Ouranos - No 15 - 3e trim 1955

Magazine Overview

This issue of OURANOS REVUE INTERNATIONALE, number 15, is published by the COMMISSION INTERNATIONALE D'ENQUÊTE SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES (International Commission for the Investigation of Flying Saucers). The Director General is Marc THIROUIN, and the Chief of the Investigation Service is Jimmy QUIEU. The magazine is based in BONDY (Seine), FRANCE. Annual subscriptions are 800 fr. for France and 1100 fr. for abroad, with single issues costing 150 fr. in France and 200 fr. abroad. The issue is dated around 1955, based on the content.

L'ENIGME DES SATELLITES (The Enigma of Satellites) by Marc THIROUIN

This main article delves into the mystery surrounding potential satellites orbiting Earth, presenting a timeline of events and official statements.

1. Communiqués et déclarations (Communications and Declarations)

• March 4, 1954: The US Army announced research at White Sands, New Mexico, to discover if Earth has unknown satellites. This research is led by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh (discoverer of Pluto) and Dr. La Paz from the Meteorological Institute at the University of New Mexico.
• The AFP dispatch noted that these satellites, if discovered, would be difficult to distinguish from background noise in photographs and would be valuable for space conquest, potentially avoiding the cost of artificial satellites, and holding military interest.
• May 13, 1954: Major Donald Keyhoe claimed on the radio that one or two artificial satellites were currently orbiting Earth, with White Sands experts working on their discovery.
• Information suggested attempts were made to photograph these objects using a rocket-borne camera, but results were not disclosed.
• August 17: The DP agency reported that astronomer Clyde Tombaugh was tasked by the US Army to locate 'moon 2,' a satellite near Earth, which would have a revolution of a few hours and a diameter of a few kilometers. This 'moon 2' was envisioned as the first interplanetary station.
• August 24: Reuters announced that Aviation Week, an official Air Force publication, claimed Earth possessed two new satellites, large aeroliths orbiting at a distance of 600 to 900 km from the surface. Specialists at the University of New Mexico reportedly established they were not man-made.
• January 9, 1955: The French weekly 'La Patrie' from Montreal published an article stating the Army was searching for a meteor or asteroid orbiting Earth, mentioning Clyde Tombaugh, who also stated that hundreds of natural satellites were orbiting Earth at incredible speeds, the existence of which was previously unknown. Andrew G. Haley suggested that colonizing a natural satellite would offer greater military advantages than building an artificial one.

2. L'affaire La Paz (The La Paz Affair)

Following the Aviation Week article and the Reuters dispatch, astronomer La Paz communicated with the Astronomical Zentralstelle in Heidelberg on September 9, 1954. He stated that articles attributing his opinion on the natural character of these discovered bodies were pure inventions and that he had not been asked for an opinion. He clarified that his work was theoretical, concerning the prediction of terrestrial satellites.

In response to an inquiry from John Otto of F.S. International, Dave Anderton, the author of the Aviation Week article, stated he only cited the Air Force and did not personally quote La Paz. Anderton implied that the Air Force's press release might have intentionally created confusion. He also mentioned that he was not particularly interested in UFO discussions but would observe them if he encountered one.

3. Le cas Tombaugh (The Tombaugh Case)

A clarification from the Astrophysics Institute of Paris (October 1954) stated that Clyde Tombaugh had undertaken a systematic search for such satellites using photography, funded by the Army Ordnance Corps at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona. This research aimed to provide new data on the origin of the solar system and potentially reduce the cost of creating artificial satellites. This work was compared to a study by E. Barnard in the late 19th century, which found no objects.

Summary of the problem's current state:

• March 4, 1954: US Army searches for potential Earth satellites, led by Tombaugh and La Paz.
• May 13, 1954: Satellites are reported to be two in number (D. Keyhoe).
• August 17, 1954: Attempts to approach and photograph objects with rockets are mentioned, with renewed discussion of satellites.
• August 24, 1954: Air Force confirms two satellites at 600-900 km altitude, with rotational movement. The article's author implies La Paz's institute established they were not man-made, but later retracts this, with La Paz himself regretting inaccurate press information.
• June 20, 1951 (sic, likely 1954): A scientific note indicates Tombaugh's systematic research on near-Earth satellites, supported by the army, for astronomical and potential base-building purposes.

