LDLN - No 261-262

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), dated March-April 1986, is the 29th year and issue number 261-262, priced at 19 French Francs. The magazine is dedicated to international research into the truth, with its editorial committee composed of its collaborators. The cover prominently features an illustration of a figure emitting flames and announces a "Rencontre du 3e Type" (Third Kind Encounter) in Prato Di Principato Ultra, Italy, with a reference to page 20. Other featured articles include "Les inventeurs méconnus" (The Unknown Inventors), "A propos de la déformation anormale des métaux" (Regarding the abnormal deformation of metals), and "Atterrissage à Verdun (Meuse)" (Landing in Verdun, Meuse).

Unknown Inventors

This section, authored by Michel Figuet, explores the history of early submarine inventions. It begins by referencing an article by Antonio Ribera and Fernand Lagarde about Narcisse Monturiol and his "Ictineo" submarine. The text details Monturiol's "Ictineo" (both I and II), which underwent trials and reportedly submerged to 18 meters, with a crew of ten able to stay underwater for five hours thanks to an oxygen-producing apparatus. The author notes the lack of continuation of these trials despite Spanish enthusiasm and compares this to the later case of Peral's submarine.

The article then delves into other early submarine pioneers. It mentions Wilhelm Bauer and his "Plongeur Marin" (1851) and "Diable Marin" (1855), a 15.80-meter long, dolphin-shaped vessel designed to withstand pressures of over 45 meters. Bauer's "Diable Marin" featured a double watertight door for deploying torpedoes. Simultaneously, American Lodner D. Philipps was experimenting on Lake Michigan with a cigar-shaped submarine equipped with torpedoes, a cannon, and a hull-piercing apparatus. The author highlights the irony that these scientifically advanced designs came from a turner (Bauer) and a shoemaker (Philipps).

Further historical accounts include a submarine project by a young inmate in Ajaccio in 1854. The text also touches upon French inventors like Deschamps and Vilcoquet, who built a copper submarine maneuvered by one person. M. Deschamps later presented a new copper and bronze vessel, nearly losing his life during trials. M. Marié-Davy proposed an electromagnetically powered submarine with a trident for piercing enemy hulls or a torpedo-launching mechanism. The Swedish Nordenfelt submarine, equipped with machine guns in 1855, is also mentioned.

The article notes the varied shapes of early submarines, including "saucer-like" (soucoupiques) forms, and compares the hemiplegic submersible of M. Donnato-Tomassi to a UFO observed near the Gabriel y Galan dam. The author concludes that the "genius" qualifier can be applied to all 18th-century submarine navigation inventions, drawing parallels between the admiration and criticism faced by inventors like Monturiol and Bauer, who often died in poverty despite their innovations.

Regarding the Abnormal Deformation of Metals

Authored by Doctor Alfred Krantz, this section investigates the phenomenon of metal bending, referencing Uri Geller and Silvio. The author recounts meeting Uri Geller in Genoa in 1974, where Geller allegedly deformed a flat key in front of him and other witnesses, including a professional illusionist. Krantz emphasizes that he is a rationalist but acknowledges the event, noting that other witnesses also filmed and photographed the incident.

Krantz also describes meeting Jean-Pierre Girard multiple times, including an occasion in Lyon in 1976 where, at a dinner table, he observed Girard deforming cutlery between his thumb and index finger in front of other diners. Krantz states that the progressive deformation of metal bars (1 cm diameter, 25 cm length) was filmed simultaneously from two angles, showing the bars becoming too resistant to be bent by hand. He also mentions meeting Silvio in Bern in 1979, who bent and straightened a teaspoon at a distance of 30 cm without visible effort.

The author considers the paranormal deformation of metals to be authentic, citing laboratory confirmations and scientific studies. He references a French study titled "RECHERCHES SUR LES DEFORMATIONS ANORMALES DES METAUX" by Crussard, Jollant, and Bouvaist, published in "Mémoires et études scientifiques." Internationally, he mentions Professor Hasted of Birbek College in London.

Krantz offers his films of Girard's demonstrations to any serious inquirer, emphasizing that Girard's hands and the bars remained in view throughout the filming, with no visible editing or special effects in slow motion.

The "Aerial Hunts"... Natural Phenomenon or UFO?

This article explores the folklore of "chasses aériennes" (aerial hunts) in France, suggesting a connection to modern UFO phenomena. It describes legends of phantom hunts in the sky, which were once common but have since become rare. The article notes that these legends are geographically concentrated in a band from Brittany-Normandy to Alsace-Lorraine, with no origins in Occitan or Provençal regions, except for the Basque Country and the County of Foix.

