LDLN - No 281-282

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), dated November-December 1987, is the 30th year and issue number 21. The cover prominently features a dramatic illustration of a UFO crash, with the headline "CRASHES D'OVNI : ENFIN DES PREUVES" (UFO Crashes: Finally Proof), indicating a focus on evidence related to UFO incidents. The magazine is published by the "GROUPEMENT INTERNATIONAL DE RECHERCHES" and is dedicated to those passionately seeking truth.

Table of Contents and Key Articles

The issue's table of contents highlights several key articles:

• Questionnaire LDLN: Analyse globale des réponses (LDLN Questionnaire: Global Analysis of Responses) - This article, authored by Gilbert Cornu, presents a comprehensive analysis of reader responses to a questionnaire distributed in March-April 1987. It compares the response rate to a previous survey from the 25th anniversary, noting a significant decrease but still considering the participation rate positive compared to general media surveys. The article discusses the geographical distribution of responses within France and internationally, highlighting a perceived decline in reader motivation compared to 1982.
• Crashes d'O.V.N.I.: Enfin des preuves (2 - suite) (UFO Crashes: Finally Proof - Part 2) - This is a continuation of an article by Jean Sider, detailing the Roswell crash of July 1947. It presents testimonies from individuals who were involved or had knowledge of the event, including members of the Brazel family and military personnel. The article describes the strange properties of the recovered debris, emphasizing its unusual metallic and lightweight nature, and its resistance to damage. It also touches upon the alleged cover-up by the U.S. Air Force and the role of Major Jesse Marcel. The second part of this article delves into the possibility of alien bodies being recovered, citing various sources and documents, including a purported MJ. TWELVE (Majestic 12) memo.
• Etude sur les turbulences circulaires dans les champs du sud de l'Angleterre (2 - suite) (Study on Circular Turbulences in the Fields of Southern England - Part 2) - This article continues an investigation into crop circle phenomena in England.
• Catalogue des traces de pas d'ufonautes (4 - suite) (Catalog of Ufonaut Footprints - Part 4) - This installment presents a catalog of footprints attributed to UFO occupants.
• Courrier (Mail) - This section features letters from readers.
• Le Forum de nos lecteurs (Our Readers' Forum) - This section provides a space for readers to express their views.

Subscription and Contact Information

The magazine provides details for subscriptions, including annual rates for France and abroad, and payment methods. It also lists the postal address for correspondence and subscription renewals, emphasizing the need to include the subscriber number and previous address for changes.

Analysis of Questionnaire Responses

Gilbert Cornu's analysis of the 1987 questionnaire reveals 443 responses, a fraction of the 1700 received for the 25th-anniversary survey. He attributes this decline to various factors, including a more complex questionnaire in the past, a lack of advance announcement for the current survey, and a general decrease in readership for ufology magazines. Despite the lower numbers, Cornu highlights that the response rate is still significantly higher than typical media surveys, indicating a motivated readership. The analysis details the geographical distribution of responses, noting a decrease in participation from certain French departments and a smaller representation from foreign countries compared to 1982. The article also discusses the quality of responses, with many readers providing additional written explanations, suggesting a high level of engagement.

Roswell Crash Investigation (Part 2)

Jean Sider's article continues the detailed investigation into the Roswell incident. It presents testimonies from individuals connected to the event, including the family of farmer W.W. "Mac" Brazel, who discovered the debris. The article emphasizes the unusual properties of the recovered materials, which were described as lightweight, metallic, and highly resistant, unlike any known terrestrial substance. Sider also discusses the alleged efforts by the U.S. government to downplay the incident, including the use of a "weather balloon" explanation. The article explores the possibility of alien bodies being recovered, referencing documents and witness accounts that suggest a "second operation" was conducted to retrieve occupants and a larger part of the craft. It mentions the involvement of secret projects like "Project Aquarius" and "Project MoonDust," which were allegedly tasked with investigating and concealing UFO-related phenomena. The article also touches upon the controversy surrounding the authenticity of certain documents, such as the "MJ. TWELVE" (Majestic 12) memo, and the potential for disinformation campaigns.

Secret Projects and Ufological Research

The magazine also sheds light on alleged secret government projects related to UFOs, including "Project Aquarius," "Project MoonDust," "Project Bluefly," and "Project UFO." These projects, purportedly initiated by the U.S. Air Force and other intelligence agencies, aimed to recover and study crashed UFOs and their occupants. The article discusses the challenges in obtaining concrete information about these highly classified operations, often relying on leaked documents and testimonies from former military or intelligence personnel. The existence of "Project Sigma," aimed at establishing communication with "strangers" (aliens), is also mentioned, though its authenticity is questioned. The article highlights the efforts of researchers like William Moore, Len Stringfield, and Stanton Friedman in uncovering these details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO crashes, particularly the Roswell incident, and the alleged government cover-up of such events. The magazine emphasizes the importance of evidence, witness testimony, and the pursuit of truth in ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to uncover hidden information and challenge official narratives. The magazine also expresses concern about the declining reader engagement in ufological research, viewing it as a broader issue affecting the field's progress and acceptance.

