LDLN - No 249-250

Magazine Overview

Title: LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT
Issue: N° 249-250
Date: March-April 1985
Volume: 28th Year
Publisher: GROUPEMENT INTERNATIONAL DE RECHERCHES FONDATEUR: R. VEILLITH

This issue of Lumières dans la Nuit, a bi-monthly 48-page magazine dedicated to the UFO problem, presents a collection of articles exploring various facets of the unexplained, from psychic phenomena to historical accounts of unusual events.

Des connaissances venues d'ailleurs (Knowledge from Elsewhere)

This section, authored by F. Lagarde, delves into the concept of an 'ether' as a living fabric of energies, including psychic energy, which is not yet understood by science. It presents a case study of a friend who observed an incredible synchronicity between two infants, suggesting a psychic connection that transcends normal physical interaction. The author posits that in such psychic manifestations, concepts like distance and time become irrelevant, replaced by a phenomenon of symbiosis. The article also references scientific research, including experiments on telepathic communication and the concept of 'non-separability' as discussed by Bernard d'Espagnat. It further explores the idea of spontaneous perception at a distance and the potential for two types of perception: conscious and unconscious.

Matthew Manning: A Case Study

The article details the extraordinary abilities of Matthew Manning, who, from a young age, exhibited poltergeist phenomena, including the movement of objects. His powers later evolved to include automatic writing in multiple languages and artistic creations in the styles of famous painters, despite having no prior artistic talent. Manning's abilities were tested scientifically, and his case is presented as evidence of real paranormal phenomena. The text highlights his ability to channel energy, his communication with a deceased former owner of a house, and his automatic writing of messages in Arabic. The impact of Uri Geller's fame on Manning's public perception is also noted, with the author suggesting Manning's abilities might be superior.

Edgard Cayce: The Sleeping Prophet

This section introduces Edgard Cayce, born in Kentucky in 1877, who was initially a poor student but later developed extraordinary psychic abilities, particularly in a trance state. His parents' efforts to educate him led to a breakthrough where he could memorize entire books after sleeping. Cayce's abilities included diagnosing illnesses and prescribing remedies while in a trance, often with remarkable accuracy. He was also known for his 'readings' which provided insights into past lives and future predictions. The article recounts his early life, his collaboration with Al Layne and Dr. Blackburn, and his eventual establishment of a hospital in Virginia Beach. Cayce's predictions about future global changes, including geological shifts and societal transformations, are also mentioned, with a note that many of these predictions were set to occur between 1958 and 1998.

Investigation OVNI (UFO Investigation)

This section reviews the book "Investigation OVNI" by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos. The book is praised for its serious, responsible, and demythifying approach to UFO phenomena. It emphasizes a balanced perspective, acknowledging the existence of UFOs while maintaining a critical and scientific stance. The author highlights the book's detailed case studies of UFO sightings, particularly those involving close encounters with 'normal' humanoids and unusual aerial phenomena. The book is recommended for ufologists seeking grounded research and analysis.

Pour une politique de la porte ouverte en ufologie (An Open Door Policy in Ufology) - Part 4

This article, by Gilbert Cornu, continues the exploration of 'phantom armies' and their connection to UFO phenomena. It categorizes visions into two types: those involving clouds or mists as integral parts of the scene, and those accompanied by ground traces like footprints or broken branches, sometimes with inexplicable material deposits such as blood or weapons.

Visions Involving Clouds or Mists

Three cases from 1577 and 1608 are detailed. The first, from 1577 near Saint-Amour, France, describes phantom soldiers appearing in a clear sky, followed by a 'dark cloud' and then a vision of three champions fighting. The second set of cases from 1608, along the Mediterranean coast, describes visions of combat, including aerial battles and 'blood rain,' particularly near Marseille and Genoa. The Genoa events were particularly terrifying, involving chimeric figures and loud cries, leading to panic and deaths.

