LDLN - No 300

Magazine Overview

Title: Lumières dans la Nuit
Issue: 300
Volume: 32e Année
Date: November-December 1989
Price: 24 F

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), a bimonthly ufology review, presents a retrospective on the 1980s, a decade marked by significant UFO events and a perceived slowdown in ufological development. The magazine aims to provide a panorama of observations from this period, focusing on data that may not have been widely known to its readers. It also covers current events in ufology, including a notable wave of UFOs over Belgium and recent book publications.

Regard sur dix années de mystère (A Look Back at Ten Years of Mystery)

This section, the first part of a panorama of the 1980s, presents a chronological overview of UFO observations. The approach is to offer a diverse range of cases, some detailed and others more succinct, reflecting the varied circumstances of investigations. The editor, Joël Mesnard, emphasizes the importance of accessing and calmly reflecting upon available data with minimal prejudice. The section highlights the ongoing nature of UFO phenomena, with ongoing investigations and new developments.

Retard (Delay)

An editorial note explains that a significant delay in publication was caused by a two-month computer failure, which has now been resolved. Future issues are expected to be released promptly, though mail processing delays may persist for a few more months.

René Fouéré: A Tribute

This section pays tribute to René Fouéré, who passed away on January 14, 1990, at the age of 86. Fouéré was a key figure in French ufology from the late 1940s until 1977, serving as the driving force behind the Groupe d'Etude des Phénomènes Aériens (GEPA) and its journal, "Phénomènes Spatiaux." He succeeded General Chassin as president of GEPA in 1970. Fouéré was characterized by his rigorous, profound, and truth-respecting approach to ufology. He focused on the tangible aspects of the phenomenon, aiming to engage the scientific community. His personal qualities of kindness, understanding, and good humor are also highlighted. The text also mentions his lifelong dedication to promoting the teachings of Krishnamurti, culminating in his book "Krishnamurti, ou la Révolution du Réel." His wife, Francine Fouéré, is noted for her continuous support and her intention to promote René's recent work.

La décennie de Trans: Chronique des années quatre-vingts (The Decade of Trans: Chronicle of the Eighties)

This is the first part of a chronicle of UFO observations from the 1980s, compiled by multiple readers of "Lumières dans la Nuit." It begins with several detailed case reports:

• February 8, 1980 - Cugnaux (Haute-Garonne): A witness observed a bright green, cylindrical object with an orange band moving rapidly eastward and ascending vertically. The object was described as having a dome-like top and leaving reddish trails.
• March 1980 - Vix (Vendée): Two young siblings and their dog witnessed a powerful white light, initially stationary, then ascending vertically and moving slowly without sound. They later distinguished two superimposed white lights.
• November 11, 1980 - Mézel (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence): Multiple witnesses reported seeing three green objects moving slowly from east to west, illuminating the mountain and disappearing behind it. The objects were described as being about a quarter of the moon in size and maintaining consistent distances.
• November 1982 - Bourg-Blanc (Finisterre): Two witnesses observed a large, circular object with green and orange lights moving slowly and silently, disappearing into a valley. The object's movement was described as a slow rotation.
• January 23, 1983 - near Ecouis (Eure): Two witnesses saw a bright, star-like object that grew larger, appeared to stretch and become inflamed, and moved towards them.
• September 5, 1981 - Mansigné (Sarthe): This case, which generated controversy, involved four witnesses who observed a rectangular white light that transformed into a trapezoid. Two powerful white beams then illuminated the undergrowth. The following day, investigators discovered flattened vegetation, white and brown powders, and lacerated stems, suggesting a physical impact.
• December 8, 1980 - Safi (Morocco): Two witnesses observed an elongated, luminous object moving silently from southwest to northeast. They experienced an intense feeling of calm and inner peace afterward.

The section also includes brief mentions of other less detailed reports from the same period.

Analysis of the Mansigné Case

The issue delves deeply into the Mansigné case, presenting the testimonies of Marcel Clairet and Monique Prato, who observed a luminous phenomenon. The subsequent discovery of physical traces in a clearing, including flattened ferns and unusual powders, is meticulously documented. The article discusses the difficulty of explaining these traces through conventional means, such as animal activity or human intervention, given the location and the nature of the evidence.

