La ligne bleue survolee - No 02 - 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: LA LIGNE BLEUE SURVOLEE
Issue: 2
Year: 1979
Publisher: CERCLE VOSGIEN LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT
Location: Thaon les Vosges, France
ISSN: 0293-2032

This issue of the bulletin from the Cercle Vosgien 'Lumières dans la Nuit' (Vosges Circle 'Lights in the Night') is the second publication, dated 1979. The cover features a striking graphic with the title 'LA LIGNE BLEUE SURVOLEE ?' overlaid on a stylized map of France, densely filled with the word 'OVNI'. The publication aims to inform and engage members and the public on topics related to UFOs and astronomical phenomena.

Table of Contents (Sommaire)

• The table of contents lists several articles and sections:
• A l'écoute du cercle (Listening to the Circle)
• Chronique terrienne (Earthly Chronicle)
• O.V.N.I. ou bolide (UFO or Bolide)
• Les yeux au ciel (Eyes to the Sky)
• Les nuages (The Clouds)
• Une observation en vol très contestable (A highly contestable aerial observation)
• Catalogue 78 des observations pour les Vosges (Catalog 78 of observations for the Vosges)
• Compte-rendu de la 4eme réunion C.H.E.G.U. (Report of the 4th CHEGU meeting)
• Des livres nouveaux sur les O.V.N.I. (New books on UFOs)

Cercle Vosgien 'Lumières dans la Nuit'

The bulletin details the organization's headquarters at 1, Rue des Cèdres Bleus, Chavelot, 88150 Thaon les Vosges. Membership conditions are outlined: Active member: 50.00 FF, Active student member: 25.00 FF, and Honorary member: starting from 20.00 FF. Interested individuals are encouraged to request a membership bulletin and return it with their payment. The circle also offers a sticker for 5.00 FF to help promote awareness.

Editorial and Member Contributions

A section titled 'RAPPEL' (Reminder) states that the review, 'LA LIGNE BLEUE SURVOLEE', is sent to all members and to press services of ufological groups. It is described as taking shape and intended to satisfy its readers. The editorial team welcomes remarks and encourages members to contribute articles, investigation reports, and ideas for content and format. The publication is planned to be released twice a year, with special issues possible depending on ufological news. Members are reminded to promptly report any observations to the person responsible for investigations.

Meetings and Future Plans

Meetings are held monthly at the Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture in Thaon les Vosges, unless an exceptional event occurs. The possibility of holding a meeting in the Saint Die region is being considered to expand the circle's reach in the northern part of the department, where membership is lower. The organization is also looking for a permanent meeting space to facilitate gatherings and store equipment.

'A L'ECOUTE DU CERCLE' (Listening to the Circle)

This section, likely an editorial or coordinator's message, reflects on the second issue of the review. It notes that the first issue was primarily an introduction to the circle, and subsequent issues will feature articles on UFO phenomena. The author expresses hope that members will contribute interesting subjects to enrich the publication. The circle's membership growth has slowed, and a campaign to attract members in the northern part of the department is suggested, as there are likely many ufologists there who could contribute to investigations and press monitoring. The author also wishes to reorganize the circle's activities to improve the quality of work and increase member engagement, emphasizing that the circle should benefit members as much as members contribute to it. The hope is expressed that the current calm period in ufological news will yield interesting subjects for investigation before the end of the year. The author concludes by thanking those who actively contribute to the circle's life and those who assisted with the last CHEGU meeting.

'CHRONIQUE TERRIENNE' (Earthly Chronicle)

This article, signed by Jacques Rivière, questions why UFOs, if inhabited, do not make contact with humans. The author posits that Earth has been under permanent and in-depth observation for a long time. The article explores the hypothesis of 'aggressive behavior' as a reason for the lack of contact, citing war, verbal and physical aggression in human society, and the public's often dismissive or hostile reaction to UFO witnesses (calling them 'illuminated' or 'crazy'). The author contrasts this with the potential desire of extraterrestrials for peace and peaceful coexistence. The article suggests that humanity's current technological 'prehistoric' state and pride prevent it from accepting other possibilities. It concludes with a call for unity among 'good-willed Earthlings' for peace, rejecting aggression.

