Groupe 5255 - No 03 - 1982

Magazine Overview

This document is issue number 3 of 'GROUPE 5255', a semestrial publication from the 'GROUPE D'ETUDE ET DE RECHERCHE SUR LES O.V.N.I.' (Group for the Study and Research of UFOs), specifically its regional delegation for Haute-Marne/Meuse. The cover prominently features a stylized title and an illustration of a night scene over a lake with luminous spheres, dated January 25, 1975.

Editorial: Quand le témoin est un ufologue (When the Witness is an Ufologist)

The editorial addresses the publication of observations made by one of the group's principal witnesses, who is also an ufologist. It highlights the paradox and 'taboo' surrounding ufologists who become witnesses themselves, often facing skepticism and accusations of dishonesty or mythomania from those who adhere to a strict separation between studying and experiencing phenomena. The editorial introduces Roger, a 32-year-old who has dedicated 15 years to ufological research and has had multiple personal sightings, always accompanied by other witnesses. The group decided to present his case, facilitated by the C.N.E.G.U. (Comité Nord-Est des Groupements ufologiques), to normalize the idea that ufologists can be credible witnesses and that their observations are as valuable to research as those of non-ufologists. The piece emphasizes the need for critical yet open-minded analysis, warning against both blind credulity and hasty, unscientific judgment.

Key Incidents and Observations

Ballet nocturne de boules lumineuses au Lac du Der-Chantecoq (Haute-Marne)

This article details a significant observation that occurred on Saturday, January 25, 1975, between 19h30' and 20h00' HL, near the Lac du Der-Chantecoq in Haute-Marne. Five witnesses, including Jany SAUVANET (laborant), Annie SAUVANET (his wife), their daughter Myriam, René THOLLE (adjuster-toolmaker), and Roger THOME (cook-plater, bilingual), were present. The phenomenon was observed from the second bridge crossing a part of the lake, offering a panoramic view. The objects appeared at 320º Nord-Ouest, at an angular height of 10 to 15 degrees.

The Lac du Der is described as a large artificial reservoir in Europe, with specific details on its capacity, surface area, perimeter, and dam lengths. The weather conditions were noted as clear, with a fresh breeze from the North-North-West, a temperature of +10.3ºC, and good horizontal visibility despite some stratocumulus and cumulonimbus clouds in the distance.

The observed phenomenon consisted of four luminous red spheres, described as perfectly circular and surrounded by a luminous blue halo. The colors were matched to PANTONE references. The spheres exhibited pulsating intensity and emitted flashes of electric blue light. The witnesses used 12x50 Asahi PENTAX binoculars and a Canon FTb camera with a 50mm lens for observation and photography.

Initially, the spheres appeared stationary. Two witnesses approached the area for closer observation and photography. The formation then transformed, with the three spheres aligning horizontally and later forming a triangle again, all while pulsing and emitting flashes. The witnesses noted the objects' ability to move independently and regroup.

Observation rapprochée à VITRY-LES-NOGENT (Haute-Marne)

This section is listed in the table of contents but not detailed in the provided pages. It likely refers to another observation case.

Catalogue des observations 80 en Haute-Marne et en Meuse

This section, also listed in the table of contents, suggests a compilation of UFO observations from the region, likely from the year 1980.

Etudes statistiques sur les observations régionales

This section indicates that statistical analyses of regional UFO observations are presented.

Organizational Information

GROUPE 5255 Bureau and Membership

The issue provides details about the GROUPE 5255 leadership and membership. The bureau members are listed as: Roger THOME (President), Christine ZWYGART (Secretary), Patrick KOENIG (Assistant Secretary), Catherine KOENIG (Treasurer), and René THOME (Assistant Treasurer). The annual membership fee is 60 francs, with a minimum of 30 francs for benefactor members who receive the publication.

Correspondence and Affiliations

Contact addresses are provided for correspondence, distinguishing between the South of Haute-Marne (GROUPE 5255, 20 rue de la Maladière, 52000 CHAUMONT) and the North of Haute-Marne and Meuse (GROUPE 5255, La Pointerie nº 6, 55170 ANCERVILLE-GUE). The group is also affiliated with the 'Comité Nord-Est des Groupements ufologiques' (C.N.E.G.U.) and the regional group 'LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT'.

