La ligne bleue survolee - No 27 - 1993

Magazine Overview

This issue of "La Ligne Bleue Survolée ?", bulletin of the Cercle Vosgien "Lumières Dans La Nuit" (CVLDLN), is issue number 27, dated 1993. The cover prominently features the title "LA LIGNE BLEUE SURVOLEE ?" (The Blue Line Overflown?), suggesting a theme of UFO sightings or investigations related to this phenomenon. The magazine is published in France and is in French.

Editorial Content

The issue begins with an "EDITORIAL" that reflects on the passing of Claude FLEURANCE, who died on July 23, 1992, at the age of 42. Fleurance was a significant figure in the CVLDLN, serving as vice-president and responsible for investigations. The editorial also touches upon the nature of passion, shared experiences, and the bonds formed through ufological pursuits. It highlights Fleurance's qualities: calm, constancy, good sense, kindness, discretion, and a prudent, open-minded approach to investigations.

Another "EDITORIAL" section is dedicated to the memory of Aimé MICHEL, a key figure in French ufology who passed away on December 27, 1993, at 73. Michel's interest in ufology began with the 1946 "phantom rocket" wave, and he authored "La vérité sur les Soucoupes Volantes" (The Truth About Flying Saucers). He is particularly remembered for his "orthoteny" hypothesis published in 1958, which, though later deemed invalid, stimulated reflection on the subject. The magazine acknowledges his contributions and describes him as a pioneer.

Articles and Critiques

Critique of "Confrontations" by J. Vallée

This section, written by Eric MAILLOT, provides a detailed critique of Jacques Vallée's book "Confrontations." The reviewer finds the book's tone to be "inquieting" and notes Vallée's shift away from his earlier HET (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) ideas. The critique highlights Vallée's criticism of American colleagues and his emphasis on open-mindedness, questioning whether he applies these standards consistently.

The review scrutinizes several cases presented in Vallée's book, including:

• "Les masques de plomb" (The Lead Masks): A Brazilian case involving the death of two men, which the reviewer finds tenuously linked to UFOs.
• "Megawatts": An analysis of cases where the author claims the phenomenon's energy is manifest and quantifiable. The reviewer questions Vallée's methodology, particularly his calculations of radiated energy and his selective use of data, suggesting that atmospheric re-entry phenomena could explain some cases.
• "Le ciel liquide" (The Liquid Sky): This section discusses the analysis of alleged UFO samples, emphasizing the need for proper evidence chains and questioning the significance of metallic compositions without context.
• Photos: The reviewer dismisses photos from La Plata and Lac de Cote as easily faked or of poor quality.
• "Château grenouille" (Frog Castle): The reviewer finds the explanation for this case weak, questioning why witnesses might mistake distant helicopters for UFOs.
• "Fumée sans feu" (Smoke without Fire): This case is described as involving witnesses influenced by local "catholico-ufological cults," with mundane explanations for physical traces.
• "Le faisceau inquisiteur" (The Inquisitor's Beam): This case involves descriptions of a possible helicopter with lights and projectors, dreams of entities, and inductive hypnosis sessions, all deemed inconclusive.
• "Project city": This case involves phenomena like raining parasites, green and red lights, and unusual plant growth, which the reviewer suggests could be explained by meteorological events or aircraft.
• "Trans en provence, le retour" (Trans in Provence, the return): The reviewer refers to previous analyses of this case, deeming the arguments presented by Vallée as weak.
• Valensole: The reviewer questions Vallée's dismissal of a helicopter explanation and his handling of witness testimonies regarding footprints.
• J. Flynn or Michalak cases: These cases are described as poorly documented.
• Cuban military man's case: This case involves a UFO resembling a helicopter and subsequent evidence of a scorched zone and twisted bullets. The reviewer suggests a possible explanation involving US or Soviet military operations rather than a UFO.
• "Le docteur X avec son triangle sur le ventre" (Dr. X with a triangle on his stomach): This case is presented as credible but potentially linked to hysteria or simulation, with suggestions of Masonic symbolism and MIB (Men in Black) involvement.

