LDLN - No 235-236

Magazine Overview

Title: LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT
Issue: N° 235-236
Volume: 27th Year
Date: January-February 1984
Publisher: GROUPEMENT INTERNATIONAL DE RECHERCHES
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night) is dedicated to the passionate search for truth, with its discoveries guiding humanity towards new horizons. The editorial committee is composed of numerous collaborators whose texts are published in the magazine.

Articles and Content

Reflections on the presumed landing of a craft in Trans-en-Provence (Var), January 8, 1981

This article, authored by F. Lagarde, examines the Trans-en-Provence case, highlighting it as an exemplary case. The GEPAN (Group for the Study and Information on Aeronautical Phenomena) investigated the incident, collecting samples from the landing site and having them analyzed by five specialized laboratories. The conclusion was that an unknown phenomenon had occurred. The author discusses the nature of the energy involved, suggesting it might be related to high-frequency waves (THF) and exploring the possibility of psychic influence from the witness on the phenomenon. The article also touches upon the hypothesis of extraterrestrial (ET) involvement, considering the vastness of the cosmos and the potential for advanced civilizations. It questions the feasibility of interstellar travel based on known physics and posits the existence of unknown pathways or shortcuts used by ETs. The author concludes that while the GEPAN's findings were inconclusive, the evidence points towards a mysterious, elusive UFO.

"I confirm, 'I persist and Sign'" - From 1952 to 1983

Charles Garreau revisits his 1952 article published in "La BOURGOGNE REPUBLICAINE" titled "A PLAN THAT IS DEVELOPING BEFORE OUR EYES." This article drew parallels between the American space exploration plan announced in 1950 and the general pattern of UFO sightings. Garreau notes that UFO sightings were distributed globally, with a particular focus on Western Europe and later on America during its industrialization. He observed an intensification of sightings after atomic explosions, with attention shifting to the United States, a leader in nuclear energy. Garreau highlights several points of concordance between the American plan and UFO observations, including the presence of large saucers at high altitudes and UFOs following military and civilian aircraft, suggesting deliberate study. He also points out that bases were observed by both remote-controlled craft and those with crews. Garreau asserts that he made these observations in 1952, predating similar discoveries by Donald Keyhoe and Franck Edwards. He reiterates his conviction that his 1952 thesis is confirmed by subsequent events and offers an explanation for UFO appearances based on astronomical factors: advanced civilizations from older solar systems seeking new planets as their own star ages.

Passing Through Alsace: A Note on the Interest of Folklore

Frédéric Oumerchatem's article explores the connection between UFO phenomena and folklore. He argues that folklore has been underexplored as a source of information regarding UFOs, with many researchers focusing solely on extraterrestrial explanations. Oumerchatem suggests that common characteristics exist between religious, legendary, and ufological apparitions, and that these phenomena might be subjective interpretations of objective information. He proposes developing new research themes that connect humanoid sightings with fairies and goblins, as well as nocturnal lights and flying carriages. The article also discusses the concept of invisible energy and psychic phenomena, drawing parallels with poltergeist activity and unexplained object movements. Oumerchatem posits that the Trans-en-Provence case might involve a psychic interaction between the witness and the phenomenon, potentially leading to the materialization of an energy form. He emphasizes the importance of exploring the less-understood aspects of the human psyche and its potential influence on physical events. The author also touches upon the idea of a 'material psychism' and the interconnectedness of all things in the universe, challenging materialistic views.

Poltergeist in a Rented Apartment

This report details a series of unexplained events occurring in a rented apartment in Nüremberg, Germany. Residents reported objects moving independently, lights turning on and off, televisions activating on their own, and the appearance of nebulous forms. The phenomena escalated, causing significant distress to the inhabitants, who reported hearing footsteps, saw a figure in the hallway interact with the fuse box, and witnessed a plush dog move on its own. Despite attempts to debunk the events as a hoax, the unexplained occurrences continued. The police were involved and initially suggested a mass psychosis, but investigations were ongoing. The article highlights the fear and distress experienced by the residents, who felt they were being targeted by an unknown force.