Other Sections and Features

C.N.E.G.U. and Regional Meetings

Page 2 mentions the C.N.E.G.U. and an upcoming II session organized by the Commission Luxembourgeoise d'Etudes Ufologiques (C.L.E.U.) in MARIENTHAL, Luxembourg, on March 27-28, 1982. It also outlines directives for sky surveillance and observation nights, advising participants to bring binoculars, cameras, compasses, maps, and detectors.

Humour, Theodolite, Filters, and Aerial Terminology

These are listed as section titles in the table of contents, suggesting a variety of content within the issue, including lighter topics and technical aspects of observation.

Glossary of Aerial Terminology

This section likely aims to clarify terms related to aerial phenomena and aircraft.

The Fastest Airplanes in the World

This title suggests a feature on high-speed aircraft, possibly for comparison or context with UFO sightings.

Symbology

This section indicates an exploration of symbols related to UFO phenomena.

Reproduction Rights

An important note states that reproduction of articles is authorized, provided the source (magazine and group) is clearly indicated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, particularly the detailed account of the Lac du Der incident. A strong emphasis is placed on the credibility and importance of observations made by ufologists themselves, challenging the conventional separation between the role of observer and researcher. The editorial stance is one of encouraging open-mindedness, critical analysis, and the sharing of experiences within the ufological community, while cautioning against sensationalism and unscientific biases. The publication also serves as a platform for organizational news, regional events, and potentially technical aspects of UFO research.

This issue of "L'Écho des Mystères" (Issue 113) focuses on a significant unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) sighting that occurred near Champaubert, France, on January 25, 1975. The magazine presents a detailed account of the event, including witness testimonies, photographic evidence, and an investigative report.

The Champaubert Phenomenon

The main article details an observation by multiple witnesses, including René Thomé, Jany, and Annie, of a phenomenon involving three luminous spheres. The spheres were described as ruby red with a bright electric blue halo or crown. Their estimated diameter was between 9 and 13 meters. The phenomenon exhibited complex behaviors, including pulsating, moving in zig-zags, stopping, ascending, and descending, often in silence. The event culminated in the spheres disappearing suddenly, described as being like a television image being turned off.

Photographic Evidence

René Thomé, an investigator, took two photographs of the phenomenon using a CANON FTb reflex camera with a 50mm lens, set to a 2-second exposure at f/1.8. These photos, labeled N°1 and N°2, were developed and are presented in the magazine. Photo N°2 reportedly shows the strong intensity and pulsations of the light before the object's disappearance. The camera was mounted on a tripod, and a remote trigger was used to avoid tremors.

Investigation and Official Checks

A thorough investigation was conducted to rule out conventional explanations. This included contacting:

• Base Aérienne 113 (Saint-Dizier): This strategic air base reported no flights of Jaguars, Mirages, or other military aircraft in the area during the evening and night of the sighting. The terrain was also closed off from Friday afternoon.
• Météo Station B.A. 113: No weather balloons were launched during the day or evening.
• Aéroclub de Saint-Dizier Robinson: No aeroclub flights were reported during the evening. Their aircraft were not equipped for night flying.
• Gendarmeries of Saint-Dizier and Eclaron: No helicopter activity from the Gendarmerie or ALAT (Aviation Légère de l'Armée de Terre) was reported in the northern part of the department.
• Helicopter Bases: Bases in Etain-Rouvres, Phalsbourg, and Essey-les-Nancy confirmed no military helicopter activity in the Saint-Dizier region.

An attempt to get information from a superior officer at the Base Aérienne 113's Local Aerodrome Control (CLA) was met with a refusal, citing military secrecy.

Witness Accounts and Details

Witnesses noted that the colors of the phenomenon were vivid red for the spheres and electric blue for the halo. They were accustomed to aircraft activity due to the proximity of the air base and were able to identify normal aircraft by sound and navigation lights.