The reviewer concludes that Vallée is inconsistent, superficial, and approximative in his approach to UFO cases.

Eloge du Roi par le Fou (Praise of the King by the Fool)

This article, likely a response or counterpoint to the critique of Vallée, highlights aspects of Vallée's work that the author appreciates. These include:

• Respect for Witnesses: The author praises Vallée's fight for respectful treatment of witnesses and his condemnation of abusive hypnosis practices, particularly in the USA. The author notes that some European countries have laws against such practices.
• Improving Investigations: The author agrees with Vallée's desire to improve the quality of UFO investigations, evaluate their quality, and systematize the use of indices. This is presented as an ongoing objective within the CNEGU.
• Unifying Classification: The author acknowledges Vallée's ambitious project to unify the classification of UFO phenomena, comparing it to the unification of physical forces in physics. However, the author expresses skepticism about the feasibility of achieving this due to the nature of ufologists.
• Interest in Physical Effects: The author commends Vallée's interest in cases with physical effects and his approach to quantifying and qualifying phenomena through these effects, recognizing that much potential evidence has been lost due to lack of methodology or ignorance.

The author notes the need for a well-structured information network, rapid intervention, rigorous methodology, and access to laboratories or significant funding for effective analysis. The article also points out that interpretation of effects like paralysis or vehicle stoppage has often been biased by personal convictions, suggesting that independent bodies are needed for objective analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around ufology, the critical analysis of UFO cases and literature, and the methodology of investigation. The magazine appears to advocate for a rigorous, evidence-based approach, emphasizing the importance of treating witnesses with respect and condemning unsubstantiated claims or manipulative practices. There is a clear critical stance towards sensationalism and a call for more scientific and systematic methods in the study of UFO phenomena. The magazine also pays homage to significant figures in the field, both past and present, acknowledging their contributions while also offering critical perspectives on their work.

This issue of the magazine presents a critical yet appreciative editorial titled "ELOGE DU ROI PAR LE FOU" (Praise of the King by the Fool), authored by Eric Maillot and dated August 25, 1992. The editorial engages with the work of Jacques Vallée, acknowledging his contributions while also offering critiques. The magazine also features articles on a purported ghost phenomenon at Veauce Castle, the investigation of a mysterious noise near crop circles in England, and the destruction of a unique chalet by fire.

Editorial: Eloge du Roi par le Fou

Eric Maillot, writing as 'Le Fou' (The Fool), begins by addressing potential perceptions of personal animosity towards Jacques Vallée, clarifying that his critique is not based on prejudice. He then outlines several qualities and ideas he appreciates in Vallée's work:

• Respect for Witnesses and Hypnosis Critique: Maillot strongly supports Vallée's stance on treating UFO witnesses with respect and his condemnation of the widespread, often amateurish, use of hypnosis in the USA for case investigation. He notes that Belgium has laws against such practices and advocates for their global extension. He highlights the danger of individuals with personal beliefs substituting for qualified medical or psychological professionals, leading to witnesses being exploited.
• Improving Investigation Quality: Maillot agrees with Vallée's desire to enhance the quality of UFO investigations, evaluate their rigor, systematize the use of indices, and encourage reflection among ufologists. He mentions that the CNEGU has been working on similar principles for a long time, aiming to create more than just 'data banks filled with random rumors.'
• Unifying Classification of UFO Phenomena: Vallée's ambitious project to unify the classification of UFO phenomena is acknowledged as a significant intellectual challenge, comparable to unifying physical forces in physics. However, Maillot expresses skepticism about the feasibility of bringing ufologists together for collaborative work, viewing it as a 'sweet utopia' given the tendency for debate over concrete action.
• Focus on Physical Effects and Traces: Maillot commends Vallée's interest in cases with physical effects and his approach to qualifying and quantifying phenomena through their traces. He laments the wasted potential in promising cases due to a lack of methodology or ignorance, emphasizing the need for a well-structured information network, rapid intervention, rigorous sampling methodology, and access to laboratories or substantial funding for effective analysis.