The "aerial hunts" are broadly divided into two categories: those led by a prominent figure (a lord or king) condemned to hunt eternally, and those led by the Devil or Death, pursuing human souls to Hell. Examples include the "chasse Arthur," where a lord leaves mass to follow his hounds, and legends involving the Devil or Death chasing souls of unbaptized children or unconfessed fishermen.

The article lists various names for these hunts, such as "chasse volante," "chasse Briguet," and "chasse maligne." It also mentions "chasse Hennequin," "chasse Galery," and "chasse sauvage," noting that in some legends, drawing a cross on the ground can offer refuge from the hunt. The author points out that many villages had their own names for these phenomena, and legends often intermingled.

While acknowledging the legendary aspect, the article suggests that these tales might be based on real, albeit misinterpreted, events. It highlights that "aerial hunts" were often heard rather than seen, with sounds in the air being attributed to migrating birds, such as curlews, geese, and ducks. The article posits that meteorological phenomena or even UFOs could be the source of these sightings, leading to the creation of these legends.

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to a personal account from Madame Claudia Jeury, who claims to have witnessed an "aerial hunt" three times near Pélussin (Loire). She describes seeing a large mass rolling in the atmosphere, accompanied by whistling and honking sounds. She recounts seeing dog heads, a deer, and a pack of dogs, with a long trail of clouds. She describes the phenomenon as "yellowish, brilliant," sometimes long, sometimes short, and always moving northwards. She emphasizes the extraordinary nature of the phenomenon and her inability to explain it.

The article concludes by posing the question of whether these "aerial hunts" are natural phenomena or UFOs, suggesting that legends often arise from real events that are misinterpreted. It notes that the "chasse aérienne" in legends shares unsettling similarities with UFO cases, particularly regarding abductions and "tele-transports."

Catalogue Francat of Close Encounters in France (Listing 800 - 1982) (4 - Suite)

This section provides a continuation of a catalog of reported UFO sightings in France, listing numerous entries with dates, times, locations, postal codes, and credibility sources. The entries span from 1975 to 1979 and include various classifications (CE1 to CE3, T, RG) and references to publications like "LDLN," "OVNI," "PV GN," and "AAMT."

Notable entries include a sighting in Draguignan in 1975 (CE3a), Gondrecourt-le-Château in 1975 (CE1), and several reports from the Ardennes, Meuse, and Vosges regions. The catalog also includes information on the sources of these reports, such as personal communications, specific magazine issues, and investigations by organizations like GEPAN.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" demonstrates a strong interest in historical technological innovations, particularly in the field of underwater exploration, and their inventors. It also delves into the realm of the paranormal, specifically focusing on metal bending phenomena, and explores the intersection of folklore and potential UFO sightings through the lens of "aerial hunts." The magazine's editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader contributions and research while maintaining a rationalist perspective, as stated by Dr. Krantz. The publication seems committed to uncovering "truth" by examining a wide range of phenomena, from documented historical events to unexplained modern occurrences and traditional legends. The "Avis" section explicitly states that the publication of any document does not necessarily imply approval of its contents but rather its perceived value in the pursuit of truth.

This issue of LDLN (likely 'Les Dossiers du Libre' or similar, given the context of ufology publications) presents a detailed investigative report on a significant UFO encounter that occurred on October 8, 1984, in Prato di Principato Ultra, Italy. The magazine also includes several other case reports from France and Italy, spanning from the late 1960s to the mid-1980s.

Prato di Principato Ultra Encounter (October 8, 1984)

The main article focuses on an event witnessed by Giuseppe Cocozza, an agricultural worker. The report, compiled by Umberto Telarico and translated by Maria Toffano, emphasizes the importance of consulting original sources rather than summaries, noting discrepancies with a previously published summary by Edoardo Russo. Cocozza was in his field when he encountered a humanoid figure. He initially thought the figure was 'mad' but then observed it using a tool to probe the ground. The humanoid, approximately 1.20 to 1.30 meters tall, had a round head, wore glasses, and emitted sparks and flames from its sides, described as similar to an electric welder. After Cocozza coughed, the humanoid turned, and then a craft, described as a box-like object about two meters long and 1.30 meters wide, departed rapidly, covering a significant distance in a very short time.

Investigation and Trace Evidence

The investigation, also involving the 'Solaris' research center, documented physical traces left at the site. These included impressions of elongated boot-like shapes and holes, some with parallel striations. Radioactivity tests on soil and vegetation samples showed no significant contamination. The analysis of the traces suggests a craft with a total support area of approximately 763 cm², exerting a pressure of about 953.75 kg on the ground. The depth of the traces (9 cm) indicated a near-zero speed landing. Temperature measurements inside the traces showed a slight increase, suggesting residual energy.

