LDLN - No 229-230

Magazine Overview

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night), dated July-August 1983, is the 26th year of publication and the 15th issue. The cover prominently features the title and a headline about "MYSTERIOUS CELESTIAL OBJECTS AND RELATED PROBLEMS." The main visual is a photograph of a glowing object in the night sky. Smaller headlines highlight articles on "The gravediggers of progress" and a report on a sighting near La Baule.

The Gravediggers of Progress: The Mandarins Against the Pioneers of Science

This section re-publishes an article by the late scientist Auguste LUMIERE, "The Gravediggers of Progress," with the permission of his son, Henri LUMIERE. The article argues that throughout history, scientific discoveries and inventions have often been met with incomprehension, bad faith, and even conspiracy of silence from contemporaries. It cites examples like Jean DENYS, who was persecuted for his work on blood transfusions in 1067, and discusses how innovators often struggle against established doctrines and the personal interests of those in power. The text highlights that while criticism can be useful, hostile or jealous criticism hinders progress. It also touches upon the slow acceptance of new ideas, often taking a generation or more.

The article further explores the academic and university resistance to new ideas, citing the French Academy of Sciences as an example of an institution that has historically been slow to accept groundbreaking discoveries. It also touches upon the psychological barriers, such as fear of overshadowing superiors or the desire for personal gain, that prevent some scientists from pursuing or sharing novel research.

Analysis of Responses to the 25th Anniversary Questionnaire (Part 4)

This extensive section, authored by Gilbert Cornu, analyzes the results of a reader questionnaire concerning the UFO phenomenon. It begins by discussing the methodology, acknowledging the limitations of opinion polls and the importance of considering both exclusive and multiple-choice responses. The analysis focuses on readers' beliefs about the origin of UFOs.

Origins of the UFO Phenomenon (Question 01)

The survey presented 15 hypotheses for the origin of UFOs, ranging from extraterrestrial visitors to psychological phenomena and spiritual entities. The results show a significant division among respondents:

• Exclusive Responses: The majority (74.14%) favored the extraterrestrial hypothesis ('f'). Other notable responses included manifestations from unknown universes ('m', 9.69%) and misunderstood physical or geophysical phenomena ('b', 5.74%).
• Multiple Responses: In this category, the extraterrestrial hypothesis ('f') remained dominant but with a lower percentage (85.60% of those who gave multiple answers). The hypothesis of manifestations from unknown universes ('m') showed a significant increase in importance (68.02%), as did the spiritual hypotheses ('j', 'k', 'l') which collectively represented a substantial portion of responses, indicating a strong interest in the spiritual aspect of the phenomenon.

The analysis notes the surprising strength of the 'unknown universe' and spiritual hypotheses, suggesting they may become more prominent in the future. It also highlights the tendency for participants to group certain spiritual hypotheses together, indicating a shared understanding of these concepts.

Other Questions and Observations

The article also presents statistical data and analysis for other questions:

• Question 02: Change of Opinion: A majority (71.88%) stated their opinion on UFOs had not changed, while 26.17% indicated a change, often linked to the extraterrestrial hypothesis.
• Question 03: Ancient or Recent Phenomenon: An overwhelming majority (94.05%) believe the UFO phenomenon is ancient.
• Question 04: UFOs and Folklore/Mythology: This question showed a division, with 53.76% seeing a connection and 43.41% not.
• Question 05: UFOs and Religious Texts: A strong majority (73.47%) believe there are connections between UFOs and biblical or sacred texts.
• Question 06: UFOs and Religious/Mystical Apparitions: Similar to the previous question, a majority (59.11%) see a link between UFOs and prodigies or apparitions.
• Question 07: UFOs and Contactees: A significant majority (62.82%) believe contactee cases are related to ufology, though with some reservations.
• Question 08: Mutilations and Ufology: This question revealed hesitation, with 63.11% believing mutilations are related to ufology, but a notable percentage (29.05%) did not, and a significant number did not answer.
• Question 09: Aptitude for Observation: Opinions were divided, with 49.23% believing some people have a greater aptitude for observing UFOs and 48.41% disagreeing.
• Question 10: Reality of UFO Crashes: The majority (80.17%) believe UFO crashes are real, though a substantial minority (30.94%) disagree, and a record number did not answer.

The analysis also includes notes on participants' written remarks, highlighting the complexity and nuanced opinions that go beyond simple yes/no answers. The author emphasizes the need for further research and careful consideration of all aspects of the phenomenon.

Our Activities

This section details the magazine's activities, including reader surveys, technical research groups, and a UFO surveillance network. It calls for reader participation in various research efforts and appeals for donations of old documents and materials.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, mystery, and the unexplained, with a particular focus on the UFO phenomenon. It champions the pursuit of truth, even when it challenges conventional scientific or societal beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, encouraging readers to think critically and contribute to the collective understanding of these complex subjects. There's a recurring theme of resistance to new ideas, whether in science or in the interpretation of unexplained phenomena, and the magazine seems dedicated to giving a platform to alternative perspectives and ongoing research.