'OVNI... BOLIDE ?' (UFO... Bolide?)

This article aims to clarify the distinction between UFOs and bolides for the non-initiated reader. It describes bolides as natural phenomena, often reported as 'fireballs' with luminous trails, which are grandiose but natural and identifiable. The article encourages observation of the night sky as a way to avoid mistaking these phenomena for UFOs. It defines a 'shooting star' (étoile filante) as a luminous point appearing suddenly with a fleeting trail, typically caused by a cosmic dust fragment (grain of sand size) entering the atmosphere and burning up due to friction. The speed is estimated between 10 and 70 km/sec, appearing at about 120 km altitude and disappearing around 60 km. The origin of these dust particles is attributed to the disintegration of comets. When Earth passes through denser 'clouds' of cometary dust, a greater number of meteors are observed, known as meteor showers (e.g., 'pluie d'étoiles filantes').

Terminology

• The article provides definitions for related terms:
• Etoile filante ou Météore: A luminous phenomenon caused by the volatilization of a mass of a few grams or tens of grams.
• Bolide: A more intense phenomenon, a fireball, sometimes accompanied by an explosion and the fall of a non-volatilized fragment.
• Météorite ou Aérolithe: A block (87% silicates, 13% metallic alloys) that reaches the ground, weighing from 100 grams to several tons (e.g., Meteor Crater in Arizona).
• Micrométéorites: Infinitesimal cosmic dust particles that reach the ground without heating up (estimated at 5 tons per day globally).
• Radiant: The point in the sky from which shooting stars of a particular meteor shower appear to originate. The parallel trajectories of meteors create an optical illusion of perspective.

A diagram illustrates the trajectory of Earth and an ancient comet, showing solar rays, meteors, and the radiant.

'OBSERVEZ LES DONC !' (Observe Them Then!)

This section provides practical advice for observing celestial phenomena with the naked eye. Observers are encouraged to note the time (universal time), trajectory, coloration, brightness, speed (slow, rapid), and any particularities like persistent trails or sinuous paths. A table lists principal meteor shower radiants and their associated dates and maximum occurrences, including Bootides, Lyrides, Aquarides, Perseides, Cygnides, Draconides, Orionides, Léonides, Taurides, Andromédides, Géminides, and Ursides. It is noted that observations are generally more numerous in the second half of the night when Earth's movement shields fewer incoming dust particles.

'LES YEUX AU CIEL' (Eyes to the Sky)

This article describes a night of sky observation by members of the CVLDLN (Cercle Vosgien 'Lumières dans la Nuit'). It paints a picture of a camp set up with telescopes ('fusils à lunettes'), the smell of frying food, and a convivial atmosphere. Members observe, take notes, and discuss. The hope is expressed that they will one day discover a sign of a 'new world'.

• SOIREE D'OBSERVATION DU 28 JUILLET 1979: A specific observation session took place at the 'Point de vue' in Epinal from 9:15 PM to 1:00 AM under clear skies. Five observers (Didier André, Robert and Sylviane Golczewski, Jean Marc Parmentel, and Jacques Rivière) recorded several sightings:
• 21:26: avion nord-sud (plane north-south)
• 22:00: avion sud-nord (plane south-north)
• 22:00: avion nord, ouest-sud, est (plane north, west-south, east)
• 22:17: avion nord, ouest-sud, est
• 22:26: avion nord, est-sud, ouest (described as tracing an arc)
• 22:33: étoile filante, dans le cygne (shooting star in the Cygnus constellation)
• 22:37: avion nord-sud
• 22:37: avion nord-sud, est
• 22:42: satellite ouest-est
• 22:42: satellite sud-nord
• 22:42: satellite nord, ouest-est (three seen simultaneously)
• 22:52: avion ouest-nord, est
• 22:59: étoile filante, près de Deneb du Cygne
• 23:04: avion nord-sud
• 23:05: étoile filante nord-sud

The article concludes with advice on photographing celestial events using a 24x36 reflex camera.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings (OVNI), natural astronomical phenomena like bolides and meteors (étoiles filantes), and the broader field of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and investigation, encouraging member participation and the sharing of observations. There is a clear effort to distinguish between scientifically explainable phenomena and unexplained sightings. The article 'Chronique terrienne' introduces a philosophical element, questioning the lack of extraterrestrial contact and linking it to human aggression, suggesting a more peaceful approach might be beneficial. The publication serves as a platform for enthusiasts in the Vosges region to connect, share information, and contribute to the collective understanding of these phenomena.

