La ligne bleue survolee - No 20 - 1989

Magazine Overview

Title: LA LIGNE BLEUE SURVOLEE ?
Issue: 20
Date: 1989
Publisher: CERCLE VOSGIEN LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of 'La Ligne Bleue Survolée ?' is the 20th bulletin from the Cercle Vosgien Lumières Dans La Nuit, a ufological group based in Epinal, France. The cover features the title prominently, accompanied by a stylized map of France filled with text and radiating lines, posing a question mark.

Editorial

The editorial, written by the President, Gilles MUNSCH, addresses the delayed publication of this twentieth issue and acknowledges the difficulties in maintaining the bulletin. He notes a decline in active members and a shift in the ufological landscape, moving from broad, enthusiastic casework to more focused, thematic research. MUNSCH suggests that the future of ufology lies in a network (RESEAU) approach rather than traditional associations, emphasizing the need for members to adapt to this evolving paradigm. He concludes by linking the future of the revue to the evolution of the association itself.

Articles and Content

A PROPOS ... DU SENTIMENT DE PEUR ... CHEZ LES TEMOINS...

This section delves into the psychological aspects of fear experienced by UFO witnesses. It references passages from Sigmund Freud's work on 'The Uncanny' ('L'inquiétante étrangeté') to explore how unfamiliarity, repetition, and the unknown can evoke anxiety. The text discusses how certain phenomena, particularly those related to death and the supernatural, trigger deep-seated, primitive fears rooted in anamism – the belief that natural phenomena are imbued with spirits. The author draws parallels between these psychological states and the reactions of UFO witnesses, suggesting that the 'uncanny' feeling arises from an intellectual uncertainty and a confrontation with forces beyond normal comprehension.

Hypnosis and Related Phenomena

Drawing from 'Le Petit Larousse en couleurs 1980' and 'Les Prodigieuses Victoires de la Psychologie Moderne' by Pierre DACO, the bulletin provides definitions and discussions on hypnosis, catalepsy, catatonia, and psychosomatic illness. It highlights the shift in modern understanding, moving away from the idea that individuals can be easily hypnotized against their will, as proposed by Charcot, towards the view that suggestibility plays a key role, as emphasized by Bernheim and Babinski. The text explores how hypnosis can induce a state of semi-control, making individuals more susceptible to suggestion, and how this relates to the concept of the 'power of thoughts' and the potential for psychological states to manifest physical symptoms.

Other Sections

The issue also includes a table of contents ('SOMMAIRE') listing contributions such as an editorial, an article titled 'A PROPOS', a press review ('DANS LA PRESSE'), an investigation into 'BAYECOURT', a piece on 'LES CERCLES' in England, and a 'BILAN DU DIAPORAMA'. The list of activities and responsibilities within the Cercle Vosgien Lumières Dans La Nuit is also detailed, showing various roles like president, vice-president, treasurer, secretary, and those responsible for investigations, archives, publications, and public information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the psychological impact of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, on witnesses. There is a strong emphasis on exploring the underlying psychological mechanisms, such as fear, anxiety, and the uncanny, and how they relate to broader concepts like anamism and suggestibility. The editorial stance reflects a pragmatic approach to ufology, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining a publication and adapting to evolving research methodologies. The bulletin positions itself as a platform for discussion and investigation into these complex phenomena, drawing on both psychological theory and anecdotal evidence.

This issue of T.V. MAGAZINE, dated Saturday, May 27, 1989, published by LIBERTE de l'EST, features a cover cartoon by J. FAIZANT titled 'ADAM, EVE et CAIN' and the headline 'Une pluie de sang humain sur un village indien'. The magazine delves into psychological phenomena and UFO sightings.

Suggestibility and Hysteria

The article 'Qu'est-ce que la suggestibilité ?' defines suggestibility as a mental disposition to obey orders too easily, often stemming from naiveté, credulity, fatigue, nervous exhaustion, or emotional disorders. It highlights that hysteria, which can be masculine or feminine, is not a single phenomenon but a series of hysterical manifestations, ranging from benign and transient to congenital and permanent.