The Lunar Hypothesis and its Counterarguments

A significant portion of the analysis is dedicated to examining the hypothesis that the observed phenomenon was the moon. While acknowledging that the moon's position at the time of observation (around 11 PM) could be consistent with its setting, the article strongly refutes this explanation for the primary observation. The author argues that the description of the object's behavior, particularly the transformation of its shape, the sudden appearance of powerful beams of light illuminating the undergrowth like daylight, and the subsequent physical traces, cannot be reconciled with the appearance or effects of the moon.

The 'Machiavellian Hypothesis'

To address the discrepancy between the witnesses' accounts and the potential for a mundane explanation, the article introduces a speculative "Machiavellian hypothesis." This theory posits that the UFO phenomenon might intentionally present itself in ways that suggest ordinary explanations (like the moon) or create situations that lead to controversy between ufologists and debunkers. The author suggests that this might be a deliberate strategy by the phenomenon itself to obscure its true nature.

Other Cases and Observations

The review continues with other reported sightings:

• Safi, Morocco (September 5, 1981): Didier and Christiane Coulichet reported observing an elongated, luminous object moving silently. Didier described points of light and a "vaporeuse, éthérique" trail, while Christiane did not see the object itself.
• Mansigné, France (September 5, 1981): The case is revisited, with further discussion of the witnesses' insistence that their observation was not the moon, citing the moon's setting time. The article also notes the presence of two trucks, one with English plates, near the site days later.
• Near Ecouis, France (January 23, 1983): A couple observed a bright object that grew larger and appeared to stretch and become inflamed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the critical analysis of witness testimonies. It highlights the challenges in interpreting UFO sightings, particularly when physical evidence is present but seemingly contradictory to conventional explanations. The editorial stance appears to be open to the reality of the UFO phenomenon while advocating for a scientific and open-minded approach, even when confronting seemingly paradoxical situations or speculative hypotheses like the "Machiavellian hypothesis." The review acknowledges the difficulties and perceived setbacks in ufology during the 1980s but expresses optimism about the field's continued vitality and the need for renewed efforts.

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit," dated December 1989 (Issue #240, Volume XXI), is primarily dedicated to a significant wave of UFO sightings that occurred in Belgium, particularly in the Verviers and Eupen regions, during late November 1989. The magazine reports an estimated 200 witnesses during this period, highlighting the complexity and scale of the events. The issue also includes reports from other countries, book reviews on ufology, and discussions on the challenges of UFO investigation and debunking.

Belgian UFO Wave of November 1989

The central theme of this issue is the extensive coverage of a massive UFO wave in Belgium, specifically the region east of Liège, near the German border. The report details events from November 29th, 1989, noting that this was part of a larger, localized wave that began earlier in November. The magazine cites three main sources for this information: a detailed report from the SOBEPS (dated December 18th), three investigative reports by Patrick Vidal (LDLN correspondent for Benelux), and contributions from numerous readers. In total, the magazine presents accounts from 41 individuals, including six gendarmes and one customs officer, though this is stated to be only a fraction of the total testimonies collected.

• The common characteristics reported across many sightings include:
• Objects of a generally triangular or disc shape.
• Presence of bright white lights, often arranged in a triangle or other formations.
• A central red or orange flashing light.
• Silent flight, with some witnesses reporting a faint humming or 'wind-like' noise.
• Objects observed at relatively low altitudes, sometimes described as being within 100 meters.
• Many sightings occurred around dusk or in the early evening.

• Specific incidents detailed from the Belgian wave include:
• 17:13: An automobilist near Eupen observed a luminous object with bright headlights.
• 17:24: Two gendarmes observed powerful lights illuminating a meadow near Eupen, seemingly from an immobile triangular platform.
• 17:30: Gendarmes observed white lights moving towards Eupen.
• Around 17:30: A witness near La Calamine saw a dark, round mass with four white lights directed downwards.
• Around 17:45: Gendarmes observed a triangular object with three lights and a red gyroscopic light.
• Around 18:00: Several witnesses in Baelen reported triangular objects, some with lights and a 'machine-gun' sound.
• Around 18:45: Two gendarmes observed a triangle of lights near Kelmis.
• Around 19:00: Multiple sightings of triangular objects with bright lights were reported across the region, including near Verviers and Eupen.