This issue of "LES NUAGES" (The Clouds) is dated Monday, March 7, 1977, and focuses on meteorological phenomena and a specific flight observation. The magazine appears to be a French publication, likely a specialized journal or newsletter given its technical content.

Page 1: UAP Sightings Log

Page 1 presents a log of various aerial phenomena observed, primarily between 23:09 and 01:02. These include sightings of "avion" (aircraft), "satellite", and "étoile filante" (shooting star/meteor). Specific entries detail directions (e.g., sud-ouest, nord-sud), speeds (rapide), and descriptions like "bolide très lumineux" (very luminous bolide) with a "très longue trainée blanc/vert" (very long white/green trail). One notable entry at 23:36 describes an "avion sud vers l'ouest" (plane south towards the west) that "décrit un arc de cercle à environ 25° à 30° de l'horizon, donne une impression de zig-zag et de variation de vitesse. Il reste visible pendant 2 à 3 minutes" (describes a circular arc at about 25° to 30° from the horizon, gives an impression of zig-zag and speed variation. It remains visible for 2 to 3 minutes).

Page 2-7: Cloud Formation and Classification

Pages 2 through 7 delve into the science of clouds. The text explains that atmospheric air contains water, which forms clouds and fog. This water exists in three states: gaseous (water vapor), liquid (droplets in clouds/fog), and solid (ice crystals in high clouds or snow).

Formation of Clouds

• Clouds form through condensation, which is the transition of water vapor to liquid or solid. This can occur due to:
• Air cooling: As warm air rises, it cools. When it reaches its dew point, condensation occurs, forming clouds. This can happen through thermal convection, orographic lifting (air forced over mountains), or frontal systems where warm air meets cold air, leading to significant cloud formations like Cumulus and Cumulonimbus.
• Increase in water vapor: Evaporation after precipitation or from surfaces like oceans increases atmospheric water vapor. If the temperature doesn't change significantly, this leads to saturation and cloud formation.

Cloud Forms and Classification

• The international classification system defines ten cloud genera based on altitude, form, and characteristics. Clouds are categorized by altitude into three main levels within the troposphere:
• Lower level: From the ground to 2000 m.
• Middle level: From 2000 m to 6000 m.
• Upper level: From 6000 m to 10000 m.

Vertical development clouds are also a distinct category.

The text then details the ten genera:
1. Cirrus (Ci): Detached clouds, fibrous or wispy, silky sheen, white filaments, delicate, forming plates or bands. Composed of ice crystals, they are transparent and slightly weaken sunlight. They can appear pink or gray at sunrise/sunset.
2. Cirrostratus (Cs): Transparent, whitish veil, fibrous, wispy, or smooth, covering the sky partially or totally. Often causes halos (22° radius iridescent circles around the sun). Sunlight is still visible through them.
3. Cirrocumulus (CC): Thin white patches or layers, without shadows, made of small elements like granules or ripples, organized regularly or not.
4. Altocumulus (Ac): White or gray layers or patches, usually with shadows, wavy, or composed of lamellae, pebbles, or rolls. Elements are often regularly arranged, with apparent widths of 1° to 5°. They form groups or rows. A corona (colored ring) may appear around the sun or moon when thin parts of the cloud pass in front.
5. Altostratus (As): Grayish sheet or layer, striated, fibrous, or uniform, covering the sky. Parts are thin enough to vaguely see the sun as through frosted glass, but without a halo.
6. Nimbostratus (Ns): Gray, often dark layer, blurred by continuous rain or snow. Thick enough to completely obscure the sun. It evolves from altostratus and is often accompanied by shredded clouds.
7. Stratocumulus (Sc): White or gray layer or patch, non-fibrous, usually with dark parts, wavy, or composed of slabs, pebbles, or rolls, fused or not.
8. Stratus (St): Generally gray layer, uniform base, can produce drizzle, ice needles, or granular snow. The sun's contour is visible through a thin layer. Sometimes appears as ragged patches.
9. Cumulus (Cu): Detached, dense clouds with sharp outlines, developing vertically as mounds, domes, or towers, often with a cauliflower-like top. Sunlit parts are bright white; the base is dark and nearly horizontal. Fractocumulus are shredded cumulus-like clouds with changing shapes. Typical cumulus form in clear weather, grow, and dissipate by evening.
10. Cumulonimbus (Cb): Dense, powerful clouds with great vertical development, resembling mountains or enormous towers. The upper part is often flattened and fibrous or striated (icy), spreading out like an anvil or vast plumes. The base resembles nimbostratus, often doubled by low, ragged clouds. Distinguishable by associated phenomena like rain, snow, thunderstorms, or hail.