• Key hysterical manifestations discussed include:
• Crises: outbursts of speech, cries, tears, laughter, and falls without injury.
• Paralysis: monoplegia, hemiplegia, or paraplegia.
• Blindness or autism without an organic basis.
• Spasms and contractures, mimicking conditions like meningitis or appendicitis.
• Somnambulism and split personality, where subjects may find themselves far from home or exhibit a 'doubled' personality with no apparent connection between their two states.

The text emphasizes that a true hysteric is sincere and genuinely ill. It references Charcot's descriptions of hysterical paroxysms and deliriums, including imprecations, cries, insults, ecstatic states, and skin eruptions.

Stigmata and Mysticism

The issue then explores the phenomenon of stigmata, referencing the case of Thérèse Neumanno, who practiced absolute fasting and exhibited stigmata on her hands, feet, and sides, mirroring the crucifixion of Christ. Stigmatized individuals are often mystics experiencing ecstatic or cataleptic states when the bleeding occurs. The article notes that these phenomena, while rare, have always caused astonishment and require a reserved attitude, as demonstrated by the Church. It suggests that hysteria, psychosomatic medicine, and hypnotism may offer explanations.

Ecstasy

'ECSTASE' (from Greek for 'transport') is defined as a state where the subject is transported to an inaccessible psychic world, experiencing beatitude and losing contact with their usual environment. Mystical ecstasy is attributed to a profound spiritual experience, while pathological ecstasy can occur in cases of hysteria, mental debility, or hallucinations, often intertwined with religion or eroticism. The text distinguishes between true mystical ecstasy, where the individual's moral and physical state remain intact, and false ecstasy, characterized by outward joy without genuine feeling and a lack of pain response.

Hallucinations

The article discusses hallucinations, defining them as sensations, visions, or auditory perceptions that do not exist in reality. Common hallucinations include visual and auditory phenomena, and even mild ones like flickers or buzzing are considered normal. Nocturnal dreams and hypnagogic images are also classified as normal hallucinations. Pathological hallucinations distort reality, leading to fear, flight, or aggression. Causes of hallucinations are numerous, including nervous system damage, intoxications, and epilepsy. The 'délirium tremens' is cited as an example of severe hallucinations. The text also touches upon hallucinogenic drugs like mescaline, psilocybin, and LSD.

UFO Sighting in Bayecourt

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a UFO sighting that occurred on September 30, 1987, in Bayecourt, France. The account, based on the testimony of T.B. (14) and his younger brother F.B. (10), details a chronological sequence of events:

• Phase 0: A white light reflected on the wall of their room, appearing three times, prompting the boys to investigate.
• Phase 1: Looking out the window, T.B. saw a luminous formation in the sky, described as a horizontal white bar with red and green 'balls' in the middle, which rotated and seemed to approach. The phenomenon disappeared abruptly.
• Phase 2: After about thirty seconds, the formation reappeared, closer and to the right. Both boys witnessed it. T.B. perceived details about the 'balls' that F. did not confirm, with F. diverging on the overall description. The phenomenon moved further right and descended behind a curtain of trees, leaving only a bright light.
• Phase 3: A 'Balls' reappeared from behind the trees. A green 'ball' rose and stabilized, followed by a red 'ball' to its right, and then a white 'ball' above the red one. The formation then returned to its initial state, resembling a spinning top.
• Phase 4: The 'balls' reappeared together, moved horizontally and then upwards to the right. The white 'ball' transformed into a horizontal bar, with the red and green 'balls' positioning themselves above and below it, respectively, creating the impression of rapid rotation.
• Phase 5: The phenomenon stopped briefly, then changed direction by about 90 degrees, moving towards the witnesses' house. It then seemed to move south, disappearing from view. The entire observation lasted about five minutes, with no audible sound.

