LDLN - No 030

Magazine Overview

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night), number 30, from its 3rd year, is dated October 1960. It is a monthly review dedicated to those seeking truth across the world, aiming to guide humanity towards new horizons and highlight precious truths. The cover headline proclaims "LA TRAGEDIE DES SIECLES" (The Tragedy of the Centuries).

The Tragedy of the Centuries

The lead article, referencing André CHATILLON's "Joie de vivre," posits that true peace will only emerge when politics become sincere, prioritizing respect for all life, nations, and ethnic groups over abstract human rights. The author laments the "lamentable and distressing spectacle" of the United Nations in New York, characterized by endless oratory, insults, hatred, and perfidy, creating an atmosphere of poisoned division. The article argues that this failure stems from a refusal to see reality and a preference for darkness over light, a tragedy that perpetuates throughout human history. It dismisses the idea that genuine peace can arise from debates that trample on human aspirations, are dominated by egoism, and prioritize national interests. The author contends that history repeats itself, with the replacement of one enemy by another, citing the former alliance against Germany as an example. The true problem of peace, it is argued, lies within each individual, and only through the improvement of the individual's organic, intellectual, and spiritual potential, in accordance with the Laws of Life, can true peace be fostered.

The article further critiques the human tendency to ignore history's lessons, often prioritizing diverse interests (commercial, political, national) over collective well-being. It suggests that humanity's salvation lies in a return to obedience to eternal laws that govern existence, preventing total degradation and catastrophe.

1962, A CRUCIAL YEAR

Another article by André CHATILLON, titled "1962, UNE ANNEE CRUCIALE" (1962, A CRUCIAL YEAR), presents a more dire outlook. It describes humanity as an "apprentice sorcerer" whose "acts of madness" have created inevitable consequences. While many may not perceive anything abnormal, the author aims to enlighten those who seek clarity. Chatillon states he does not play the prophet or make astrological predictions, but rather relies on serious study of occult sciences. He warns that predicting specific future events can be dangerous, as knowledge of an event can influence an individual's actions, potentially altering the "grand cosmic plan." Knowing a probable event might lead to actions driven by selfish desires rather than genuine self-improvement. The article suggests that while such knowledge might lead to a less favorable personal outcome in the short term, it could ultimately serve as a lesson for improvement.

The author explains that 1962 is predicted to be a grave year, possibly more so than previous critical periods like 1939-1950. He argues that humanity's average evolution is more inclined towards following instincts than spiritual development, making it difficult to escape future difficulties by merely knowing about them. The true solution lies in avoiding problems through a "just attitude." He notes that while the consequences of current civilization's follies are evident, many accept or profit from this empirical, rather than natural, order. The article draws a parallel between the "wolves" and "sheep" in human society and nature, highlighting the exploitation of the majority by a minority. Despite the advancements of science and technology, the fundamental human problem remains unsolved. The author advocates for integrating humanity into the collective life of the planet, rather than isolating it. This perceived superiority leads to a disregard for universal laws, resulting in the systematic destruction of nature and a progressive degeneration of humanity, leading to an "imbroglio" in natural defense mechanisms and compromising the planet's life.

Chatillon reiterates that "everything is paid for" by cosmic accounting, with consequences that may be delayed but are inevitable. He suggests that the period leading up to 1962 presents a grave astrological aspectation, more significant than that of 1939. He warns that the materialization of this astrological influence is unpredictable, with potential violent reactions ranging from physiological plagues to generalized war. He advises facing the danger directly and preparing oneself through immediate attitude adjustments. Two outcomes are presented: extermination in a "great reckoning," or survival to rebuild based on sound, universal laws, not merely human ones. He emphasizes that fear of the future is an error and encourages individuals to do their best as "good servants," aligning their limited human perspective with divine laws. Those who genuinely strive for the Good and the Beautiful will avoid the cruel aspects of the reckoning and may even contribute to the world's renewal.