Cloud Altitude by Region

Cloud altitudes are generally higher in warm seasons than in cold seasons. They are also generally higher in warm regions than in cold regions for a given season. A table provides minimum, maximum, and average base altitudes for various cloud species in meters.

Page 8: Lenticular Clouds

This page briefly addresses lenticular clouds. The author states they could not find explicit mentions of this lenticular-shaped cloud type in the consulted works, suggesting a potential mythologizing of the phenomenon. However, the author confirms their existence and classifies them among cumulus clouds without significant error.

Page 9-10: Flight Observation Report

Pages 9 and 10 detail a specific flight observation from Monday, March 7, 1977, between 19:34' and 19:38' TU (20:34 to 20:38 local time). This is presented as a "Une Observation en Vol très contestable" (A highly debatable flight observation).

The report is a transcript of communications, likely between air traffic control (indicated by 'M' for Menthol radar) and a pilot (indicated by 'C' for Calcaire 341, a Mirage IVA). The dialogue records positions, altitudes, speeds, and visual sightings. The pilot reports seeing something evolving rapidly, which is not detected by radar. At 19:35', the pilot notes a "traffic CAC" (likely a type of aircraft) and later confirms "25 nautiques" (25 nautical miles) and "25 nautiques" again. The pilot describes seeing something that "brille très fort, s'arrête, ça brille très fort, ça s'arrête" (shines very brightly, stops, shines very brightly, stops).

The analysis section, attributed to Jean Claude Bourret and referencing his book "O.V.N.I. L'Armée parle" (UFOs: The Army Speaks), clarifies that the observation began at 19:34 TU, not 19:27 as sometimes reported. It identifies the aircraft as a Mirage IVA based at Luxeuil (Air Base 116) in Haute Saône, controlled from Contrexéville (Vosges). The analysis confirms the pilot's visual sighting of an object that was not detected by radar, noting it was at the same altitude and shone brightly. The meteorological conditions at the time were Cirrus clouds, West wind, rising moon, and a clear, locally misty sky.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on meteorological phenomena, particularly clouds, providing detailed scientific explanations and classifications. The inclusion of the flight observation report, framed as a "debatable" event, suggests an interest in unexplained aerial phenomena, but the analysis aims to ground it in factual reporting and meteorological context. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, seeking to explain phenomena through established meteorological principles while acknowledging and investigating unexplained events.

This document, titled "CATALOGUE DES OBSERVATIONS", appears to be a section or issue from a publication by C.V.L.D.L.N. from 1978, focusing on UFO (OVNI) reports from the Vosges region of France. It presents a collection of witness testimonies and some initial analyses of these sightings.

Detailed Analysis of Sightings

The document meticulously lists numerous individual sightings, each with a unique identifier (e.g., F88140378), the region of observation, the investigator, and the witness account. The sightings span various dates in 1977 and 1978.