The boys reported the incident to their mother and schoolmates. The article notes that the CVLDLN (a UFO research group) published an 'appeal for witnesses' in the local press shortly after the sighting, to which T.B.'s mother responded.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a comic strip, a brief mention of a 'blood rain' phenomenon in Tamilnadu, India, and a list of books for further reading on topics such as the paranormal, psychology, and UFOs. It concludes with a quote from psychologist Janet emphasizing the universal nature of psychology and a brief note from the author, Francine Juncosa.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of psychological phenomena like suggestibility, hysteria, and hallucinations, and the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting detailed accounts of cases and referencing scientific and psychological perspectives, while also maintaining a degree of caution and objectivity, particularly when discussing phenomena like stigmata. The magazine encourages further research and understanding of these complex topics.

This document, titled "LES TRACES 'ALLEGUÉES'" (The Alleged Traces), appears to be an excerpt from a publication by the IGN (Institut national de l'information géographique et forestière) or a related organization, focusing on a specific case involving alleged physical traces and aerial phenomena. The primary event discussed occurred around October 1987, with a specific aerial observation detailed on October 10, 1987. The document includes witness testimonies, investigative notes, and geographical mapping.

The Alleged Traces

The report details an incident where a witness, referred to as T., reported discovering several large 'footprints' ('traces de pas') on October 1, 1987. These were initially observed by a child named F. and his schoolmates between 11:30 and 12:30 after school, in fields near Bayecourt, France. The footprints were described as being of large size and found in the grass and within cow dung. F. did not describe them in detail at the time, but later mentioned them to his brother T. that evening. T. and his brother returned to the site, and T. measured the length and width of the clearest footprint.

On October 10, 1987, nine days after the initial discovery, members of the CVLDIN (a group likely involved in UFO research or investigation) visited the site to observe what remained. T. showed them the last visible footprint, which was in cow dung. Other 'imprints' were no longer clearly discernible, possibly due to several rain showers and the passage of cows, which could have explained their disappearance or near disappearance. The field was searched without success. The remaining footprint was protected from the elements by T. and GM using a plastic sheet supported by stakes and weighted down by stones. A photograph was taken that evening with a basic camera.

During a second interview with T. on October 14, 1987, the 'trace' was still visible and appeared to have degraded little. Two photographs were taken with an Olympus OM camera. The protective covering had disappeared, likely due to the owner of the field. On October 21, during a third interview, T. confirmed his earlier statements and, based on the photos from October 14, traced the apparent contour of the footprint, extrapolating from memory the missing parts. It was on this date that F. also confirmed the discovery of the traces.

Remarks on the Traces

The document includes several remarks regarding the nature of the traces. The fifth 'toe' reportedly drawn by T. was not clearly evident in the photos, raising questions about whether it was an error or a consequence of the footprint's degradation. The report also considers the possibility of T. extrapolating or being self-suggested, particularly regarding the number of toes. T. also mentioned a significant 'hollow' on the 'inner' side of the footprint and a rectilinear or 'square' heel. While plausible based on the observed remnants, these details could not be confirmed categorically.

The report notes that discussing an 'inner' face is abusive without knowing if it's a right or left foot. Similarly, characteristics like dimensions or heel shape cannot be considered general, as they could be influenced by the cow dung used as a support or external factors like weather and animals. The observed imprint suggests the children were not lying and reported what they saw or believed they saw. However, given the state of the imprint and its unique nature, the report concludes that it is impossible to confirm the reality of an 'anomalous footprint' and, even if it were, there is no way to formally link it to the unusual observation from the previous day.

