LDLN - No 176

Magazine Overview

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night), volume 21, number 176, dated June-July 1978, is published by the "GROUPEMENT INTERNATIONAL DE RECHERCHES" (International Research Group). The cover features a striking black and white illustration of a surreal landscape with stylized trees under a red, disc-shaped UFO, accompanied by the headline "MYSTERIEUX OBJETS CELESTES ET PROBLEMES CONNEXES" (Mysterious Celestial Objects and Related Problems).

Key Articles and Themes

"UNE QUESTION QUE SE POSENT LES SAVANTS ?" (A Question Scientists Are Asking?)

This article by Jacques SCORNAUX explores the growing scientific consideration of extraterrestrial intelligence, even outside the field of ufology. It cites articles from "New Scientist" and "Science" that discuss the possibility of interstellar travel and the implications for the Fermi paradox (why haven't we encountered other civilizations?). The author notes that scientists are beginning to question why, if interstellar travel is feasible, the galaxy doesn't appear to be already inhabited. The article highlights that scientific discussions are moving towards the idea that extraterrestrial intelligences might be present but choose not to reveal themselves, or are observing humanity's development.

"La science-fiction est le "point aveugle" de l'ufologie" (Science Fiction is the "Blind Spot" of Ufology)

Bertrand MEHEUST argues that science fiction has already extensively explored themes and scenarios related to UFOs and extraterrestrial encounters, dating back to the early 20th century. He contends that much of what is reported in UFO cases, such as flying objects, abductions, and humanoid descriptions, has already been depicted in pulp fiction and early sci-fi stories. Meheust suggests that this pre-existing narrative framework influences how witnesses interpret their experiences and how ufologists approach the subject, making science fiction a 'blind spot' that has shaped the phenomenon's perception rather than being a source of new discoveries.

"MA MÈRE L'OYE. sur champ d'OVNI..." (My Mother Goose. On UFOs...)

Jean-Jacques JAILLAT draws parallels between UFO reports and folklore, particularly the archetype of the 'nain' (dwarf). He discusses how figures like dwarves, lutins, and farfadets in folklore share characteristics with descriptions of small humanoid beings encountered in UFO cases. Jaillat links these folkloric figures to ancient myths and psychological archetypes, suggesting that they represent subconscious forces or aspects of the self. He also touches upon the 'giant' archetype as a counterpoint to the 'dwarf', further embedding UFO phenomena within a framework of universal myths and psychological symbolism.

Investigations and Sightings

The magazine features several investigation reports from different regions:

• Guebling (Moselle): An account of a witness who saw three white lights, one of which ascended and followed his mobylette, emitting a powerful beam.
• Seine-et-Marne: A report from Vaudoy en Brie and Jouy le Chatel describing a red sphere and white spheres, followed by a cigar-shaped object.
• Loiret: A witness in Oison described a circular, orange object with a light beam that grew larger before disappearing.
• Sarthe: A family in Champagné observed a stationary oval object with grey rectangles appearing on its surface before it vanished.
• Vendée (Luçon): Two brothers reported seeing a white light on a cigar-shaped object.
• Gers (Lombez): A witness observed a silent, oval, metallic object with humanoid heads visible.

"SISMICITE et OVNI" (Seismicity and UFOs)

This section explores potential connections between seismic activity and luminous aerial phenomena. Reports from Arette (Pyrénées Atlantiques) and Nay describe unusual lights observed around the time of earthquakes. A case from Bulgaria also links a fireball sighting to a significant earthquake. The article suggests that geological events, such as the release of subterranean gases, might be responsible for these luminous displays, drawing parallels to scientific explanations for similar phenomena observed in the US and Turkey.

"AU PORTUGAL"

A sighting near Estoril describes an "escadrille" of seven identical, rose-saumon colored disc-shaped objects that performed complex maneuvers before disappearing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena with broader cultural, psychological, and scientific contexts. It demonstrates an open-minded approach, publishing diverse viewpoints and encouraging debate. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the search for truth, while acknowledging the mysterious nature of the subject. There's a clear interest in connecting UFO reports to historical myths, folklore, and psychological archetypes, suggesting that these phenomena may tap into deep-seated aspects of the human psyche and collective unconscious. The publication also highlights the role of science fiction in shaping perceptions of UFOs and the potential for scientific inquiry to shed light on these mysteries. The magazine actively solicits reader contributions, reinforcing its commitment to collective research.