The "Theodolite" Device

René Thomé describes the construction of a homemade device he calls a "Theodolite." This apparatus is designed for measuring angular heights of objects and taking photographs, intended for use in UAP investigations. It is portable, relatively lightweight, and can be stored in a bag. The device includes a sighting system and a mechanism for attaching a Polaroid camera to capture instant photos of the location and the phenomenon's position. He details the materials used, including "Altu_lass" plastic and wood, and suggests potential improvements like a remote trigger and a compass.

Other Sections

• Photographs: This section reiterates the difficulty of obtaining clear photos due to the terrain and the conditions, but highlights the intensity and pulsations seen in the second photograph.
• La Réserve Ornithologique du Der: A brief mention of the Der-Chantecoq lake as an ornithological reserve, noting the diversity of bird species found there.
• Camp d'Observation (August 1981): An account of an observation camp organized near the Ferme du Fays, which unfortunately did not yield any unusual sightings, though it did receive media attention.
• Accidents Tectoniques / Failles: A geological note referencing a fault line near Eclaron, part of the Saint-Dizier fault system, with details on its length and geological context.
• Editorial Cartoon: A humorous cartoon on page 7 depicts a character struggling with the idea of writing a report, questioning the purpose and expressing exhaustion. Another cartoon on page 8 shows a professor who has spent 76 years investigating UAP, collecting vast amounts of documentation, and poses the question of whether UAP exist.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting detailed witness accounts and investigative efforts. There is a strong emphasis on photographic evidence and the challenges of obtaining it. The publication also appears to engage in a critical examination of official responses, highlighting instances of secrecy. The inclusion of geological information and the homemade "Theodolite" project suggests a practical and multi-disciplinary approach to UAP research. The overall tone is one of serious inquiry into unexplained events, supported by detailed reporting and a commitment to uncovering the truth, as exemplified by the professor's concluding statement.

Title: L'ÉCHO DES ÉTUDES
Issue: N° 12
Volume: 1
Date: July 1981

This issue of L'ÉCHO DES ÉTUDES delves into technical aspects of observation and modern aviation, featuring detailed explanations of specialized equipment, photographic techniques, and high-performance aircraft.

Technical Device for Observation

The issue begins with a detailed schematic of an "Appareil de Mesures angulaires avec Dispositif porte appareil photos" (Angular Measurement Device with Camera Mount). This device is described with its overall dimensions: a retracted ruler length of 62cm, a width of 20cm, and a height of 27cm. The main body is constructed from Altuglass or PVC, with wooden handles. Key components illustrated include a reading dial, a sliding ruler for the photo device, a 360° comparator, a spirit level, a viewfinder (Viseur A), and a balancing weight. The purpose of this apparatus is to precisely measure angular positions of observed phenomena, likely UFOs, and to photograph them.

Photographic Filters Guide

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an in-depth guide on photographic filters, authored by Christian DUCHEZ of GROUPE 5255. The guide covers filters for both black and white (Noir et Blanc) and color films.

Filters for Black and White Film:

• Three types are detailed:
• Correcteur filters: These adjust for light conditions. Examples include a light yellow filter to reduce blue-violet radiation, a yellow-green filter to brighten greens and darken blues, and an anti-ultraviolet filter to absorb invisible UV radiation. The article notes that these are less frequently used as film sensitivity is close to the human eye.
• Contrast filters: Used to create artificial contrast between colored elements that might appear as the same shade of grey on film.
• Polarizer filter: Helps to reduce or eliminate unwanted reflections from shiny, non-metallic objects.

Filters for Color Film:

• Five families of filters are presented:
• Conversion filters (C): Used to adapt film to different light sources with varying color temperatures.
• Light correcting filters (CL): Precisely adjust light color temperature to match film type. These include bluish filters (Wratten 82 series) to raise color temperature and yellowish filters (Wratten 81 series) to lower it.
• Color Compensating filters (CC): Available in six colors (yellow, magenta, cyan, violet-blue, green, red) and six densities, used to correct or introduce color casts.
• Anti-ultraviolet filter (UV): Suppresses the blue cast caused by UV light, useful primarily in specific conditions.
• Neutral Grey filters (ND): Reduce light intensity without altering color or grey values. They are useful for telescopes without diaphragms, maintaining wide apertures, or achieving longer exposure times with fast films.

