LDLN - No 279-280

Magazine Overview

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night), dated September-October 1987, is the 30th year and issue number 21 F. The cover prominently features the headline "TURBULENCES CIRCULAIRES EN ANGLETERRE" (Circular Turbulences in England), accompanied by an image of a person with a camera observing a field with circular patterns in the crops. The magazine is dedicated to the search for truth regarding mysterious celestial objects and related problems.

Sociologie sans psychologie, ou le petit oubli du Docteur Warren

This article critically examines the sociological theory proposed by Dr. Donald I. Warren, published in "SCIENCE," which suggests that individuals reporting UFO sightings are socially maladjusted and prone to psychological marginalization. The author argues that Warren's thesis, which draws on data from the "American Institute of Public Opinion" (Gallup) from 1947, 1950, and 1966, is flawed. The article points out that Warren's study relies on a specific demographic and fails to account for individuals who might refrain from reporting sightings due to fear of ridicule or social repercussions. It cites a critique by Dr. Stuart Appelle, a psychology professor at George Washington University, who noted that Warren did not distinguish between those who admitted seeing something and those who actually reported it. The article also references French publications in "Le Monde" and "L'Express" that discussed Warren's thesis. It concludes that Warren's theory is invalidated by its selective use of data and by the fact that socially integrated individuals, who are supposedly less likely to report, may in fact be inhibited from doing so, thus skewing the statistics.

Les OVNI du GEPAN

This section introduces GEPAN (Groupe d'étude des phénomènes aérospatiaux non identifiés), an official French organization created by CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) in the 1970s to scientifically study unidentified aerospace phenomena. The article highlights an interview with Jean-Jacques Velasco, the head of GEPAN, who discusses the organization's methodology. GEPAN systematically collects reports from various official sources like the gendarmerie and aviation authorities. Their research involves detailed analysis of witness testimonies, environmental factors, and psycho-sociological aspects. The article mentions that GEPAN's work has debunked some sensationalized reports as hoaxes, such as the alleged encounter in Cergy-Pontoise. It also notes that GEPAN has identified confusion with known phenomena like satellites, stars, and meteorological events. The article details two specific cases that GEPAN found particularly puzzling: "LA TRACE" (The Trace) and "L'AMARANTE" (The Amaranth).

"LA TRACE" describes an incident in Provence in January 1981 where a disc-shaped object left a circular trace in a field. The trace showed signs of soil compaction, thermal anomalies, and slight changes in vegetation. "L'AMARANTE" recounts an event in October 1982 where an ovular object hovered over a garden, causing nearby amaranth plants to dry out. Analysis suggested a possible intense electrical field. Both cases raised more questions than answers.

The article also touches upon the broader context of space exploration, mentioning the NASA Pioneer 10 message, and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence. It emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor in investigating such phenomena.

Etude sur les turbulences circulaires dans les champs du sud de l'Angleterre

This extensive study by Jean Sider investigates the phenomenon of circular crop formations, primarily observed in Southern England since the early 1980s. Sider meticulously documents numerous cases, providing dates, locations, dimensions, and descriptions of the formations. The study begins by exploring the hypothesis that these circles are caused by meteorological phenomena, such as tornados and "dust devils." However, Sider systematically debunks these explanations.

He details the characteristics of tornados and "dust devils," noting their typical cyclonic rotation and the types of traces they leave, which often involve significant damage and disarray of vegetation. In contrast, the English crop circles are characterized by plants laid down in precise spiral patterns, often in an anti-cyclonic direction, with the plants themselves remaining intact and capable of continued growth. Sider highlights the symmetry and complexity of formations involving multiple circles (triplets and quintuplets) as particularly difficult to explain by known meteorological events.

Sider analyzes specific cases, including those at Westbury White Horse, Bratton, and Cley Hill in Wiltshire. He notes that many formations appear in summer and are often found in fields of wheat or barley. The study also addresses the role of witnesses, the challenges of investigation, and the skepticism encountered from some authorities.