Maillot also touches upon the challenges of interpretation and the risk of personal biases influencing analyses, suggesting that expertise should ideally come from an independent body to avoid the imposition of preconceived notions.

He further criticizes the ufological community for debating manipulations while refusing to engage in critical discussion themselves, and for not calling out 'literary manipulation' simply because it originates from individuals rather than government groups.

Lucie, Le Fantôme du Château de Veauce

This article recounts the story of 'Lucie,' a ghost reportedly encountered by Baron Ephraïm de la Tour at the Château de Veauce. The phenomenon was featured on TF1's 'Mystères' program. J. Yves Casgha investigated the case, bringing a team including a medium. During the investigation, a luminous silhouette appeared and moved, accompanied by a strange noise from a microphone. The author proposes a plausible, verifiable hypothesis: the 'ghost' is an illusion created by moonlight. He suggests that the moon's light, reflecting through an opening like a loophole, could illuminate the room and create a vague, moving silhouette, explaining variations in luminosity and spectral color. The strange noise is attributed to a microphone malfunction due to humidity. The article questions the baron's claims and the château's hostess's potential motives for perpetuating the myth. Contact information is provided for those wishing to investigate the phenomenon themselves.

La "Soucoupe" est Partie en Fumée

This section reports on the destruction of a unique chalet shaped like a 'saucer' ('soucoupe') located in Valleroy-le-Sec. The structure, described as an 'ecological secondary residence,' was owned by M. Hubert Papazzoni. An investigation into the cause of the fire, which occurred in August 1988, was initiated by the gendarmerie. Three firefighters were intoxicated by smoke while battling the blaze. The article includes a newspaper clipping from 'LIBERTE DE L'EST' detailing the incident, noting that the cause of the fire was undetermined at the time of reporting.

Le Trilling Noise, ou L'Histoire d'un Bruit Insolite Qui a Fait... Beaucoup Trop de Bruit

Authored by Y. Chosson and CNEGU, this article delves into the 'Trilling Noise,' a mysterious sound investigated by Colin Andrews in relation to crop circles. Andrews, a proponent of the strange, claimed to be moved by this unexplained noise. The article details how a French ufology team, initially seeking to inform themselves, inadvertently demystified the phenomenon. While investigating crop circles in Cheesefoot Head, England, in July 1989, the team heard a persistent noise. Initially, they considered it a potential 'trilling noise' but, through careful observation and listening, identified it as the sound of a bird, likely a locustelle, nesting in the nearby bushes. The authors contrast their methodical approach with Andrews' tendency to attribute strange characteristics to natural phenomena, suggesting he may have been influenced by the initial mystery and the desire to maintain it. The article emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and demystification in ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical analysis within ufology, the importance of rigorous methodology in investigations, and the demystification of phenomena. The editorial stance, as presented by Eric Maillot, is one of critical appreciation for figures like Jacques Vallée, advocating for respect for witnesses and a scientific approach to research. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing genuine mysteries from misinterpretations, hoaxes, or natural phenomena. The articles collectively promote a skeptical yet open-minded approach to unexplained events, prioritizing evidence-based conclusions over sensationalism or personal belief systems. The magazine appears to champion a more grounded and methodical form of ufological inquiry.

This issue of 'L'HISTOIRE MANIPULEE' (The Manipulated History), Volume 1, Issue 1, dated August 24, 1992, focuses on the 'Trilling Noise' phenomenon and the historical manipulation of UFO evidence. The cover headline and main theme revolve around this enigmatic sound and its connection to alleged UFO sightings.

The 'Trilling Noise' and the Cheesefoot Head Case

The article begins by discussing the challenges of comparing sound recordings, noting differences in equipment and playback speed that can lead to modifications. It highlights the similarities between recordings made by the author's team and Colin Andrews at Cheesefoot Head, suggesting a common origin. However, it points out that the 'Trilling noise' identical to the Cheesefoot recording seems to have disappeared in later years, even for Colin himself. The author questions why Colin did not respond during the winter of 1989/90 or the following spring, speculating if he had realized his error.

