Ouranos - No 16 - 1er trim 1956

Magazine Overview

Title: OURANOS
Subtitle: REVUE INTERNATIONALE
Issue: N° 16
Publisher: COMMISSION INTERNATIONALE D'ENQUÊTE SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES
Location: BONDY (Seine), FRANCE
Date: Undetermined (circa 1950s based on content)

This issue of *Ouranos*, a French international revue dedicated to documentary and scientific research on flying saucers and related problems, presents a collection of articles and reports from November 1955. The editorial highlights the temporary health issues of the Director General, Marc THIROUIN, and the impact on the publication schedule, while assuring readers of the continued work of the investigation and documentation services.

Table of Contents

The issue includes an editorial, an article titled "Américains ou Russes ont-ils déjà atteint la Lune?" by Jimmy GUIEU, "Le Rire des Gardeurs d'oies" by Marc THIROUIN, "Remarques sur la nature du phénomène S.V." by Jean SENELIER, investigation reports, and a bibliography.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by the editorial team, addresses the recent difficulties faced by the publication due to the serious illness of Director General Marc THIROUIN. It reassures readers that despite these challenges, the investigation and documentation services have continued to function. The team is working to catch up on missed issues, promising exciting content in upcoming numbers. The editorial also mentions the postponement of a meeting for the STUDY COMMITTEE (COMITÉ D'ÉTUDE) and expresses gratitude for the expressions of sympathy received. It emphasizes the unifying power of a shared belief in truth and the collective effort of volunteers.

Main Articles

Américains ou Russes ont-ils déjà atteint la Lune?

By Jimmy GUIEU, Chief of the Investigation Service of the C.I.E.O.

This article explores the possibility that the USA or Russia may have already reached the Moon, presenting several pieces of seemingly disconnected evidence. It begins by referencing "Operation Aphrodite," a top-secret project that the US military was reportedly interested in, which some private UFO investigation committees linked to the Moon. The article then discusses the work of Albert K. Bender and the International Flying Saucer Bureau, which published the journal *Space Revue*. Bender's editorial in the first issue suggested that the US might have sent a rocket to the Moon by 1952, hinting at a desire for secrecy regarding the details of such an "Operation." Bender's subsequent writings in *Space Review* repeatedly alluded to the Moon, and he is described as having discovered a "stupendous secret" concerning both the Moon and flying saucers. Florence Kalan, writing in *Space Review* in July 1953, posed the question: "Have we or has Russia reached the moon?" She reported on astronomers discovering a "pont" (bridge or tunnel) on the Moon and dark spots that appeared to be departing from the lunar surface, possibly rockets. Dr. H.P. Watkins, of the British Astronomical Association, is quoted as having observed numerous "domes" in the Mare Crisium region of the Moon, some measuring about 2 miles in diameter and appearing white and very bright. He also described a recently discovered "bridge" measuring approximately 2 miles long and 5000 feet high, which cast an unusual shadow and seemed to have a "hazy" surface, suggesting an "engineer's construction." Watkins, however, quickly dismissed it as a "perfectly natural thing." The article notes that *Space Review* promised a sensational article on the solution to the flying saucer problem but never published it. Instead, an October 1953 communiqué announced the "International Flying Saucer Bureau" would be "completely reorganized" and would have nothing more to do with flying saucers. Another communiqué stated that the "mystery of the saucers will no longer be a mystery," that their "origin is already known," but that "any information relating to this question must be concealed 'by superior order.'" The article also mentions the suppression of *Space Review* and the advice given to investigators to be "very prudent." It touches upon the "Benderism" case, where A.K. Bender reportedly received visits from mysterious men who ordered him to abandon his investigation, leading to a period of psychological shock and the cessation of his publication. The article further discusses the *Nexus* magazine's claim of "irrefutable evidence" about the nature of flying saucers, which was also suppressed by a "high authority." Finally, it references Gray Barker's report in *The Saucerian* about craters on the Moon that disappeared and were replaced by "strange domes" that cast no shadows, suggesting transparent domes or unusual formations. The article concludes by noting the discovery of two artificial satellites orbiting Earth in early 1954, which the Air Force acknowledged but then imposed a "blackout" on further information.

Le Rire des Gardeurs d'Oies (The Laughter of Goose Herders)

By Marc THIROUIN, Director General of the C.I.E.O.