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), identified as N° 277-278 and dated May-June 1987, focuses on the investigation of UFO crashes and related phenomena, with a prominent cover headline proclaiming "CRASHES D'OVNI : ENFIN DES PREUVES" (UFO Crashes: Finally Proof). The publication is from LDLN, a French ufology organization.

Cover Story: UFO Crashes and Evidence

The main article, "CRASHES D'OVNI : ENFIN DES PREUVES" by Jean SIDER, is presented as an excerpt from a larger publication. It directly addresses the evidence for UFO crashes, suggesting that definitive proof is finally emerging. The article is accompanied by a call to action for readers to participate in the diffusion of a 16-page text by J. SIDER on UFO crashes.

Projects SIGMA and AQUARIUS

The issue delves into classified US government projects related to UFOs and potential alien contact. It mentions Project SIGMA, which reportedly aimed to establish preliminary communications with aliens, and Project AQUARIUS, a USAF program possibly dedicated to studying 'ravis' (abductees or aliens). The text highlights a specific claim of a USAF intelligence officer meeting two aliens in the New Mexico desert in 1964.

Crop Circles: Beyond Meteorological Explanations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the phenomenon of crop circles, particularly in the UK. Jean SIDER presents a detailed analysis, arguing against meteorological explanations like whirlwinds or tornadoes. He outlines five key points that make a meteorological hypothesis improbable:

1. Symmetry: The smaller circles surrounding a larger one exhibit a symmetrical arrangement.
2. Stationary Phenomenon: The cause of the circles appears to have operated from a stationary position, given the near-perfect precision of the tracings.
3. Spiral Movement: The crops are laid down in an anti-cyclonic spiral, progressing outwards from the center.
4. Lack of Damage: The crops are perfectly flattened without being broken, twisted, or torn, indicating a force that did not exert destructive suction.
5. No Transition: There is no gradual transition between flattened and standing crops at the periphery, suggesting the phenomenon did not draw ambient air from the base of a vortex like a mini-tornado.

The article contrasts these features with the effects of meteorological phenomena like dust devils and tornadoes, which typically leave asymmetrical vortex structures and signs of suction and damage.

Human Origin Hypothesis Debunked

SIDER systematically debunks the hypothesis that crop circles are man-made hoaxes. He addresses arguments related to:

• Traces: The absence of footprints, especially in cases where circles were not visible from roads or were located in inaccessible areas.
• Method: The difficulty of creating perfect spiral patterns without leaving traces of movement or frottement, particularly with tools like ropes or chains.
• Symmetry and Precision: The near-perfect symmetry and precise spacing of multiple circles would require complex planning and execution, inevitably leaving evidence.
• Lack of Damage: The pristine condition of the crops, including grains, is inconsistent with human intervention.
• Witness Testimony: Some farm operators and researchers have confirmed the absence of human traces.

He also dismisses the idea of cult activities or elaborate pranks, emphasizing that the nature of the phenomenon suggests a non-material cause.

Case Studies and Physical Evidence

The issue presents several case studies involving alleged UFO encounters and physical evidence:

• Weeki Wachee Springs, Florida (1965): A witness reported seeing a UFO and an alien entity, with subsequent discovery of footprints and crop marks. The article details the witness's account and the analysis of the traces.
• Valensole, France (1965): Maurice Masse reported an encounter with UFO pilots, claiming to identify them by their unique footprints. The article highlights the difficulty in verifying these claims due to the witness's assertion of having erased some traces.
• Erie, Pennsylvania (1966): Witnesses reported a falling object and a non-human entity, leading to the discovery of strange marks in the sand, including triangular impressions and conical tracks.
• Segamat, Malaysia (1966): A sentry reported seeing a giant-sized entity, with subsequent discovery of large footprints.
• Mont Eranikkan, USSR (1966): A brief mention of a Soviet meteorologist seeing an object and finding metal pieces and footprints.

These cases are presented with varying degrees of detail and analysis, often referencing other ufological publications and researchers.

Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives

The magazine includes a section for "Courrier" (Correspondence), featuring a letter from Théodore REVEL challenging Jean SIDER's critique of psychologists and advocating for a more open-minded approach to UFO research, including the 'nuts and bolts' hypothesis. REVEL suggests that UFOs might mimic terrestrial technology or that advanced civilizations could be susceptible to conventional weaponry. He also criticizes the simplistic 'good vs. evil' dichotomy in interpreting the UFO phenomenon.

Jean SIDER responds to REVEL, defending his stance against 'false skeptics' who deny the existence of UFOs. He argues that while he tolerates diverse opinions, he cannot accept intellectual dishonesty and the systematic negation of evidence. SIDER emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor and the need for open-mindedness while remaining critical of unsubstantiated claims.

