Ouranos - No 17 - 3e trim 1956

Magazine Overview

Title: OURANOS
Issue: N° 17
Publisher: COMMISSION INTERNATIONALE D'ENQUÊTE SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES
Country: France
Language: French
Cover Headline: VERS DES SOLUTIONS REVOLUTIONNAIRES EN AERONAUTIQUE ?

This issue of "Ouranos Revue Internationale" delves into cutting-edge aeronautical concepts and unexplained aerial phenomena. It is edited by the International Commission for the Investigation of Flying Saucers (C.I.E.O.) and features articles by its key personnel, including Marc Thirouin and Jimmy Quieu.

Article 1: "VERS DES SOLUTIONS REVOLUTIONNAIRES EN AERONAUTIQUE ?" by Marc THIROUIN

This lead article explores the potential of the Coanda effect for revolutionary advancements in aeronautics. Thirouin discusses recent information from international correspondents regarding the application of the Coanda effect to lenticular aircraft, specifically mentioning the "fer à cheval" (horseshoe) apparatus studied by AVRO in Canada. The article references previous publications in "Point de Vue Images du Monde" and "Carrefour" that highlighted this phenomenon and the work of its namesake, engineer Henri Coanda. The C.I.E.O. initiated an inquiry into these sensational claims, seeking clarification on the technical aspects and the extent to which the Coanda effect is being utilized.

The article details the investigation process, including correspondence with journalists like Denis Lefèvre-Toussaint, who provided insights into the origins of the information and the potential involvement of AVRO. Lefèvre-Toussaint's responses suggest that while the "Whiskers" story might be anticipatory, the USAF is indeed having AVRO build an S.V. based on Coanda's work. He also mentions a M. Franz de Beaumont who claims to have sent S.V. plans to Washington in 1955 without response, and notes that Theodore von Karman, a prominent figure in US aeronautics, acknowledged Coanda's work without denying AVRO's involvement.

Thirouin then presents critical observations, questioning the claims made in the press. He points out that the patent attributed to Coanda in 1934 concerns fluid deviation, not a flying saucer. He also notes the discrepancy between the reported capabilities of the AVRO "soucoupe" and its status as a construction project. The article includes opinions from experts like Charles de Rougé and Jean Tournon, who express skepticism about the sensational claims, suggesting that while Coanda's inventions are significant, the press often exaggerates their immediate applicability and the extent of their realization.

Article 2: "L'ÉLECTROGRAVITATION"

This section explores the concept of electrogravitation, a theoretical process aimed at nullifying or inverting gravity. It traces the origins of this research back to Einstein's theory of unified fields and the mathematical relationship between electricity, magnetism, and gravitation. The article notes that research in this area is no longer confined to universities but is also being pursued by aerospace companies like Glenn L. Martin and Martin Aircraft Co. It mentions the contributions of scientists such as Burkhard Heim and G.S. Trimble, and references Major Donald E. Keyhoe's book "The Flying Saucers Conspiracy," which highlighted the interest of engineers and government officials in these studies.

The article then discusses a report in the Swiss aviation magazine "Interavia" detailing laboratory work on "activation" of matter and the creation of "localized gravitational fields." This research, attributed to an American journalist named Intel, suggests the possibility of electro-gravitational devices capable of exceeding the speed of light, referencing the work of scientist Townsend T.

Article 3: "LA CHOSE DU 17 NOVEMBRE (fin)" by Marc THIROUIN

This is the concluding part of an investigation into an aerial phenomenon observed on November 17th. Thirouin analyzes various aspects of the sighting, including the inclination of trajectories, which he notes is unusually shallow for a meteorite, drawing parallels to "green fireballs" (B.F.V.) that have been observed previously. He discusses the "explosion" reported by some witnesses, differentiating between observations in Sector A and Sector B, suggesting that objects in Sector B may not have exploded.

Thirouin addresses the issue of sound transmission and atmospheric conditions that can affect the perception of an explosion's sound. He also examines the timing of the observations, noting that Sector A sightings occurred between 17:00 and 17:30, while Sector B sightings were between 17:30 and 18:00, with some overlap and uncertainty at the boundaries. The duration of the observation is discussed, with initial reports of three minutes from the Paris Observatory being revised to five or six seconds, a duration still considered significant.