This piece reflects on the scientific community's general attitude towards UFO phenomena. Thirouin states that while he maintains excellent personal relationships with many scientists, he does not presume to debate them on their specialized fields. He emphasizes that the C.I.E.O.'s focus is on the objective, positive, and scientific study of unusual aerial objects and phenomena, including those that may be related to UFOs, such as fireballs, unusual lights, and magnetic phenomena. He asserts that the C.I.E.O. is as immodest as any scientist in its pursuit of knowledge. Thirouin expresses his understanding that truth only convinces those willing to be convinced and that time is a crucial factor. He draws a parallel to a 1903 *New York World* reporter who was fired for sending a telegram about Wilbur Wright's flight, suggesting that those who dismiss current extraordinary claims will eventually be ridiculed, much like the "goose herders" of the past. He notes the growing number of "dissident scientists" who discreetly seek information from the C.I.E.O., some of whom are described as having previously defended scientific orthodoxy while secretly consulting astrological charts. Thirouin concludes by expressing pity for those who remain dismissive, predicting they will find themselves alone when the "laughter of the goose herders" is heard, as many will have already joined the C.I.E.O.'s ranks.

Remarques sur la Nature du Phénomène S.V. (Remarks on the Nature of the S.V. Phenomenon)

By Jean SENELIER, Engineer - Chemist, Member of the Administrative Council of A.F.E.M.

Senelier aims to provide a balanced perspective on UFOs, acknowledging various opinions and hypotheses while insisting on coherence and objectivity. He presents his article as coming from a technician and scientist whose views partially align with and partially oppose those of other collaborators. He emphasizes that the C.I.E.O. welcomes diverse opinions and encourages responses to published articles, believing that light emerges from the clash of ideas and experiences.

Senelier begins by examining the hypothesis that unknown energy sources might be involved, referencing Soviet publications that described UFOs as weapons of the cold war and attributed celestial phenomena to atmospheric explanations. He questions the nature of OVNI (Objets Volants Inconnus - Unknown Flying Objects), excluding the 90% of cases that are easily explained (illusions, etc.) and focusing on the remaining 10%. He argues that the sheer number of reported sightings since ancient times does not necessarily support the idea of extraterrestrial beings who have been passively observing Earth for centuries without leaving any tangible evidence. He suggests that if extraterrestrial beings are involved, their arrival is likely a more recent phenomenon, possibly starting around 1897. He then details a remarkable 1897 aerial phenomenon observed in the USA, described as a luminous, spindle-shaped aircraft approximately 70 meters long and 10 meters in diameter, emitting red, blue, and green lights. This sighting, which lasted for a significant period, is presented as a possible indication of an "exploratory voyage" over our globe. Senelier proposes two main categories for the inexplicable 10% of cases: 1) natural phenomena that are still not fully understood, and 2) a residue of relatively infrequent phenomena that signal OVNI. He discusses the hypothesis of d'Alton, suggesting that OVNI might be luminous phenomena caused by the interaction of ultra-short wave beams and ionized air layers, potentially originating from terrestrial radar or foreign sources. He also mentions an unknown natural phenomenon studied by M. Frédéric Montandon, which he believes could explain many cases. Senelier concludes by stating that while the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors cannot be entirely dismissed, it is crucial to avoid anthropomorphism and to rely on concrete evidence rather than speculation or science fiction narratives.

"La Chose" du 17 Novembre ("The Thing" of November 17th)

By Marc THIROUIN, Director General of the C.I.E.O.

This report details an observation of a luminous object on November 17th, seen across France and parts of Western Europe. The Paris Observatory described it as a meteor passing at an altitude of 130 km, emitting a bright green light and a reddish trail, with a vaporous trail. It was reported to have disintegrated by evaporation at an altitude of 35 to 40 km. The observer, likely Marc Thirouin himself, estimated its trajectory length at 185 km and its speed at 31 km/second relative to Earth, which is 95 times the speed of sound and 4 times that of an artificial satellite. The conclusion drawn is that it was a natural phenomenon, a meteorite, given its speed relative to the Sun, which approached parabolic velocity.