L'INCONCEVABLE NÉGATION SCIENTIFIQUE (The Unthinkable Scientific Negation) by Jimmy GUIEU

This article critiques the scientific establishment's resistance to the idea of flying saucers (S.V.) and extraterrestrial origins, comparing it to Galileo's struggle against the Inquisition.

• Critique of Professor Georges Heuyer: The author strongly criticizes Professor Heuyer, a psychiatrist, who declared that the 'S.V. psychosis' could be dangerous to collective mental health and should be stopped. Heuyer cited historical mass psychoses and suggested UFO beliefs stemmed from fear and mental weakness, particularly among the 'simple-minded.'
• Counterarguments: Jimmy Gieu questions why Heuyer would dismiss UFOs, especially when scientists are involved in developing powerful weapons. He argues that Heuyer's dismissal of those who believe in UFOs as 'simple-minded' or 'mentally deficient' is arrogant and suspect.
• Notable Individuals: The author lists several respected scientists and aeronautical experts who, according to him, would not dismiss UFOs lightly, including Clyde Tombaugh, Witbert Smith, Professor Hall, Professor Hess, and Major Donald Keyhoe.
• Comparison with Professor Jung: The article contrasts Heuyer's dismissive attitude with the more cautious and scientific approach of Professor Carl Jung, who stated that while he wasn't clear about the nature of UFOs, high-ranking military personnel seemed to have positive, material-based ideas about them.

The Case of Tombaugh (Continued)

• January 1955: Clyde Tombaugh communicated to the American Rocket Society that Earth likely possesses numerous natural satellites at relatively low altitudes and high speeds, difficult to observe but within the reach of current telephotographic instruments. Military secrecy, he suggested, prevented more precise details from being revealed.
• The author speculates that the military's willingness to discuss the potential military uses of these satellites suggests their secrecy is not about hiding natural satellites but possibly something else.
• Three hypotheses are presented: 1) The army is unaware of the satellites' nature or existence. 2) The army knows they are natural satellites. 3) The army has discovered the existence of artificial satellites.

Reports of Investigations

INVESTIGATION INTO THE GROUND OBSERVATION OF A FLYING SAUCER (S.V.) on May 31, 1955, at Puy-St-Gulmier (Puy-de-Dôme), France

• The Incident: Around June 4, 1955, some French newspapers reported that M. Jean-Baptiste Collange, a 70-year-old farmer from Puy-St-Gulmier, Auvergne, observed a luminous disk-shaped object.
• Collange's Testimony: Collange stated that around 11 AM, while in a meadow 2.5 km from the village, he saw a luminous, circular object about 2.5 to 3 meters away. It was about 1 to 1.2 meters in diameter, white, and very bright but not blinding. It was surrounded by numerous finger-sized, material extensions, varying from 0.5 to 2 meters in length, described as like steel lances. These extensions moved, and some touched the grass. The object followed him as he moved away, maintaining a constant distance. It then ascended, moved eastward, and disappeared from view about 700-800 meters away.
• Investigation by Marc Thirouin: Thirouin conducted a personal investigation and contacted the local gendarmerie. He found that the press reports were largely inaccurate. Collange was actually 74 years old (born 1881) and the observation occurred on May 31, not June 3.
• Collange's Demeanor: Collange was described as calm, indulgent, sober, and not seeking attention. He was in good health, with no cataracts, and his hearing was excellent. He was adamant that the object was material and piloted.
• Object Characteristics: The object was silent, moved without noise, and left no trace. It was described as luminous, with material extensions that moved. It maintained a consistent distance from the witness and ascended vertically before disappearing.
• Gendarmerie and Press Reactions: The local gendarmerie had conducted their own inquiry. Some newspapers reported the incident, while others in the Puy-de-Dôme region abstained. Europe N°1 radio station broadcast the information three times.
• Collange's Credibility: The report notes that M. Collange is considered to be of sound mind and not prone to flights of fancy. The local population did not mock him, indicating his credibility.

The Misdeeds of Abusive Investigations and Exploitation of Witnesses by Marc THIROUIN

This section details the negative experiences of UFO witnesses when investigated by various parties.