The magazine notes the difficulty in synthesizing the data due to the sheer volume of reports and the possibility of multiple objects being present simultaneously. It also highlights the convergence of descriptions, suggesting a consistent phenomenon.

Other International Sightings

Beyond the Belgian wave, the issue features several other notable sightings:

• France:
• Near Ecouis: A witness described a disc-shaped object resembling an overturned cocotte minute, emitting a directed yellow beam and a red light.
• January 23 or 24, 1983 (Tours region): Three elongated, water-drop-shaped objects were seen, forming a bright triangle.
• April 29-30, 1983 (Bourdettes and Nay): Witnesses reported a luminous red-orange rectangle, followed by a black object, and then a rounded object with concentric light circles, creating an impression of a 'dead world'.
• October 12, 1989 (Saint-Sauveur-de-Meilhan): A witness observed a rapidly moving, triangular object with a pinkish-white color.
• October 14, 1989 (Mazamet): A witness saw a whitish luminous sphere and a smaller orange sphere that descended and disappeared.
• October 17 or 18, 1989 (Caujac): A witness saw a fireball-like object, comparable in size to the moon.
• November 25 or 26, 1989 (Seillons-Source d'Argens): Two children reported seeing a red ball falling towards the ground.
• December 6, 1989 (Battice): A witness observed a large, dark triangular object moving at high speed, with multi-colored lights and luminous trails.
• January 4, 1990 (Mauriac): A strange craft, described as circular with metallic-looking 'hublots' and four feet, was seen by students.

• Italy:
• March 29, 1989 (above Sorrento): A pilot observed an object emitting white, blue, and red lights that accompanied his plane.

• Madagascar:
• May 15, 1989 (Soatanana): A witness described a large, aluminum-colored object shaped like a peasant's hat on a tripod, which took off with a loud whistling sound.
• Date unspecified (near Ambatolampy): Three witnesses observed a large, egg-shaped object with white lights and a red flashing light.

• USA:
• March 1989 (Flushing, New York): Passengers on a bus observed strange red and white lights in Kissena Park. Later, burnt grass and granules were found at the site.
• January 8, 1990 (Cape Kennedy): A bright blue-green light with a reddish trail was observed across Florida and South Carolina.

Analysis and Investigations

The magazine presents detailed accounts from witnesses and investigators. The case of Mme P. and her husband near Nay, France, is particularly detailed, including their psychological profiles and subsequent alleged paranormal experiences after interacting with a UFO research group. Investigator Dominique Béziat notes the similarity of the Nay sighting to other cases and suggests the 'spiritual' phenomena might be unrelated to the UFO itself.

The issue also features an analysis of the Belgian sightings, with investigators like Patrick Vidal and the SOBEPS attempting to piece together the complex events. The possibility of misidentification, particularly with military aircraft like the AWACS, is discussed and largely dismissed due to the specific characteristics reported (e.g., size, noise, maneuverability).

Book Reviews

Three recent books on ufology are reviewed:

• "La manipulation occulte" by Jean-Michel Lesage, which suggests UFO phenomena are primarily deceptive.
• "Autres dimensions" by Jacques Vallée, exploring the idea of UFOs originating from a dimension other than our own ('Magonia').
• "Ultra Top Secret, Ces ovnis qui font peur" by Jean Sider, which focuses on alleged government cover-ups and secret information related to UFOs.

"S.O.S. Debunking"

This section critically examines a television report about UFOs, specifically a segment filmed in Gonesse, France. The author argues that the report, by presenting staged scenarios and selectively editing witness testimonies, unfairly discredited genuine UFO witnesses and promoted debunking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFO phenomena, the challenges of investigation, the importance of detailed witness testimony, and the critical analysis of official explanations and media portrayals. The editorial stance appears to favor a serious, in-depth investigation of UFO reports, acknowledging the complexity and often enigmatic nature of the phenomenon, while remaining skeptical of simplistic debunking attempts. The magazine emphasizes the need for open-mindedness and thorough research, as exemplified by the detailed case studies and the critical reviews of books and media coverage.