Several phrases from Colin's text in 'Circular V.3/2' are analyzed. Colin states that the sound left the area heading East, the same direction from which it came, and that the bird and bushes where it seemed to reside were found to the East. Colin also recounts an incident where Ken Brown asked for sound material, which Colin refused due to Brown's dismissive attitude, feeling that Brown might become a 'bag of nails'.

Colin's text also includes a phrase where he seems to accuse Ken Brown of casting aspersions on his integrity and attempting to distort facts. The author contrasts this with Ken Brown's text, which is described as presenting facts as they are, without deliberate intention. The author suggests that Colin's personal attacks are a diversionary tactic to avoid addressing the core debate about the sound.

Analysis of Colin Andrews' Statements

The author critically examines Colin Andrews' statements, particularly his refusal to share information with Ken Brown. The author argues that this refusal, coupled with the withholding of witness names, is counterproductive and fuels suspicion. A more open approach, providing all available information to a skeptic like Ken Brown, would have allowed for a more realistic personal judgment and potentially even swayed his opinion.

Colin's assertion that 'Most of us want only to get at the truth of this mystery' is challenged. The author contends that Colin refuses to accept natural explanations, which is not a scientific approach. The article also discusses the sound recorded at Beckhampton by Pat Delgado and Colin, which Colin described as a radio signal. The author questions whether witnesses were present and finds it odd to link this radio frequency capture case to the Cheesefoot Head sound study.

Colin's description of the Beckhampton sound as exhibiting 'purposive behaviour,' having 'psychic interaction,' and transmitting on radio frequencies, interfering with electronics, is contrasted with the abilities of birds. The BBC analysis concluded it was a radio signal, and further analysis by JPL and Dr. Robert Weiss suggested it was an 'artificial' sound resembling weather detection instruments, not a bird. The author views Colin's attempt to link the Beckhampton and Cheesefoot Head recordings as a risky endeavor, potentially jeopardizing the credibility of both if one is discredited.

The author defends Ken Brown's approach as normal and rational, stating that such individuals are needed for the study of unusual phenomena, and that they are lacking in both France and England.

Historical Cases and Manipulation

Eric Maillot contributes an article titled 'L'HISTOIRE MANIPULEE (1) - LE «CRASH» D'UN OVNI AU SIECLE DES LUMIERES' (The Manipulated History (1) - The 'Crash' of a UFO in the Age of Enlightenment).

This section addresses the historical search for UFOs in ancient texts and legends. Maillot argues that many such claims stem from a misunderstanding of historical context, semantics, and translation issues. He criticizes the practice of taking ancient accounts literally without considering these factors.

The article then focuses on a supposed UFO crash near Alençon on June 7, 1790. The account, attributed to a police inspector named Liabeuf, describes a large, flaming globe that fell, causing a fire, and from which a person emerged before the globe exploded. Maillot critically analyzes this account, pointing out contradictions and suggesting that certain parts might have been moved or fabricated to create an 'unusual' narrative. He notes that the description of the person's clothing might be anachronistic for the period.

Maillot questions the reliability of the source, citing the revue 'Clypeus' and 'Anciens visiteurs du ciel' by A. Fenoglio, suggesting that the case might be a modern fabrication. He mentions that Christiane Piens also expressed doubts about the Alençon case, and that departmental archives in Orne show no trace of the affair or Inspector Liabeuf. Maillot suggests that if Liabeuf existed, he might be found in Paris archives. He concludes that while the absence of proof in archives is not proof of absence, the Alençon case, as presented, is a poor example of a UFO event.