The author acknowledges that the story might seem far-fetched and attributed to the children's imagination, potentially casting doubt on the overall credibility of the case. However, two points are raised to nuance this judgment: Firstly, the trace was discovered by F. and his companions, even though the two children had separately reported the observation from the previous day. This suggests the trace could be a consequence of the observation (suggestion), but not vice-versa. Secondly, the field of 'unusual footprints' is not empty. The report references Jacques SOURNAUX's 'Catalogue des traces de pas insolites' (Catalogue of Unusual Footprints), which indicates numerous similar cases worldwide, suggesting the problem is not as isolated as it might seem. Importantly, the children were unaware of this catalogue. The report also notes that an adult seeing such unusual traces might tend to ignore or reject them due to rational censorship, whereas children's minds, being more 'open,' might more readily report such 'bizarre' phenomena.

A photograph taken on October 10, 1987, was not developed due to the shooting conditions and equipment used. Since the trace had not significantly changed between October 10 and 14, this photo would not have added much information.

The Aerial Observation of October 10, 1987

On October 10, 1987, during a monthly meeting of the CVLDIN in Thaon-les-Vosges, T. spoke for the first time about an aerial observation he had made. This observation is detailed through a series of phases, illustrated with diagrams.

Phase 1

A luminous formation was observed approaching and then suddenly disappearing at point A. This involved a single witness and lasted a few seconds.

Phase 2

Sudden reappearance after about thirty seconds (at point B). The object then descended (lasting approximately 5 seconds) and disappeared behind trees (at point C). This phase involved two witnesses and the displacement took about one minute.

Phase 3

This phase describes a series of events involving multiple luminous 'boules' (spheres) of different colors and movements:

• 0: A bright white glow remained for less than ten seconds.
• 1: A green 'boule' ascended for about 5 seconds.
• 2: Immediately after, a red 'boule' appeared to the right and at the same level.
• 3: The green 'boule' descended immediately (approximately 1 second).
• 4: Immediately after, a white 'boule' ascended (approximately 5 seconds) to the right of the red one.
• 5: The red 'boule' descended immediately (approximately 1 second).
• 6: The green 'boule' ascended immediately, returning to its place (approximately 5 seconds).
• 7: The white 'boule' descended immediately (approximately 1 second).
• 8: The red 'boule' ascended immediately, returning to its place (approximately 5 seconds).
• 9: The green and red 'boules' descended immediately and in concert (approximately 1 second), possibly after a few seconds.

Geographical Context

Pages 4 and 5 provide a detailed geographical map (IGN 1/25000, Rambervillers 5-6) showing the area around Bayecourt, Villoncourt, and Dignonville in France. The map includes topographical details, roads, and place names, with an indication of the 'Angle de vision du phénomène pour les témoins' (Angle of vision of the phenomenon for the witnesses), suggesting the location of the observation relative to the landscape.

Remarks on Witness Testimony and Interpretation

Several remarks are made concerning the subjective nature of witness accounts. The duration of events is noted as being highly subjective, based on memory estimations by T., and fluctuating between interviews. Terms like 'barre' (bar), 'boules' (balls), and 'atterrissage' (landing) are highlighted as subjective and requiring cautious interpretation. The use of articles like 'la' and 'les' to suggest the same 'boules' are involved is also noted as unproven. Similarly, 'montées' (ascents) and 'descentes' (descents) are described as apparent perceptions, not certainties.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The document focuses on a specific case study involving alleged physical evidence (footprints) and visual sightings of aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, acknowledging the subjective nature of witness testimony and the challenges in establishing definitive proof. While not dismissing the accounts outright, the report emphasizes the need for prudence in interpretation and highlights the lack of formal links between the observed phenomena and any known entities. The inclusion of detailed maps and photographic records (even if some were not developed) suggests a commitment to documenting such cases thoroughly. The reference to Jacques SOURNAUX's catalogue indicates an awareness of a broader context of similar reports.

This issue of "OVNI" (UFO) titled "not OVNI - That is one question !!" delves into various aspects of unexplained aerial phenomena and related topics. The publication date is listed as September 30, 1987, with the publisher identified as CNEGU, likely a French ufology organization.

