LDLN - No 277-278

Magazine Overview

LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT, issue number 277-278, from July-August 1987, is a 30th-year publication dedicated to the investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The magazine aims to shed light on humanity's search for truth through the discoveries presented by its collaborators.

Table of Contents

• The issue features a diverse range of articles, including:
• Les faux sceptiques (The False Skeptics) by Jean Sider
• Une peinture extraordinaire (An Extraordinary Painting) with a photo on the cover
• Ordinateur et Ufologie (Computer and Ufology) by Maurizio Verga
• A propos du pourcentage de confusions (bis) (On the Percentage of Confusions (bis)) by Pierre Guerin
• La gravité est-elle en rapport avec la force de Lorentz ? (Is Gravity Related to the Lorentz Force?) by Rho Sigma
• A propos de l'article de M. Toulet contre le Darwinisme (On M. Toulet's Article Against Darwinism) by Pierre Guerin

Articles

Les faux sceptiques (The False Skeptics) by Jean Sider

Jean Sider critically analyzes a segment of ufologists who identify as "socio-psychologists." He argues that these individuals, rather than engaging in genuine skepticism, have moved towards "negativism" and "forced rationalism," dismissing UFO phenomena outright. Sider contends that these "skeptics" often rely on vague, abstract language and misinterpret evidence to fit their preconceived notions. He contrasts their approach with that of a true skeptic, who doubts, verifies, and maintains neutrality. Sider points out that this "new school of thought" imports an Anglo-Saxon perspective and is characterized by a tendency to "debunk" cases without rigorous investigation, sometimes even ignoring official documents that contradict their model. He criticizes their "jargonaphasia" and their reductionist approach to complex phenomena.

Une peinture extraordinaire (An Extraordinary Painting)

This section focuses on a painting that appears to depict a UFO. The article discusses its provenance, attributing it to the Flemish painter Aert de Gelder (circa 1710). The painting, identified as "The Baptism of Christ," features a disc-shaped object in the sky and unusual beams of light. The author questions whether this depiction is purely symbolic or if the artist might have witnessed an actual anomalous aerial phenomenon, drawing parallels to historical accounts of "fiery shields" mentioned by ancient writers.

Ordinateur et Ufologie (Computer and Ufology) by Maurizio Verga

This article explores the increasing integration of computers into ufological research. It details various databases and software programs developed for cataloging UFO sightings, such as UFOBANK, Bécassine, ARGENCAT, and COMPITACAT. The author highlights how these tools facilitate data analysis, statistical studies, and the management of case files. The role of computer networks and specialized newsletters like "The Computer UFO Newsletter" in disseminating information and fostering collaboration among researchers is also emphasized.

A propos du pourcentage de confusions (bis) (On the Percentage of Confusions (bis)) by Pierre Guerin

Pierre Guerin responds to an article by M. Canonico concerning the percentage of UFO sightings that can be explained as misidentifications. Guerin argues that Canonico's approach is flawed, particularly in equating "confused" phenomena with genuine UFOs. He emphasizes that true UFOs, by definition, are those cases that remain unexplained after investigation. Guerin suggests that the high percentage of confusions is not a mathematical issue but a cultural one, stemming from witnesses' inability to analyze what they see. He advocates for a more rigorous approach to case analysis, focusing on evidence and avoiding ideological biases.

La gravité est-elle en rapport avec la force de Lorentz ? (Is Gravity Related to the Lorentz Force?) by Rho Sigma

This article delves into the theoretical connection between gravity and the Lorentz force. It discusses experiments with a small submarine model propelled by electromagnetic propulsion, which operated without conventional engines or propellers. The author explores the work of physicists like Wilhelm Laun and William J. Hooper, who proposed that gravity might be a manifestation of electromagnetic forces at the atomic level. The concept of "electromagnetic motion field" is introduced as a potential explanation for antigravity and advanced propulsion systems.

A propos de l'article de M. Toulet contre le Darwinisme (On M. Toulet's Article Against Darwinism) by Pierre Guerin

Pierre Guerin addresses an article by M. Toulet that criticizes Darwinism. Guerin agrees with Toulet's critique of the simplistic "neo-Darwinian" model but argues that Toulet incorrectly dismisses the entire concept of biological evolution. Guerin clarifies that evolution, understood as the gradual development of species, is a scientific fact, distinct from specific evolutionary mechanisms like natural selection. He criticizes Toulet for mixing scientific discussion with religious dogma and for failing to acknowledge the work of other scientists who have also challenged Darwinism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical yet open-minded approach to ufology. It challenges simplistic explanations, particularly those offered by "skeptics," and encourages rigorous investigation. There is a strong emphasis on scientific inquiry, theoretical physics, and the potential for advanced technologies. The editorial stance is one of seeking truth, independent of mainstream scientific or governmental consensus, and empowering readers to engage with these complex topics. The publication also highlights the importance of collaboration and the dissemination of information within the ufological community.

