LDLN - No 227-228

Magazine Overview

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night), dated May-June 1983, is the 15th issue of its 26th year, identified as number 227-228. The cover headline proclaims "MYSTERIEUX OBJETS CELESTES ET PROBLEMES CONNEXES" (Mysterious Celestial Objects and Related Problems). The cover features a photograph of a landscape and highlights several articles, including a questionnaire analysis, a story about an 'airship' UFO, and a presumed landing in Lanester.

Editorial Stance and Publisher

The magazine is published by the "GROUPEMENT INTERNATIONAL DE RECHERCHES" (International Research Group) and founded by R. VEILLITH. The editorial states that the review is dedicated to those who passionately seek truth, with discoveries guiding humanity towards new horizons. The editorial board is described as fluid and composed of numerous collaborators.

Article: Ovni, Extra-Terrestres et Astronomes

This article, penned by Jacques Bonabot, discusses the often dismissive attitude of astronomers towards UFOs. It questions why astronomers, despite their fascination with celestial bodies, seem uninterested or even hostile to the possibility of intelligent extraterrestrial life. The author references Jean SIDER and Jacques Vallée, who highlight a psychological barrier and a 'Harvard syndrome' among astronomers that prevents them from embracing the concept of intelligent alien life. The article suggests that their rigorous scientific education, focused solely on established astronomical knowledge, may hinder their ability to consider unconventional possibilities. It also touches upon the idea that some astronomers might fear discoveries that could disrupt their established worldview or professional standing.

Article: Compte-rendu et analyse des réponses au questionnaire du 25º anniversaire de "LDLN" (3)

Authored by Gilbert Cornu, this is the third part of an analysis of responses to a questionnaire celebrating the 25th anniversary of "Lumières dans la nuit." This section focuses on the participants' views on UFO research and the phenomenon itself.

Key Findings on Progress and Explanation:

• Progress: A significant majority (72.00%) believe that knowledge of the UFO phenomenon has progressed, even if fragmented, while 26.00% disagree.
• Explanation: A large portion (73.29%) believe the phenomenon will eventually be explained, even if in the distant future. Only 5.00% think it will remain incomprehensible, and 21.35% believe it will only be partially understood.
• Skepticism: The author notes that the number of participants who are disappointed with current progress (442) and those who are skeptical about the future (363) are similar, but a closer look reveals that these groups do not perfectly overlap. Only a small percentage (2.64%) are consistently skeptical about both the present and future.

Trust in Researchers and Organizations:

• Confidence: Participants overwhelmingly trust independent researchers (82.82%) over official organizations (12.05%). Many comments express distrust towards official bodies like GEPAN.
• Role of Ufological Groups: The majority (66.17%) consider independent ufological groups to be "very important," with others deeming them "moderately important" (28.05%) or "not very important" (6.17%). These groups are seen as crucial for investigations and disseminating information.

Personal Involvement and Handicaps:

• Personal Concern: A high percentage (86.94%) feel personally concerned by ufological research.
• Handicaps: While 69.88% report no personal handicap due to their interest in ufology, 14.11% have experienced difficulties. Many who reported no handicap noted that they keep their interest private or only discuss it with like-minded individuals, suggesting that societal skepticism and ridicule remain significant barriers.

Attitudes Towards Reporting:

• Reporting: When faced with an unusual event, the majority of participants (54.52%) would report it to the gendarmerie (police). A significant number (86.76%) would inform ufological groups or the magazine, while only 9.35% would contact the press or radio. A small percentage (7.70%) would say nothing.
• Reasons for Reporting: While the gendarmerie is seen as a legal authority, concerns are raised about the longevity of their archives. The press and radio are largely distrusted due to past sensationalism and misrepresentation of UFO phenomena.

Article: L'Airship, cet ovni qui annonça la soucoupe volante (3)

By Jean Sider, this article continues an investigation into the wave of 'airship' sightings in 1897, primarily in the United States. It examines 129 selected incidents from over 1,200 observed cases.

"Abduction" Schemas:

Three cases of alleged abduction are mentioned. One is dismissed as a hoax. Another, from April 4, 1897, in St. Louis, Missouri, describes a man named Joslin who claims to have been taken aboard a large, dragon-like creature with six eyes and attended by small, red-skinned bipeds. He describes spending three weeks in torment on this 'airship'. The article notes that Joslin's account was attributed to alcoholism by the press.