The article delves into the characteristics of the object, including its color (green), shape (ellipsoidal, with a red cone at the rear), and estimated size. It draws a parallel between the object's description and a report by Major Donald Keyhoe concerning a similar phenomenon in 1948. Thirouin concludes that while the object's characteristics are unusual for a meteorite, the press's sensationalism and the lack of definitive conclusions from official sources leave room for speculation.

Article 4: "L'AFFAIRE D'ORLY (17 FÉV. 1956), - COMPLÉMENT D'ENQUÊTE (1)" by Charles GARREAU

This report investigates the Orly incident of February 17, 1956, by presenting two witness testimonies from Beaune. The first witness, M. Marie Roussac, describes seeing a red-orange, luminous mass moving towards the N-W. The second witness, Louis Courcelles, a mechanic, reports seeing a large "red-orange" object stop abruptly over the countryside before accelerating rapidly towards the North-West. The article poses two key questions: whether the Orly radar registered the object in the SSE direction, and if it was detected on screens at 23:55. The witnesses' accounts are noted for their concordant descriptions of the object's shape, color, and speed, and the investigation is being conducted by the M.O.C. (Bureau of unidentified aerial phenomena) of the Ministry of Air.

Article 5: "BLIPS ET JET STREAMS" by Alain GADMER

This article addresses the claim that radar blips detected over Orly were merely weather balloons influenced by jet streams. Gadmer refutes this, citing that the blips indicated an object approximately 75 meters in diameter, significantly larger than standard weather balloons (around 30 meters). He also explains that while jet streams are fast-moving air currents, they are typically polar and at high altitudes, and it would be exceptional for them to cause a balloon to hover and then accelerate to 2,400 km/h. Gadmer also questions whether weather balloons are equipped with flashing red lights.

Article 6: "NOUVELLES INTERNATIONALES - COUP D'ŒIL SUR LES « OBJETS PARFAITEMENT CONNUS »" by Marc THIROUIN

Thirouin presents a collection of advanced aircraft and rocket projects to counter the assertion by US Secretary of the Air, Mr. Quarles, that observed "unidentified flying objects" are merely revolutionary terrestrial devices. The article showcases projects like the "aerodyne à ailes multiples" (multi-winged aerodyne) by René Couzinet, which features vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, and the "tuyau de poële" (stovepipe) engine developed by René Leduc, known for its high speed and secret testing. Thirouin suggests that these advanced projects, many of which are still in the conceptual or prototype stage, do not align with the characteristics of the "unknown objects" observed since at least 1917. He cites a report by E. J. Ruppelt, former head of the US saucer investigation, stating that no terrestrial aircraft can match the performance of these observed phenomena.

The article also briefly mentions the "Arc-en-Ciel" (Rainbow) project and the "Coleoptère" (beetle) by Zborowski, as well as the Leduc engine's potential for speeds up to 6,000 km/h. It touches upon a series of observations made in 1954 above St-Germain-Lembron, describing a luminous, elongated object with symmetrical bulges and a trailing light, comparable in size and speed to a small aircraft seen from a distance. The article concludes by noting the unusual characteristics of this object, including its silence and apparent speed, suggesting it might be a UFO rather than a conventional aircraft or rocket.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Ouranos" revolve around the investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and the exploration of advanced aeronautical technologies that could potentially explain some of these phenomena. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, seeking objective evidence and challenging conventional explanations. The magazine actively promotes the idea that some aerial phenomena may not be terrestrial in origin, while also examining the scientific and engineering possibilities that could lead to revolutionary aircraft designs. There is a clear emphasis on debunking sensationalist claims while simultaneously acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding UFO sightings. The C.I.E.O. positions itself as a serious research body dedicated to uncovering the truth behind these events.