Visions with Ground Traces and Material Deposits

This section discusses events from 1608 in the Mediterranean and Ireland, where phantom armies left behind physical evidence such as broken trees, crushed bushes, and blood. Another case from Scotland in 1686 describes a procession of armed men accompanied by a 'rain' of objects like hats, bonnets, rifles, and swords. The article also touches upon the concept of 'drosoulites' or 'dew men' from Crete, phantom soldiers appearing in the early morning or late evening, and references ancient Indian texts (Vimana) describing aerial battles with advanced technology, suggesting these might be descriptions of future events rather than historical accounts.

Other Sections

Nos activités (Our Activities): This section outlines the magazine's activities, including reader investigations, research groups, and technical resources. It also appeals for reader support through donations of old documents and materials.

Courrier (Mail): This section features reader correspondence. One letter discusses a TV debate on UFOs, criticizing the scientific participants for their dismissive attitudes and lack of open-mindedness. Another letter comments on an article about 'the mysterious and fantastic energy of the void,' agreeing with the idea that our understanding of the universe is limited but questioning the assertion that physical laws are the same everywhere.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, with a particular focus on UFOs and related paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to share their findings and contributing to a collective search for truth. While acknowledging the scientific perspective, the magazine also gives credence to historical accounts, psychic abilities, and phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding. There is a clear emphasis on research, investigation, and the sharing of information within the ufological community.

This issue of "Francast" (Issue 137) delves into the complexities of UFO research, with a particular focus on debunking and critical analysis of past cases. The cover story, "Heureux ceux qui croient sans savoir" (Happy are those who believe without knowing) by Michel Figuet, directly challenges the validity of certain UFO research, particularly the work of Jean-Charles Fumoux and his "isocélie" theory. The magazine also includes a comprehensive catalog of UFO sightings and landings in France during the 1954 wave, alongside historical accounts of phenomena from other decades.

Critiques of UFO Research

Michel Figuet's lead article critiques Jean-Charles Fumoux's selection of UFO cases, arguing that many were based on press reports and lacked proper investigation. Figuet points out that numerous cases from the 1954 wave were later explained by mundane events or were even subject to official denials. He emphasizes the importance of rigorous, on-site investigations rather than relying solely on media accounts. The article highlights how some investigators have held onto unverified stories, hindering genuine progress in ufology.

Figuet also discusses the evolution of ufological theories, starting with Aimé Michel's "orthoteny" and moving to Fumoux's "isocélie." He expresses skepticism towards new hypotheses involving geometric alignments and cosmic figures, suggesting that these might be attempts to find patterns where none exist.

Case Studies and Investigations

The issue presents several detailed case studies:

• Cisternes-la-Forêt (October 1954): Two accounts describe a saucer-shaped object landing in a field. One witness reported a dull, grey object about 5-6 meters long, with no traces found. Another account describes a brilliant white saucer with a dome that took off silently. The article notes the potential for media exaggeration in such reports.
• Walscheid (October 1954): A humorous incident where villagers mistook chrysanthemums wrapped for frost protection for invading Martians.
• Joinville-le-Pont (September 1954): A witness reported seeing a luminous disc land near the Marne river, with two small beings descending. The account is presented with a degree of skepticism.
• Monchenot: Mlle Gisèle Fin describes seeing a dark grey, meter-high object with a pointed end and a rounded one, resting on skids. She observed a pilot in dark clothing. The object disappeared without a sound.

The "Francat" Catalog

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Francat" catalog, listing 1070 UFO landing and close encounter cases in France between September 26 and October 18, 1954. The catalog includes details such as the date, location, witness type (often children or young men), and a credibility assessment (e.g., 'NI' for non-identified, 'B' for 'beton' or solid case, 'TD' for dubious, 'D' for doubtful, 'E' for elucidated). The authors note that many cases are based on single witnesses or are poorly documented, and that a large number remain unexplained.