The article also explains color temperature (TC), measured in Kelvin (K), and provides typical TC values for different light sources like sunlight, electronic flash, and incandescent lamps. It differentiates between "daylight" film (balanced for 5400-6000 K) and "Type B" (3200 K) and "Type A" (3400 K) films, mentioning Kodachrome II as an example of Type A.

Radar Technology Explained

René FAUDRIN and Roger THOME provide "Précisions complémentaires de terminologie aérienne" (Complementary Precision on Aerial Terminology), focusing on RADAR. They explain that RADAR is an acronym for Radio Detection and Ranging. The principle involves emitting a powerful electromagnetic wave, which propagates in a straight line at the speed of light. When this wave hits an obstacle, a portion is reflected back as an 'echo'. A radar system comprises four main components: an impulse generator, an antenna to transmit and receive, a receiver to process the echo, and an indicator (scope) to visualize data like azimuth, distance, and altitude. They also define "echo" as the reflection of an electromagnetic wave off any obstacle, and a "plot" as a luminous spot on the radar screen representing the result of multiple echoes from a single obstacle. Antenna rotation speed is noted as 6 revolutions per minute for panoramic types.

Update on the World's Fastest Aircraft (July 1981)

Roger THOME presents an updated list of the fastest aircraft in the world as of July 1981. This section, partly compiled with information from M. Jean GIRAUD of GROUPE 03100 de MONTLUCON, acknowledges that the list may not be exhaustive, particularly regarding Soviet prototypes.

Key Aircraft and Specifications:

• U.S. AIR FORCE:
• Lookeed YT 12 A SR 71: First flight April 1962. Wingspan 16.35m, Length 32.70m, Max weight 77 tonnes. Performance: Mach 3+ above 24,000m for 1h30, potentially reaching Mach 3.5. Ceiling approx. 28,000m. Users: USAF, NASA.
• Fighters: Northrop F 5F Freedom Fighter (Mach 1.6), Mc Donnell F 4 Phantom (Mach 2.27), Mc Donnell Douglas YF 15 A Eagle (Mach 2.5, noted for its stability and high-altitude engagement capabilities), General Dynamics YF 16 (Mach 1.95), Grumman F 14 Tomcat (Mach 2.34), Convair F 106 Delta Dart (Mach 2.31), Vought A 7 Corsair II (1123 km/h at low altitude). A note indicates many of these aircraft are used by foreign militaries.
• Bombers and Fighter-Bombers: North American Rockwell A 5A Vigilante (Mach 2.1), General Dynamics F 111 (Mach 2.5), Boeing B 52 Strato-Fortress (Max speed approx. 1014 km/h above 7315m, ceiling 13720-16765m).
• Prototype: Mc Donnell F 18 Hornet (multi-role fighter, operational in 1982, capable of exceeding Mach 2).

• U.R.S.S. (Soviet Union):
• Fighters and Fighter-Bombers: Mig 21 R/RF Fishbed H (Mach 2.1), Mig 23 Flogger (Mach 2.3). The Mig 25 R Foxbat B is equipped with radar and cameras for high-altitude photography. The Mig 25 RE Foxbat D features side-looking radar. A note highlights that these two Mig 25 variants have a range of nearly 1200 km, can fly up to Mach 3.2 (3380 km/h) and reach 24,000m in under 9 minutes.

Accompanying the text are numerous photographs and illustrations of these aircraft, including the Lookeed YF 12 A SR 71, F 15 Eagle, F 18 Hornet, F 111, F 14 Tomcat, F 16, Mig 27 Flogger, Mirage IV, Mig 25 Foxbat, Mirage 4000, Jaguar E/A, Mirage F-1, Mirage III, and a Soviet "RAM-L" prototype.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong interest in the technical and observational aspects of unexplained phenomena, as evidenced by the detailed description of the measurement device and the focus on photographic techniques. The inclusion of extensive data on high-speed military aircraft and radar technology suggests an editorial stance that connects these advanced technologies to potential aerial observations, possibly including UFOs, and a desire to provide readers with comprehensive, up-to-date information in these specialized fields. The publication aims to educate its readers on the tools, methods, and technological landscape relevant to understanding aerial phenomena.