Mirage IV Sighting (Page 1-3):

A significant portion of the document is dedicated to the analysis of a sighting by a Mirage IV pilot on March 7, 1977. The pilot reported a luminous phenomenon at 32,000 feet. Air traffic control identified a commercial airliner at 31,000 feet. The analysis, attributed to René Faudrin, meticulously compares the pilot's observations with the radar data of the airliner. Despite initial discrepancies in timing and location, the analysis suggests that the pilot's "luminous phenomenon" was likely the airliner, possibly exhibiting flashing position lights that could create the illusion of a non-standard object to an observer in flight. The conclusion is that it was an "Objet volant identifié" (Identified Flying Object), a misidentification of an airliner.

Catalog of Observations (Pages 4-9):

The bulk of the document consists of a catalog of individual UFO reports:

• F88140378 (Saint-Paul et Dommartin): A witness observed a luminous object resembling two white spheres joined by a red bar, which disappeared suddenly.
• F38050478 (Epinal): A witness saw an orange "cigare" (cigar) with a yellow halo moving East to West, lasting only four seconds.
• F88070478 (Saint-Dié): A sighting of a bright, strangely shining object, appearing to have two connected parts, observed at high altitude and moving slowly South-East to North-West.
• F88250478 (Châtenois): A witness observed a red-orange luminous ball with rays, moving from Southeast to Northwest. A second ball appeared, and the object then moved like a "haltère" (dumbbell).
• F88310578 (Châtenois): The same witness from F88250478 observed a larger, brighter luminous ball that appeared more distant and disappeared into a cloud.
• F88180878 (Saulcy): A witness observed a fiery, descending, multicolored object after an aircraft passed. This phenomenon repeated for four consecutive evenings, observed also by gendarmes.
• F88080978 (Epinal): A "bizarre" cigar-shaped object, about 100 meters long, moved towards a television relay. It was described as brilliant, red at the rear, silent, and smokeless. It reappeared 16 times.
• 788150978 (Epinal): A witness observed a bright blue round object with a less luminous blue trail and red sparks.
• F86140975 (Epinal): Two points of light appeared, one moving North, the other South. The second one met the first, stopped, then moved away. The observation lasted a few minutes.
• F88170978 (Jeuxey): A brilliant incandescent ball, not an airplane, moved at extraordinary speed and disappeared without noise.
• F88240978-1 (Gérardmer): An object, bright and silver, with an elongated shape, moved at high speed from South to North.
• F68240973-2 (Vecoux): An object with similar characteristics to the Gérardmer sighting was observed, but stationary. It disappeared before a photo could be taken.
• 188000078 (Thaon les-Vosges): Three luminous points described an oval circuit in the sky at different speeds before disappearing.
• F88021278-1 (Cornimont): Four witnesses observed a yellow luminous form moving horizontally, projecting a "tronconic" beam, then another beam, before ascending vertically and disappearing.
• F88021278-2 (Rupt-sur-Moselle): A luminous cylindrical form projected four luminous rays (two above, two below) and ascended before disappearing.
• F88021278-3 (Epinal): Three witnesses observed a red-orange OVNI moving Southwest towards Northeast, projecting a V-shaped beam. It was described as a single object, rectilinear trajectory, comparable in size to half a moon, without portholes.
• F88021278-4 (Epinal): Two luminous beams were observed for 15 seconds, followed by a luminous trail and extinction.
• F58021278-5 (Epinal): Two witnesses observed a white "1/2 sphere" with three or four luminous branches, followed by a silent explosion.
• F88021276-6 (Contrexéville): A witness observed a long luminous trail, like a powerful car headlight with sparks, followed by a silent explosion.
• F88021278-7 (Vittel): A luminous form the color of a sunset was observed, followed by a descending and spiraling trail that then ascended.
• F88021278-8 (Bugnéville): Two half-circles, like electric lamps, and a multicolored trail were observed, followed by a bright flash and disappearance, with a luminous persistence for an hour.
• F88021278-9 (Epinal): A pilot reported seeing a rocket explode, followed by a parachute and a luminous trail.
• F88121273 (Neufchâteau): A couple observed an intense luminous phenomenon of undefined shape, described as "spongy" with "spots" by one witness and "blurry" by the other.