This issue of LDLN, identified as number 3 in the 'Catalogue des Traces de Pas d'Ufonautes' series, continues the detailed documentation of alleged UFO landing traces and encounters with humanoid beings. The article, written by Jacques Scornaux and published in January-February 1987, builds upon previous installments and presents a chronological catalog of cases from 1954 onwards.

Case Studies

The issue meticulously details numerous cases, each with specific dates, locations, and witness accounts. These include:

• 23) Castelluccio di Norcia, Italy (December 22, 1954): Witnesses reported a luminous beam descending from a triangular object, followed by a violet light. The next morning, distinct footprints were found in the snow, with varying dimensions and some suggesting flotation or interruption.
• 24) Edison, Georgia, USA (July 20-27, 1955): A witness described a small, hairy, grey creature. Footprints, white hair, and partially eaten fruit were found. Investigations noted the hair was human-like but couldn't definitively link it to the entity.
• 25) Dogtown, Indiana, USA (August 14 or 21, 1955): A woman reported being attacked by a hairy hand underwater, leaving a green hand-shaped mark. Other witnesses saw a bright oval in the sky.
• 26) Porto Rico and Dominican Republic (1956 onwards): Mentions investigations by the Centro de Estudio de Objetos Voladores No Identificados (CEOVNI) into cases involving humanoid footprints.
• 27) Galt, Ontario, Canada (July 30, 1957): A boy witnessed a circular object land, leaving behind broken branches and footprints described as giant, three-toed feet.
• 28) Montville, Ohio, USA (November 6, 1957): A driver reported seeing a bright object that divided, with one part landing in a field. The object was saucer-shaped with a conical dome and emitted a pulsating blue-green light.
• 29) Lagoa Negra, Brazil (Early January 1958): Five people witnessed a discoidal UFO land, from which two tall and three shorter humanoids emerged. Footprints of two distinct types were found.
• 30) Cojutepeque, El Salvador (November 23, 1958): A technician saw a bell-shaped object land, and a bald humanoid examined it. Three depressions were found, along with 'pilot's footprints'.
• 31) Durango, Colorado, USA (December 24, 1960): Witnesses saw a luminous object land. The next day, numerous footprints, described as human-like but of unusual size, were found.
• 32) Hawk, California, USA (Early February 1962): A witness saw a circular object land and a black-clad humanoid emerge. Footprints, described as 'feminine', were found nearby.
• 33) Bajada Grande, Argentina (July 27, 1962): A student encountered a very tall humanoid. Footprints were found in the sandy soil.
• 34) Belo Horizonte, Brazil (August 28, 1963): Children witnessed a luminous sphere land. A 2-meter-tall humanoid with red skin and a single eye emerged, leaving triangular impressions.
• 35) Monte Maiz, Argentina (October 12, 1963): A truck driver witnessed a large oval object land, and three giant humanoids emerged. Footprints of 45-50 cm were found.
• 36) Sandling Park, United Kingdom (November 16 & 21, 1963): Witnesses saw a luminous object and a black, headless silhouette. Later, giant footprints (up to 60 cm) were found.
• 37) Libreville, Gabon (December 25, 1963): A fisherman reported a terrifying humanoid emerging from a mysterious craft, leaving 'enormous footprints'.
• 38) Rivesville, USA (April 23, 1964): A witness saw an object land, and found a circular imprint and footprints.
• 39) Newark Valley, USA (April 24, 1964): A farmer witnessed a metallic oval object land, from which two small humanoids emerged. They conversed with him, and afterwards, square depressions and a gelatinous red film were found on the ground.
• 40) Socorro, USA (April 24, 1964): Police officer Lonnie Zamora witnessed an oval object land and two small humanoids emerge. The object left behind traces interpreted as landing gear marks, along with other impressions.
• 41) Libaros, France (July 8 or 9, 1964): Witnesses saw a bright object land, and two small men emerged, leaving passage traces and footprints under a chestnut tree.
• 42) Waianno, Hawaii, USA (October 22, 1964): A small humanoid (90 cm) was seen leaving small footprints.
• 43) Custer, USA (January 12, 1965): Witnesses saw a luminous object land, leaving a circle of melted snow and burn marks, with a trail of oval footprints.
• 44) Guarani, Brazil (February 14, 1965): Witnesses saw a large object land, and three tall beings emerged. Footprints and 'bizarre circles' were found.
• 45) Tully, Australia (February 1965): 'Bizarre hoof-like marks' were reported.

