LDLN - No 237-238

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), volume 27, number 237-238, dated March-April 1984, is dedicated to "Mysterious Celestial Objects and Related Problems." The magazine, published in France, features a wide range of articles exploring unexplained aerial phenomena, folklore, and parapsychology.

Articles and Content

"En passant par l'Alsace. Note sur l'intérêt du folklore (2 - Suite et fin)"

This article, authored by Frédéric Dumerchat, delves into the connection between folklore and UFO reports. It draws from legends and oral traditions of Alsace, citing works by J. Variot and A. Stöber, suggesting that these narratives, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, might offer parallels to modern humanoid encounters and 'flying carriage' accounts. The author discusses how these folkloric elements, while not necessarily literal, can reflect societal beliefs and anxieties, potentially resonating with contemporary unexplained phenomena. The article also briefly touches upon the work of researchers like G. Durand, J.-J. Jaillat, B. Méheust, E. Zurcher, J. U. Pereira, G. Barthel, and J. Brucker in analyzing these connections.

"Une rencontre avec deux enfants fantômes"

This section recounts a strange encounter near Zutzendorf (Bas-Rhin) involving two figures described as pale children. The witnesses observed them gliding above the ground and heard unintelligible speech before they disappeared. The narrative links this to folkloric traditions of 'dames blanches' (white ladies) and the concept of apparitions, noting similarities in descriptions like pale attire and ethereal movement.

"Près de St Jean de Bournay (Isère)"

This report details an incident where a yellow light and a white form were observed in a field near Sainte-Anne-de-Gervonde. Following this, a V-shaped object was seen at high altitude, emitting flashing lights. The article also mentions the discovery of unusual traces, including burned grass and geometric imprints, in the vicinity.

"Curieux nuage"

Authored by Marc Eyssartier, this piece describes the observation of a distinct, bright white cloud moving against a dark sky after rainfall near a town in the South of France. The cloud, approximately 3 meters long and 1.2 meters wide, moved without wind and appeared to illuminate itself from within.

"Dans le Lot, à proximité de monuments préhistoriques"

This report by Christian Cabanettes recounts an event from 1946 or 1947 near Prayssac (Lot), where a witness observed a red-orange sphere above prehistoric monuments. The object illuminated the surroundings before rapidly departing. The article also mentions a subsequent event involving a 'wind' sound and a possible underground anomaly near the site.

"Phénomène de lumière nocturne à la Martinique le 20-09-65"

Written by Michel Figuet, this detailed account describes a luminous white sphere observed by multiple witnesses, including naval personnel, in Martinique. The object exhibited complex flight patterns, including descending, performing two 360° loops, and hovering before disappearing. A second appearance occurred later that night. The report includes diagrams and witness testimonies, noting the lack of sound and the object's precise movements.

"Une étrange lumière dans la nuit à Tournefeuille (Hte Garonne)"

This article by T. Revel documents an observation by Marc Pouilles in Tournefeuille. While photographing in a cemetery, Pouilles witnessed a luminous ball emerge from a tombstone, move erratically at walking speed, and disappear. The event was captured in four photographs. The report includes a diagram of the location and the object's trajectory.

"La propulsion électrique d'aéronefs est-elle possible ?"

Authored by G. de San, this section explores the possibility of electric propulsion for aircraft, referencing experiments and hypotheses related to electron emission and shock waves. It suggests that if certain technical challenges are overcome, electric propulsion could be a viable method for future aircraft, potentially linked to UFO technology.

"Curieux ou insolite"

This section includes a report on a case of telekinesis involving a 13-year-old girl in Poland who could move objects without physical contact. The article, commented on by F. Lagarde, discusses the nature of psychic energy and its potential role in unexplained phenomena, questioning the scientific understanding of such forces.

"Le Bouddha transpirant"

This testimony describes a supernatural event in Seoul where a stone Buddha head began to 'sweat' profusely, coinciding with a series of unsettling occurrences in a house. The phenomenon ceased when the occupant moved. The article speculates on the role of subterranean water currents in creating energies that could affect mental states.

"Orcières-Merlette (Hautes-Alpes) le 6-6-1983"

Authored by Mme Liliane Romanot, this account details a sighting of a luminous, shell-shaped object moving silently over the town of Orcières-Merlette. The witness describes the object as intensely lit, with a fiery tail, and moving at a slow, deliberate pace. The report notes the lack of sound and the object's extraordinary speed upon departure.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, often linking them to folklore, historical accounts, and parapsychological events. The editorial stance, as stated in the "avis" section, is to publish documents that are considered worthy of interest and potentially lead towards the truth, without taking a partisan stance. The publication emphasizes the importance of research and the sharing of information, while also asserting copyright protection for its content. The recurring themes include the mysterious nature of UFOs, the potential for psychic energies, and the historical presence of unexplained aerial phenomena across different cultures and time periods.