The article concludes by stating that if humanity desires to live in peace and serve the universal cause of Peace and Love, it has a "new transitional period of two years" ahead. This attitude, when properly employed, can yield marvelous results and foster self-confidence and joy, crucial factors in a century marked by pessimism and disappointment.

Health and Disease: Beyond Microbes

This section introduces a study by Joseph ANDRE, focusing on discoveries by researcher Fortuné AUBERT. The article challenges the conventional understanding of diseases, suggesting that microbes are not the primary cause. Instead, it points to "microzymas" and "sous-hypo sous-microzymas" as the root of many illnesses, influenced by radioactive particles.

Fortuné AUBERT's research, utilizing radiesthesia, identified these sub-microscopic entities. He claims that strontium 90 is the fundamental cause of arteriosclerosis and a specific type of tumor, while strontium 92 is linked to acetone production and glandular atrophy. He also discusses the role of cesium 131 and 133 in syphilis and polio, respectively, suggesting that the scientific community's focus on viruses and vaccines is misguided. AUBERT asserts that these radioactive particles are present in vaccines, injections, and many remedies, contributing to various ailments including cancers, leukemias, and degenerative diseases.

The article criticizes the current scientific approach, which it claims is lost in conjecture regarding complex problems like cancer. It suggests that true understanding and solutions lie in radiesthesia, which can detect contamination and help individuals protect themselves. The author expresses skepticism about finding a cure for cancer soon, emphasizing the need for a shift in human consciousness and a move away from atomic experiments. The article also touches upon the supposed link between iodine radio-activity and tuberculosis and albuminuria, and the effects of certain radio-active iodines on the brain and glandular system.

Whirlwinds and Centripetal Force

René PRADEL contributes an article explaining the mechanics of whirlwinds and waterspouts, responding to a reader's query. He begins by acknowledging the difficulty in explaining gravity. Pradel describes a whirlwind as a rapid air vortex that draws in denser particles. He notes that for the agglomeration of particles to persist, the vortex must accelerate. Once the speed stabilizes, the particles disperse, similar to how a waterspout breaks up.

Pradel explains that the air in a whirlwind, due to its high speed, generates a strong centrifugal force, especially at the center. This centrifugal force causes the air to exert no "vertical weight" but rather a "centrifugal weight," pressing it horizontally against the vortex's wall. This is compared to a motorcyclist in a "wall of death" who is pressed outward by speed. The reduced vertical pressure at the center of the whirlwind creates a deficit, causing atmospheric pressure from the surroundings to push water into the vortex. This water also begins to rotate, losing its vertical weight. This process forms the waterspout, which rises to the top of the whirlwind. The waterspout is hollow because the rotating water, being denser than air, is pushed outward by its own centrifugal force, forming a swirling mantle. However, because the water's density is greater than air, its centrifugal force is less than that of the air, keeping it contained. The article illustrates this with diagrams.

Pradel then discusses the difference between "weight" and "mass," explaining that weight is a force that presses masses against a surface. He uses the example of air and water to illustrate how air can have more weight than water under certain conditions, as seen in whirlwinds and waterspouts.

He further explains why particles within the whirlwind do not disperse. The air's centrifugal force, while strong at the center, encounters a large peripheral surface, resulting in low pressure. This pressure difference causes surrounding air to push water into the vortex. The water, being denser than air, does not immediately match the air's speed. As the fluid (air) accelerates, the particles (water) lag behind, resulting in a lower centrifugal force than the fluid. This prevents them from dispersing. The article notes that if the fluid's speed stabilizes, the particles would eventually match its speed, and their greater density would lead to greater centrifugal force, causing them to disperse. However, a constant braking force could maintain cohesion by reducing the particles' centrifugal force to below that of the fluid.