July 24, 1981 in China

This article by F. Lagarde describes a significant UAP event observed in China on July 24, 1981. Thousands of Chinese citizens witnessed a large-scale luminous spiral phenomenon. The author discusses the observations, including the shape, color, and movement of the object, citing witness testimonies and a photograph. The phenomenon was described as a luminous spiral, an Archimedes screw, or a conical spring, with a bright, oval nucleus. It was observed moving from east to west and was visible for about 10 minutes. The article notes the difficulty in determining the object's exact size and altitude due to the limited data. Lagarde also includes commentary from Chinese researchers, who suggest the phenomenon might be astronomical rather than a typical UFO, given its scale and the number of witnesses. The article concludes by acknowledging the contribution of Chinese researchers like M. Shi Bo in bringing these observations to light.

Summary of Articles and Editorial Stance

The magazine features a diverse range of articles, from detailed case studies of UAP events like Trans-en-Provence and the Chinese spiral phenomenon to explorations of the connections between UFOs and folklore. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging rigorous research and the exploration of various hypotheses, including psychic influences and astronomical explanations, alongside the more conventional extraterrestrial hypothesis. The publication emphasizes the importance of truth-seeking and constructive argumentation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes include the analysis of specific UAP cases with detailed witness testimonies and scientific investigations, the exploration of the psychological and energetic aspects of these phenomena, and the historical and cultural context of unexplained aerial objects, particularly through the lens of folklore. The magazine promotes a constructive approach to research, valuing evidence-based arguments and open-mindedness towards diverse explanations. The editorial stance is one of persistent investigation into the unknown, encouraging readers to contribute their own observations and insights.

This issue of LDLN, dated July 1981, focuses on UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings, primarily in France and Belgium, with a special emphasis on events from late 1981. The cover features a map of China with numerous marked locations, suggesting a broader scope of interest, though the articles predominantly cover European sightings. The main headline, "Emplacement des témoins et direction de leurs observations" (Location of witnesses and direction of their observations), introduces a series of detailed case reports.

Sanary (Var) Landing of a Luminous Phenomenon

This article details an observation by M. Poissy Gérard on a night in July or August 1976 near Sanary, France. While driving, he witnessed a dark sphere within an orange, phosphorescent smoke-like substance rising from the sea. The object, estimated to be about two meters in diameter, moved slowly northwards, leaving an orange trail. The phenomenon lasted for about a minute. The investigators visited the site but found no anomalies. The report also mentions another witness seeing a similar phenomenon and a press article in Var-Matin République.

Mini Wave in the North in November 1981

This section compiles several UAP observations reported in the Nord department of France during November 1981. The article lists ten distinct sightings:

1. September 28, 1981: A reddish sphere observed near Maubeuge.
2. November 6, 1981: An unknown object at "Les Lanières," Feignies.
3. November 9, 1981: An object in flight over Coudekerque-Branche.
4. November 9, 1981: A similar observation in Lille.
5. November 13, 1981: Disks and spheres seen in Maubeuge-Est.
6. November 13, 1981: Luminous phenomena at Fort Leveau, Feignies.
7. November 15, 1981: The Cosmos 2000 detector alerted, simultaneous observation at Fort Leveau.
8. November 24, 1981: An observation in Wallers.
9. November 25, 1981: A multicolored sphere seen near Feignies.
10. November 25, 1981: An adolescent witnesses a similar phenomenon in Feignies/Douzies.

Observation from M.C.A. (ex Chausson) in Maubeuge (Nord)

On September 28, 1981, around 8:05 PM, a witness named M. Michaux, an auto worker, heard a faint, strident whistling sound. He saw a reddish fireball, immobile, above and to the right of the G.Q.L. (400m away). The object then moved north obliquely, diminishing in size and emitting red and bluish-green flashes. It lasted 1 to 1.5 minutes. Other colleagues also witnessed it. The object's size was estimated to be comparable to a child's ball, or about 3.50 to 4.00 meters in diameter. Investigations ruled out military aircraft.