Detailed Description of Phenomena

The document contains detailed descriptions and visual representations of observed phenomena. Pages 1-5 focus on a specific sighting, illustrating different phases (Phase 4 and Phase 5) with diagrams and textual explanations. Phase 4 describes the immediate ascent of three "balls" followed by hesitant horizontal movement and reformation. Phase 5 details a 90-degree turn and movement towards a house, with the phenomenon becoming visible vertically above it.

Further descriptions on pages 3 and 5 elaborate on the appearance of these phenomena, referring to them as "boules" (balls). These balls are depicted as being composed of smaller colored balls (green, red, white) arranged in a cross-like pattern within a diffuse yellow "bubble." The phenomenon is also described as a "ballet lumineux" (luminous ballet) and a "barre blanche" (white bar) with attached balls.

Pages 2 and 5 also include sketches labeled "Traces" (Photo 9 and Photo 10), showing what appear to be impressions or patterns, with dimensions noted (28 cm, 16 cm).

Astronomical Data

Pages 6-9 are dedicated to astronomical data, specifically for the observation date of September 30, 1987, from Bayecourt. This section includes:

• Observer Information: Location (Bayecourt), Date (September 30, 1987), Time (21:30 TU).
• Lunar Data: Celestial coordinates (longitude, latitude, right ascension, declination, hour angle, etc.) and local coordinates (site angle, azimuth) for the Moon. It notes the Moon was in its "Premier quartier" (First Quarter) and was difficult to see near the horizon.
• Planetary Data: Detailed tables of coordinates (ecliptical, equatorial, azimuthal) and horary data (rise, culmination, set times) for the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The data is presented for Wednesday, September 30, 1987.
• Specific Celestial Body Coordinates: Precise coordinates are given for the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter, including their visibility status at the time of observation.

Investigation of Crop Circles

Page 10 introduces the topic of "OVNI or not OVNI," suggesting a broader scope beyond direct UFO sightings. It highlights the problem of "phénomènes connexes" (related phenomena) that are cautiously linked to UFOs. A significant portion of this page is dedicated to the "CORN CIRCLES" phenomenon in Hampshire and Wiltshire, England. The article mentions an exposé by Jean SIDER and an invitation to participate in an expedition to "constater 'in situ'" (observe on-site) these characteristics. The expedition, organized by CNEGU, involved seven members and took place in early July 1989, focusing on surveillance of key sites in Great Britain. The text notes the challenging "gastronomie" (cuisine) of the English countryside.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the description and analysis of anomalous aerial phenomena, and related topics such as crop circles. There is a strong emphasis on detailed observation, witness testimony, and the presentation of scientific data (astronomy) to contextualize or analyze these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained phenomena, with a willingness to investigate and document them, while also acknowledging the need for caution when linking different types of anomalies.

This issue of GRAZIA magazine, dated July 30, 1989, is a weekly edition (Num 2526) that focuses heavily on UFO and 'Martian' phenomena reported during the summer of 1989. The content includes translated reports from both Soviet and English sources, as well as a review of a diaporama presentation.

Martians Go-Go in England and the USSR

The article details a surge in UFO and 'Martian' reports during the summer of 1989. Soviet newspapers gave significant coverage to 'close encounters' across the country. The most numerous observations occurred in the Vologda region of northern Russia, where several people claimed to have seen luminous, ball-shaped UFOs land. Extraterrestrial beings, described as headless with long, tentacle-like arms, reportedly descended from these craft. One account describes 'Martians' approaching a woman who then dematerialized and rematerialized hundreds of meters away. A more scientific observation is noted in the Primorie region, where a UFO allegedly landed on a rocky peak, disintegrating it and leaving behind mysterious 'lead balls' and crystals. In southern England, similar 'unidentified' objects were observed. A total of 165 UFO sightings are mentioned, with the craft leaving circular imprints in wheat fields.