Historical "Ephémérides"

The "Ephémérides" section provides a chronological review of UFO sightings from various years:

• March: Cases from 1950 (TWA flight near Dayton), 1959 (Soviet missile base), 1959 (TU-104 aircraft), 1963 (Richards Bay, South Africa), 1965 (Japan), and 1966 (Dexter, Michigan) are detailed. The Dexter case is notable for the debunking attempt by Dr. Hynek, who attributed it to swamp gas.
• April: Accounts include a 1945 sighting in Autrey, France, of a small being; a 1947 disc sighting in Cantal, France; incidents at White Sands Missile Range in 1948 and 1959 involving unidentified objects; a 1952 contact case in Sainte-Soulle, France; a 1954 sighting in New York; a 1954 incident in the Vosges, France, involving large objects; a 1957 case in Var, France, with a metallic top-shaped object; a 1957 sighting in Palalda, France, of a fiery vortex; a 1957 Montluçon case; a 1957 Argentinian case involving a large disc and a humanoid; a 1959 US plane crash possibly linked to UFOs; and 1960 cases in Puy-de-Dôme, France, and Syracuse, New York.

Theoretical Discussions

The magazine includes discussions on the evolution of ufological theories, from "orthoteny" to "isocélie," and critiques the tendency to seek geometric patterns in UFO reports. It also touches upon the psychological aspects of UFO experiences and the challenges of conducting credible research in the field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards sensationalism in ufology, the importance of rigorous investigation, the critique of unverified theories, and the presentation of a large volume of historical UFO data. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to separate factual accounts from speculation and media hype. The magazine advocates for a more scientific and methodical approach to understanding the UFO phenomenon, while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding many cases.

Title: L'ÉCHO DU MYSTÈRE
Issue: #46
Volume: 4
Date: September/October 1985
Publisher: LDLN
Country: France
Price: 25 F

This issue of L'ÉCHO DU MYSTÈRE delves into a compelling UFO sighting that occurred on August 15, 1983, near the Belgian border in Houplines, France. The magazine also features updates from the 'Réseau CB OVNI' (CB UFO Network) and announces a national surveillance event.

Observations à la frontière belge, le 15 août 1983

This extensive report details a sighting by a family – M. X., Mme X., and their daughters S. (15) and L. (12) – in Houplines. The initial observation occurred around 11 PM when the children spotted a bright light in a field. The object was described as ovoid, approximately 6-8 meters above the ground, and about 200-300 meters away. Its color was a vivid orange-red, and it emitted small, regularly spaced white lights that were less bright, resembling stars. At times, a dark veil seemed to cover the object, with a fine white fissure visible within it.

First Observation (Fig. 2): Lasting less than 5 minutes, this initial sighting took place in a field near Rue R. Salengro. The object's shape was described as an oval cut in half, with the right side inclined. It was larger than the moon and a bright orange-red.

Second Observation (Fig. 2): The family returned to the site, and the observation lasted between 10 and 20 minutes. The object remained in the same position, but the 'veil' effect disappeared, revealing its contours more clearly. A white light projected outwards from the object, similar to a spotlight, but it did not illuminate the landscape. The object then moved about fifty meters towards the witnesses, causing fear.

Third Observation (Fig. 3 & 4): While driving towards Belgium, the family observed the phenomenon again on their left. This observation, lasting a few minutes, occurred on the road to Le Touquet. The object's shape and color were the same, and it appeared to be at a similar distance and altitude. The remote and quiet location heightened their fear.

Investigator's Visit: J.L. Michel, the investigator, visited the observation sites with M. X. He noted discrepancies between day and night visibility of the terrain. His own nocturnal visit to the sites around 11 PM on August 27th revealed that the trees in the first location were visible due to streetlights, and the second location offered a view of the Armentières town lights and the moon. He observed that the phenomenon's reported position was very close to the moon's position on that night.