The article also briefly touches upon the history of aerostation, listing key dates and events in the development of balloons in 1783, highlighting the rapid progress and the public's potential difficulty in integrating these new concepts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes critical analysis and skepticism in the study of UFO phenomena. The authors question the methods and conclusions of researchers who present anecdotal evidence as definitive proof, particularly when it involves historical accounts or sound recordings. There is a clear editorial stance against the sensationalization of events and a call for more rigorous, evidence-based investigation. The recurring theme is the potential for manipulation and misinterpretation of data, whether it be sound recordings or historical texts, to create a sense of mystery rather than seeking factual explanations. The importance of scientific methodology and the need for researchers to be open to all possibilities, including natural explanations, is consistently highlighted.

This issue of the magazine, dated October 30, 1988, from TROYES, France, published by Mercure de France, focuses on the topic of UFOs, particularly exploring the sources and historical context of ufology. The main cover headline is "LES SOURCES UFOLOGIQUES" (UFO Sources).

Thematic Exploration: UFOs and Politics

The articles delve into the complex relationship between UFO phenomena and political entities, primarily the American government. Jean Sider's work is highlighted, which posits that UFOs have been subject to political manipulation. The issue discusses the "Majestic Twelve" document, a controversial piece of evidence suggesting a secret committee was formed to study UFOs, and examines the alleged involvement of figures like President Truman and General Eisenhower.

The "Majestic Twelve" Controversy

The article scrutinizes the "Majestic Twelve" document, questioning its authenticity and the motivations behind its dissemination. It notes the absence of General Eisenhower's name from the purported list of members, which is presented as a significant detail by some researchers. The text suggests that the document, if a fabrication, is sophisticated, hinting at a deep understanding of historical context and espionage techniques.

Eisenhower and Government Secrecy

Dwight D. Eisenhower's role is analyzed, particularly his time as Chief of Staff and later as President. The text explores the idea that he may have been aware of UFO incidents, such as the Roswell crash, and discusses his stance on government transparency, referencing his authorization for access to historical documents related to World War II.

The Roswell Incident

The Roswell incident of 1947 is presented as a pivotal event in ufology, often cited as evidence of a government cover-up. The article discusses how this event, along with other alleged UFO sightings and the creation of the Majestic Twelve committee, contributed to the secrecy surrounding the phenomenon.

The "Alintel" Hypothesis

Jacques Vallée's concept of "Alintel" is introduced, suggesting that certain UFO stories might be disseminated as 'lures' or disinformation campaigns by an organization to test public opinion or to distract from other issues. This hypothesis is linked to the idea of controlling public perception and potentially imposing martial law.

The "Montherme" Sighting

A detailed account of a UFO sighting in Montherme, France, by a witness named Mme PIA is presented. The observation involved three white, phosphorescent lights exhibiting unusual aerial maneuvers, described as playing 'leapfrog' with rapid, precise movements and instantaneous stops. The witness described the lights as having a saucer-like shape and a white, phosphorescent glow.

The Space Race and Geopolitics

The issue also touches upon the early days of the space race and the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War. It highlights the Soviet Union's advancements in rocketry and space exploration, particularly the launch of Sputnik 1, and contrasts this with the perceived lack of focus on orbital programs by the Eisenhower administration. The article suggests that the context of the Cold War may have influenced the handling and perception of UFO phenomena.

Historical Context and Ufology

The articles emphasize the importance of historical context in understanding UFO phenomena. It argues that ufology has often been hampered by a lack of objective analysis and has been subject to disinformation. The persistence of the UFO 'myth' is discussed, questioning why it continues to be privileged and discredited simultaneously, and noting the significant US government expenditure on UFO research between 1947 and 1969.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include government secrecy, alleged UFO cover-ups, the role of disinformation in ufology, and the historical development of the field. The editorial stance appears critical of simplistic explanations and emphasizes the need for a thorough historical and political analysis of UFO phenomena, suggesting that the Roswell incident and the Majestic Twelve document are central to understanding the broader context of UFO secrecy. The magazine advocates for a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon, including its origins and the entities that may be perpetuating it.

This document, titled "ILLUSTRATION PHOTOGRAPHIQUE," appears to be an issue from a publication focused on UFO phenomena, likely from the early 1980s, with references to July 1982 and 1983. It presents a detailed investigation into a specific UFO sighting case, incorporating witness testimonies, photographic evidence, and a critical analysis.