Personal Account of a Week of UFO Investigation

This section, attributed to G.M. (Participant for CVLDLIN), recounts a week-long investigation into UFO phenomena, likely related to crop circles. The author describes the intensity of the experience, with moments of emotion such as witnessing about thirty 'Circles' from Silbury Hill, attending a press conference in a crop circle, and reviewing files from the 'CIRCLES PHENOMENON RESEARCH GROUP'. There were also difficult moments, including physical exhaustion after surveillance. Memorable experiences included hearing a 'Marseillaise' sung in the English countryside on July 14th and sleeping within a crop circle under the moonlight, accompanied by the sound of locusts.

The conclusion drawn from this trip is that the phenomenon has existed for longer than previously believed, is amplifying and becoming more complex each year from spring to autumn. A private investigation group exists locally, compiling information with technical means. Public awareness is growing, and no single hypothesis can convincingly explain the observations. The author emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local researchers and suggests that future 'in situ' trips, if precisely organized with operational objectives, could be very fruitful. While more questions than answers were raised, this is seen as the essence of 'research'. The author plans to draw lessons from this 'field ufology' experience and organize future actions, indicating a likely return.

Notes and Definitions

Several notes clarify terms and provide context:

• (1) Circles: Refers to crop circles appearing in cereal fields, either isolated or in geometric formations, characterized by stalks laid down in a curious and precise manner.
• (2) Stonehenge: Mentioned as a point of reference, implying a similar scale of mystery or significance.
• (3) Driving on the left: A humorous remark about driving in the UK.
• (4) Book Reference: "CIRCULAR EVIDENCE" by Collin Andrews and Pat Delgado is cited.
• Illustration: An artist's view of Silbury Hill by Raoul ROBE of GPUN is mentioned.

Translation and Editorial Notes

An article titled "MARTIENS A GO-GO EN ANGLETERRE ET EN URSS" is presented as a translation by Mme GACAPO from the review "GRAZIA" dated July 30, 1989. A note from CVLDLN clarifies that the figure of 165 refers to the number of observed crop circles, not UFOs, and states that this figure, while possibly inexact, is close to reality.

Diaporama Review: "BILAN DU DIAPORAMA"

This section reviews the diaporama presentations and audience reactions concerning UFOs. Two public projections took place in 1988: one on June 18-19 at the Centre Léo Lagrange in Epinal during a neighborhood festival, which was well-received by 30-40 attendees with no criticism. The second was on October 27th at the MJC of Thaon-les-Vosges, attended by 40 people, followed by a private screening on October 28th in Epinal for officials from the Epinal Mairie, the Centre Léo Lagrange, and the Prefecture. These presentations were generally well-received, and diverse questions were posed to the members of the Cercle Vosgien.

The reactions from members of the CNEGU (likely a UFO research organization) were particularly anticipated and 'dreaded' due to their critical perspective. The diaporama presentation was conducted in two parts: first, a questionnaire on immediate impressions of the form and content, and second, a review of the diaporama's manuscript text and slide references. The analysis included 11 questionnaires and 4 annotated manuscript texts.

Despite some technical issues and an unsuitable room, the form of the diaporama (projection system, text/image sequencing, image and sound quality, overall duration, and narration) was generally judged good. However, opinions on the content were divided. The general consensus suggested that questionable or contestable cases should be replaced. The choice of topics was considered good, although the section on Humanoids was intentionally brief. The text of the diaporama and slide references are available to the public, and contributions of slides or documents to supplement certain sections or litigious cases are welcomed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, extraterrestrial encounters, and the phenomenon of crop circles, particularly in the UK and USSR during the summer of 1989. There's a strong emphasis on the ongoing nature of these events, the challenges of research, and the need for rigorous methodology. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open inquiry, presenting witness accounts and research findings while acknowledging the lack of definitive explanations. The review of the diaporama also highlights the critical analysis involved in UFO research and the importance of public engagement and contribution to the field.