Witnesses' Reactions and Investigator's Analysis: The witnesses appeared credible and their testimony spontaneous. M. X. showed a strong interest in ufology and felt a fascination with the phenomenon. Mme X. was more fearful and less observant. The investigator explored three hypotheses:

1. The Moon: This is considered the most rational explanation, given the positional data. However, the witnesses' claims of not seeing the moon, and M. X.'s detailed description of a pulsating light on the object's perimeter, contradict this. The investigator questions if children would be scared by the moon.
2. Collective Hallucination: This is considered possible but raises questions about its cause and purpose.
3. The Phenomenon was between the Witnesses and the Moon: This hypothesis suggests the object simply obscured the moon from view. This is presented as a simple and plausible explanation, noting that the witnesses could not confirm if the moon was visible after the phenomenon disappeared.

The report concludes that while the moon explanation is plausible, the detailed descriptions and witness accounts warrant further consideration of an unknown phenomenon.

Communiqué du Réseau C.B. OVNI

This section announces upcoming activities for the CB UFO Network. A 'liaisons radio' (radio link) test is scheduled for May 26-27, involving multiple departments to map the range of transmitters and coordinate activities. Interested individuals are asked to provide details about their equipment, operator, and station.

Soirée Nationale de Surveillance : Samedi 18 mai 1985

The LDLN network is organizing a national surveillance night on Saturday, May 18, 1985. Participants are encouraged to monitor bodies of water (lakes, ponds) and marshy areas, potentially to photograph and study phenomena like 'marsh gas' and compare them with UFOs. Participants are advised to use slow-speed film (200 ASA) and preferably slide film for easier analysis. They are also warned about fog in marshy areas and to protect their equipment from humidity. Reports should include precise start and end times and the exact location.

Le Forum de Nos Lecteurs

This section invites readers to pose questions and share insights on ufological topics, aiming for serious discussion and exchange of ideas, distinct from polemics or personal attacks. It also mentions other topics covered by the magazine, such as cancer and unrecognized pioneers.

Questions de Lecteurs

Several reader questions are posed:

• N° 8 - Corrélation ovni-points d'eau: Inquiring if a UFO photographed near Albiose in March 1974 evolved near a water source.
• N° 9 - Les crashes: Seeking opinions from international ufologists on alleged UFO crashes in the US, particularly near bases like Wright-Patterson, and whether French ufologists have investigated this rumor.
• N° 10 - Recherche de dates: Requesting the exact death dates (year, day, month) of several notable figures: James Forrestal, Jessup, Wilbert Smith, Dr. Olavo Fontès, Ch. Hunt Williamson, John Keel, H.T. Wilkins, Robert Stiffe, and Waveney Girvan.

Réponses de Lecteurs

• Réponse à la question N° 7 "OPÉRATION PHILADELPHIE": A reader, Geneviève Vanquelef, shares her thoughts on the Philadelphia Experiment, drawing parallels between its reported effects (invisibility, madness, death) and UFO testimonies. She discusses Jean-Pierre Petit's skepticism towards Charles Berlitz's account of the event, citing an article from 'UFO Québec' that questions Berlitz's claims and suggests that the 'hyper-space' effect could be explained by simple magnetic fields. The reader concludes that Berlitz's use of 'may be' indicates uncertainty and that the evidence for the Philadelphia Experiment is weak.

Suite de p. 36 : INVESTIGATION OVNI

This section continues the discussion on UFO investigation, mentioning concepts like abnormal human mental behavior, spontaneous energy generation phenomena, and extraterrestrial origins. It suggests that the author leaves the interpretation to the reader based on their own knowledge and research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, witness testimonies, and investigative reports. It maintains a stance of open inquiry, presenting various hypotheses and encouraging readers to form their own conclusions. There's a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation, as seen in the detailed analysis of the Houplines sighting and the critique of unsubstantiated claims regarding the Philadelphia Experiment. The publication also fosters a community through its reader forums and network communications (CB OVNI), promoting active participation in the field of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific curiosity tempered with a critical approach to evidence, advocating for a Cartesian and rigorous examination of UFO observations.