Title: LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT
Issue Date: 1st Quarter 1990
Publisher: J. MESNARD
Country of Publication: France
Language: French
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" delves into various aspects of ufology, from specific sighting reports to the activities of research organizations and critical commentary on media coverage.

Key Articles and Reports

The Gonesse Cigar Sighting

The issue details a sighting that occurred in late August or early September 1978 near Gonesse, France. A witness, accompanied by three friends, observed a cigar-shaped object that was completely immobile in the sky. The object displayed a magnificent range of red colors, described as encompassing shades from purple to red, including garnet and carmine. The object remained stationary for approximately 45 seconds before departing at an extremely high speed, maintaining its horizontal orientation throughout the event. The witness provided a diagram to illustrate the object's colors. The report notes that the witness's full account, including the date and circumstances, was truncated in a previous context.

Ufological Organizations and Initiatives

Several new ufological organizations and initiatives are announced:

• Detectors: Bernard Hugues, an investigator for LDLN in Marseille, is seeking to purchase various types of electromagnetic disturbance detectors, from simple alarms to more complex recording devices.
• CERPA: Bernard Hugues also announces the creation of CERPA (Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux) in Marseille. This center aims to study UFOs, meteorology, and astronomy, and plans to organize observation nights in collaboration with LDLN and Résufo. Contact information and a 24-hour UFO hotline are provided.
• CEUM: The Cercle d'Etudes Ufologiques Marmandais (CEUM) is also announced. Contact details for its President, Gérard Martinez, and Treasurer, Marc Blanchard, are listed.
• FSR Collection for Sale: Mme Anne-Marie MacKinnon in Perpignan is selling a large collection of "Flying Saucer Review" magazines, specifically volumes 7 to 31, with a few issues missing.
• Conference in Verberie: A conference-debate on UFOs, organized by Pascal Poral with participation from LDLN and the MJC of Verberie, was scheduled for Friday, February 16th, in Verberie, Oise. The report notes that the announcement might have arrived too late for the issue's distribution.
• Conference in La Rochelle: Astrophysicist Pierre Guérin is scheduled to give a conference on UFOs on Saturday, March 24th, at the "Etre et Connaître" bookstore in La Rochelle. The event will be presented on behalf of LDLN and Résufo by Patrice Delcros.
• Public Meeting in Paris: Francine Fouéré is organizing a public meeting on flying saucers on Saturday, March 31st, 1990, at the Paris-Lyon-Palace hotel in Paris. The meeting will be held in two sessions, with a participation fee of 40 F.
• South America Contact: M. Michel Nique is seeking contact information for ufological groups in South America (excluding Brazil) to establish connections with LDLN. Information should be sent to him at his address in Noisy-le-Sec.
• GESTO: The Groupe d'Etude Scientifique des Traces liées au phénomène OVNI (GESTO), founded by physicist Jean-Pierre Petit, is introduced. GESTO's mission is the scientific analysis and expertise of physical and biochemical traces related to UFO phenomena. The association will cover analysis costs, acquire necessary equipment, and maintain transparency in its scientific and financial activities. Results will be shared with members and published. Support for GESTO can be provided by joining its support committee, with contact details for Pertuis provided.

Critique of Media Debunking

Olivier Rieffel strongly criticizes television programs that he believes manipulate the public and promote the debunking of UFO testimonies. He refers to a specific instance where a woman's statements about her belongings falling were presented in a way that seemed related to UFOs, but were actually due to the stress of moving and a passing truck. Rieffel expresses shame and disappointment that television is used for such purposes, likening it to a form of debunking that encourages ridicule of genuine witnesses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT" demonstrates a clear stance in favor of serious ufological investigation and a critical view of how the media handles UFO phenomena. The magazine actively promotes ufological organizations, events, and the sharing of information, while simultaneously condemning what it perceives as manipulative debunking tactics by television networks. The emphasis on scientific analysis, as seen with GESTO, suggests a commitment to rigorous research within the field. The publication appears to be a platform for enthusiasts and researchers to connect, share findings, and discuss the challenges faced by the ufological community, particularly concerning public perception and media representation.