"Connected Phenomena" Schemas:

• Flying Men: An incident from April 18, 1897, in Caldwell, Texas, involves a Black man who claimed to have been captured by sailors from an airship and taken aboard. The author notes this account might be influenced by the social context of the time.
• Crashes: The article details several reports of 'airship' crashes in April 1897 across various locations in the USA (Aurora, Texas; Bethany, Missouri; Moberly, Missouri; Rhodes, Iowa; Winamac, Indiana; Jefferson, Iowa). Some are identified as hoaxes, while others remain unexplained. A notable case from June 6, 1884, in Benkelman, Nebraska, describes a flaming object crashing and leaving behind intense heat and fragments, which the author presents as a curious, possibly early, UFO-related incident.

Article: Pour rétablir une vérité

Authored by Thierry Pinvidic, this article addresses the perceived 'conspiracy of silence' surrounding UFOs, particularly in relation to the CAUS (Center for UFO Studies) lawsuit against the CIA regarding the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The author defends Lawrence Fawcett and Jacques Vallée against accusations of promoting conspiracy theories, stating that Vallée is pragmatic and realistic. Pinvidic argues that while the US government may have withheld some UFO-related documents due to national security concerns (NSA, NSC), this does not automatically imply a cover-up of extraterrestrial activity. He references a document that suggests the withheld information pertains to national security rather than direct UFO evidence, and quotes Philip Morrison acknowledging the public's belief in a conspiracy of silence.

Article: Courrier (Letters to the Editor)

This section features letters from readers. One letter discusses the scientific nature of ufology and its ability to reveal humanity's ignorance. Another letter discusses the challenges of research, the need for rigorous investigation, and the importance of not falling into ideological traps when interpreting phenomena. A third letter highlights the unique position of UFOs in stimulating research and passion, comparing it to a 'religious need' that drives the search for new realities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes independent research and critical analysis of UFO phenomena, often contrasting it with the perceived skepticism or inaction of official scientific bodies and government agencies. There is a strong emphasis on historical documentation and the importance of rigorous investigation. The publication appears to encourage open debate among its readers, acknowledging diverse viewpoints while maintaining a focus on uncovering the truth about UFOs and related mysteries. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, valuing both the quantity and quality of data, and encouraging readers to share their findings and perspectives.

This issue of "L'ÉCHO DES OVNIS" (The Echo of UFOs), issue number 238 from December 1983, published by the Groupe d'études et de recherches ufologiques, focuses on the ongoing debate surrounding UFO research, government secrecy, and the scientific community's approach to the phenomenon. The cover headline, "La recherche des extra-terrestres continue" (The search for extraterrestrials continues), hints at the magazine's exploration of both official investigations and public sightings.

Legal and Governmental Aspects of UFO Documentation

The lead article, "Réponse (tardive) à une lettre ouverte" (Late response to an open letter), by Jean Bastide, begins by addressing the US Supreme Court's decision regarding the declassification of UFO documents. It details a case where the court reviewed affidavits, including a TOP SECRET one from the NSA, presented by officer Eugène Yeates. The court concluded that the exceptions to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) were properly applied, and that declassifying these documents could compromise national security. The article emphasizes that the reason for secrecy might not be extraterrestrial content but rather the protection of sensitive information about military installations. It critiques the tendency of ufologists to assume that classified documents automatically imply knowledge of extraterrestrials. The author also references a 1952 letter from Allen Dulles, then CIA director, to the Psychological Strategy Board, inquiring about the potential use of public interest in UFOs for psychological warfare, further illustrating the non-extraterrestrial motivations behind government interest.

Witness Testimonies and Case Studies

The magazine presents several detailed accounts of UFO sightings from various regions in France:

