LDLN - No 130

Magazine Overview

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night), dated December 1973, is the 130th edition and marks the 16th year of publication. It is dedicated to "Mysterious Celestial Objects and Related Problems." The magazine is published by "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT (GROUPEMENT INTERNATIONAL DE RECHERCHES)" and features a cover price of 1.50 F. The editorial committee includes F. Lagarde, M. Monnerie, R. Ollier, and R. Veillith, with Aimé Michel serving as the technical advisor for UFO problems.

Key Articles and Content

The issue opens with "Preliminary Remarks on the Structure of the Ufonaut Phenomenon" by Julien Weverbergh, who explores the concept of 'ufonauts' and attempts to identify patterns and constants within these encounters. He posits that the phenomenon is a totality of various trends and that absolute laws are not applicable. Weverbergh identifies 16 constants and trends, categorizing them into first, second, and third orders, suggesting that the 'ufonaut' phenomenon is luminous in nature and that reports are often poor in computer bits.

Several investigative reports detail specific UFO incidents:

• "OVNIS PRES DU SOL dans la région de Maubeuge (Nord) A Feignies le 3 Septembre 1973 et à Louvroil le 4" by J.-M. Bigorne, P. Nicodeme, and P. Rauche, details an observation of a luminous red object in Feignies that exhibited slow descent and hovering. The investigation found vegetation affected by a disease ('rouille végétale') and strange circular indentations in the grass. In Louvroil, witnesses reported a strange, oscillating luminosity that emitted white beams of light.

• "QUASI ATTERRISSAGE PRÈS D'HIRSON (Aisne) LE 12 JUIN 1973 A 5:00" by M. Bigorne, based on information from M. Lebreton, describes a driver's multiple sightings of luminous objects, including a large spherical object with a red band and grey caps, and later a saucer-shaped craft. The investigation noted the objects' speed and trajectory, suggesting a possible connection to a straight line path and the presence of power lines.

• "Enquête à Songeons (Oise) sur deux atterrissages à Therines" by Mlle Carof and M. Lesbros, recounts an investigation into events involving M. Bréchant and his family. They reported observing a luminous ball that displayed rectangular lights and caused radio interference. The report also touches upon the broader context of UFO observations in the region and potential connections to other similar cases.

• "PLEINS FEUX SUR LA CREUSE (2)" by Jan D'Aigure, continues a report on a sighting by M. B., who described an encounter with a 'Martian' in a human-like form. The article also mentions other historical sightings of similar beings and a peculiar encounter with a small, gliding 'being' that vanished instantly.

Other sections include:

• "DU NOUVEAU SUR LES DÉTECTEURS UFOLOGIQUES" (p. 22), which discusses advancements in UFO detection technology.

• "COMPTE RENDU DE LA SEMAINE D'OBSERVATION DU 9 AU 17 JUIN 1973" by R. Ollier and Ch. De Zan.

The magazine also features a section on subscriptions and correspondence, including details on annual and half-year subscription formulas, as well as international rates. A note highlights that supplementary pages are included with every other issue (odd-numbered issues).

Philosophical and Esoteric Content

An article titled "L'HOMME CE MYSTÈRE" (Man, This Mystery) by Raymond Drake, translated by Ch. Zwygart, delves into philosophical and esoteric themes. It questions humanity's place in the universe, the nature of consciousness, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. Drake discusses the limitations of current science, the concept of different dimensions, and the possibility of advanced beings visiting Earth. He touches upon ancient myths, spiritual evolution, and the idea of cosmic cycles, suggesting that humanity is at a critical juncture facing potential cataclysms and transformations.

Another piece, "L'homme, qui a maintenant dressé une carte de la Terre...", explores the evolution of human understanding of the Earth and the universe, contrasting scientific discoveries with ancient beliefs and esoteric knowledge. It questions Darwinian evolution, suggests the possibility of extraterrestrial influence on Earth's history, and discusses the concept of time and consciousness from a spiritual perspective.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena, including sightings, alleged landings, and the nature of 'ufonauts.' The magazine adopts a serious, investigative approach, presenting detailed case studies and witness testimonies. Beyond the physical evidence, there's a strong undercurrent of philosophical and spiritual inquiry, exploring the implications of UFO phenomena for human understanding of existence, consciousness, and our place in the cosmos. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded research, seeking truth and encouraging readers to engage with these complex subjects without prejudice. The publication aims to bridge the gap between the unexplained and deeper existential questions, suggesting that UFO phenomena may be part of a larger, cosmic reality.