Witness Testimony and Evaluation

Giuseppe Cocozza, aged 57, is described as a credible witness, not prone to emotional exaggeration, and generally skeptical of UFO phenomena before this event. His testimony was detailed, and the investigators found no reason to doubt his account or suspect fraud. The report discusses the possibility of a hoax but finds it unlikely given the circumstances and the witness's background.

Other Case Reports

Verdun (Meuse), France (September 1969)

Reported by J.M. Bigorne, this case involves M.L., a hypermarket director, who observed a metallic, disk-shaped object with three visible legs, stationary in a clearing near Verdun. The object, described as two superimposed plates, was about 10-12 meters wide and 5 meters thick, with 5-meter high supports. It vanished instantly after about 50 seconds of observation.

Fécamp (Seine-Maritime), France (Winter 1977-1978)

Jacques Lefebure, a speech therapist, and his family witnessed a luminous object emitting a high-pitched sifflement. The object, described as yellow-white and intense, accelerated horizontally at high speed towards the Antifer lighthouse before disappearing. The witness believed an intelligence was behind the phenomenon.

Pas-de-Calais, France (September 1969)

Reported by M. Julien, this case involves Mr. and Mrs. B. who observed an unusual luminous phenomenon described as a large, red, rectangular shape with a green cone. It was initially stationary but then followed their car at a constant altitude and speed.

Corsica (November 1984)

Reported by Christine Castany, this incident involved witnesses driving near Patrimonio who observed a red point of light that appeared stationary. It later became brighter, accompanied by green and white lights, and then illuminated a large area before moving slowly and disappearing.

Toulon (Var), France (Summer 1984)

Investigated by Raphaëlle Auger and Patrice Seray, this case describes Mme B. and her daughter observing a large, white, non-luminous ball-shaped object flying at very low altitude over the Arsenal of Toulon. The object moved slowly and seemed to stop briefly before disappearing towards St-Mandrier.

Damville (Eure), France (November 1979)

Reported by Robert Crépin, this case involves Madame Duvallet, who perceived a luminous circle on the ground in her field. The object, described as a meter-wide, vivid, horizontal disk, remained stationary and became increasingly luminous before disappearing when she approached.

Palmarès des observations dans l'Eure (Suite)

This section provides brief summaries of several other sightings in the Eure region of France, including: Gouttières (September 1975 - two superimposed saucers), Côtes des Deux-Amants (October 1975 - red oval object), Toutainville (April 1976 - large red ball), and Gaillon (June 1976 - red semi-spherical object).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed eyewitness accounts of UFOs and humanoid encounters, often accompanied by physical trace evidence. The magazine emphasizes rigorous investigation, cross-referencing of sources, and the credibility of witnesses. The editorial stance, as expressed in the 'ligne de conduite' section, is to maintain an open mind to different viewpoints and to foster constructive debate based on ideas rather than personal attacks. The publication aims to present diverse perspectives within the field of ufology, encouraging readers to engage critically with the presented information.

This issue of 'Courrier' magazine, identified as LDLN issue numbers 257-258 and published in the first quarter of 1986, delves into a variety of UFO and unexplained phenomena reports and discussions. The cover prominently features a discussion on 'mysterious electrical phenomena in Auvergne' and an 'opinion' piece on UFOs. The publication details indicate it is printed in France by Imprimé en France, with an ISSN of 35.385.

UFO Sightings and Case Files

The magazine presents a detailed catalog of UFO sightings, numbered from 23 to 35, spanning from October 1976 to August 1979. These reports originate from various locations across France, including Vernon, Les Fourneaux, Village de la Foret, Evreux, Houetteville, Illeville-Montfort, Granvilliers, St Sebastien de Morsent, St Paul s/Risle, Les Damp's, Rouen, Pont-Audemer, Epinal, Vesoul, Pontarlier, Brioude, Thaon-les-Vosges, Mirecourt, Nomexy, and Mortagne par Bruyeres.

Each case file includes the date, time, location, duration, witness name(s) and profession, object shape, color, dimensions, behavior, speed, altitude, environmental conditions, and a brief narrative of the sighting. Some reports also include investigator notes and sources, such as Paris-Normandie and Actualités Régionales FR3.