This issue of "Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes" delves into various UFO phenomena, featuring detailed case studies, expert analyses, and interviews. The magazine highlights reports from Spain, Finland, and other international locations, exploring witness testimonies, physical evidence, and the broader implications of UFO research.

Case Study: Gerena, Spain

The lead article details an observation on October 23, 1977, in Gerena, Spain, involving a luminous phenomenon over the local cemetery. The investigation, conducted by ufologist Joachim Mateos Nogales, focuses on the credible testimonies of several witnesses, including Madame Ana Rumin Padilla and Monsieur Manuel Fernandez Garcia. Initially perceived as a bright red 'cloud' illuminating the cypress trees and cemetery wall, the phenomenon later resolved into a small, brilliant object that moved slowly, changing color from red to green with intermittent flashes. The object was observed for approximately 2-3 minutes. The report emphasizes the witnesses' sincerity and the lack of any conventional explanation, classifying the case as 'unidentified'. Further corroboration comes from reports of strange phenomena observed in the same area that night by other villagers.

Case Study: Finnish UFO Fragment

This section presents a significant case from Finland concerning a fragment that fell from a UFO into Lake Kallavesi in August 1964. The event was witnessed by Raimo Blowqvist. The fragment, described as multicolored, oval, and surrounded by a luminous mist, was later studied in Finland and Sweden. Extensive documentation, including photographs and microscopic analyses, confirmed the event. The fragment, approximately 36 cm long and 6 mm thick, was magnetic and composed of several layers, primarily iron and oxygen, with trace elements like manganese, copper, silicon, and titanium. Experts, including a meteorite specialist and a metallurgist, concluded it was not of geological or meteoritic origin, nor a known supernatural metal. The high temperatures it endured (around 650 degrees Celsius) made definitive origin determination difficult.

International Sightings

The magazine includes a section on 'Soucoupes Volantes à Gogo', reporting on over fifty UFO appearances in the Swansea, Mid-Wales, and Broad Haven triangle in the UK, causing local concern. A report from Italy describes an oval UFO with green lights observed near Reggio Emilia. Several brief reports from Spain detail other incidents: an orange rectangular object observed on a road in Seville province, a red ball with an unusual trajectory near Guittera, and a luminous object over Milan. Other brief reports cover sightings in France (Haute Garonne, Vaucluse, Finistère, Maine-et-Loire) and Spain (Bilbao).

Interview with Ignacio Darnaude

An interview with Ignacio Darnaude, a 46-year-old economist and ufologist from Seville, Spain, explores various facets of ufology. Darnaude has been interested in the subject for 22 years and discusses the challenges and evolution of UFO research. He highlights prominent Spanish researchers and international UFO organizations he contacts. He characterizes 1977 as a relatively quiet year for UFO activity, though noting official military document releases in Spain. Darnaude defines UFOs as 'intentional energy centers' operating within our biosphere, noting their diverse forms and sizes. He suggests their geographical distribution is not random, often appearing near water sources, educational institutions, and industrial sites, implying a strategic plan. He theorizes that UFOs might be drawn to researchers' areas of interest. Darnaude also touches upon 'contactees', suggesting they are intermediaries used to subtly introduce 'shocking' or 'subversive' information to the public without causing panic, and that UFOs might serve a purpose in guiding humanity's spiritual and evolutionary development.

Book Review: 'Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes' by Bertrand Meheust

This section reviews Bertrand Meheust's book, which explores the relationship between science fiction and UFO sightings. The reviewer, F. Lagarde, praises the book for its thorough documentation and unique approach, suggesting that science fiction has often anticipated or described UFO phenomena. The review also includes a postface by Pierre Versins, who discusses the concept of a 'collective unconscious' as a potential link between science fiction writers and UFO witnesses, noting the lack of direct cultural connections between many of them.

Other Sections

The magazine also features a 'Courrier' section with reader contributions, including a detailed account of a sighting and a letter from a witness to an alleged landing near Givet, France. There is also a section on 'Nouvelles Récentes' (Recent News) summarizing various UFO sightings from around the world, and a notice about the passing of Jean Tyrode, a dedicated collaborator of the magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the detailed investigation of UFO sightings, the analysis of physical evidence, and the exploration of the psychological and sociological aspects of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded rational inquiry, encouraging rigorous investigation while acknowledging the often baffling and seemingly inexplicable nature of the phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on credible witness testimony and the scientific analysis of any physical traces left behind. The magazine also seems to advocate for a more serious and less dismissive approach to UFO research, countering skepticism and promoting the idea that these phenomena warrant serious study.