This issue of "L'ÉCHO DES MYSTÈRES" (N° 24), dated September or October 1974, focuses on a detailed UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon) sighting and introduces a proposed system for UAP symbology.

Military Aircraft and Missiles

The issue begins with a section on military aircraft, listing specifications for the Sukhoi SU 15 Flagon (Mach 2.5, 2450 km/h), Sukhoi SU 19 Fencer (Mach 2.5, 2670 km/h), and the Tupolev TU 26 Backfire (Mach 2.3 at high altitude, 13000 km range). It notes that the MiG-15 and SR-71 can reach speeds over Mach 3 at 25000m. However, following an event in Japan in September 1976, the MiG-25 is no longer considered exceptional. A comparison of its weight (36000 kg) with its engine thrust (22000 kg with afterburner) suggests it cannot climb as fast as Western high-power aircraft. The article also briefly mentions General Dynamics and Boeing's Tomahawk cruise missiles, noting their similar performance characteristics: 6.70m length, 3.70m wingspan, 1360 kg weight, 2500 km range, and a subsonic speed of 800 km/h, comparable to a commercial airliner. This low speed makes them vulnerable once detected. The Tomahawk is guided by a sophisticated electronic brain called Tercom, capable of hitting targets within 10m after a 2500 km self-guided flight. Flying at very low altitudes, it evades radar surveillance. Its altimetric topography analysis and TV scanning guide it. Each Tomahawk carries a 200-kiloton thermonuclear warhead, equivalent to 20 times the Hiroshima bomb.

UAP Sighting in Vitry-les-Nogent

The main feature of this issue is a detailed report of a UAP observation near Vitry-les-Nogent (Haute-Marne, France) in September or October 1974. The investigation was conducted by a group including Lionel Danizel, Patrick Koenig, Jean-Luc Thiebaud, and Mlle Christine Zwigart. The witness, Robert M., a 59-year-old retired technical employee, reported two distinct sightings on the same night.

First Observation

Around midnight, Robert M. was in his upstairs bedroom with the window open. He was initially drawn by two powerful, oval headlights approaching from the direction of a water tower. He initially thought it was a fast car. Suddenly, he saw an object about 1 meter above the ground, described as gliding on the water without a motor, with a fog-like layer underneath and behind it. He described the light beams as yellowish and forming a 'V' shape. The object, estimated to be 2.50m long and 2m wide, had a rounded rear and a pointed front. He also noticed two opaque, convex domes, about 35-45 cm in diameter, on top. The object moved horizontally at an altitude of 1 to 1.50m above the ground, passing close to a hedge and a calvary. The witness estimated that the object disappeared within 3 seconds of him seeing it at house level. Based on the water tower's distance (140m) and the headlights' visibility, a minimum speed of 165-170 km/h was estimated.

Robert M. found the observation abnormal and was wary. He noted that the object seemed unaffected by the trees and foliage, and the vegetation did not move as it passed, despite its close proximity. He also emphasized the complete silence of the object, which he found particularly anomalous given the initial impression of a fast-approaching vehicle.

Second Observation

Around 2:00 AM, the powerful headlights reappeared from the same direction. Robert M. saw the same object (or an identical one) again, moving silently and rapidly. This time, the object appeared to head towards the path behind the hedge. He noted that the object ascended obliquely at high speed in the direction of Langres.

