Ouranos - No 13 - 1er trim 1955

Magazine Overview

Title: Ouranos
Subtitle: Revue internationale
Issue Number: 13
Publisher: COMMISSION INTERNATIONALE D'ENQUÊTE sur les SOUCOUPES VOLANTES et problèmes connexes
Country of Publication: FRANCE
Language: French
Cover Price: 150 Frs (France), 200 Frs (Foreign)
Subscription Price: 800 Frs (France), 1,100 Frs (Foreign)

Editorial Content

This issue of 'Ouranos' delves into the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), referred to as 'Soucoupes Volantes' (S.V.) in French, and related issues. The magazine is edited by an international commission dedicated to investigating these phenomena.

Article: S. V. PAIX... by Marc THIROUIN

Marc Thirouin, the General Director, addresses the seasonal decrease in UFO sightings, linking it to astronomical cycles and predicting a resurgence in late 1956. He debunks the notion of a press blackout or 'orders from above' suppressing UFO reports, attributing the current lull to a biennial minimum rather than censorship. Thirouin outlines the commission's ongoing work, including data analysis, investigations, and collaborations with international research bodies. He highlights upcoming topics, such as reports of disk landings and 'Ouranians,' and the issue of recently discovered satellites.

Section: Études des M. O. C. (Mysterious Celestial Objects)

This section discusses the official commission for studying M.O.C.s, headed by Colonel Richard Martin at the Air Secretariat's scientific bureau. It critiques journalists who dismiss the commission's existence, attributing their skepticism to a systematic doubt. The section notes that the commission has extensive documentation dating back to 1951 and that the proportion of unexplained cases is very low (1 in 400) compared to American and British studies. The response from the Secretary of State for Air to a written question by Deputy Jean Nocher is presented, which acknowledges the ongoing monitoring of unidentified aerial objects since 1951 but emphasizes that most sightings have natural explanations. Deputy Nocher's rebuttal is also included, arguing that the unexplained cases (14.5% in US data) suggest a non-terrestrial origin.

Evolution of Public Opinion in France

The magazine observes a significant shift in public opinion regarding UFOs. Previously, the general public was largely incredulous, but now, due to the abundance of testimonies, many are more receptive. Technicians, initially skeptical, are also becoming convinced by the unexplained residue of observations. Conferences organized by the commission reveal that audiences are increasingly open to the extraterrestrial hypothesis, with technicians seeking details rather than outright refuting the possibility.

Article: Les S. V. et le "Mouvement Naturel" by Pierre POUQUET

Pierre Pouquet reflects on the profound impact of the UFO phenomenon, suggesting it has broadened human perspectives beyond Earth. He questions how such advanced craft can exist and seemingly defy known laws of physics, such as mechanics and gravity. Pouquet proposes that instead of overcoming resistance, these craft might be utilizing it. He discusses theories involving the harnessing of natural forces, such as planetary gravitation and cosmic rays, and the concept of 'natural movement' where an object is pulled by its environment rather than propelled against it. He also touches upon the idea of 'self-appropriation' of movement and the potential for advanced civilizations to have developed revolutionary propulsion systems, possibly even influencing terrestrial technology.

Key Incident: Observation at Chabeuil (September 28, 1954)

This section provides a detailed report of an incident in Chabeuil, Drôme, France. Mme Lebœuf, the primary witness, describes an encounter with a small, immobile being with a human-like face and large, fixed eyes, encased in a transparent suit. Following this, she observed a circular craft, approximately 4 meters in diameter, ascend silently from a cornfield. The craft tilted vertically and disappeared at high speed with a strange whistling sound. M. Figou, an investigator, documented physical traces at the scene, including flattened vegetation, broken branches, and a circular indentation, suggesting a craft of approximately 3-3.5 meters in diameter had landed. The report notes that Mme Lebœuf's husband, a former aviator, also heard the whistling sound. A doctor from Chambéry reportedly observed a similar craft shortly after.

Other Reports and Investigations

The issue also includes a report by M. R. Arnaud, an engineer, detailing his investigation into the Chabeuil sighting. He emphasizes the credibility of Mme Lebœuf as a witness and corroborates M. Figou's findings. Another report by M. Pierre Bouvard, also an investigator, is mentioned, indicating independent research.

Conferences and Activities

The magazine lists various conferences and public interventions by members of the commission, including Jimmy Guieu and Marc Thirouin, in different regions of France. These events aim to inform the public and foster objective discussion about UFOs. The 'Centre de Recherches Scientifiques' in Grenoble is mentioned for its work on advanced detectors sensitive to UFO presence.

Bibliography

A bibliography lists recent articles and publications related to UFOs in French newspapers and magazines, indicating a growing media presence and public interest in the topic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFOs, the analysis of eyewitness testimonies, the exploration of various propulsion and origin theories (including extraterrestrial and 'natural movement' hypotheses), and the official responses from governmental bodies. The editorial stance of 'Ouranos' is clearly in favor of serious, objective investigation into UFOs, challenging skepticism and promoting the idea that these phenomena warrant scientific attention. The commission positions itself as a credible source of information, aiming to provide a balanced perspective while acknowledging the extraordinary nature of the subject matter. There is a strong emphasis on the need for rigorous data collection and analysis, moving beyond mere speculation.

