Ouranos - No 32 - 4e trim 1966

Magazine Overview

Title: OURANOS REVUE INTERNATIONALE
Issue: N° 32
Volume: 15º Année
Date: November 1965
Publisher: COMMISSION INTERNATIONALE D'ENQUÊTES SCIENTIFIQUES
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of OURANOS, a French international review dedicated to the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) or 'Engins Spatiaux de Provenance Inconnue' (ESPI), focuses on the significant wave of sightings that occurred between 1964 and 1966, termed 'La Grande Vague'. The cover features a stylized drawing of a flying craft and a map of the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada, highlighting the geographical focus of some events discussed, including the 'Grande Panne' (Great Blackout) of New York on November 9, 1965.

Editorial and Administrative Matters

A prominent section addresses the publication's delays and financial situation. Marc THIROUIN, the Director, writes a letter to subscribers explaining that the growth in readership has outpaced the administrative capacity, leading to delays. To ensure regular publication, the establishment of a permanent, paid secretariat is deemed necessary. The magazine proposes a supplementary subscription fee of 10 French Francs per year (84 centimes per month) to cover these costs, appealing to subscribers' desire for regular, independent information. The letter emphasizes that this initiative requires the full support of all subscribers to be viable.

La "Grande Vague" des ESPI (1964-1966)

The main article, 'La "Grande Vague" des ESPI (1964-1966)', details a major period of UFO observations that began in April 1964. While initially thought to be linked to Mars' perihelion in March 1965, the wave's peak occurred in 1965, aligning with the perihelion. The author notes that this wave, while significant, was less intense than those of 1957 and particularly 1952. However, it was remarkable for its rapid global spread and new characteristics.

New Characteristics of the Wave:

1. Global Reach: Unlike previous waves that were often localized, this one quickly encompassed the Americas and the rest of the world.
2. Manifestations:
* Landings and Low Altitude Sightings: Increased reports of landings and descents at low altitudes, even on busy roads, in urban areas, and near habitations.
* Electromagnetic Effects: Frequent reports of electromagnetic phenomena, including engine failures, radio disruptions, power outages affecting vehicles and entire regions, deviations in headlights, and other physiological effects. Paralytic ray effects were noted as rarer.
* Object Appearance: A greater frequency of large discs and unusually shaped craft.

Cyclical Patterns and Mars' Perihelion:

The article delves into the cyclical nature of UFO sightings, referencing previous analyses by OURANOS. It highlights a correlation between UFO waves and the perihelion of Mars, suggesting cycles of approximately 4 years and 4 months, and longer cycles of 8 years and 8 months. The wave of 1965 is seen as confirming a crescendo in a larger plan, with its timing linked to Mars' orbital position.

The author cites the NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) in Washington, which noted in its June-July 1965 bulletin that UFOs had entered a 'new phase of operations'. NICAP identified four main phases of UFO activity: pre-1946 (during WWII, accompanying aircraft), 1946-1957 (global observation, some landings), 1958-1964 (general surveillance, occasional surges), and from April 1964 onwards (increased landings and close approaches). NICAP also noted a surge in 1957 following the Sputnik launch.

The 'Plan' and Extraterrestrial Intent:

The article speculates on the purpose behind the observed phenomena, suggesting a deliberate 'plan' by extraterrestrials ('Ouraniens'). This plan seems aimed at demonstrating power and knowledge to be taken seriously, potentially as a prelude to establishing peaceful contact. The author posits that the events might be intended to alter human thought processes and familiarize humanity with the presence of these 'masters'. The New York blackout of November 1965 is presented not as an accident but as a deliberate act within this plan.

Statistical Data and Case Examples:

The issue includes statistical data and lists of reported sightings. A summary from Jacques & Janine VALLEE's book 'Les Phénomènes insolites de l'Espace' provides a list of important observations from April to July 1964. Further lists detail sightings and landings recorded by the US 'Blue Book' commission for 1964 and 1965, and early 1966, with specific dates, locations, and brief descriptions of objects and alleged occupants.