The article systematically refutes the meteorological hypothesis by pointing out:

• Direction of Rotation: English crop circles generally exhibit anti-cyclonic rotation, whereas tornados and mini-tornades are typically cyclonic.
• Plant Condition: The plants within the circles are usually laid down neatly in spirals, without being torn or broken, and can continue to grow. This is unlike the destructive effects of tornados.
• Symmetry and Complexity: The precise geometric patterns, especially those involving multiple concentric or satellite circles, are difficult to attribute to random meteorological events.
• Lack of Damage: Beyond the flattened crops, there is typically no other damage to the surrounding environment, which would be expected from a powerful weather phenomenon.

Sider also discusses the possibility of hoaxes but finds that the scale and precision of many formations make them difficult to create without detection. He concludes that while meteorological phenomena might explain some simpler circular patterns, they do not account for the full range of complex and symmetrical crop circle formations observed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, particularly UFOs and related anomalies like crop circles. The editorial stance, as indicated in the "avis" section, is to present diverse documents and perspectives, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. The publication emphasizes a commitment to seeking truth and encourages rigorous investigation, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific knowledge in explaining these events. There is a clear skepticism towards purely socio-psychological explanations for UFO sightings, favoring more empirical and investigative approaches. The magazine also highlights the importance of international collaboration and the sharing of information among researchers worldwide.

This issue of "Lumières Dans La Nuit" (LDLN), identified by issue numbers 271-272 and dated May-June 1987, is a French publication from the publisher LDLN. It features a cover headline about UFO crashes and the importance of truth, with a sub-headline emphasizing participation in disseminating information. The issue delves into various unexplained phenomena, including radar detections of UFOs, alleged encounters with giants, and detailed case studies.

Key Articles and Investigations

Crashes d'OVNI: Enfin des Preuves (UFO Crashes: Finally Proof)

This section, authored by Jean Sider, is a 16-page excerpt from an article originally published in "Lumières Dans La Nuit" in May-June 1987. It is presented as a call to action for readers to participate in disseminating this information widely. The article discusses the evidence for UFO crashes and criticizes the lack of transparency and the tendency to dismiss such phenomena. It references a specific radar detection event in Champagne in October 1978, which was reported by regional media and involved military radar stations and aircraft.

Radar Detection of UFOs

This section, attributed to Michel Sorgues and analyzed by Jean-Michel Ligeron, critically examines a reported UFO detection by radar on December 14, 1976, in the Northeast of France. The analysis concludes that the phenomenon was not a genuine UFO detection but rather an anomaly in the radar system, specifically a 'secondary radar' response. The author explains how such anomalies can be misinterpreted as UFOs due to their appearance on radar screens as converging plots. The article aims to debunk the case as a UFO sighting and clarify that it was a malfunction of the radar system.

Observations Répétées de Petites Sphères à Ras du Sol (Repeated Observations of Small Spheres Near the Ground)

Authored by Raoul Robé of the private ufological group Nancéien, this article details repeated observations of small, spherical objects by a couple in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department of France between November 26 and December 4, 1979. The phenomena were described as red or blue spheres, appearing near the ground, exhibiting intelligent behavior, and sometimes following vehicles. The witnesses, a couple in their thirties, were initially frightened but also curious. The article notes similarities to other reported cases, including one from Cergy-Pontoise.

Fâcheuses Escortes: Les Cas de Poursuite (Unpleasant Escorts: Pursuit Cases)

This article, part of an ambitious research project on UFO landings in the Iberian Peninsula, focuses on UFO pursuit cases. It defines pursuit cases as those where a UFO appears to follow a witness's vehicle. The authors, V.J. Ballester Olmos and J.A. Fernandez, highlight the consistency in descriptions across different cases, suggesting a common underlying phenomenon. They discuss the psychological impact on witnesses and the potential for intelligent behavior from the UFOs. Two typical cases are presented: one involving a car being pursued for an extended period, and another where a UFO directly approached a car.