This issue of L'Express, dated May 14-20, 1973, features a cover story titled 'Les Extraterrestres au temps des Normands' (Extraterrestrials in the Time of the Normans) by Raymond Drake, translated by Ch. ZWYGART. The magazine also includes articles on astronomy, seismic phenomena, and UFO detection technology.

Extraterrestrials in the Time of the Normans

Raymond Drake's article explores historical accounts that suggest extraterrestrial visitation throughout human history, starting with ancient civilizations and extending to the medieval period. He draws parallels between ancient myths of gods on thrones in the sky and modern UFO sightings, referencing figures like the Grimms and Adamski. The article cites the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle's description of a strange star in 1066, potentially depicted on the Bayeux Tapestry, and mentions similar aerial phenomena observed in 1096 and 1098. It also recounts a bizarre incident from 1125 involving a 'fiery man' who set trees ablaze, drawing comparisons to modern UFO occupant reports. The author questions whether historical figures like Joan of Arc might have been influenced by extraterrestrial beings.

Close Stars and Obscure Companions

Jean Bastide's article delves into the astronomical study of nearby stars and their potential planetary systems. He explains that only a limited number of stars are within fifteen light-years and discusses the challenges of detecting 'obscure companions' (planets or dim stars). Bastide highlights that stars with slow rotation, like our Sun, are more likely to possess planetary systems. He notes that some discovered companions are planets with masses up to twice that of Jupiter, and discusses the possibility of life existing on planets around other stars.

Progress... or Madness?

This section touches upon modern advancements and their potential downsides. It briefly mentions synthetic tobacco and the use of natural perfumes in poultry. A cautionary anecdote describes canaries dying after eating contaminated salad, highlighting the risks of toxic products used in agriculture.

Agadir Earthquake and Strange Lights

A digest of an article by M. Tyrode discusses the Agadir earthquake of February 29, 1960. Witnesses reported strange lights over the sea and a sulfurous odor preceding and during the seismic event. The article explores potential explanations, including atmospheric ionization and the role of ozone, while questioning the relationship between seismic activity and atmospheric phenomena.

Stones Fall from the Sky

This report details an unusual event in Veyrines, Haute-Ardèche, France, where stones inexplicably fell from the sky onto a hamlet. The phenomenon, observed over several days, caused fear and confusion among residents. Investigations by local authorities and firefighters failed to identify a source for the falling stones, leading to speculation about poltergeist activity.

UFO Sightings and Animal Reactions

Several short reports detail UFO sightings from various locations in France and Belgium. These include observations of luminous spheres, oval objects, and formations in the sky, often accompanied by unusual sounds or electromagnetic effects. One report from Brasschaat, Belgium, describes multiple sightings of unidentified objects on April 27, 1972, by two witnesses.

New Developments in Ufology

This section discusses the ongoing research and development of UFO detection devices, particularly magnetic detectors. It highlights the challenges in creating reliable and affordable instruments and mentions various models and experimental setups being tested by enthusiasts and researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of historical events, scientific inquiry, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to report sightings and participate in research. There's a clear emphasis on collecting data, analyzing evidence, and seeking rational explanations, while not dismissing the possibility of extraordinary events and extraterrestrial contact. The publication promotes a scientific approach to ufology, advocating for more systematic observation and experimentation.

This document is a page from the French magazine "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), specifically a section titled "NOS LIVRES SELECTIONNES" (Our Selected Books). The issue date is indicated as the 4th quarter of 1973. The magazine is published in France, and the original language is French.