• Witness Harassment: Thirouin highlights the common complaints of witnesses: the multiplicity of investigations, the distortion of their testimonies by the press, insinuations about their mental state or honesty, pressure to change their statements, threats of legal action, and the general discrediting of witnesses.
• Comparison to the Inquisition: Thirouin compares these practices to those of the Inquisition, suggesting that while physical torture is absent, witnesses are subjected to intense pressure and public scrutiny, creating a climate of fear and doubt.
• The Problem of Media and Official Coordination: He calls for professional and moral selection in newsrooms and better coordination between gendarmerie and Air Force investigation services. He also advocates for official accreditation for scientific and disinterested investigative bodies.
• Examples of "Hors Combat" (Out of Action) Cases:
• The Mazaud Affair: A farmer claimed to have been kissed by a flying saucer passenger. After repeated interrogations, he retracted his statement, but a later counter-enquiry confirmed his initial version.
• The Nouâtre Quarry Workers Case: Eight quarry workers reported seeing an unknown being and a flying saucer in broad daylight. Investigators reportedly ridiculed them, suggesting they were drunk, despite all eight men, including the foreman, being sober. The case was further complicated by the witnesses becoming unavailable and the local population remaining silent.

International News

• England: In Spring 1955, naval authorities at Portsmouth Dockyard and locals observed a 15-minute interruption of BBC and TSF radio transmissions. During this time, dogs reportedly looked at the sky with unease, as if seeing invisible UFOs. Naval officers avoided mentioning UFOs, making it a taboo subject.
• Lord Dowding's Statement: Lord Dowding, former Air Chief of Staff, advised against firing on UFOs, calling it a "criminal folly" and suggesting that contact could bring incalculable benefits to humanity. He also stated his belief in the existence of UFOs.
• North Africa: A correspondent provided cartographic studies of UFO routes over North Africa in 1952 and 1954.
• Alaska: On October 15, 1954, a UFO was reportedly photographed near Anchorage by two residents, though the document was considered unconvincing. The article notes the connection to the film "The Thing from Another World" (1953), which was set in Anchorage.
• Canada: In Cap-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec, Abbé J. H. Donat Picotte's parish newsletter, "L'Animateur," featured an article on UFOs. The article questioned why governments hadn't discovered the origin of these craft if they were terrestrial, given the existence of spies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently champions the investigation of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of witness testimony and objective scientific inquiry. It criticizes the dismissive attitudes of some scientists and the media, advocating for a more open-minded and thorough approach. The editorial stance is clearly pro-investigation and suggests that many UFO reports are credible and deserve serious attention, contrasting the 'unthinkable scientific negation' with the pursuit of truth. The publication aims to document and analyze UFO sightings and related events, providing a platform for detailed reports and critical analysis of official and media responses.

Title: Ouranos
Issue: Volume II, Number 3
Date: September 1955
Publisher: Ouranos
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of Ouranos magazine, a publication focused on UFOs, science fiction, and related phenomena, presents a comprehensive exploration of the 'S.V.' (Soucoupes Volantes) topic. It features a mix of investigative reports, reader contributions, bibliographical entries, and discussions on the scientific and societal implications of potential extraterrestrial contact.

Cover Story: The Psychosis of UFOs

The cover story, "LA PSYCHOSE DES S. V.," by an unnamed author, addresses the widespread public fascination and fear surrounding UFOs. It questions whether the scientific community is too quick to dismiss these phenomena as mere illusions or hallucinations, suggesting that modern science may still be in its infancy regarding the mysteries of the universe. The article touches upon the idea of atomic radiation as a potential cause for atmospheric phenomena, but also entertains the possibility of advanced extraterrestrial intelligence.

Articles and Reports

The Defense Project Abandoned:
A report details how the aeronautical firm A. V. Roe, Canada. Ltd, abandoned its project for a horseshoe-shaped flying prototype due to excessive production costs ($75 million).

UFO Sightings and Official Silence:
Several reports highlight the prevalence of UFO sightings by military and commercial pilots worldwide. However, the article notes that pilots often remain silent due to fear of court-martial. It references a letter from Major D. Keyhoe to C.R.I.F.O. praising efforts to break the "conspiracy of silence" regarding UFOs in the USA. The issue also discusses a LOOK magazine article that concluded UFOs are unlikely to be from another planet, a conclusion the author finds simplistic and illogical.

The Frank Edwards Case:
The article details why Frank Edwards, a commentator on Mutual Radio, was excluded from the American Federation of Labor (AFL). Edwards's broadcasts on UFOs were popular, but his alleged invitation to listeners to express their opinions led to his silencing, with AFL officials stating that UFOs were not their primary concern.