Witness Testimony and Analysis

Robert M. described the object as resembling a motorboat gliding on water. He was certain it was not a car or helicopter due to its silence, speed, and apparent lack of interaction with the environment. He mentioned that his dog, usually very vocal, remained silent during the observations. No electrical devices malfunctioned. Subsequent examination of the site by Robert M. and the investigators revealed no ground traces or anomalies on the vegetation. The witness, a hunter, had no prior interest in UFOs and was previously skeptical. The investigators concluded that the observed phenomenon's characteristics (lack of air displacement, absolute silence, high speed despite obstacles) suggested it was not a conventional aircraft or vehicle.

Supporting Information and Context

The report includes a sketch of the object based on the witness's description and an excerpt from a topographic map (1:25,000) showing the location of Vitry-les-Nogent and the surrounding area, including nearby historical sites like the dolmen of 'Pierre Alot' (where two humanoids were reportedly seen in 1956) and the Tumulus and Necropolis of Le Châtelet.

UAP Symbology

Another significant section of the magazine is dedicated to a proposed common symbology for representing UAP phenomena on maps. This system, developed by Michel Sorgues and C.N.E.G.U. (Centre National d'Étude et de Documentation sur les Phénomènes Spatiaux), was presented as an improvement on earlier versions. The symbology aims to represent UAP observations without distorting the reported idea of the phenomenon, avoiding map saturation, being easy to use, and only including cases that have been screened for misidentifications and doubts.

The symbology is structured around four criteria:
1. Classification of the observation and situation: Represented by a circle, which can be empty (passage at altitude), semi-filled (low altitude or near-ground passage without landing), or filled (landing). Other symbols include a circle with a cross for vertical disappearance and concentric circles for secondary effects or electromagnetic disturbances.
2. Evolution of the phenomenon: Indicated by vectors showing the direction of origin and departure of the phenomenon. Vectors can be unfleched (origin), fleched (departure), bi-fleched (return to origin), or absent (uncertainty). The phenomenon's appearance or disappearance on-site is also represented by specific symbols.
3. Importance of the phenomenon: Represented by vertical lines within the origin vector, indicating the number of objects observed (up to four).
4. Presence of an entity and contact: This category is not detailed in the provided pages.

The system also includes symbols for detections (triangle) and for known landing sites (modified symbols). The notes emphasize that vectors should not be too long and that photographic evidence is noted but not symbolized on the map.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to be dedicated to exploring unexplained phenomena, with a focus on UAP sightings and their investigation. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry, presenting detailed witness accounts, technical data on conventional aircraft for comparison, and proposing systematic methods for documenting and analyzing UAP events, as seen in the symbology section. The tone is objective, aiming to present facts and analysis rather than sensationalism.

This issue of "O.V.N.I." (Unidentified Flying Objects) from 1978 focuses on statistical studies of regional observations, specifically in the Haute-Marne and Meuse departments of France. The publication aims to compile and analyze UFO sightings, providing a framework for understanding the phenomenon. The issue includes a detailed statistical breakdown of observations from 1978, covering aspects like object colors, sounds, and atmospheric conditions, alongside specific case reports from 1980.

Statistical Analysis of 1978 Observations

The statistical study for 1978 presents data on observed UFOs in Haute-Marne and Meuse. Key findings include:

Colors

For both departments, the dominant color observed was orange, with Haute-Marne reporting 40.0% and Meuse 41.7%. White was the next most common color, though with a larger difference between the regions (Haute-Marne: 26.7%, Meuse: 16.7%). The study also noted 14.8% of objects exhibiting multiple colors and 11.1% being yellow.

Sounds

A significant characteristic highlighted is the silence of UFOs. In Haute-Marne, 93.3% of observed phenomena were silent, and in Meuse, this figure was 100%. The study acknowledges that the distance between the witness and the object might influence the perception of sound, but generally, UFOs are remarkably quiet, a trait that Claude POHER's statistics also support, showing 60% of cases to be silent.

Sky and Atmospheric Conditions

The data indicates a strong correlation between favorable weather conditions and the observability of UFOs. In 1978, 80.0% of observations in Haute-Marne and 58.3% in Meuse occurred under clear, starry skies. Cloudy or overcast conditions accounted for fewer observations (13.3% in Haute-Marne and 25% in Meuse).