• Examples include:
• April 1964: Numerous sightings across Oklahoma, New York, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, and Texarkana, involving various object shapes and behaviors like landings and divisions.
• July 1964: Sightings in Georgia and Oregon, describing conical and jellyfish-shaped objects with lights and unusual odors.
• 1965-1966: Reports from Virginia, Florida, North Dakota, New York, Vermont, Minnesota, Michigan, Texas, and Pennsylvania, including observations of 'small beings' and beings with transparent helmets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the cyclical nature of UFO phenomena, the potential for extraterrestrial intelligence to be orchestrating these events with a specific purpose ('plan'), and the need for serious, unbiased investigation. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, urging readers to consider the evidence seriously rather than dismissing it with skepticism or conventional explanations. The magazine positions itself as an independent source of information, committed to documenting these events impartially, and seeks subscriber support to maintain its publication.

This issue of the magazine, identified by page numbers 69 through 78, focuses on statistics and reports related to the "Blue Book" Commission and various UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) incidents. The primary data presented are statistical tables for the years 1964 and 1965, showing the number of "explained" observations, unidentified objects, and ongoing cases. The issue highlights a significant increase in observations in 1965 compared to previous years, approaching the high levels seen in 1957, while also noting the remarkably low proportion of objects deemed unidentified by the commission.

UAP Statistics (1964-1965)

The statistics for 1964 (updated January 8, 1965) show a total of 532 observations, with 505 explained, 16 unidentified, and 11 in progress. For 1965 (updated January 18, 1966), the total observations reached 887, with 854 explained, 16 unidentified, and 17 in progress. A notable point is made that the 1965 total is higher than 1961 (591 observations) and closer to the 1957 maximum (1006 observations). The article critically points out the "ridiculously low proportion" of unidentified objects admitted by the "Blue Book" Commission, at 3.38% in 1964 and only 1.80% in 1965.

Global UAP Activity

The magazine then details a "wave" of UAP activity that affected not only North America but also spread to Mexico, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. A table on the following page (not fully included in the OCR) was intended to list observations from these regions, with abbreviations for countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, British Guiana, Honduras, Nicaragua, Paraguay, El Salvador, Uruguay, Venezuela, Australia, and New Zealand.

Specific Incidents and Regions:

• Canada: The wave touched Canada, with some observations being common to both the northern USA and southern Canada.
• South America, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand: The recrudescence extended to these regions.
• Argentina: The Argentine press reported dozens of observations in July-August 1965, particularly in the Loretani Valley and Las Polvaredas region. In October-November-December 1965, numerous ESPI (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) passages were reported. The "Adhara" Astronomical Observatory in San Miguel reported photos of ESPI taken by Luis Ferro on December 1, 1965. Eight landing cases were reported, including three with observations of very tall beings and two encounters with small humanoids or a gigantic being. About ten series of ESPI photos were taken by police, reporters, and amateurs.
• Brazil: In May 1965, a Brazilian group observed evolutions of a "mother-ship" over Sarandi for hours. In August 1966, the bodies of two "electronic repairmen" were found on a hill near Niteroi, with lead masks and coded messages. A nearby resident reported seeing a luminous object on the hill. Eight landing cases were reported, involving observations of beings, luminous objects, and ground traces.
• Chile: Five landing cases were reported in July-August 1965, near Chanaral, Valparaiso, Puerto Monte, Llanquihue, and Santiago, with some involving photos.
• Mexico: Three landing cases were reported in August-September 1965, including one at a hospital and another near the National Polytechnic Institute in Mexico City, with ground traces, liquid, and observations of two 90 cm beings with gas masks and a message left on a metal plaque. Another incident involved a UAP causing a power outage in Cuernavaca. Dozens of observations and landings were reported from October 1965 to March 1966, some involving beings of 3 meters with unusual features.
• Peru: Several apparitions were reported over Chilpancingo in the first half of July 1965. In August 1965, three ESPI were observed over the Lima international aerodrome for two minutes, and a formation of ESPI was seen over Oroya. Residents of Yungay frequently reported seeing ESPI. Six landing cases were reported near Lima, involving a "cheese-like" craft, ground traces, and observations of beings.
• Honduras: Several observations were reported in July-August 1965.
• El Salvador: Several ESPI were observed north of the capital in August 1965, with a photo taken.
• Uruguay: An undated observation was reported near Rivera. Two landing cases were reported in July 1965 near Ciudad Colonia and in early January 1966 on a road.
• Australia: In March 1965, eight ESPI in tight formation were observed over New South Wales. In mid-November 1965 to mid-January 1966, significant activity was reported in the Tully region. Four landing cases were reported, including one with a 7m x 3m disk observed on Sydney's port beach. Numerous landing traces were discovered in the Tully region in January 1966. In April 1966, a car swerved to avoid an object, and a car had previously crashed at the same spot.
• New Zealand: In January 1965, a group of 7 objects was observed by an airplane crew and ground radar. In Tasmania, three pink lights were seen under a viaduct. A radio reception failure occurred before three pulsating yellow lights were observed. In March 1965, a large luminous object traversed the sky, observed by many people. One landing case was reported on Southbrighton beach.