This issue of "L'Airship" (Issue 4, Volume 4) from January 1987, published by LDLN, delves into the mysterious "phantom airship" wave that swept across the United States in 1897. The main cover headline, "L'Airship, cet ovni qui annonça la soucoupe volante" (The Airship, this UFO that announced the flying saucer), sets the tone for an in-depth investigation by Jean Sider.

The 1897 Airship Wave: An In-Depth Study

Jean Sider presents a detailed analysis of the 1897 airship sightings, based on 1,200 reported cases, from which 129 precise incidents were selected. The article debunks the notion that science fiction, particularly the works of Jules Verne and H.G. Wells, influenced these sightings, noting that the literary genre was still in its nascent stages and that the described airships bore little resemblance to fictional counterparts. The author also dismisses the idea that the sightings were merely misinterpretations of Venus or journalistic hoaxes, citing the lack of serious scientific investigation at the time.

Object Characteristics and Behavior

The article highlights unique characteristics of the 1897 airships, such as "flapping wings" reminiscent of birds, and describes their tails with comparisons to bird tails, fish, or fans. Notably, the absence of classic gondolas and the rarity of night flights are emphasized. The author also stresses that no position lights or signal lights were observed on these craft, and that the use of searchlights only became common with military dirigibles after 1910. The physical descriptions of the objects often included features like wings that curved like bird wings, and tails described as fan-like or fish-like.

Debunking Conventional Explanations

Sider critically examines various explanations proposed by researchers, including those who attributed the sightings to local inventors, journalistic sensationalism, or mass psychoses. He argues that these interpretations are flawed due to a lack of thorough research into original sources and a misunderstanding of the historical context of aeronautics in the late 19th century. The article points out the unusual scientific skepticism towards the initial observations, suggesting a possible artificial psychological block rather than natural curiosity.

The Possibility of Electric Propulsion

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the theoretical possibility of electric propulsion for UFOs, a concept developed by Maurice G. de San. The article discusses the immense electrical potentials required for such propulsion, the challenges of maintaining electrical charges in the air, and the phenomenon of electrical discharge (sparking). It proposes a model where electrons emitted by the craft ionize the surrounding air, creating a negative charge that, in turn, attracts the positively charged craft, thus generating lift and propulsion. The author acknowledges the technical difficulties but suggests that more advanced civilizations might have overcome them.

Historical Context of Aeronautics

Jean Sider provides a detailed historical overview of early aeronautics in the USA, distinguishing between "visionaries" (those with theoretical plans but no practical results), "precursors" (those who built and flew experimental craft, often using muscle power), and "pioneers" (those who achieved significant milestones like the first powered flights and night flights). This section aims to establish that the technology for the observed phenomena in 1897 did not exist within human capabilities at the time.

Case Study: La Baule, France (1982)

The magazine features an exceptional case from La Baule, France, involving a witness, M. X., who photographed a luminous phenomenon on February 6, 1982. Ten photographs are presented, showing what appear to be small, luminous spheres moving near the ground. The article includes expert analysis of the photographs, concluding they are authentic and not hoaxes. While ruling out conventional explanations like tractor lights or weather balloons, the author cautiously considers the possibility of ball lightning, though noting discrepancies in duration and conditions. The phenomenon's characteristics, such as its color and movement, are described in detail.

Case Study: Carquefou, France (1974)

Another case detailed is from Carquefou, France, on January 16, 1974, where two witnesses reported seeing a luminous object with flashing lights hovering over a field. The object was described as circular and white, similar to an opal lamp. The witnesses experienced a power outage before and during the sighting. The article notes the proximity of the site to a marsh and a regional park, and mentions a previous similar incident in the same area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, historical UFO sightings, and the exploration of advanced, possibly extraterrestrial, technologies. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, seeking to debunk simplistic explanations and delve into the more complex possibilities, including advanced propulsion systems and the potential for non-human intelligence. The magazine encourages further research and emphasizes the importance of examining original sources and historical context. The publication also includes a call for new subscriptions to support its investigative journalism.

Title: Lumières dans la Nuit
Issue: September-October 1983
Date: September-October 1983
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" focuses on UFO investigations and related phenomena, featuring detailed witness accounts and analyses.