Other Articles and Features

• "UN TEXTE DE M. Eric MAILLOT A PROPOS 'OVNI SEISMES ET FAILLES'": This text analyzes the correlation between UFO sightings and geological faults, concluding that canulars and confusions are more prevalent near faults, questioning the idea that UFOs are specifically attracted to them.
• "REPONSE DE M. Fernand LAGARDE": A response to an earlier critique regarding statistical methods used in UFO research, defending the methodology based on available data at the time.
• "A PROPOS DU COURRIER DE M. HENRY DURRANT": SIDER refutes an argument by Henry Durrant concerning the improbability of protein synthesis by chance, explaining the evolutionary processes and biological mechanisms that make such synthesis plausible within the age of the Earth.
• "A PROPOS DE L'ARTICLE 'CONTRE DARWIN : C'EST LA BIBLE QUI A RAISON'": SIDER critiques an article that attempts to link opposition to Darwinian evolution with religious faith and anti-racism, arguing that the author misunderstands evolutionary biology and presents a simplistic dichotomy.
• "UNE ENCYCLOPEDIE": A suggestion for creating a comprehensive, modular encyclopedia of ufology, composed of individual fact sheets.
• "NOS ACTIVITES": Information on LDLN's activities, including reader surveys, technical assistance, and calls for contributions (documents, photos, research participation).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes a critical yet open-minded approach to ufology. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, the presentation of physical evidence, and the debunking of hoaxes and unsubstantiated claims. While acknowledging the complexity and often contradictory nature of UFO reports, the editorial stance leans towards the reality of the phenomenon, particularly in cases involving alleged alien contact and unexplained aerial objects. There is a clear effort to distinguish between genuine research and sensationalism or deliberate misinformation. The magazine also highlights the need for collaboration among researchers and the dissemination of findings to the public.

This document is a section from the magazine 'LE FORUM DE NOS LECTEURS' (The Forum of Our Readers), issue number 4, from the 4th quarter of 1987. It is published by LDLN in France and focuses on reader contributions and discussions related to ufology and other scientific topics.

Forum of Our Readers

The introduction to this section emphasizes its goal: to expand the collective knowledge of ufology through reader engagement. It encourages serious exchanges of ideas, facts, and hypotheses, moving away from sterile polemics and personal attacks. Readers are invited to submit questions on ufological topics or other subjects covered by the magazine, such as cancer or unrecognized pioneers. To participate, readers must write their questions legibly, include their address, subscriber number, or envelope label, and send it to the LDLN headquarters. Those wishing to answer questions should mention the question number and their address.

Question N° 29: The Fabrègues Case (Hérault)

A reader asks for an update on the Fabrègues case, which occurred in Hérault, France, on December 6, 1973. They want to know the current status of this case based on what has been read and heard about it.

Question N° 30: Charles-Noël Martin's Hypothesis for Explaining Certain Unidentified Luminous Phenomena

This question delves into a theory proposed by Charles-Noël Martin, a high-level physicist and theorist at the Poincaré Institute. Martin suggested that certain unidentified luminous aerospace phenomena, commonly referred to as UFOs, could be explained as a result of radioactive residues from atmospheric nuclear experiments, particularly "dirty" bombs that were primitive and not yet technologically perfected. The reader notes that early American and Soviet experiments might have triggered post-war UFO waves. The theory posits that these residues, remaining in the atmosphere for years, could cause ball lightning under certain conditions, which might be mistaken for flying objects by an uninformed public. The reader seeks to know if this theory has been studied, who else has worked on it, and what their opinions are. They also question its current plausibility and relevance to ufological research.

This question is posed by B. HUGUES from Bouches-du-Rhône.

Response to Question N° 24: "Form and Direction of Matter and Energy" by Mr. R. Breysse

This section provides clarifications regarding pyramid models, referencing Mr. R. Breysse's article in LDLN issues n° 263/264 and 275/276.

Pyramid Models and Experiments

A Frenchman named Bovis, after visiting the Great Pyramid of Cheops, created an exact model oriented with its base lines facing magnetic North, South, East, and West. He placed a dead cat inside at one-third of the height, and it became mummified.

Karel Drbal, a radio engineer from Prague, replicated this experiment successfully. He found that a dull razor blade placed inside became sharp again. He patented this "invention" in 1959 under patent number 91304 in Czechoslovakia. Initially, these pyramids were made of cardboard, but they are now made of plastic. The availability of these plastic pyramids in France is unknown.

The article provides instructions on how to build a pyramid model: cut four isosceles triangles with a base-to-side ratio of 15.70 to 14.94 units, and glue them together so the pyramid height is exactly 10 units. It should be oriented as mentioned above. Objects should be placed inside on a base of 3.33 units (just below the apex). The edges of the blade should face East and West. It is advised to keep these pyramids away from electrical appliances. The text also states that eggs and meat are well-preserved within them.

The reference for this information is "Histoire naturelle du surnaturel" by Lyall Watson.

This response is signed by J. COLAS from Ardennes.

Publication Information

'LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT' (Lights in the Night) is printed in France. The Director of Publication is R. VEILLITH. The inscription number for the parity commission is 68.468. The legal deposit is from the 4th quarter of 1987. The printer is Imprimerie Imprilux, Saint-Étienne.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are reader engagement through questions and answers, scientific explanations for unexplained phenomena (such as Charles-Noël Martin's theory on radioactive residues), and explorations of fringe science or pseudoscientific claims (like pyramid power). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging serious discussion and the sharing of information within the ufology community, while also providing factual responses and references to established scientific or historical accounts.