The Valensole Affair

The article "A PROPOS DE L'AFFAIRE DE VALENSOLE" (Regarding the Valensole Affair) revisits the incident of July 1, 1965. A farmer, M. Masse, observed a rugby-ball shaped craft on a pivot surrounded by four legs. He saw two occupants, one of whom was small (eight years old) and wore a suit. The craft took off rapidly, leaving a depression in the ground with a cylindrical hole and three oblique cavities. The incident is noted for its key elements: ground observation, traces, occupants, and operations. The gendarmerie and military investigated, with involvement from the atomic base at Marcoule and air force specialists, but no definitive conclusion was reached. The article discusses various unofficial hypotheses regarding the beings and their mission, noting that while ingenious, they remain speculative due to a lack of corroborating evidence.

Televised Emission and the Vauriat Affair

A televised program from February 14, 1965, titled "Le Mythe de la Soucoupe" (The Myth of the Saucer), revisited the Vauriat observation from August 29, 1962. The program featured witnesses, Aimé Michel, and Paul Misraki (alias Paul Thomas), providing a detailed account of the event. The article praises the quality of the program and the contributions of Michel and Misraki.

An Authorized Opinion: That of a Psychiatrist

This section presents an account from a Roman psychiatrist who witnessed a flying saucer in a park on January 4th. He described it as an immense hat-shaped object with a dome, cylinder, and ring, resting on three thin legs, about 5 meters in diameter. The object rotated and then ascended rapidly. The psychiatrist affirmed he does not drink and is considered mentally sound, having verified his normal physical state after the experience. He strongly asserted the reality of the flying saucer.

The "Great Blackout of New York"

This section discusses the power outage on November 9, 1965, which affected over 200,000 km2 and 30 million inhabitants in the northeastern USA and southeastern Canada. The article describes the chaos in cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, with disruptions to transportation, communication, and daily life. It questions the official explanation of a relay rupture in Ontario, highlighting the time it took to find the cause and the Federal Power Commission's prior declaration of system security. The article details the interconnected nature of the power grid and the automatic safety systems, suggesting that the outage occurred during a period of normal demand, raising further questions about the stated cause.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the statistical analysis of UAP reports, the global spread of UAP sightings and landing events, and the investigation into specific incidents. The editorial stance appears critical of official explanations, particularly regarding the low classification rate of unidentified objects by the "Blue Book" Commission and the official explanation for the New York blackout. There is an emphasis on the need for careful interpretation of evidence and a recognition that some phenomena may be beyond current scientific understanding. The magazine also highlights the importance of witness testimony and the contributions of various researchers and correspondents in documenting these events.

This issue of "OURANOS" magazine, spanning pages 79 to 86, focuses on the mysterious North American power failure of November 1965 and its potential connection to unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The publication is in French and appears to be from Canada.

The Great North American Power Failure

The issue begins by detailing the significant power outage that affected a large part of the northeastern United States and Canada. On November 9, 1965, at approximately 5:15 PM EST, a massive blackout occurred. Initial reports from Niagara-Mohawk indicated a considerable surge in current towards the east and south, with meters suddenly jumping to 490 kW. This surge reversed when current was drawn by other regions. Investigations into transmission lines, generators, and circuit breakers found no mechanical failures or equipment malfunctions that could explain the event. However, the situation was described as if a power cut had occurred, possibly at the Clay sub-station.

Twelve minutes before the main blackout, New Jersey Public Services reported abnormal flickering of lights in certain areas. Oscillographs indicated a sudden voltage oscillation occurring simultaneously in 13 different locations, suggesting a single, localized cause. While most of New Jersey was spared, many companies close to the epicenter were affected. Overloads on their generators caused a phase shift, triggering relays that stopped them before they could overheat, though some relays were too slow, requiring rewinding of armatures.