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night) is dedicated to exploring UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) or UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon) sightings and their investigations, with a strong emphasis on cases from the Charente region of France. The publication presents a compilation of witness testimonies, photographic evidence, and analytical commentary, spanning a period from the 1920s to the 1980s. The overall tone suggests a serious inquiry into these phenomena, while also acknowledging the complexities and potential for misinterpretation or fabrication.

Analysis of Photographic Evidence

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the detailed analysis of photographs related to UFO sightings. The case of a witness in Tournefeuille (Haute-Garonne) is extensively discussed, involving three photographs (N° 2, 3, and 4) and their corresponding negatives. The investigator, M. Revel, meticulously examines the images, noting the apparent superposition of clichés and the symmetry of light traces. He raises questions about the possibility of a hoax, particularly regarding the consistent width of the object's trace despite varying distances. The analysis highlights the technical aspects of photography and how they might be manipulated or misinterpreted. The commentary by F. Lagarde offers a counterpoint, suggesting that a hoax would require considerable skill and effort for a mediocre result, and he emphasizes the importance of considering the witness's testimony alongside the photographic evidence. Lagarde also points out potential illusions in the interpretation of the photographic symmetry.

Witness Testimonies and Case Studies

The magazine features numerous individual case studies from various locations in France, primarily within the Charente department. Each case is presented with details about the witnesses, the date and time of the observation, the location, and a description of the phenomenon. These accounts include:

• Tournefeuille (Haute-Garonne): The central case involving photographic analysis, where a witness reported seeing a luminous object. The investigation delves into the technical aspects of the photos and the witness's account.
• Benest (Charente): Two witnesses, aged 17 in 1924, reported seeing a red light that rose and moved like a ball, leaving a trail.
• Turgon (Charente): A report of a 'fire chevron' seen in the sky.
• Pleuville (Charente): Multiple witnesses observed a large orange-red object moving along a stream in the late 1930s.
• Chasseneuil-sur-Bonnieure (Charente): Witnesses described a blinding, phosphorescent mass crossing the road at high speed.
• Alloue (Charente): A case from 1942 describes a red ball that moved rapidly, then descended and ascended.
• Alloue (Lhoumede) (Charente): In 1974, witnesses observed a luminous, elongated object moving rapidly.
• Hiesse (Charente): A witness reported a large, bright red ball moving at high speed.
• Champagne-Mouton (Charente): A witness observed a luminous object that landed, leaving behind three cylindrical holes.
• Ambernac (Charente): A witness reported a round, brilliant object that descended, emitted light, and then ascended.
• Juillé (Charente): A witness heard a strange noise and saw a red mass with a yellow excrescence moving close to the ground, leaving traces.
• Saint-Germain-de-Confolens (Charente): Three teenagers observed a circular object with flashing lights moving erratically.
• Lonnes (Charente): Two women reported a green ball with a yellow halo that stopped and then rapidly disappeared.
• Fontenille (Charente): A witness observed a red ball with a green tail moving silently.
• Longre: Witnesses saw a luminous object accompanied by two yellow halos.
• Ruffec (Charente): A witness described an ovoïde object with a dome and a black bar, emitting a sound similar to a helicopter.
• Chèvrerie (Charente): A witness saw a "space capsule" shaped object.
• Bernac (Charente): A witness saw a large red ball that appeared suddenly and moved rapidly.
• Courcome (Charente): A witness observed a red ball moving from west to south.
• Roumazières (Charente): A witness reported seeing a "barrique" (barrel) shaped luminous object.
• Chèvrerie (Charente): A witness observed a large red ball that seemed to follow their car.
• Les Trois Chênes (Charente): A witness reported being followed by a large red ball that changed size and shape.
• Cherves-de-Jauldes (Charente): A witness saw a red, egg-shaped object with flashing lights moving slowly.
• Villegats (Charente): Witnesses saw a yellow crescent-shaped object and later a large yellow ball.
• Lonnes (Charente): Two women observed a green ball with a yellow halo.
• Ambernac (Charente): A witness observed a round, brilliant object that descended, emitted light, and then ascended.
• Juillé (Charente): A witness heard a strange noise and saw a red mass with a yellow excrescence moving close to the ground, leaving traces.