Featured Book: "Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes"

The primary focus of this page is the presentation of the book "Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes" (Mysterious Flying Saucers). This work is presented as a collaborative effort with the participation of Aimé Michel and Jacques Vallée, and is published by the "Groupement « Lumières dans la Nuit »". The book is presented by F. Lagarde. An excerpt from the table of contents is provided, detailing the book's structure:

• Avertissement (Warning)
• Préface (Foreword) by J. Vallée.
• Première partie (Part One): "Les données du problème" (The Problem's Data) - including "Avant-propos" (Foreword) by F. Lagarde, "Objets volants non identifiés" (Unidentified Flying Objects), "Traces et effets des MOC" (Traces and Effects of UFOs), "Les Humanoïdes" (Humanoids), and "Méprises et mystifications - Mythes et réalités" (Mistakes and Mystifications - Myths and Realities).
• Deuxième partie (Part Two): "Recherches et hypothèses" (Research and Hypotheses) - covering "Le principe de banalité" (The Principle of Banality) by Aimé Michel, "Intérêt d'une recherche" (Interest in Research) by F. Lagarde, "Présence physique des MOC: détection et étude instrumentale des phénomènes" (Physical Presence of UFOs: Detection and Instrumental Study of Phenomena) by R. Ollier, a note on magnetic needle detectors by M. Monnerie, an IT file on UFO documentation by J.-Cl. Vauzelle, the sky photographic surveillance network "Résufo" by M. Monnerie, "Quelques hypothèses" (Some Hypotheses) by F. Lagarde, and the Condon Report discussion, including "Le rapport Condon... ou un peu d'histoire" (The Condon Report... or a Bit of History) by J.-F. Delpech-Laborie.
• Annexes (Appendices): "Le caractère de l'information" (The Nature of Information) by F. Lagarde, "La revue Lumières dans la Nuit" (The magazine Lights in the Night) by R. Veillith, "Cercles" (Circles), "L'enquêteur" (The Investigator), "Analyse sur les sites d'atterrissages" (Analysis of Landing Sites), "Les radio-amateurs" (Radio Amateurs), and "Bibliographie" (Bibliography).

The book is described as having a format of 15.5 x 24 cm, 318 pages with 32 pages of color illustrations, and a color cover. A special numbered edition for LDLN readers is available for 30 F (postage included). Regular orders should be sent to Editions ALBATROS, 14, rue de l'Armorique, 75015 PARIS, with a postal or bank check. The book is also available in bookstores or at the Librairie des Archers in Lyon for 35 F on-site or 38 F by mail.

Orders for books should be accompanied by payment and addressed to LIBRAIRIE DES ARCHERS, "Service spécial LDLN", 13, rue Gasparin, Lyon (2°). The CCP (Compte Courant Postal) for Lyon is 156-64.

Other Selected Books

The page also lists several other recommended books:

1. SOUCOUPES VOLANTES, vingt ans d'enquêtes (Flying Saucers, Twenty Years of Investigations) by Charles Garreau. Price: 23 F (postage included).
2. CHRONIQUE DES APPARITIONS EXTRA-TERRESTRES (Chronicle of Extraterrestrial Appearances) by J. Vallée. Price: 32 F. This is described as a large volume that includes, as an appendix and in extenso, the very important document "Un siècle d'atterrissages" (A Century of Landings), published by LDLN over two years.
3. LE DOSSIER DES CIVILISATIONS EXTRA-TERRESTRES (The Dossier of Extraterrestrial Civilizations) by F. Biraud and J.-C. Ribes. Price: 27 F (postage included).
4. LES DOSSIERS DES O.V.N.I.s (The UFO Dossiers) by Henry Durrant. Price: 28 F. This is presented as an even more interesting work than his previous book, "Le Livre Noir des Soucoupes Volantes" (The Black Book of Flying Saucers).
5. LES DOSSIERS DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES (The Flying Saucer Dossiers) by Jacques Lob and Robert Gigi. Price: 22.50 F. This is described as an excellent, precise album, illustrated with comic strips and photos, appealing to both young and older readers, as well as researchers, who will find details of historical MOC cases without distortion.

Photos

A series of 20 postcard-sized photographs are available for purchase at the magazine's headquarters. These photos concern objects on the ground, in flight, traces, robot portraits of MOC occupants, and correlations between MOCs and geological faults, with explanations for each. The price is 17 F (postage included). The availability of slides is mentioned as being reissued later.

Publication Details

The magazine is printed in France by Imprimerie Imprilux, Saint-Etienne. The Director of Publication is R. Veillith. The registration number for the joint committee is 35.385. The legal deposit is from the 4th quarter of 1973.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are clearly UFOs, flying saucers, extraterrestrial phenomena, and the investigation of these subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious research and documentation, presenting various hypotheses and findings from different researchers and authors in the field. The magazine aims to inform its readers about the latest books and photographic evidence related to these mysteries, encouraging both in-depth study and broader interest.