Reports of Investigations

Investigation on Trajectories:

The C.I.E.O. received numerous reports regarding aerial object trajectories. Initially skeptical, the commission's investigation revealed a variety of paths. They established that a significant portion of observed trajectories (approximately one-quarter) were incompatible with the official SO-NE trajectory reported by the Paris Observatory. These incompatible trajectories, primarily observed in the SE-NO direction, were concentrated in certain regions, suggesting a distinct phenomenon. Two specific investigations are presented:

1. Htes-Alpes Investigation (Correspondent-Investigator: Alain Gadmer): Two testimonies from the Htes-Alpes department reported seeing a luminous object on November 17th. M. Bonnardel described it as an "airplane on fire" moving towards the pic overlooking Chauffayer. Mme Pasquier, driving near the Col de Manse, saw a "luminous ball with an incandescent trail" disappear towards the NE of St-Bonnet. Both accounts indicate a SE-NO trajectory, confirming each other and contradicting the Paris Observatory's findings.

2. Hte-Vienne and P.-de-D. Investigation (Correspondents-Investigators: Eugène Bigot and Clément Bigot): M. J.B., an engineer, observed a luminous object west of Limoges around 5:30 PM on November 17th, with a trajectory oriented SE-NO. Other witnesses in the vicinity also reported the same trajectory. However, an expert surveyor north of Limoges reported an O-E trajectory, similar to that of the Paris Observatory. This suggests that while one object followed the official trajectory, another distinct object moved on a SE-NO path.

Hypotheses on Trajectories:

Three hypotheses are proposed to explain the observed phenomena:

1. Two simultaneous meteorites: This is considered highly improbable due to the rarity of such bright meteorites and the perpendicularity of their observed trajectories.
2. A single object changing direction: This is deemed possible, as an object could change course above the clouds. However, it would not be a meteorite, whose trajectory is fixed.
3. Two objects with distinct trajectories: One object following the SO-NE path (possibly a meteorite) and another following a SE-NO path (not a meteorite). The article acknowledges the difficulty in definitively choosing between hypotheses 2 and 3, as direct observation of a change in direction or the simultaneous presence of multiple objects is lacking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of *Ouranos* strongly advocates for a scientific and objective approach to investigating UFO phenomena. It highlights the potential for government secrecy and suppression of information, as seen in the cases of *Space Revue* and *Nexus*. The magazine champions the work of independent investigators and "dissident scientists" who challenge conventional explanations. There is a clear skepticism towards purely natural explanations for all sightings, particularly those with unusual trajectories or characteristics. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis while cautioning against premature conclusions or sensationalism. The recurring theme is the pursuit of truth in the face of established scientific dogma and potential cover-ups, with a particular focus on the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation or advanced aerial technology.

This issue of "Ouranos" (Volume 67, Issue February 17, 1956) features a detailed investigation into the "Orly Affair" of February 17, 1956, a significant UFO sighting and radar detection event. The magazine also includes various communications, commentaries, and bibliographical entries related to UFO phenomena.

The Orly Affair (17 FÉV. 1956) by Charles GARREAU

The main article by Charles Garreau, a regional correspondent for C.I.E.O., meticulously recounts the events of February 17, 1956, at Orly Airport. The incident involved a mysterious object, referred to as a "M.O.C." (Mysterious Object in the Sky), which was tracked by Orly's long-range radar for four hours. The object's characteristics were extraordinary: it was described as twice the size of the largest known aircraft, capable of immobilizing or accelerating to speeds of nearly 4000 km/h. The radar detected a "blip" of exceptional intensity, revealing an object moving at 2400 km/h with an estimated diameter of 75 meters and an altitude of 1500 meters. This was the third such phenomenon observed in a year.

The article details the sequence of events, starting with a DC-3 aircraft from Paris-London making a final check on the runway. Suddenly, an intense "blip" appeared on the radar, moving towards the DC-3. The object's speed and size were astonishing. It then immobilized itself in mid-air for thirty seconds before moving again, heading towards the DC-3, which had reached the vertical of Les Mureaux. Orly alerted the DC-3's commander, Dussavoy, who then observed a red, blinking light above his aircraft.

Garreau emphasizes that the object was not a weather balloon or a burning aircraft, as no such incidents were reported. He also dismisses atmospheric electricity as an explanation. The article notes that for four hours, the Orly radar continued to track the object's "fantasies," including high speeds and sudden stops, leading to a cautious official communiqué that stated the object seemed to show particular interest in landing or departing aircraft.