Quasi-Landing in Feignies (Nord)

Between November 6 and November 7, 1981, Mme K. reported observing a bright white light in a field near Feignies. The light intensified, appearing as a large, blinding source. It then transformed into a dark, cigar-shaped object, vertical, emitting multicolored rays. This object was about 1.5 to 2 meters above the ground. It later changed into a larger, horizontal, metallic object with multicolored lights. The object moved horizontally for about 5 minutes before reverting to its cigar shape. Mme K. contacted the police and gendarmerie. The event lasted from 7:45 PM to 9:00 PM. The object's size was estimated based on a 12-meter pole nearby.

Object in Flight in Coudekerque-Branche (Nord)

On November 9, 1981, around 8:30 AM, students and teachers at a college observed a bizarre object described as a "bizarre object" moving slowly and silently at a low altitude. The object was described as having a cylindrical or spherical appearance, with a slightly inclined "roof" and emitting a bright glow. It was compared to a flying lighthouse. The observation lasted about five minutes before the object disappeared behind houses.

Mini Wave in the North in November 1981 (Continued)

Feignies "Fort-Leveau"

On November 13, 1981, around 7:05 PM, two young women, Mlles D & D, observed a luminous, oblong, orange-red object with slightly blurred contours near Fort-Leveau. The object pulsed, dimming and brightening, and seemed to detach itself from the sky. It was described as having an apparent size of 3 degrees. Two farmers later reported seeing a similar phenomenon. The object's color was described as orange-red, which was difficult to explain astronomically.

Maubeuge Est (November 13, 1981)

On November 13, 1981, at 2:30 PM, M. X observed hundreds of luminous yellow spheres zigzagging in the sky, followed by vertical, golden disks rotating on their axis. These objects then vanished. His wife did not witness the event as it ended before she could see it. The observation lasted about a minute.

Feignies, Faubourg de Douzies (November 25, 1981)

On November 25, 1981, at 6:50 AM, an adolescent observed a multicolored luminous sphere moving from west to east at an elevation of about ten degrees. The object, described as having a perfect roundness and no halo or sparks, descended slowly, then accelerated and disappeared into the sky. The duration was about 5 seconds.

Maubeuge Sud-Est (November 15, 1981)

On November 15, 1981, at 8:00 PM, the Cosmos 2000 detection system registered anomalous signals, including regular beeps that seemed to indicate movement. This occurred around the same time as another observation in the region.

Observation at Wallers (Nord) (November 24, 1981)

On November 24, 1981, at 6:45 AM, Francis P. observed a large, pure white luminous sphere with a trailing tail and sparks. The object moved rapidly to the right and then disappeared. The observation lasted about 6 to 7 seconds. The witness, a welder, described the light as similar to an electric arc. The object's movement was described as unusual, with a zig-zag pattern.

Nevele (East Flanders), Belgium - September 28, 1981

This section details an observation by five children (aged 6 to 11) on September 28, 1981, between 7:00 PM and 7:30 PM local time. They observed three non-conventional, luminous, metallic objects. The objects were described as disk-shaped, with a reaction engine-like sound, and moved with a zig-zag pattern. The observation lasted about 5 minutes. The article notes that the area has a history of UAP sightings. The investigators considered the possibility of confusion with the moon but ruled it out due to the object's color and behavior. The report concludes that the objects were unusual and luminous.

Rouen-Paris Highway Sighting

On November 19, 1982, investigators Luc Jean and Jean-Louis Léridant reported observing two red, blinking spheres on the Rouen-Paris highway, moving perpendicular to their route. Later, they saw two more red spheres, not blinking, moving from right to left. They stopped to observe a third red sphere, which, along with the other two, formed a triangle shape. The observation lasted about 4 minutes. The objects then moved away at high speed. The investigators also interviewed Madame Legouez, who reported seeing a large, dazzling white sphere on the same date, moving faster than an airplane. The article notes similarities in speed and timing but differences in color.