Investigations and Sightings

Larmor-Plage (Morbihan)

The issue details an investigation by Mile Lesellier and Gérard Champetier concerning a sighting by Madame LEGALL Jeanne on October 22, 1977, between 11 PM and 11:30 PM. Madame Legall, a 50-year-old divorced woman working as a grocer, observed a large, well-defined red sphere in the sky. She described it as "like an ember in the fire." The object was located about 10 km away, at an observation angle of approximately 10 degrees. The sky was clear with stars and the moon visible, and there was no wind. The phenomenon occurred during high tide (coefficient 90). Madame Legall alerted her neighbors, Monsieur and Madame MARREC Annie, who also witnessed the event. Madame Marrec took two photos of the phenomenon, which later turned out to be blank, described as "like erased." The film was developed by L.C.C.P.O. and the photos were of a white, erased quality, despite the apparatus having previously taken clear photos of the moon.

Near Nostang (Morbihan)

Another investigation, conducted by Gérard Champetier, covers an event that occurred between September 1 and 15, 1976, involving a witness identified as Madame M. (anonymity requested), a psychiatric nurse. The incident took place around 9:45 PM at Pont-Couriou, near Nostang, in a marshy region under a clear sky with no wind. While driving to work, Madame M.'s car lights and engine suddenly stopped. She then saw an elongated, milky white object moving towards the right of the road, estimated to be three-quarters the length of her windshield. By the time she got out of the car to examine it, the "cloud" had completely disappeared. Upon returning to her car, the engine started, and the headlights turned on as if nothing had happened. The entire vision lasted about twenty minutes. The witness and her husband, who also witnessed the event, had not previously been interested in UFO phenomena.

Near La Gacilly (Morbihan)

An investigation by Gérard Champetier reports on an event in February 1978, involving witnesses Monsieur and Madame Le Du. While driving towards La Gacilly at night, they were blinded by a violent white light. Shortly after, they observed three red-orange balls moving parallel to the road, about 10 to 15 meters above the ground. The phenomenon lasted only about five seconds. The witnesses were not frightened and stated they would have approached if the balls had stopped. Their car engine did not falter.

Seine-Maritime

An investigation by Luc Jean on January 24, 1983, reports on a phenomenon observed across the Seine-Maritime region. Hundreds, possibly thousands, of witnesses saw a round object followed by a sparkling tail moving at fantastic speed. The object was described as very high, descending at an angle of 30 to 40 degrees from northwest to southeast. Observation times were short, between 3 and 10 seconds. The colors were predominantly white (sometimes green), often followed by a luminous trail of yellow-orange or red. The object is speculated to be the re-entry of a satellite, possibly "Cosmos 1402," which was officially reported to have fallen into the ocean the previous evening. The article references a book by P. Kohler, "les satellites maîtres du monde," which discusses spectacular satellite falls, including "Cosmos 169" and "Cosmos 900."

Kaysersberg (Haut-Rhin) and Vernoux (Ardèche)

An article by Michel Figuet discusses the misidentification of the star Venus as a UFO. He addresses an observation on January 1, 1982, near Kaysersberg, which was initially reported as a phenomenon but later identified as the "star of the Shepherd" (Venus). Similar confusion occurred among amateur radio operators in Ardèche on the same day. Figuet analyzes the trajectory and observation angles, concluding that Venus was descending slowly from left to right behind a mountain massif, not moving towards the northwest as initially reported. He also notes that intermittent clouds could explain the perceived changes in Venus's intensity and scintillation.

Book Reviews

"Les extra-terrestres et les mutations mondiales de l'ère du verseau" by Alfred Nahon

This review by Gilles Smiena discusses Alfred Nahon's book, which posits that extraterrestrials have established strategic bases on the Moon. The book draws heavily on NASA's catalog of lunar anomalies. The reviewer notes that while Nahon's earlier work on lunar anomalies was based on credible data, his current interpretation leans heavily towards extraterrestrial involvement, even dedicating the book to Pope John Paul II. Nahon argues that the Apollo program was a military endeavor and that the US and Russia had to abandon lunar bases because they found evidence of prior extraterrestrial presence, including massive alien craft.

"La Chine et les extra-terrestres par Shi Bo"

This section highlights a book by Shi Bo, a young Chinese diplomat, which reportedly contains a festival of UFO observations from China. The reviewer compares it to Aimé Michel's "Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes," emphasizing that the facts presented are often directly from witnesses. The book is divided into three parts: ancient observations, pre-1980 observations (military and civilian), and a study of the 1981 UFO wave. The reviewer stresses the importance of considering China's vast population and their potential for numerous observations due to their close connection with nature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and witness testimony in understanding UFO phenomena. It encourages readers to submit their observations and highlights the ongoing efforts of ufologists. The editorial stance appears to be open to the possibility of genuine UFO phenomena while also being critical of unsubstantiated claims and promoting scientific inquiry. There is a clear call for continued vigilance and a systematic approach to collecting and analyzing reports. The magazine also touches upon broader themes such as the potential for extraterrestrial influence and the need for critical thinking regarding astronomical misidentifications.