The article highlights the official reaction, noting the problem of "Flying Saucers" was brought to the forefront again due to the exceptional circumstances: a "M.O.C." detected by radar and also seen by eyewitnesses. Several witnesses, including M. Devots from Etrolles and M. Percheron from Drancy, reported seeing luminous objects with unusual movements. The article mentions M. Rousset from Beaune who described a "terrifying object" that moved erratically.

Garreau questions the official stance, suggesting that the investigation, which began the next day, would attempt to explain the phenomenon naturally. He points out the contradiction between the radar data and the official explanations, such as the Paris Observatory's suggestion of a "ballon-sonde" (weather balloon), which failed to account for the object's speed and dimensions. The article also touches upon the possibility of instrument malfunction but notes that the radar was later confirmed to be in excellent working order. The meteorite hypothesis is also dismissed due to the object's complex maneuvers.

The article draws parallels with other UFO sightings, such as those in Washington in July and August 1952, where similar "blips" caused alarm. It reiterates that a characteristic of these "M.O.C.s" is their apparent interest in terrestrial flying machines. Garreau concludes that the Orly affair confirms the presence of mysterious phenomena in the sky and criticizes the "simple negation" and "supremely unscientific" stance of those who dismiss them. He calls for a powerful official commission to investigate and collaborate with private organizations to define the origin of these "M.O.C.s."

Communications and Commentaries

The issue includes a section detailing "Principal Comments on the Observations of November 17." This section lists communications to radio, press, and the Academy of Sciences, along with dates and sources. Notably, 80% of French dailies on November 28 and 29 reported on the events.

Correspondence and Communications

Several letters and commentaries are featured:

• H. T. WILKINS contributes an article titled "OU ALLONS-NOUS !" (Where Are We Going!), discussing three strange cases from California where garden hoses inexplicably sank into the ground. He notes that while he doesn't necessarily endorse the claims, the cases are peculiar.
• Daniel LEGER shares a report from the US Secretary of the Air Force, Mr. Donald Quarles, stating that upcoming UFO tests would be conducted in the USA and that 30% of unidentified object observations could receive rational explanations. Léger views this as a "blackout" maneuver by the Air Force to discredit past and future sightings.
• André LEPONT presents an alternative explanation for UFOs from Professor Lincoln La Paz of the University of New Mexico. La Paz suggests that UFOs might be ice projectiles used by an unnamed aviation power for trajectory studies. This theory is contrasted with Professor Cecil F. Fowel's explanation.
• Charles GARREAU provides a commentary on "THE PRESS AND THE S.V." (UFOs), asserting that there is no official press censorship regarding UFOs, but that many newspapers have become more cautious due to past sensationalism. He notes that while military personnel might be subject to silence orders, civilians are not.

Bibliography

The magazine concludes with a bibliography of key works for the study of UFOs:

• "Le LIVRE des DAMNÉS" (The Book of the Damned) by Charles Fort, translated and presented by Robert Benayoun. This work is described as a defense of facts rejected by official science, including UFOs.
• "L'ESPACE sera-t-il VAINCU?" (Will Space Be Conquered?) by Commander Maurice Lenoir, a specialist in thermoreactors and self-sustaining aircraft. Lenoir's work explores the structure and functioning of interplanetary craft, drawing analogies from human achievements and natural phenomena.
• "J'AI VU, de mes YEUX VU, Une VRAIE S. V." (I Saw, With My Own Eyes, a REAL S.V.) by Eugène Farnier, a civil engineer. This is a personal account of a UFO sighting, accompanied by logical reflections from his interlocutor.

Four essential works from the USA are also listed, with no French translations planned: "Inside the Space ships" by George Adamski, "The Flying Saucer Conspiracy" by Major Donald Keyhoe, "Report on the Unidentified Flying Objects" by Capt. E. J. Ruppelt, and "Flying Saucers Uncensored" by Harold T. Wilkins.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of unidentified flying objects (UFOs/OVNIs), the challenges in explaining them with conventional science, and the role of official bodies and the press in reporting and investigating these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the sharing of evidence and hypotheses while critically examining official explanations and potential cover-ups. There is a clear skepticism towards outright denial of UFOs, advocating for rigorous investigation and collaboration between scientific and private entities. The magazine also highlights unusual phenomena beyond UFOs, such as the mysterious sinking hoses in California, suggesting a broader interest in unexplained events.