasures (ECM) to deceive or block radar systems, similar to those used by some military aircraft.

Specific UFO Sightings in France (1979)

The bulk of the article consists of a detailed catalog of UFO sightings reported in the Haute-Marne and Meuse regions of France during 1979. Each case includes a case number, date, location, witness details, and a description of the observed phenomenon:

• Case 1 (Jan 13, 1979, Froncles): A spherical, bright orange object moving in a straight line, followed by a larger sphere.
• Case 2 (Feb 24, 1979, Forêt du Val): An incandescent light ball resembling a six-branched star, moving and then disappearing suddenly.
• Case 3 (Mar 8, 1979, Chaumont): A series of powerful, dazzling white flashes observed in a cloudy sky.
• Case 4 (Jun 16, 1979, Le Fays): A punctual object the size of Jupiter, moving rapidly, followed by others, with one performing a sharp turn.
• Case 5 (Aug 3, 1979, Saint-Dizier): A spherical, golden-yellow object moving slowly, then hovering before resuming its trajectory.
• Case 6 (Aug 3, 1979, Forêt du Val): A white incandescent ball observed for 3 minutes before disappearing into clouds.
• Case 7 (Aug 23, 1979, Chaumont): A round, stationary object, blinking and changing color, disappearing suddenly.
• Case 8 (Nov 7, 1979, Marnaval): A large star that turned on and off, followed by a triangular formation of three bright stars.
• Case 9 (Dec 3, 1979, Saint-Dizier): A luminous electric blue sphere moving rapidly at low altitude.
• Case 10 (Dec 5, 1979, Nogent-en-Bassigny): A perfect yellow-lemon sphere with red and green lights, moving rapidly.

Additional cases from the Meuse region in 1979 are also detailed:

• Case 1 (May 14, 1979, Ancer ville): An oval object, possibly reacting to camera flashes, observed at 150m.
• Case 2 (June 1979, Ligny-en-Barrois): A red-orange sphere with a greenish ring, moving rapidly.
• Case 3 (Oct 7, 1979, Velaines): An object resembling a luminous object photographed previously, changing trajectory and merging with another object.
• Case 4 (Nov 1979, Haironville): A luminous reddish dome-shaped object on the ground, which then rose and turned incandescent white.
• Case 5 (Nov 26, 1979, Combles-en-Barrois): A large white disc emitting a beam of light, changing color and performing elliptical trajectories before disappearing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this article are the challenges of UFO detection, particularly by radar, the role of military secrecy in obscuring information, and the technical limitations of current surveillance systems. The author strongly advocates for greater transparency and official acknowledgment of UFO phenomena, while also debunking theories that attribute UFOs solely to Soviet technology. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, aiming to inform the public and ufologists about the complexities of UFO detection and the evidence gathered from various sightings, emphasizing the artificial nature of many observed phenomena.

This issue of "LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT," identified as volume 52, issue 55, dated December 1981, presents a detailed statistical study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) observed in the French departments of Haute-Marne and Meuse. The study, authored by Roger Thomé, spans from 1954 to December 31, 1980, and focuses on cases that underwent rigorous investigation, distinguishing them from media reports that often tended to ridicule the phenomenon.

Regional UFO Activity: Haute-Marne and Meuse

The study analyzed a total of 150 selected cases. Haute-Marne accounted for 101 cases, while Meuse had 49. The author attributes this disparity primarily to a lack of investigators and correspondents in the Meuse department. The research emphasizes that cases from 1954-1955 included in this selection are not widely known to the regional or national press and are the result of in-depth investigations. The study deliberately excluded press-reported cases from 1954-1955, deeming them unreliable due to their tendency to mock the phenomenon and witnesses rather than objectively analyze sightings.

An example is given of a luminous spherical bolide (meteor) that was misinterpreted by witnesses and quickly labeled a "saucer" or "cigar" by journalists, despite no resemblance to the observed object. This highlights the unreliability of sensationalized media reports.

New UFO Shapes Observed

Since a few months prior to the publication, a new form of unidentified flying object has reportedly been observed by credible witnesses in both Haute-Marne and Meuse. These objects are described as rectangles with sharp edges, appearing as bright white luminous in two instances and dull grey in another. They were seen at very low altitudes, with one even hovering just above the ground. All were silent. Three specific sightings are dated: February 14, 1980 (around 9:45 PM), September 21, 1980 (around 6:40 AM), and November 27, 1980 (between 8:00 PM and 8:45 PM).

Statistical Analysis of UFO Shapes

Pages 2 and 3 present detailed tables and charts illustrating the various shapes of UFOs observed in Meuse (49 cases) and Haute-Marne (101 cases).

• In Meuse, the most frequently reported shapes were:
• Sphere or Ball: 19 cases (9.5%)
• Ovoid (egg-shaped): 4 cases (2%)
• Cigar: 4 cases (2%)
• Disc (flat): 4 cases (2%)
• Various other shapes like luminous points, discs with domes, and Saturn-shaped objects were reported in smaller numbers.