• Manche, France (Pages 3 & 5): A detailed report by Micheline Lesellier and Gérard Champetier describes an incident in February or March 1972 where M. Forget Christian and three companions observed a white, tailless sphere, about 1 meter in diameter, fall into the sea. They investigated the impact site, noting ripples on the water. Forget also recounts a childhood sighting in 1959 of a red-orange sphere.
• Morbihan, France (Page 5): An investigation by Jean-Michel Le Doussal and Gérard Champetier details a presumed landing at Lanester in July 1973. Monsieur and Madame Le Ravallec observed a large circle formed by flattened grass with a white powder, near a large granite stone, suggesting a geological effect or a landing trace.
• Gâvres, Morbihan, France (Page 6): An account by Gérard Champetier describes an encounter in October 1954 where Madame C. Marie reported seeing five humanoid figures emerge from a beam of light from a red-orange object. The figures, described as about 1 to 1.20 meters tall, covered in reddish hair, and with pig-like noses, circled her before disappearing.
• Fontenay-le-Comte, Vendée, France (Page 6): Guy Josse reports on an observation in August 1974 involving thirteen witnesses who saw a luminous red ball descending, followed by a white fluorescent mass. The object was described as having a round base and a dome-like top.
• Huningue, France (Page 7): An investigation by J. Journot details an observation on May 26, 1980, by M. and Mme D., who saw a metallic object with a round base and a dome-like top, oscillating and disappearing into the clouds. The object was estimated to be 4-5 meters in diameter and 2 meters high.
• Paris, France (Page 8): An inquiry by M. A. Lesellier recounts an observation by her daughter Christine and Pierre Degryse on November 20, 1977. They saw indistinct shapes moving around a TV antenna, which then transformed into a green elliptical object.
• Colombier-Chatelot, Doubs, France (Page 8): An observation from November 1961 by an unnamed witness describes a long, flamboyant red cigar-shaped object in a dark sky.
• Fréjus - Saint-Raphaël, Var, France (Page 9): Henri Julien reports on an observation on January 4, 1981, by Pierre and Pierrette Julien, who saw a brilliant, round object moving rapidly against the mistral wind.

Ufology as a Science of Accumulation

Jean Bastide's article, "L'ufologie, une science d'accumulation" (Ufology, a science of accumulation), delves into the epistemological challenges of ufology. He argues that it is primarily a descriptive science, making definitive proof difficult. Unlike exact sciences, ufology relies on accumulating evidence and observations, which can be easily refuted by counter-examples or claims of hoaxes. Bastide criticizes the scientific community for its reluctance to engage with the phenomenon, often dismissing it without thorough investigation. He highlights the difficulty of proving the existence of UFOs and suggests that the scientific community's lack of effort has prevented a comprehensive understanding.

Personal Accounts and Experiences

Several personal narratives add a human dimension to the UFO phenomenon:

• "Paysage Fantôme" (Phantom Landscape) (Page 4): Reported by M. Bruno Bousquet, this account describes a young couple who experienced a sudden, inexplicable shift from a forest to a perfectly preserved, yet empty, village, only to find themselves back in the forest moments later. The village, which they could not relocate, seemed to exist in a different temporal or spatial reality.
• "Ces OVNI qui annoncent le surhomme" (These UFOs that announce the superman) (Page 4): A brief mention of a couple's experience in Sologne, France, where they encountered a strange, empty village that seemed to exist in winter conditions despite it being summer.
• Récits de Mme X (anonymat demandé) (Pages 10): This section features a personal testimony from a woman who, in 1947, experienced unexplained phenomena in a house, including a luminous circle moving on the walls. Later, while hospitalized, she witnessed a golden, cigar-shaped object that she interpreted as a divine sign, leading her to explore parapsychology.

Technical and Research Activities

The magazine includes a section on "Nos activités" (Our activities), detailing the research efforts of the publication. It mentions the availability of an official investigator's card, an "Aide-Mémoire" (memory aid), and various technical guides for building detection equipment (magnetic, light, acoustic, Geiger counter, pulsograph, frequency meter). It also offers a brochure for creating an automatic photographic station. The section appeals for donations of old postcards, books, comics, and letters to support their archives. It also highlights the FIDUFO (Fichier Informatique de Documentation sur les UFO) project, seeking volunteers for data entry, translation, and programming, and the RECHERCHES D'ARCHIVES (Archive Research) initiative, which uncovers forgotten UFO facts from the press.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the need for rigorous, evidence-based investigation into UFO phenomena, while simultaneously critiquing the scientific community's skepticism and government secrecy. The magazine champions the role of witness testimony and detailed case studies, even while acknowledging the challenges in proving the physical reality of these events. There's a recurring theme that government interest in UFOs is often driven by national security concerns rather than extraterrestrial contact. The publication also explores the psychological aspects of sightings and the potential for shared experiences, including telepathic influences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to contribute their own observations and supporting the idea that ufology, despite its challenges, is a valid field of study.

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), dated the second quarter of 1983, focuses on UFO phenomena with a significant section dedicated to five lesser-known cases from Morocco in 1953 and 1954. The magazine also features an innovative UFO detector design, news from a French UFO surveillance network, and information on an Austrian-made flying saucer model.