Title: OURANOS
Issue Date: 1955
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of OURANOS, dated 1955, is predominantly dedicated to the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), referred to as "S. V." (Soucoupes Volantes), and the burgeoning field of science fiction literature. The magazine serves as a platform for discussions, reports, and reviews related to these subjects, reflecting the public interest and scientific curiosity of the era.

Coverage of UFOs (S. V.)

The magazine meticulously lists various publications that have addressed the topic of UFOs in late 1954 and early 1955. These include articles from French newspapers and magazines such as L'Avenir (Bruxelles), Le Courrier d'Afrique (Bruxelles), Jours de France, L'Humanité-Dimanche (Paris), Toute La Vérité (Paris), Equilibre (Paris), Constellation, Forces Aériennes Françaises (Paris), Science et Vie (Paris), and Paris-Montparnasse. These articles explore different facets of the UFO phenomenon, ranging from definitive explanations and definitive denials to discussions about whether UFOs are a myth or a reality.

Notable quotes and perspectives are highlighted, such as Jean Cocteau's remark that UFOs are less astonishing than the idea that they do not exist, and Claude Yelnick's assertion that UFOs are surely no longer a myth. The issue also references scientific and technical analyses, including those by Evry Schatzman (astrophysicist) and G. H. Gallet.

Several publications are noted for dedicating significant space to UFO studies, including "Toute La Vérité" with a 15-page study by G. H. Gallet, and "Forces Aériennes Françaises" featuring an article by Maurice Lenoir on UFOs and spiral nebulae.

Science Fiction Literature and Authors

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to science fiction, with a particular focus on the works of Jimmy Guieu. The cover prominently features his book, "Les Soucoupes Volantes Viennent d'un Autre Monde," described as a sensational document with photographs and illustrations, and a logical yet astonishing presentation of the truth about flying saucers.

The magazine lists several of Guieu's works and translations, including "Terrore sul mondo" (Italian translation), "I Figli del diluvio" (Italian translation), and "O Universo vivo" (Portuguese translation). It also announces upcoming releases by Guieu, such as "Commandos de l'espace" and "L'Agonie du verre."

Beyond Guieu, other science fiction authors and their works are reviewed. Léopold Massiéra is highlighted for his novels and short stories, with specific mention of "Le Monde des abîmes" and "Le Secret de l'atome." The magazine notes the coincidence of Massiéra's fictional setting for Atlantis and Professor Piccard's subsequent deep-sea exploration.

Reviews also cover works like "L'Évêque aux 150 épouses" by F. X. Gsell, and various short stories published in "L'Avenir du Tournaisis," "Radio-Je vois tout," and "Feuillets poétiques et littéraires."

Organizations and Publications

The issue details the "Club des Intellectuels Français," an organization with literary, artistic, scientific, and technical aims, founded in 1946. It evolved from earlier clubs and was officially named in October 1950. Its objectives include fostering fraternity among members, studying intellectual productions, promoting French culture, and discovering new talents. The club is independent and non-political.

"L'Amitié par la Plume" is identified as the official organ of the "Club des Intellectuels Français," established in October 1950. It emphasizes the club's core principle of establishing fraternal ties among its members.

Several other publications are mentioned, including "Fiction," a magazine directed by Maurice Renault, and "Alpha," a journal of the S. F. Fan College from Antwerp, which covers folklore, history, economy, archeology, literature, psychology, philosophy, and humor in English.

"La Science historique," an organ of the Institut des Sciences historiques, is also featured, with its director being Jean-Pascal Romain. Its recent issue includes articles on historical enigmas and figures.

"Trente Jours," a monthly illustrated review published in Lausanne, is noted for its content on opinions, legends, investigations, social aid, and work.

Association Mondialiste Interplanétaire (A.M.I. ou AMII)

The magazine includes a section on the "Association Mondialiste Interplanétaire" (A.M.I. or AMII), founded by Alfred Nahon in Lausanne, Switzerland. Its primary goals are to disseminate the truth about interplanetary flying discs (of extraterrestrial origin), prepare humanity for an interplanetary era, study related questions, investigate and publish testimonies about UFOs, promote global friendship, and unite similar groups worldwide. It also aims to pressure governments to reveal information about flying discs and cease atomic bomb testing.

The regulations for A.M.I. membership and internal governance are outlined, including admission criteria based on belief in the extraterrestrial origin of flying discs and adherence to the association's goals. The structure includes a President-Founder, a Central Committee, and local group leaders.

Reader Services and Advertisements

The magazine provides information for its readers, including a reminder about subscription renewals and a request for questions to be submitted in a specific questionnaire format to expedite responses. It also advertises space for publicity in "Ouranos," highlighting its wide readership across various demographics and countries.

An advertisement for a complete collection of "Anticipation Fleuve Noir" novels (issues 1-43) and "Rayon Fantastique" (28 issues) is present, with instructions to make offers to René Prévosi.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are clearly UFOs and science fiction. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, presenting various perspectives and encouraging further investigation. There is a strong emphasis on the scientific and literary aspects of these subjects, with a particular interest in international contributions and collaborations. The magazine actively promotes science fiction as a genre and highlights authors who explore themes of space, extraterrestrial life, and future possibilities.