Commentary and Editorial Stance

The commentary by F. Lagarde provides a critical perspective on the investigation, particularly regarding the GEPAN's (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) response to the witness. Lagarde expresses his principle of believing witnesses who report seeing something abnormal and offers his own reflections to help readers assess the credibility of the testimony and the evidence. He questions the investigator's reliance on photographic analysis over the witness's account and suggests that the idea of a hoax might be too readily accepted. He also notes the lack of clear motivations for a hoax in some cases.

The magazine's editorial stance, as outlined in the "ligne de conduite" (line of conduct) section, emphasizes openness to diverse viewpoints and encourages constructive debate based on ideas rather than personal attacks. The publication aims to foster an environment where different perspectives can be presented and examined calmly.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes throughout the issue include the detailed description of aerial objects (shapes, colors, movements), the analysis of photographic and physical evidence, the challenges of witness testimony, and the ongoing debate between genuine phenomena and potential hoaxes. The magazine consistently highlights the importance of private initiatives and the role of publications like "LDLN" (Lumières dans la Nuit) in documenting these events. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, presenting various cases and analyses without necessarily offering definitive conclusions, thereby inviting readers to form their own judgments. The publication also includes a call for new subscriptions and contributions, underscoring its reliance on its community for continued research and reporting.

This issue of the magazine, dated 1984, focuses on the widely reported aerial phenomenon of July 12, 1983, in France, under the headline "l'observation du 12 juillet 1983 vers 20 h 20 T.U." (The Observation of July 12, 1983, around 8:20 PM UT). The publication is from France and is in French.

The July 12, 1983 Phenomenon

The article by Michel Figuet details the events of July 12, 1983, when numerous individuals across southeastern France witnessed an unidentified aerial phenomenon. Initially, an article in "Le Dauphiné-Libéré" by Gilles Morel suggested it was a ballistic missile test from the Landes Test Center. However, the "central engineer" from Biscarosse revealed it was a launch of the M4 ballistic missile from the submarine "Gymnote" while submerged off the coast of Brittany.

The "Gymnote" is described as an experimental diesel-electric submarine of 3250 tons, used for testing missiles intended for the SNLE (Sous-marin Nucléaire Lanceur d'Engins - Nuclear Submarine Ballistic Missile Launcher). The M4 missile, set to replace the M20 in 1985, is noted for its extended range (4000 km), multiple warheads (MRV type), high precision, and improved countermeasures. Its launch system is also described as faster and more discreet.

The launch was observed by the "Henri Poincaré," a ship belonging to the Naval Trials and Measurements Group, whose mission is to conduct various tests, observations, and measurements for military and civilian organizations. The "Henri Poincaré" is equipped with specialized equipment for trajectory tracking and missile behavior analysis.

The impact of these MSBS (Missiles Sol-Ballistiques Stratégiques) is often in the Atlantic, near the Azores, where the "Henri Poincaré" is usually located. The July 12, 1983 event was visible due to excellent weather conditions across France, with many witnesses observing the phenomenon towards the west at sunset. Three children in Bésayes, Drôme, reported hearing a 'Pscht' sound, which was attributed to a corn irrigation system.

An addendum clarifies that the "Gymnote" submarine conducted an experimental launch of the M4 missile off the coast of Brittany, and the Ministry of Defense confirmed the observation was possible due to the missile's altitude and reflections from the setting sun.

Book Review: "Las máquinas del cosmos" by Antonio Ribera

Henri Julien reviews Antonio Ribera's book "Las máquinas del cosmos" (The Machines of the Cosmos). He praises Ribera as a charming storyteller but expresses a critical view of the current state of ufology, which he feels is repetitive and stuck in debating minor details rather than seeking broader explanations. Julien questions the value of endlessly rehashing old cases and criticizes the focus on proving colleagues wrong. He suggests that ufologists need more than publicity; they require equipped laboratories, funding, and qualified scientists. He advocates for a shift from endless debate and minor critiques to a more dynamic and methodological approach, urging a move beyond outdated theories and figures like Adamski. He believes that while Ribera's book is enjoyable, the approach to understanding UFO phenomena needs to evolve significantly, moving away from 'childish tales' and towards serious, multidisciplinary research.

New Approach to UAP: Personal Journey

Louis Estival shares his personal journey and evolving perspective on UAP phenomena. He argues that despite decades of research, little progress has been made, attributing this to ingrained biases and a lack of genuine understanding. Estival criticizes the division within ufology into 'mystical' and 'mechanistic' camps and the intolerance between different ufological groups.