Case of Mme Z. and Mme Pia

The central part of the document details a UFO sighting by a Mme Z., who described the object as a "saucer with lights around" in a field near her home. Her daughter, when questioned separately, did not see the UFO itself but only an indirect light. The report notes that the case is "fairly troubled."

The gendarmerie investigated the incident and found a trace on the ground, described variously as a "burned area" or "flattened grass." A request for information from the local gendarmerie was reportedly left unanswered, and there was an alleged request for the witnesses, identified as Z., not to publicize the affair, though it still became known.

The credibility of the Z. witnesses is questioned, with the author noting it seems "highly doubtful" based on neighborhood inquiries and personal knowledge. The ground trace was later apparently explained by a Mr. Maldi, who contacted the author by phone. He recalled gendarmes visiting him and concluded that his donkey, grazing around a stake, was responsible for the trace. He could not recall the date of the event.

Media Verification

Mme Pia's son believed the observation had been published in the press. This lead was investigated, but the local journalist from "L'Ardennais" did not remember writing about it. Further checks of the "Ardennais" archives from July 1982 and 1983 revealed no mention of the case. The investigation was halted at this point.

Conclusion and Analysis

The author poses the question of whether there were "three saucers in a very playful mood." The phenomena, if observed above the indicated HLM (housing complex), could not be on the ground due to the local terrain. The ground is not visible behind the antenna at the top of the construction. The author states that, to their knowledge, there is no known aerial phenomenon that could match Mme Pia's account, especially given the distance. She described the movements as "very rapid and without inertia," implying "dazzling accelerations" and ruling out distant helicopters or planes. Beams projected onto a cloudy ceiling are also excluded based on the reported weather.

The author suggests that the phenomena exhibited "surprising physical performances" and possibly involved "miniaturized objects." The conclusion is presented with a degree of skepticism, stating, "The dream is open. To displease the dreamers and the pure and hard believers who were already rejoicing, another conclusion must be considered."

Photographic Illustrations and Explanations

The document includes several photographs and illustrations:

• Photographie 1: Shows a view from a window, possibly the witness's, looking towards the HLM and the surrounding landscape. It is labeled as being taken "in the direction of the north."
• Photographie 2: Another view, showing the HLM and the crest of the hill. It is identified as taken from the witness's apartment window.
• Photographie 3: A view taken in front of the witness's window, with trees partially obscuring the observation zone. The text notes that trees have grown and now partially block the view, as Mme Pia had predicted.
• Photographie 4: A similar view to Photographie 3, but in winter, showing the HLM and the hill crest.
• Photographie 5: An illustration depicting the approximate aspect of the phenomenon described, showing a saucer-like object with lights and possibly a dome.
• Photographie 6: Shows a "pseudo-trace of a UFO, discovered during the investigation." The caption reads, "When one searches, one finds..."

Comic Strip: "A Hypothesis in the Future..."

Pages 7, 8, and 9 feature a comic strip by "Road Robe" titled "UNE HYPOTHÈSE DANS LE FUTUR..." (A Hypothesis in the Future...). This comic explores a fictional concept of "chronohistorians" who travel through time to record events without interfering. It depicts a "Historama Mondial Pedagogique" where visitors can relive Earth's history through holographic projections. The chronohistorians organize temporal missions, select opportune moments for materialization, and paralyze living beings temporarily to study them without interference. The comic concludes by stating that all conditions leading to observations are controlled, minimizing the risk of accidents, and that information about the past is recorded without modification.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are UFO sightings, eyewitness testimony, official investigations (gendarmerie), media verification, and skeptical analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations for phenomena, and questioning the reliability of anecdotal evidence. The inclusion of the comic strip suggests a broader interest in speculative and futuristic concepts related to time, observation, and potential extraterrestrial or advanced technological interactions, while maintaining a grounded approach to analyzing reported events.