Auzebosc (Seine Maritime) Sighting

On June 30, 1980, around 10:30 PM, near Auzebosc, Mr. Toquin Jean-Marie, a merchant, observed a huge, blinding, luminous sphere of various colors above a valley. He described it as being as large as a house. He called neighbors, and together they observed the phenomenon. Mr. Toquin fired his rifle at the object, but it had no effect. He reported feeling disoriented and experiencing physical discomfort. The object then transformed into three spheres before rejoining into one and flying away. The investigators noted the witness's sincerity and the unusual nature of the event.

Other Reports and Notes

• Plouay (Morbihan): A brief report mentions Mr. Toquin Jean-Marie observing a large incandescent ball of light around 2:00 AM on an unspecified date, possibly related to his work as a scrap metal merchant.
• China Film: An announcement about a documentary film titled "OVNI en CHINE" (UFO in CHINA) produced by the YUN'NAN film studio, available for sale.
• Anomalies: Mentions of Cosmos 2000 detection system anomalies and potential TV interference.
• General Commentary: The magazine emphasizes the importance of detailed witness testimony and the challenges in identifying UAP. It notes that many cases remain unexplained and that the phenomena are often described as luminous, metallic, and exhibiting unusual flight characteristics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed documentation of UAP sightings, the analysis of witness testimonies, and the persistent mystery surrounding these phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed in the "ligne de conduite" (line of conduct) section, is to foster open-minded discussion of different viewpoints, focusing on ideas rather than personal attacks, and maintaining a calm, constructive approach to the subject of UAP. The magazine aims to publish information that is constructive and non-polemical, encouraging debate on a high level.

Title: Lumières dans la Nuit
Publication Date: January 1984 (based on print date of "Dépôt légal 1er trimestre 1984")
Publisher: LDLN
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night) delves into various UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) reports and investigations primarily from France, alongside book reviews and organizational updates.

Investigations and Case Reports

"Enquête de Gérard Champetier, et Joël Chappon"

This section details two distinct cases. The first, from the Doubs region, involves a sighting by Monsieur Nicot and his father-in-law in the summer of 1969 near Lessay. While fishing, they observed human-like shapes in trees along a railway line that moved unnaturally, despite the absence of wind. They also noted the presence of electrical cables, indicating no steam trains were in use. The witnesses became frightened and left the area.

The second case, from the Morbihan region, focuses on an incident on January 5th or 12th, 1978, involving Emile Fouillen, Christian Trehin, and Jo Beller. After closing his bar, Emile offered to drive his friends home. During the drive, they encountered a column of fire approximately 20 meters from the road. The object had a cylindrical base, about a meter in diameter, and flames that rose several meters high before receding. The phenomenon lasted between 10 and 15 minutes. Following this observation, the electrical current on a nearby railway line was found to be interrupted in that specific section. Days later, explosions and shattering rocks were reported at the same location without apparent cause.

"Enquête de Michel Gressien, du G.R.E.D.O.V.N.I. de Provins"

This report details a sighting near Montereau (Seine et Marne) on February 26th, 1982. The witness, Madame X, observed several flashing red and green lights on the ground. She then saw three disc-shaped objects, comparable in size to a medium car, and a fourth, larger object above them emitting orange flames. The phenomenon disappeared quickly. The witness experienced subsequent vision problems and headaches, which lasted for several days.

"Résultats des différentes veillées régionales de Juin à Septembre 1983"

This section compiles a list of regional UFO observation vigils organized by the Groupement Ufologique Mentonnais and the Délégation L.D.L.N. (Alpes de Haute Provence and Vendée-Deux Sèvres). Most reports indicate "R.A.S." (Rien à signaler - Nothing to report), but some mention phenomena such as red and white balls of light and psychological effects.

"Un Goniomètre de Poche"

This is a description of a small, plastified Bristol card device created by M. Monnerie. It functions as a tool for investigators to determine the dimensions of an object based on its distance, or vice-versa, using a millimeter scale. It is available for purchase from LDLN.