He recounts personal experiences, including a vivid mental image of a 'silver disk' after a solitary vigil, which led him to explore parapsychology. He describes experimental sessions involving coded light projections, group mental states, and observations of red pulsating balls of light in Champmotteux. He also details an experience at a landing site in Fabrègues where an 'ovoïde lumineux' appeared and disappeared when he inadvertently illuminated it with white light.

Estival emphasizes the need for a different state of consciousness and a more open approach to perception. He discusses experiences near dolmens and megaliths, suggesting they might be energy condensers. He also touches upon the 'oui-ja' (Ouija board) as a tool, but cautions about its reliability and the need for critical evaluation. He proposes that understanding UAP requires embracing parapsychology, tellurism, terrestrial magnetism, colored lights, and megaliths, suggesting that the unconscious mind plays a privileged role and that altered states of consciousness (alpha rhythm, astral projection) can facilitate understanding.

He highlights the potential role of magnetic variations and high-tension lines in UAP phenomena, posing the question of whether disturbing terrestrial magnetism could induce such events. Estival concludes by stressing the importance of empirical, pragmatic research and an open mind, encouraging experimentation and a willingness to explore unconventional ideas.

Commentary on Louis Estival's Text

F. Lagarde comments on Estival's article, acknowledging the long-standing hypothesis of extraterrestrial contact but noting the lack of progress and the discretion of presumed visitors. Lagarde is skeptical of Estival's proposed methods, particularly the 'oui-ja,' and suggests that Estival himself may not be certain of their effectiveness. He points out that while many UAP sightings are reported, the lack of crashed or recovered craft makes definitive proof difficult. Lagarde highlights the GEPAN's official confirmation of an unknown phenomenon based on ground traces as a significant step forward for ufology, marking a move towards scientific recognition.

"Contre Galilée" (Against Galileo)

This section, attributed to François Toulet, re-examines the historical case of Galileo Galilei. It challenges the common narrative of Galileo as a victim of religious obscurantism, suggesting that the story, as often told, is influenced by a secularized view of progress. Toulet argues that Galileo's own ambition and insistence on his views, rather than the Church's opposition, were the primary factors in his downfall. He contrasts the scientific climate of the Renaissance, which was generally supportive of learning, with the later secular 'religion' of rationalism, implying that contemporary researchers (ufologists) might be making similar mistakes to Galileo by being overly certain and dismissive of others.

Identified Flying Objects (Objets volants identifiés)

This section addresses specific UAP sightings and attempts to provide explanations, often linking them to known phenomena. It discusses the role of the research vessel "Henri Poincaré" in missile recovery and clarifies that the "Gymnote" submarine launches missiles while submerged, not anchored. The author refutes claims about UAP sightings, identifying them as missile launches from the US Navy or the Landes Test Center. The section also mentions photographic anomalies and potential misidentifications of rocket launches.

It lists several instances of observed phenomena and provides explanations, such as rocket launches from the Centre d'Essais des Landes (CEL) on specific dates, and a sighting in Corsica explained as a scientific rocket launch. The author emphasizes that many observed phenomena are 'OVNI identified by subsequent analysis.'

Regional Delegates for Effective Action

This section lists regional delegates for "Lumières dans la Nuit" (LDLN), aiming to foster effective action and coordination among researchers. It outlines various activities that delegates can undertake, including investigations, archival research, media contacts, and organizing meetings. A list of delegates and their contact information is provided for numerous departments in France.

Network Activities and Calls for Contributions

The "Réseau de Surveillance O.V.N.I." (UFO Surveillance Network) is seeking interested readers and regional delegates for a new form of research on UAP phenomena. The network outlines two main areas: Nocturnal Vigils (organized regional or local events) and Experimental Research (testing various hypotheses, including 'non-conformist' methods). Results from observations and experiments are encouraged to be submitted for publication in the magazine. The section also includes requests for old postcards, books, comics, letters, and stamps to help maintain the activities of the network.

Announcements

There is an announcement for the sale of a JPM 115/900 telescope. Additionally, a request is made for the address of a subscriber named Mme Arnaud, whose initial subscription mailing was returned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UAP phenomenon with a critical yet open-minded approach. There's a strong emphasis on empirical research, scientific methodology, and moving beyond anecdotal evidence or sensationalism. The editorial stance appears to favor a grounded, investigative approach, questioning established narratives and encouraging readers to engage in their own research and critical thinking. The publication also highlights the importance of collaboration and information sharing within the ufological community. The critique of repetitive ufological approaches and the call for new methodologies suggest an editorial desire to advance the field beyond its current limitations. The inclusion of historical cases and their re-evaluation, as seen with the Galileo piece, indicates a broader interest in how knowledge and belief systems evolve.