Map (Page 3):

A map is included, showing flight paths and locations relevant to the Mirage IV sighting, including Dijon, Luxeuil, and Contrexéville, along with air routes.

Book Reviews

The final page features reviews of two books related to UFOs:

• "O.V.H.I. L'ARMEE PARLE." by J.C. Bourret: This book reportedly covers documents from various armies (American, Chilean, French), the official French study (CIPAN), UN positions, and polls.
• "NOUVEAUX RAPPORTS SUR LES O.V.N.I." by J. Allen Hynek: This book summarizes the "Blue Book" study, witness testimonies, flying saucers in daylight, radar detection, and different types of encounters (1st, 2nd, 3rd type), as well as photography and the Condon report. It is noted that Hynek provides his conclusions based on 13,000 reports, including those from former U.S. Air Force personnel and military reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are the detailed cataloging of UFO sightings, the attempt to identify these phenomena (often concluding they are misidentified conventional aircraft or natural phenomena), and the presentation of witness accounts. The editorial stance, as exemplified by René Faudrin's analysis of the Mirage IV case, leans towards rational explanations and identifying potential sources of misperception. The inclusion of book reviews on UFO topics suggests a continued interest in the subject matter, but the primary focus of the catalog itself is on rigorous, if sometimes inconclusive, reporting and analysis of individual cases.

This document is a report on the 4th C.N.E.G.U. (Centre National d'Études et de Groupements d'Ufologie) event, likely a conference or gathering of ufology enthusiasts. The report details the proceedings over a weekend, highlighting presentations, discussions, and the general atmosphere.

Conference Proceedings

The event began with a grand setting, described as a vast hall with a grandiose decor, creating a solemn and silent atmosphere that was then transformed into a lively scene. The initial part of the event involved attendees, referred to as 'ufologues,' being served. The report mentions Christian Petit leading a session with slides, followed by a debate animated by René Faudrin. The discussions covered various questions and provided an overview, though the late hour meant many topics remained incomplete. The evening concluded with a call for 'the pot of the brave' and the ringing of midnight.

The following day, a busy Saturday morning, began with a panorama of the various activities of different groups. The CLEU group initiated the proceedings, followed by 52-55, and then CVLDLN. The GPUN group was notably absent. The discussions involved numerous suggestions and projects, with a common observation that UFOs ('OVNI') have been more discreet in recent times. Attendees were advised not to let their meals cool down, as most were dining at a nearby hotel.

In the afternoon, at 14:30, a notable absence, Thierry Pindivic, was expected. The agenda shifted to cover the CECRU, a final update on the Special CNEGU issue, and contacts with the press.

Weekend Summary and Future Plans

The report then details the evening around a hotel table, with a desire to retire early to benefit from the switch to winter time. Sunday morning saw an important meeting with the local press to provide information. Following this, the ufological map of the Northeast region sparked a lively discussion on symbolization and codification problems.

As the event neared its end, a subtle chime announced the final communal meal. Thierry Pindivic made an appearance, and the afternoon was set to be 'hot' despite a grey sky. Although the SNCF's constraints limited Thierry's ability to fully present his project MAGONIA, the audience missed out on a potentially intense debate due to the numerous and divided opinions on the subject. The report laments that such opportunities are rare.

François Biolez, in his role as president, concluded the meetings in the evening, announcing the next gathering for March 1980 in Chaumont.

Conference Outcomes

The three-day event was summarized by the president as follows:

• An exhibition-debate: an 'essay'.
• A positive assessment: a 'satisfaction'.
• A result: constructive ideas and decisions.
• A regret: for those who were absent.
• A rendezvous: Chaumont.

The atmosphere throughout the event was described as friendly and relaxed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The report focuses on the organizational aspects and discussions within the French ufology community. It highlights the collaborative nature of these groups, the challenges of disseminating information, and the ongoing efforts to study and understand UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting these events and fostering a sense of community among researchers, while acknowledging the difficulties and limitations they face. The mention of UFOs being 'discreet' suggests a current trend or perception within the field at the time of publication.