Analysis and Commentary

The author frequently notes the challenges in ufological research, including the reliance on single witnesses, the long delay between events and official investigations, and the potential for misinterpretation or fabrication. The article highlights discrepancies between different sources and critiques the work of certain researchers, particularly Jacques Vallée, for alleged inaccuracies and sensationalism. The role of journalistic reporting versus rigorous investigation is also discussed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the physical evidence left behind by UFOs and their occupants, the nature of the humanoid entities encountered, and the scientific and psychological aspects of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of careful, detailed documentation and critical analysis, aiming to present cases as objectively as possible while acknowledging the inherent difficulties and mysteries involved in ufology. The author emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the need to distinguish between credible evidence and speculation.

Notable Quotes

• "LA VÉRITÉ EST SI OBSCURE EN CE TEMPS, ET LE MENSONGE SI ÉTABLIE, QU'A MOINS QUE D'AIMER LA VÉRITÉ, ON NE SAURAIT LA CONNAITRE" (PASCAL)
• The article also includes a section titled 'POINT DE VUE D'UN LECTEUR' where a reader expresses support for LDLN's expansion into other unexplained phenomena while cautioning against charlatanism and emphasizing the importance of scientific rigor and critical thinking.
• Another section, 'A PROPOS DE "CONTRE DARWIN: C'EST LA BIBLE QUI A RAISON"', discusses the scientific debate on evolution versus creationism, referencing an article in LDLN.

FAQ

• What is the main focus of this magazine issue? This issue focuses on cataloging UFO-related footprints and traces left by alleged 'ufonauts', detailing numerous cases from various locations and time periods.
• What types of physical evidence are discussed in relation to UFO encounters? The issue discusses various types of physical evidence, including footprints of different sizes and shapes, impressions left by landing gear, broken branches, carbonized ground, hair samples, and circular marks.
• What are some of the locations where these UFO-related incidents occurred? Incidents are reported from Italy, the USA (Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Colorado, California, New York), Brazil, Argentina, Canada, El Salvador, the United Kingdom, and Gabon.
• What challenges do ufologists face when investigating these cases? Challenges include witness credibility, the passage of time affecting memory, potential for misinterpretation or hoaxes, and the difficulty in obtaining definitive proof.
• What is the editorial stance of the magazine regarding UFO phenomena? The magazine adopts a stance of detailed documentation and critical analysis, aiming for objectivity while acknowledging the mysteries of ufology and emphasizing rigorous investigation.

Title: LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT
Issue: N° Mai-Juin 1987
Date: May-June 1987
Publisher: Imprimé en France (Printed in France)
Country: France
Language: French
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night) prominently features an article by Jean Sider titled "CRASHES D'OVNI : ENFIN DES PREUVES" (UFO Crashes: Finally Proof), presented as a 16-page excerpt from a previous publication. The cover also includes a call to participate in the diffusion of these tirés à part (separates) of Sider's text on UFO crashes, with pricing information provided for bulk orders.

Editorial Content

A NOS LECTEURS (To Our Readers)

The editorial section addresses the historical challenges faced by scientific pioneers and truth-seekers who encounter obstacles and "barrages" when disseminating information that "disturbs" established norms. It references Auguste Lumière's book "LES FOSSOYEURS DU PROGRÈS" (The Gravediggers of Progress) as an example of a work that became rapidly unobtainable, illustrating the difficulties such pioneers face.

The editorial acknowledges that "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" is not exempt from these challenges. It highlights two specific issues: the near-impossibility of placing paid advertisements in the mainstream press (except for a limited period in "Sciences et Vie" and "Sciences et Avenir"), and an instance where an attempt to establish a distribution point for the magazine in a major center in the Rhône-Alpes region was met with prohibition when the director sought officialization and expansion.

Furthermore, the editorial explains the recent reduction in the magazine's page count. This decision was made for two primary reasons: to decrease mailing costs, as postal charges more than double for items exceeding 100 grams, and to align with regulations for publications registered with the Commission Paritaire des Papiers de Presse. The editorial notes that many unregistered publications have already disappeared due to these higher costs.

Article: CRASHES D'OVNI : ENFIN DES PREUVES

This article by Jean Sider, presented as a tiré à part, claims to offer proof of UFO crashes. The accompanying text on the cover encourages readers to participate in spreading this information, framing it as a way to prevent the truth from being suppressed. The pricing for these separates indicates a tiered cost based on the quantity ordered, with a note that payment should follow the same procedure as subscriptions, and stamps are also accepted.

Publication Details

• Director of Publication: R VEILLITH
• Publication Registration Number: 68.468
• Printing: Imprimerie Imprilux, St-Etienne
• Legal Deposit: 3rd trimester 1987

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to be dedicated to exploring controversial topics, particularly UFO phenomena, and presenting evidence that challenges conventional understanding. The editorial stance is one of advocating for the dissemination of truth, even in the face of significant obstacles from mainstream media and potentially established institutions. There is a clear emphasis on the struggles of truth-seekers and the importance of reader participation in spreading information that might otherwise be suppressed. The issue also demonstrates a practical concern for the financial and logistical aspects of publishing, such as managing postal costs.