Symbology for UFO Reporting

The issue introduces a proposed symbology for reporting UFO sightings, designed to be comprehensive yet accessible. This system aims to standardize the way information is recorded and shared:

• Number of Objects: Symbols are provided for indicating the quantity of objects observed, ranging from a triangle for five objects to a solid square for fifty.
• Phenomenon Importance: The importance of a phenomenon can be indicated based on its direction after passing a point.
• Provenance: If the origin of the phenomenon is not specified, its importance is indicated by a symbol.
• Presence of Entities and Contact: This section details how to represent the presence of occupants or contact. A letter 'K' symbolizes a human-like form (body, head, limbs), while 'V' represents an undefined form originating from the sky. Contact on the ground is depicted by a solid circle within a concentric circle, followed by the entity symbol. Cases of entity observation without a craft are also categorized.
• Specific Cases: The symbology includes options for representing specific types of encounters, such as those involving apparitions of the Virgin Mary or a 'white lady,' by linking them to the 'K' symbol.

Important Notes on Symbology

• Enlèvement (Abduction): The authors suggest that abductions can be represented as a type of contact, but to avoid overloading the symbology, users should specify 'abduction' in the case description accompanying the map.
• Basis: The symbols are based on meteorological symbology, known for its proven effectiveness.
• Simplicity: Users are advised not to overcomplicate the system by inventing new symbols. Existing symbols should be used and combined logically to maintain accessibility.
• Color: It is strongly recommended to use only black and white to avoid confusion in photocopies.

Case Reports (1980)

The magazine details several specific UFO sightings from 1980, providing witness accounts and preliminary investigation findings:

• Case 1 (February 6, 1980): A witness in NOGENT-LE-BAS observed an elongated, egg-shaped object of pale yellow color with distinct contours. It was stationary, then ascended vertically and disappeared rapidly. The observation lasted only a few seconds.
• Case 2 (August 2, 1980): In the Meuse region, multiple witnesses reported luminous orange 'balls' performing aerial maneuvers. The event coincided with the presence of JAGUAR fighter jets, leading to speculation about a connection, though no definitive explanation was found.
• Case 3 (August 15, 1980): A witness in SONCOURT observed a luminous green sphere moving rapidly and silently on a horizontal trajectory. The object disappeared towards FRONCLES after a brief observation.
• Case 4 (October 11, 1980): In BETTANCOURT-LA-FERREE, a witness saw a rounded, bright red object with a white halo and a red tail, moving horizontally at high speed, comparable to a military aircraft.
• Case 5 (October 27, 1980): A series of luminous orange 'balls' were observed in the Haute-Marne and Meuse regions, performing complex maneuvers, including simultaneous flights with JAGUAR jets. Several witnesses reported the phenomenon, and some photographs were taken.
• Case 6 (October 31, 1980): A witness in GUE observed a static phenomenon described as concentric circles: a white ball, a black circle, and a luminous orange crown. The object remained in place before disappearing.
• Case 1 (February 14, 1980 - Meuse): In RUPT-AUX-NONAINS, a witness observed a rectangular, white, luminous object on the ground. It moved briefly before diminishing in intensity and disappearing.

Errata

An erratum corrects a previous report regarding a radar case in WASSY, specifying that the relevant air base was BA 124 in STRASBOURG (Bas-Rhin), not in Haute-Rhin.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic collection and statistical analysis of UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, aiming to categorize and understand the phenomenon through data-driven research and standardized reporting methods. The emphasis on symbology suggests a desire for rigorous documentation and comparison of cases. The publication acknowledges the complexity of the phenomenon and the need for ongoing research, while also cautioning against over-complication and promoting clarity in reporting. The inclusion of specific, detailed witness accounts grounds the statistical data in real-world observations, highlighting the diverse nature of reported UFO encounters.

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (1979) focuses on statistical analysis of Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) or Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon (UAP) observations in the French departments of Haute-Marne and Meuse during that year. The publication highlights the importance of rigorous research and data collection in the field of ufology.