Pradel then addresses the question of why particles in a laboratory apparatus (presumably at Geneva) only remain agglomerated during acceleration. He explains that the Earth's mass acts as a stabilizing factor for the vortex, making it difficult to tow. This interaction, he suggests, explains the Earth-Moon distance and the Moon's orbit, proposing a model where the Earth is the nucleus of an ether vortex and the Moon is entrained within it. The Moon's delayed movement relative to the vortex is what maintains its orbit. The article concludes by suggesting that the Earth's role is passive, and the Earth-Moon distance can be explained without resorting to magical attraction. The diagram (Figure IV) illustrates the interplay between centripetal force (from the vortex) and centrifugal force (from the Moon), suggesting an equilibrium maintained by the Earth's mass.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a spiritual and holistic view of life, emphasizing the importance of individual transformation and adherence to natural or cosmic laws as the path to personal well-being and global peace. It critiques materialistic and purely scientific approaches, particularly in medicine and politics, suggesting they are insufficient or misguided. There is a strong undercurrent of esotericism and a belief in hidden forces and phenomena, such as microzymas and the influence of radioactivity and astrological aspects. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a return to fundamental, universal principles, urging readers to look beyond conventional explanations and embrace a more profound understanding of life and the universe.

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), dated from the 4th quarter of 1960, features articles on practical home solutions and historical scientific investigations into parapsychological phenomena. The magazine's content is primarily in French.

Article 1: CHAUFFAGE (Heating)

By René PRADEL

This article offers practical advice on improving heating efficiency and economy. Pradel suggests that instead of storing coal in a single large pile, it should be divided into two or three smaller sections. This method allows for better tracking of consumption throughout the season and helps anticipate needs during cold spells, preventing the need to 'heat without saving' or plan for replenishment.

Pradel then introduces a less commonly considered but highly practical heating solution: placing a 'salamandre' (a type of stove) within the thickness of a partition wall. This is particularly effective for smaller houses and allows a single fire to heat two rooms. The benefits highlighted include economy, simplicity, space-saving, and easier disassembly in summer. Furthermore, this arrangement can lead to more even heat distribution throughout the home, as the circulation of air through doorways and openings helps to move warm air that might otherwise stagnate around the heating appliance.

The article provides examples of this technique being used effectively. In one case, a salamander heats four rooms: two on the ground floor and two on the first floor. A duct system channels warm air from the stove's flue upwards through the ceiling to the upper rooms. In another instance, a salamander is integrated into a marble fireplace, heating three rooms on the same level. A specially designed casing around the chimney and flue collects and distributes the heat to adjacent rooms through strategically placed openings.

Pradel concludes by suggesting that architects should consider such space-saving and cost-effective heating solutions, envisioning a 'heat cage' in the center of a house, with a stove at the bottom and its flue rising to the roof. He posits that such a system could be more economical than conventional central heating, which he describes as costly to install and maintain due to heat loss.

Article 2: UNE COMMISSION DE L'ACADEMIE DES SCIENCES A PU CONTROLER LA REALITE DU PHENOMENE RADIESTHESIQUE (An Academy of Sciences Commission Could Verify the Reality of the Radiesthetic Phenomenon)

By Armand VIRE, Doctor of Sciences, Honorary Director of the Laboratory at the National Museum of Natural History.

This article recounts the establishment and work of a commission formed by the French Academy of Sciences to investigate radiesthesia, commonly known as dowsing. The author, Armand Vire, draws from his own experiences and the book "COMMENT DEVENIR SOURCIER" (How to Become a Dowser) by Armand Vire, published by Librairie Baillère et Fils.

The article states that the commission was formed in 1913, following a congress in Paris organized by Henri Mager, which focused on the search for water and underground cavities. This congress reportedly had a significant impact, leading many to discover their own dowsing abilities. The Academy of Sciences, breaking from its traditional approach, decided to examine the world of dowsing with a serious, investigative intent.