Encounters with Giants

This section presents two distinct cases of alleged encounters with giants in the Aude department of France. The first case, near Pradelles-Cabardès, describes a witness encountering a 3-meter tall individual with a chariot who vanished suddenly. The second case, near Carcassonne, involves a witness observing a very large individual (estimated over 1 meter tall, possibly 3 meters) who disappeared inexplicably near a bridge. The article notes the unusual size and sudden disappearance of these figures, while also acknowledging potential for misinterpretation or exaggeration.

Network of UFO Surveillance

This section outlines the activities of the LDLN UFO Surveillance Network, inviting readers to become investigators. It details their specialties, including night vigils and experimental research. The network aims to gather and publish information on UFO phenomena and encourages reader participation.

Special Propaganda Offer and Available Back Issues

LDLN offers special pricing on back issues of their publication, encouraging readers to purchase them to support their activities. They also promote "Vues Nouvelles," a previous publication, and announce a national UFO surveillance vigil scheduled for October 24.

Encyclopedia of UFO Encounters

The issue includes a promotion for the "Encyclopédie des Rencontres Rapprochées avec des OVNI" by V.J. Ballester Olmos and J.A. Fernandez, a comprehensive catalog of UFO encounters. It is described as a valuable resource for researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, with a strong emphasis on UFOs and related events. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, scientific inquiry, aiming to debunk misinterpretations and sensationalism while encouraging detailed reporting of observations. There is a clear effort to present factual accounts and analyze them critically, as seen in the radar detection case. The magazine also promotes reader participation in research and the dissemination of information, positioning itself as a platform for serious ufological study. The publication advocates for a methodical approach to understanding UFO phenomena, drawing parallels to scientific investigation and urging caution against hasty conclusions or unfounded claims.

Title: LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT
Issue Date: 4th Quarter 1987
Publisher: Imprimerie Imprilux
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" focuses on organizational updates and provides historical pricing information for its back issues. The main announcement concerns the appointment of new delegates for two French departments: DROME and FINISTERE. Readers in these regions who wish to contribute effectively are invited to contact the new delegates, M. Michel MARTELLI (DROME) and M. Thierry LARQUET (FINISTERE), to foster positive and fruitful action.

Back Issue Pricing and Inflation

A significant portion of the page is dedicated to a detailed list of back issue numbers and their corresponding prices from 1973 to 1987. This list highlights the evolution of the magazine's price over time, with single issues ranging from 2.50 F in the early years to 21 F for double issues in 1987. The publication includes a note (N.B.) explaining that it has been impossible to maintain the original cover prices for most years due to the age of the copies and significant inflation. The magazine states that while inflation has been considerable, they are only partially passing these increases on to the consumer.

Price Progression (examples):

• 1973: Single issues with P.Sup (supplement) cost 10 F, without P.Sup cost 7 F. Single issues without supplement cost 3 F.
• 1976: N° 151 cost 7 F.
• 1978: Issues N° 174, 176-180 cost 8 F.
• 1979: Issues N° 182, 184-190 cost 9 F.
• 1980: Issues N° 192-200 cost 9 F.
• 1981: Issues N° 201-210 cost 10 F.
• 1982: Double issues (e.g., 211-212) cost 13 F.
• 1983: Double issues (e.g., 223-224) cost 15 F.
• 1984: Double issues (e.g., 235-236) cost 16 F.
• 1985: Double issues (e.g., 247-248) cost 18 F.
• 1986: Double issues (e.g., 259-260) cost 19 F.
• 1987: Double issues (e.g., 271-272) cost 21 F.

Publication Information

The magazine was printed in France by Imprimerie Imprilux, located in St-Etienne. The Director of Publication is R VEILLITH. The legal deposit for this issue is dated the 4th quarter of 1987, and its registration number with the joint committee is 68.468.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance appears to be one of transparency regarding pricing and a proactive approach to engaging readers and expanding the magazine's reach through regional delegates. The focus on UFOs and related phenomena, implied by the magazine's title "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night), is a consistent theme, though this specific page is more administrative and historical in nature. The magazine acknowledges the challenges of maintaining historical pricing in the face of economic changes, demonstrating a practical and communicative approach to its readership.