• In Haute-Marne, the distribution of shapes was:
• Sphere or Ball: 43 cases (43%)
• Ovoid (egg-shaped): 10 cases (10%)
• Cigar: 6 cases (6%)
• Disc (flat): 2 cases (2%)
• Disc (domed): 2 cases (2%)
• Disc with dome: 3 cases (3%)
• Other shapes included luminous points, light tubes, cylinders, and various diverse forms.

• Remarks on Shape Data:
• In 4 selected cases from Meuse, photos of the phenomenon were taken by witnesses. In one other case, an 8mm film sequence was captured.
• In 2 of the 49 Meuse cases, spheres or balls were observed flying in formation, performing an aerial ballet.
• Two cases in Meuse involved the presence of humanoids, one with an object (sphere) and another without.
• In Haute-Marne, 10 cases had photos taken. One case involved an 8mm film.
• In 9 Haute-Marne cases, spheres or balls flew in formation.
• Three cases in Haute-Marne reported humanoids, some isolated and one within a large white "light tube."
• "Various shapes" in Haute-Marne included objects resembling a caterpillar, a box with four red lights, and a hooded object with a protuberance.

Analysis of UFO Colors

Page 5 and 6 delve into the colors reported by witnesses in both departments. The study notes that orange, red, red-orange, and white are the most characteristic colors of the phenomenon.

• For Haute-Marne (52 cases analyzed for color):
• Orange: 22 cases
• Red-orange: 11 cases
• White: 14 cases
• Vivid red: 10 cases

• For Meuse (55 cases analyzed for color):
• Red-orange: 11 cases
• Orange: 8 cases
• White: 9 cases

A Pantone color chart was used during investigations. The study highlights that in Haute-Marne, 14 cases involved objects with two colors, and 8 others had more than two colors. In Meuse, 8 cases reported two colors, and 4 had more than two.

Cumulatively, across both departments and 150 cases, orange and red-orange colors were dominant in 52 instances, suggesting a consistent feature of the phenomenon. White luminous objects accounted for 23 cases.

Synthesis and Conclusion

• The "Synthèse" section on page 4 summarizes the findings. Across the 150 selected cases, spherical, ovoid, and cigar-shaped objects, as well as luminous phenomena, predominated in both day and night observations. The study provides a final count:
• Haute-Marne: 52 cases (43 spheres/balls, 10 ovoids, 6 cigars)
• Meuse: 55 cases (19 spheres/balls, 4 ovoids, 4 cigars)
• Total: 62 spheres/balls, 14 ovoids, and 10 cigars.

The "Déduction" section on page 5 presents the author's conclusion. Based on extensive field investigations and the analysis of UFO shapes and colors, Roger Thomé concludes that neither the reported colors nor the diverse shapes of the objects can be attributed to conventional aircraft, missiles, balloons, meteorological or atmospheric phenomena, or astronomical bodies like the Moon, stars, or planets. The mystery, therefore, remains unsolved.

Notes and Appeals

The final pages contain "NOTES... ANNONCES DIVERSES..." and an "APPEL A TEMOINS" (Call for Witnesses).

• Readers are encouraged to report any UFO observations they may have witnessed. The importance of unity in investigative efforts is stressed.
• Cooperation between investigators from LDLN (Lumières Dans La Nuit) and GROUPE 5255 is encouraged, especially for ground or proximity observations.
• Readers are urged to encourage others to join and support the organization to stay informed about UFO activity in the two departments.
• A request is made for subscribers to update their addresses.

• Call for Witnesses:
• GROUPE 5255 (regional delegation of "LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT") is actively seeking witnesses of UFO phenomena or other unusual manifestations in Haute-Marne and Meuse, including past events.
• They are particularly interested in contacting witnesses of luminous ball phenomena reported in the Saint-Dizier region on the evening of Monday, October 27, 1980. Discretion and anonymity are assured.

International UFO Reviews:
Four serious international UFO publications are listed:
1. "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (LDLN) - Mr. Raymond VEILLITH, Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, France.
2. "INFORESPACE" - Mr. Lucien CLEREBAUT, Brussels, Belgium.
3. "FLYING SAUCER REVIEW" (FSR) - Mr. Charles BOWEN, Herfordshire, England.
4. "INTERNATIONAL UFO REPORTER" - Dr. J. Allen HYNEK, Northfield, Illinois, USA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the systematic collection and statistical analysis of UFO sightings, focusing on empirical data such as object shapes and colors. The editorial stance, as articulated by Roger Thomé, is one of serious investigation and a commitment to understanding the phenomenon beyond sensationalism. There is a clear emphasis on the unexplained nature of UFOs, suggesting they do not conform to conventional explanations. The publication also actively engages its readership by soliciting reports and encouraging participation in their research efforts, positioning itself as a hub for UFO information in the specified French regions.