The "Commission de la Baguette des Sourciers" (Dowsing Rod Commission) was named in 1913 and, over the years, included distinguished scientists such as MM. Dastre, Douvillé, Armand Gauthier, Violle, Wallerand, as well as Branly, D'Arsonval, Deslandes, Charles Richet, and later, Daniel Berthelot and Edmond Perrier. The commission's work was interrupted by the war and reorganized in 1920 with additional members.

Edmond Perrier, then director of the Muséum, is mentioned as being sensitive to dowsing himself and having discovered several water sources in Corrèze using a pendulum, though he was hesitant to publicize his findings due to skepticism from colleagues.

The article notes that the scientific community had evolved, with scientists becoming more open to phenomena that pushed the boundaries of known science. This shift facilitated a potential collaboration between dowsers and scientists.

Preparatory meetings were held at the Institut, characterized by cordiality and mutual goodwill. The commission decided to "resume experiments, but discreetly, in private, away from the public eye."

Excerpts from the meeting minutes are provided:

• November 15, 1920: The session focused on recalling past experiences, both positive and negative. M. Viré's contribution was noted, particularly his 1913 Academy of Sciences report and experiments conducted with him at Ville d'Avray on water and cavities.
• December 6, 1920: The president, M. Deslandres, proposed shifting the focus from locating water sources to determining if dowsers could detect hidden metals. M. Henri Mager suggested searching for natural metal deposits, with dowsers identifying the locations for subsequent verification. M. Deslandres found this program potentially long and difficult, asking M. Mager if he could conduct experiments near Paris with the commission present.
• M. Mager stated that such experiments faced fundamental objections, which he had detailed in his recent book.
• M. Marcel Barba, an engineer with the Paris Water Service, reported that his previous work focused on finding water sources rather than metals.

Further discussion points from the minutes include:

• M. Viré doubted the effectiveness of hiding small objects in the ground, suggesting it would be better to explore mining sites and verify operators' claims through sounding.
• M. Marage stated his experience was primarily with water sources, but he had observed remarkable results from M. Landesque in Algeria concerning both water and sources.

Despite these observations, the commission organized an experiment on May 5, 1921, involving small metallic masses (gold, copper, nickel) buried in the park of Meudon. The article acknowledges that detecting artificially buried metals is one of the most delicate and disappointing experiments for dowsers, unlike locating natural metallic or hydraulic veins. Initially, few dowsers were willing to participate, with only two amateurs, M. Barba and Dr. Marage, along with the author (then an apprentice dowser), agreeing to assist the Academy.

The article is marked as "to be continued."

Other Content

• A brief introductory note on page 11 explains that the heating article is published at an opportune moment to render useful services and is related to the magazine's broader scope.
• Page 12 includes a short concluding paragraph to the heating article, suggesting architects could learn from these practical heating solutions.
• Page 14 contains a section titled "PETITES ANNONCES (gratuites)" (Free Classified Ads) and subscription information for "LE LIEN," a monthly publication on psychic and parapsychological studies.
• Subscription details are provided for "Lumières dans la Nuit" itself, with options for annual and six-month subscriptions, including 'support' rates and foreign rates. Contact information is given for R. Veillith at "Les Pins," Le Chambon sur Lignon.
• The publication details indicate R. Veillith as the Director of Publication and Publisher/Editor, with the magazine printed in the 4th quarter of 1960.
• A note at the bottom of page 14 states that the end of the study "LE RETOUR DU CHRIST et LA FIN DES TEMPS" by R. Veillith will appear in the next issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to maintain an editorial stance that is open to exploring phenomena beyond conventional science, such as radiesthesia, while also providing practical, cost-saving advice for everyday life, like efficient heating methods. There is a clear interest in historical scientific investigations and the potential for scientific validation of seemingly unusual abilities or phenomena. The publication seems to bridge the gap between esoteric or fringe topics and practical, grounded information, often referencing historical events and scientific figures to lend credibility to its discussions.