Statistical Analysis of 1979 UAP Observations

The issue presents a detailed statistical breakdown of UAP sightings in Haute-Marne and Meuse for 1979. A primary observation is the decrease in the number of reported cases compared to 1978, with a 33.3% drop in Haute-Marne and a significant 58.3% drop in Meuse. This decline is attributed partly to a potential decrease in the phenomenon's activity and partly to increased rigor in the research methodology, leading to the identification or elimination of imprecise cases.

Monthly Distribution of Observations

The monthly distribution of observations in 1979 differed from the previous year. In Haute-Marne, observations were spread across the beginning of the year (40.0%), with a notable peak in August (30.0%). There were no reported observations in September or October. The period from September to December accounted for only 30.0% of observations, a stark contrast to the 69.2% recorded in 1978. In Meuse, the decrease was even more pronounced, with cases concentrated in May and June (40.0%) and October-November (60.0%). Cumulatively, for both departments, 40.0% of cases occurred between September and December (down from 64.0% in 1978), with only 6.7% in October alone (down from 32.0%). These figures do not align with the statistics previously reported by Claude POHER.

Daily Distribution of Observations

The daily distribution of observations also varied between the departments. In Haute-Marne, the peak occurred on Saturdays (30.0%), while in Meuse, it was on Mondays (66.7%, though based on only three cases). Haute-Marne also saw a notable percentage of cases on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays (20.0%). When combining both departments, 23.1% of cases were reported on Mondays.

Number of Witnesses per Observation

Similar to 1978, most observations were made by a single witness, although the proportion was lower in 1979. In Haute-Marne, 50.0% of cases involved a single witness (down from 61.5%), and in Meuse, it was 40.0% (down from 58.3%). The average for both departments was 46.7%. Cases involving two or three witnesses were also common, accounting for 26.7% and 13.3% respectively. This contrasts with Claude POHER's statistics, which indicated two witnesses in two-thirds of cases and more than two witnesses in over half of the cases.

UAP Shapes Observed in 1979

The issue also analyzes the shapes of UAP observed. A key finding is that punctual phenomena (single, isolated events) had practically disappeared from the statistics, with only one case (10.0%) in Haute-Marne. The sphere was by far the most observed shape, accounting for 70.0% in Haute-Marne and 40.0% in Meuse (60.0% combined). Discs followed, with 40.0% in Meuse and 13.3% in Haute-Marne. The year 1979 showed a greater diversity of shapes than 1978, with less 'classic' forms like 'star' or 'Saturn' representing 20.0% of cases. Notably, cigar-shaped, cylindrical, elongated, or ovoid shapes were no longer reported. These statistics are presented as being coherent with Claude POHER's findings on round (22.5%) and discoidal (31.0%) shapes.

Research Networks and Calls for Witnesses

The magazine highlights the importance of organized research and calls for public participation. It details the "RESEAU DEPARTEMENTAL DE DETECTION 5255" (Departmental Detection Network 5255), which aims to reorganize detection efforts in Haute-Marne and Meuse. Interested individuals are invited to contact the network at the provided addresses. The publication stresses that collective effort is crucial for advancing the study of the phenomenon. It also urges witnesses to report their observations, providing guidelines on what information to include (date, time, weather, celestial references, coordinates) and suggesting photographic documentation if possible. Discretion and anonymity are assured for witnesses.

Related Publications

The issue mentions two serious European ufological reviews published in French: "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (LDLN), directed by M. Raymond VEILLITH, and "INFORESPACE", the organ of the Belgian Society for the Study of Spatial Phenomena (SOBEPS), associated with M. Lucien CLEREBAUT.

Contact Information

Contact information is provided for rapid communication, including phone numbers for the headquarters (Mlle Christine ZWYGART) and for M. Lionel DANIZEL. A request is made for individuals to update their addresses to ensure regular delivery of the publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the statistical analysis of UAP sightings, focusing on temporal patterns (monthly, daily) and physical characteristics (shapes). The editorial stance is one of promoting rigorous scientific inquiry, encouraging public participation in data collection, and fostering collaboration among researchers and organizations in the field of ufology. There is an emphasis on the need for accurate reporting and the development of organized detection networks.