Book Review: "OVNI Premier bilan" by Philippe Schneyder

This extensive review, written by Gilles Smiena, critically analyzes Philippe Schneyder's book "OVNI Premier bilan" (UFO First Assessment), published by Editions du Rocher in January 1983. The reviewer questions the book's title, as ufology has been producing 'assessments' for over 30 years, and notes that neither the author nor his association (CROVNIS) are widely known in ufological circles. The review highlights that the book is largely a collective work, with over half of its content contributed by various researchers.

The first part, authored by Schneyder, is subtitled "l'ufologue sur le terrain" (the ufologist in the field). It aims to present concrete facts to legitimize the study of UFOs, including observations by 'official personalities' and cases with physical or biological traces. However, the reviewer finds the evidence presented to be modest and unconvincing, questioning the value of citing 'personalities' over ordinary witnesses.

The second part features contributions from a dozen ufologists. Notable chapters include J. Fr. Gille on the progress of ufology, J. B. Delair's brief overview of 'Men in Black,' and Antonio Ribéra's summary of the complex UMMO case. The reviewer praises Alexandre Laugier's chapter on detection results, which he links to UFO phenomena through an 'alpha' effect. However, the reviewer expresses strong skepticism about Laugier's methodology, particularly his admission of intentionally simplifying and slightly falsifying his data to protect his research, deeming it unscientific and preferable to depositing discoveries with official bodies.

The review concludes that the book is ultimately disappointing, despite its varied contributions. The cover photo, though certified as free of artifacts by an astrophysics institute (whose qualification for judging UFO photos is questioned), is reportedly contested by many ufologists. The reviewer emphasizes that one cannot simply 'improvise' as a ufologist and that exploiting existing data is journalism, while true ufology requires more.

"Courrier" Section

This section includes a letter from Henri Julien regarding a luminous phenomenon observed in the Belledonne massif in 1941. He describes it as similar to St. Elmo's Fire on the ground, possibly related to magnetic storms and conductive rocks, suggesting it was not a typical UFO but a terrestrial plasma phenomenon.

"Nouvelles récentes (condensé de presse)" (Recent News - Press Summary)

This section provides brief summaries of recent UFO sightings reported in various French regional newspapers:

• June 7, 1983 (Nyon, France): Jacky Boyer observed a silent, illuminated object with a white horizontal trail for 15 seconds. Two civilian aircraft and Marignane control tower also registered the phenomenon.
• September 15, 1983 (Lorraine, France): A man in Amanvillers saw a silent, luminous ball with a white trail moving horizontally at an altitude of 150 meters. Near Courcelles-sur-Nie, a woman and her daughter observed a large luminous object with a fiery trail, resembling a football.
• September 18-19, 1983 (Northern Colombia): An unidentified flying object (OVNI) reportedly hovered over several localities, causing three women to report being affected by its radiation.
• November 17, 1983 (Voleroy, France): An inhabitant, a motorist, and military personnel observed a fireball at low altitude.

"Réseau de Surveillance O.V.N.I."

This section announces the activities of the LDLN Surveillance Network, which organizes "Veillées Nocturnes" (Night Vigils) and "Recherche Expérimentale" (Experimental Research). They invite readers, investigators, and regional delegates to participate and submit their findings for publication in the magazine. The network aims to advance research into UFO phenomena.

Obituary

M. Yves GAILLE nous a quittés

A brief obituary announces the passing of M. Yves GAILLE, a long-time collaborator and Regional Delegate for Puy-de-Dôme. He was a Physical Education teacher who also dedicated himself to LDLN's activities, participating in significant investigations, including a counter-investigation into the M. Mazaud case from September 10, 1954. His death is noted as a significant loss.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO and UAP sightings, emphasizing witness testimonies and the investigative efforts of ufologists and organizations like LDLN. There is a clear stance on the importance of rigorous investigation and a critical approach to evidence, as demonstrated by the detailed book review and the "Courrier" section. The publication aims to inform its readers about ongoing research, regional sightings, and the challenges within the field of ufology, including the difficulty of proving phenomena and the need for scientific rigor. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, encouraging participation and the sharing of data while maintaining a critical perspective on claims and methodologies.