• Notable observations include:
• Case 23 (October 1976, Les Fourneaux): A cigar-shaped object with green-white colors, observed by a 48-year-old witness.
• Case 24 (January 1977, Village de la Foret): A child observed a golden, cigar-shaped object descending.
• Case 25 (August 1977, Houetteville): A luminous object, described as a cigar or beam, was seen by a witness and his family.
• Case 26 (August 1977, Illeville-Montfort): A witness observed a luminous, oval object that remained stationary.
• Case 28 (September 1977, Granvilliers): Five people witnessed a luminous ball moving parallel to their car.
• Case 29 (November 1977, St Sebastien de Morsent): A white, scintillating ball was observed moving under clouds.
• Case 30 (November 1977, St Paul s/Risle): A white disc-shaped object ascended rapidly and silently.
• Case 31 (November 1977, Les Damp's): A round, yellow object was observed immobile under clouds.
• Case 32 (November 1977, Frenelles): An elongated, blue object with pink flames was seen moving rectilinearly.
• Case 33 (April 1978, Le Vaudreuil): A fixed, white-yellow, round object was observed immobile.
• Case 34 (July 1978, Rougemontier): A witness observed a luminous ball that descended towards the ground.
• Case 35 (July 1978, Pont Audemer): A witness observed a luminous object described as a 'point' or 'star' that performed abrupt stops and loops.

Historical Case Catalog (Vosges, 1954)

• The magazine features a 'Retroactive Catalog of Vosges Cases (1)' covering the year 1954. This section, compiled by F. Diolez, presents cases chronologically, with details on the witness, date, location, and a summary of the event. It includes:
• Case F/98/8840100 (XAFFEVILLIERS, January 1954): A brief flash of light observed by André FAURE.
• Case F/98/88540109 (EPINAL, January 1954): An object described as a 'flying stone' or 'cigar-shaped' or 'fish-shaped' with a luminous green tail was observed by multiple people, including M. Antoine.
• Case F/98/88540109 (VITTEL, January 1954): A 'flying cigar' was observed moving horizontally at high altitude with a bluish flame and sparks.
• Case F/98/88540126 (THAON-LES-VOSGES, January 1954): André PIERRAT observed a bright point moving rapidly, stopping, illuminating the sky, and then disappearing.
• Case F/98/88540126 (NOMEXY, January 1954): André OULOT and Lucien THOUVENIN observed a large, rapid light with no sound.
• Case F/98/88540424 (MORTAGNE PAR BRUYERES, April 1954): A witness, Roger M., described a round object on the ground, preceded by three large OVNI-like objects with loud noise. He touched the object, finding it cold and hard.
• Case F/98/88540803 (GERARDMER, August 1954): Carmen D. observed a luminous point resembling a star at high altitude.
• Case F/98/88540807 (DOCELLES, August 1954): Several people observed a cigar-shaped meteor-like object moving horizontally.
• Case F/98/88540808 (CONTREXEVILLE / VITTEL, August 1954): A 'flying cigar' with a bluish flame and sparks was observed moving horizontally at high altitude.
• Case F/98/88540808 (REMIREMONT, August 1954): Two witnesses observed a luminous object described as a cigar or disc, white at the front with a flame-like tail.

Reader Correspondence and Opinions

The 'Courrier' section features letters from readers sharing their thoughts and experiences:

• Bruni MANCUSI (Switzerland) writes about mysterious electrical phenomena in Auvergne, referencing a similar event near Pontarlier in 1975.
• Eric MORIN (Indre-et-Loire) expresses his opinion on the OVNI phenomenon, suggesting that governments are aware but reluctant to admit it due to potential implications for current propulsion technology and economic stability. He advocates for less public discussion to avoid compromising information.
• René FAUDRIN (Bas-Rhin) responds to a previous opinion, emphasizing that while he is still interested in UFOs, he prioritizes other current events. He argues that the lack of public discussion and media coverage is due to fewer observations and a lack of concrete evidence, rather than a deliberate blackout. He suggests that a better approach involves in-depth research, verification of facts, and improved information gathering tools.

Reader Inquiry

A reader named R. Bagarie (Indre-et-Loire) inquires about a specific aircraft model described as a triangle with raised wingtips, which she observed. She asks if such a model exists and if it could be an unusual foreign design.

Research Initiatives

The magazine highlights the 'Réseau de Surveillance OVNI' (UFO Surveillance Network), which invites readers and investigators to participate in night vigils and experimental research. It also mentions the 'Réseau CB-OVNI', now managed by M. Eric BILLOIS.

Advertisements and Publication Details

An advertisement seeks the book "J'ai trouvé l'Arche de Noé" by Fernand Navarro. Another ad offers to sell complete issues of LDLN from May 1965 to July 1984. The publication details at the bottom of page 5 indicate the director of publication is R VEILLITH, with registration number 35.385 and legal deposit for the first quarter of 1986.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFO phenomena, the nature of witness testimony, and the challenges of scientific investigation and public acceptance. There's a clear emphasis on documenting sightings, historical cases, and ongoing research efforts. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and detailed reporting, while also acknowledging the complexities and potential sensitivities surrounding the topic, as reflected in the reader correspondence. The magazine aims to provide a platform for sharing information and fostering a deeper understanding of these unexplained events.