This issue of "Ouranos" (No. 83, dated June 1956) focuses on the ongoing mystery of unidentified flying objects (UFOs), advanced aeronautics, and the potential for anti-gravity technology. The magazine presents a critical analysis of official statements, expert opinions, and scientific research related to these phenomena. It features articles discussing the latest developments in aviation and rocketry, as well as speculative pieces on the nature and origin of UFOs.

UFOs: Official Statements vs. Expert Opinions

The issue opens by contrasting the official US government's tendency to downplay the number of unexplained UFO sightings with the more persistent views of some experts. It references a statement by US Secretary of the Air, Donald A. Quarles, who suggested that only about 3% of UFO observations between 1947 and 1952 were inexplicable by natural causes. This figure is presented as a reduction from previous estimates, which the magazine implies is an attempt to bring the issue under control.

However, the article highlights a differing perspective from Captain Edward J. Ruppelt, who previously headed the Bluebook Commission. In his book "Report on UFOs," Ruppelt estimates that approximately 20.04% of cases remain unexplained. The magazine points out this "divorce" between a technical chief and his minister, suggesting that the technical expert's assessment might carry more scientific objectivity. Ruppelt's own conclusions are quoted, expressing personal skepticism about UFOs but acknowledging the weight of evidence from numerous credible observers, including pilots, radar operators, scientists, and military personnel, whose reports remain "unknowns."

Advanced Aeronautics and Anti-Gravity Research

The magazine delves into cutting-edge aerospace developments, particularly in the United States. It discusses the work of Glenn L. Martin, which is reportedly exploring anti-gravity propulsion with a team of European scientists. An engineer from the firm, George S. Trimble, is quoted as saying that building an anti-gravity device could take a similar timeframe to the development of the atomic bomb. Aeronautics pioneer Grover Loening shares a similar conviction, believing that the scientific principles that unlocked atomic structure will also reveal the secrets of gravity and how to neutralize it.

Further details emerge about specific projects: Eugene M. Gluhareff is developing an electron jet propulsion system, and there is speculation that the US government might possess captured UFO technology. The Saucerian Review is cited as suggesting that the systematic suppression of UFO information and the release of confusing reports like the Bluebook Report No. 14 are intended to conceal such findings, especially if they relate to national defense or could disrupt the economy.

Rocketry and Future Aviation

The issue also covers the latest in jet aircraft and rocket technology. It mentions the official speed record held by Colonel Horace A. Hanes and introduces the Lockheed F-104 Starfighter, designed for high-altitude flight. The North American X-15 research aircraft, powered by a rocket engine, is noted for its potential to reach Mach 10 at 75,000 meters.

In the realm of strategic rockets, the US possesses the Bomarc and Regulus missiles. New projects like the Atlas (a three-stage rocket with a range of 7,000 km) and the Super-Atlas (with a range of 10,000 km) are under development, with launches anticipated in 1958 and 1960, respectively. A commercial rocket, the WRT. 71-72, is also planned for 1960, capable of reaching 46,000 meters at 12,000 km/h, with plans developed by German engineers Walter R. Dornberger and Kraint A. Ehricke.

Historical Perspectives and Unexplained Phenomena

The magazine touches upon historical UFO sightings, noting that similar objects were observed even before the advent of modern aviation and technology. It references numerous observations documented in historical texts, scientific journals, and explorers' accounts dating back centuries, suggesting that the phenomenon is not new.

Book Reviews and Magazine Features

This issue includes a bibliography section featuring "Alerte dans le ciel!" by Charles Garreau, a scientific study on the origin of UFOs. The magazine also promotes its own content, highlighting the "Flying Saucers" column by Jimmy Guieu in the magazine "Galaxie" and announcing the upcoming publication of a study on the "Enigma of the Satellites."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Ouranos" revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs, the potential for revolutionary anti-gravity and propulsion technologies, and the critical examination of official narratives versus independent research. The editorial stance appears to favor a more open and thorough investigation into UFO phenomena, acknowledging the credibility of numerous witnesses and the limitations of current official explanations. There is a clear interest in scientific progress, particularly in aerospace, and a speculative outlook on humanity's future in space and its potential encounters with unknown phenomena.