Moroccan UFO Cases (1953-1954)

The cover story highlights five distinct UFO sightings in Morocco. The first, near Taza in the autumn of 1953, involved M. Mohring and four companions observing a luminous object moving in a straight line from South to North. The second case, on September 6, 1954, near Ain Khabbeb, described a phenomenon initially appearing as a star that later moved slowly, forming two luminous balls. A third observation on November 23, 1954, near Taza, reported an unknown object moving at high altitude, characterized by its luminosity and silence, with a slight hum.

Two cases from Taza on October 12 and October 19, 1954, are also detailed. The October 12 sighting involved two non-commissioned officers observing a voluminous, orange, luminous object with a halo. The October 19 case reported by multiple military and civilian witnesses described a metallic object, shaped like a cigar or fuseau, moving silently at high speed, with a classic 'aluminum' metallic color and no visible protrusions or emissions.

Personal Accounts and Phenomena

The issue begins with a personal account from an unnamed narrator who recounts experiences with mediumistic phenomena in their youth, including unexplained bell ringing and lights in a village schoolhouse. These experiences, while initially attributed to spiritualism, are later linked to potential UFO connections due to their unusual nature and the narrator's later reading on the subject. The narrator also shares an experience of seeing a sailboat-like object crossing the sky with a companion, and a curious incident involving their dog and their own feet becoming inexplicably yellow after visiting the fountain of Merlin, suggesting a possible link between psychic energy and luminous appearances.

Innovative UFO Detector Design

An article by F. Lagarde presents an original design for a UFO detector. Unlike conventional detectors that use a magnetic needle, this device employs a lightweight, magnetic clinquant disk mounted on a pivot. The disk is designed to react to external magnetic disturbances by tilting or moving. The design includes a system of four contacts placed around the disk, which, when triggered by the disk's movement, can activate an alert, such as a lamp or a buzzer. The article emphasizes the simplicity and low cost of this DIY device, making it accessible to enthusiasts.

TURBOPLAN 01: An Austrian Mini-Saucer

The magazine introduces the TURBOPLAN 01, an Austrian-made mini-flying saucer developed by Heinz Jordan. This device, measuring one meter in diameter, is capable of hovering, accelerating vertically, and moving at high speeds. It utilizes a circular annular wing design for lift and propulsion, powered by a small electric motor. The TURBOPLAN has received awards for its innovation and is patented internationally, with potential applications in transport being explored by American and Japanese companies.

News from the French UFO Surveillance Network

The "Réseau de Surveillance O.V.N.I." (UFO Surveillance Network) announces a new approach for 1983, shifting from national vigils to encouraging regional groups and delegations to conduct their own sky surveillance using diverse methods. The network seeks experimental research and encourages the publication of findings in their review, "Lumières dans la Nuit." They express gratitude to various regional groups and investigators for their contributions.

Recent UFO News (Condensé de Presse)

This section provides a compilation of recent UFO sightings reported in French newspapers from December 1982 to January 1983:

• December 1982: An ovoid luminous object was sighted moving SW-NE in the Nord Aveyron region.
• January 6, 1983: A silent, white luminous mass with red reflections was observed in Chapelle-des-Bois (Doubs).
• 1981 (USSR): A fighter jet reportedly encountered a 5-meter 'fireball' that passed through it and exploded, causing damage.
• January 12, 1983: A 3-meter, intensely yellow flying object with rocket-like features was seen in Grandval (Puy de Dôme).
• January 12, 1983: A 'rugby ball' shaped fireball was observed in Riom and Lempdes (Puy de Dôme).
• January 15, 1983: In Reading, England, a bright red fireball was seen plunging to the ground, igniting grass, and leaving behind a cylindrical object and metallic wire.
• January 13, 1983: In Blamont and Audincourt (Doubs), a whitish, fast-moving object resembling a balloon was observed.
• January 24, 1983: Three elongated, 'water drop' shaped objects with a bright rear glow were seen in the Indre et Loire region.

Scientific Analysis of UFO Traces

A rectification is published regarding an article by Pierre Guerin. It states that official laboratories (Universities, INRA) have conducted physico-chemical and bio-chemical analyses of recent landing traces in France, confirming a complex physical event of significant magnitude.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the constructive exchange of information and evidence within the UFO research community. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of well-supported arguments over sterile polemics. The publication serves as a platform for sharing personal experiences, investigative findings, and news related to UFO phenomena, encouraging reader participation and collaboration in research efforts. The recurring theme is the exploration of unexplained aerial phenomena and their potential connections to other unusual events, advocating for open-minded yet rigorous investigation.