Reader Contributions and Debates:
Several letters from readers are featured, including one from M. G. C. Honoré of Paris, who emphasizes the need for rational explanations before resorting to extraordinary hypotheses. He notes the contradictory statements from the Pentagon regarding UFOs, suggesting an attempt to obscure the subject. Another reader, M. J. Van de Maele of Brussels, questions why no fast aircraft has managed to intercept or examine a UFO, referencing information from Major Keyhoe about their superior maneuverability and speed.

Scientific and Occult Perspectives:
Dr. Fr. Lefebure presented a different perspective on UFOs, approaching the subject from an occultist viewpoint, which was found to be agreeable and interesting.

The "Flying Saucer Review" and International Sightings:
The magazine lists numerous UFO observations from France, the USA, Germany, Ireland, and Italy throughout 1954 and 1955. It also mentions the "Flying Saucer Review" publication.

The "Troarn" Incident:
An explosion in the marshes of Troarn (Calvados) on September 2, 1955, is discussed. While initial reports were vague, the investigation by the Calvados demining service suggested the explosion of a magnetic mine from World War II, rather than a UFO-related event.

Parfums Interplanétaires:
A unique section highlights M. Drevon, a perfumer from Cessieu (Isère), who creates fragrances named after celestial bodies and concepts related to space, such as "Martienne." The author playfully suggests he should create a "Ouranos" perfume.

Conferences and Lectures

Several conferences related to UFOs and space are documented:

• March 29, 1955: Marc Thirouin presented on the positive aspects of the UFO problem at the Omnium littéraire in Paris.
• April 13, 1955: Dr. Fr. Lefebure discussed UFOs from an occultist perspective.
• April 25, 1955: Marc Thirouin gave a follow-up presentation at Montceau-les-Mines.
• May 10, 1955: Jimmy Guieu lectured on "UFOs Come From Another World" at Salle Wagram, Paris, with participation from engineers and writers.
• June 29, 1955: Paul Bouchet and R. Fouéré presented on planetary hypotheses and the search for truth regarding UFOs at the Centre National.

Jimmy Guieu's lecture tour across France in March-May 1955 is also noted.

Bibliography and Book Reviews

The issue includes an extensive bibliography of books and articles related to UFOs, space, and science fiction. Notable entries include:

• "Astronaves sobre la Tierra" by Eduardo Buelta.
• "Les Derniers secrets de la Terre" by B. Busson and G. Leroy.
• Works by Arthur C. Clarke, J. G. Vandel, Vargo Statten, F. Richard-Bessière, and others in the "Espionnage," "Special-Police," and "Western" collections.
• "La Machine ou l'Homme" by Lucien Duplessy.
• "Vers la Conquête des mondes" by Willy Ley.
• "Monstres et bêtes inconnues" by Pierre Fromentin.
• "Montagnes héroïques" by Aimé Michel.
• "Textes tibétains inédits" by Alexandra David-Neel.
• "Le Mystère de Perrière-les-Chênes" by Paul Bouchet.
• Works by Léopold Massiera.

Reviews of "Initiation et Science," "Bulletin de la Sté d'Astron de Toulouse," "Constellation," "Science et Vie," "Sélection," "La Revue de Paris," and "Look" are also provided.

Jimmy Guieu's Works

A dedicated section highlights the works of Jimmy Guieu, an investigator for C.I.E.O. and a science fiction author. His "Studies Documentaires" include "Les Soucoupes volantes viennent d'un autre monde." His novels cover themes of space exploration, aliens, and future civilizations, such as "Le Pionnier de l'atome," "L'Invasion de la Terre," "Nous les Martiens," and "L'Homme de l'espace."

Editions Fleuve Noir Translations

This section lists translations of science fiction works published by Fleuve Noir, including titles by Arthur C. Clarke, Heinlein, Van Vogt, and Azimov, with their French titles and original publishers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Ouranos are the persistent mystery of UFOs, the potential for extraterrestrial life, and the future of space exploration. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the scientific study of UFO phenomena while also acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the possibility of advanced non-terrestrial intelligences. There is a critical undertone regarding government secrecy and the dismissal of witness testimonies. The magazine also promotes science fiction as a valuable tool for exploring future possibilities and preparing humanity for potential encounters with the unknown.