No official explanation for the cause of the blackout or the method of restoring power has been provided. The article notes that power was seemingly restored by temporarily using off-grid stations.

A Bizarre Incident in Hillsdale, NJ

Amidst the widespread outage, a peculiar incident occurred in Hillsdale, NJ. On November 9, at 5:30 PM, a woman's TV and telephone suddenly went dead. Her son observed a brilliant white object in the sky, approximately ten times the apparent size of a star. The object was observed for 20 minutes, took on a greenish hue, and then disappeared. Immediately after, the telephone began working again.

UFO Sightings and Electromagnetic Phenomena

The magazine then shifts to a detailed catalog of UFO sightings, primarily from Canada, with some from the US. These observations are presented in a structured format, including date, location, time, object description (shape, color, luminosity), speed, trajectory, altitude, duration, sounds, and remarks.

Notable Sightings:

• March 16, 1965, Nova Scotia: Hundreds of witnesses, including police and a pilot, reported iridescent light trails and objects.
• September 1965, Saint-Jean-des-Piles, Quebec: A "rugby ball" shaped object, coral red, hovered near the ground, vibrated, projected lights, and then moved away.
• October 30, 1965, Saint-Jean-des-Piles, Quebec: An overturned aluminum boat-like object appeared on the river, emitted lights, and then slowly submerged, causing unusual phenomena in the river, including the water turning dark and the river current stopping and reversing.
• November 15, 1965, Quebec periphery: A star-like object landed rapidly, was lenticular in shape, and rotated at high speed.
• Early December 1965, Windsor Airport, Ontario: A "fireball" caused a shock on the fuselage of a flying aircraft.
• December 9, 1965, Ontario: A "fireball" or explosion, or a milky white object with a comet-like tail, was widely witnessed.
• December 11, 1965, Ste-Adèle, Quebec: An immobile object with a luminous projection was observed.
• February 14, 1966, Brantford, Ontario: A luminous round object hovered above a property and ascended.
• February 17, 1966, Brantford, Ontario: A similar object was observed and then disappeared as the sun rose.
• March 27, 1966, Sarnia, Ontario: A "saucer" emitting various colors was observed for an hour before ascending and disappearing. Military officials noted this was the fourth such sighting reported that evening.
• March 28, 1966, Ontario: Numerous objects were reported, including a large, shimmering object that changed direction rapidly, and others with flashing lights.
• April 25, 1966, Quebec and Ontario: A "fireball" with a luminous tail and vapor, described as turning red, was observed by thousands across provinces and the US, moving vertically.
• May 25, 1966, Montreal: A spherical object with a flat base and a horizontal stripe emitted luminous rays, moved vertically, and disappeared.

Electromagnetic Effects

The article emphasizes the strange electromagnetic effects that often accompany these objects, affecting car circuits, radio and TV equipment, causing headlights to fail, engines to stop, and transmissions or receptions to be interrupted. It suggests that a massive energy absorption might be occurring, potentially explaining the large power outage.

Canadian Official Stance and Public Opinion

The issue touches upon the official Canadian response to UFO reports, noting that, similar to the US, there's an effort to explain away unexplained phenomena as natural or to dismiss them. However, it highlights a growing public interest and conviction in the reality of these objects and their extraterrestrial origin.

• William Dean Howe, MP for Ottawa, declared in April 1966 that it was time to stop dismissing UFO reports as hallucinations or mystifications, stating there were too many "unexplained evidences" being ignored.
• Léon Cadieux, Deputy Minister of National Defence, promised an investigation into reports, particularly concerning the Bureau of Defence Research.
• Père Burke Gaffney, an astronomer, stated that the mystery of unidentified phenomena persisted, but they were neither meteors nor astronomical phenomena.

Several Canadians have written to "Le Nouveau Samedi" expressing their conviction about the reality of UFOs and their extraterrestrial origin. J.Edgar Guimont, a former astronomer, urged the publication to continue publishing testimonies, believing that truth is found through investigation and that believers are often right.

Bernard Duranton is quoted advocating for observers to report facts without fear of ridicule, stating that true scientists will appreciate their observations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained North American power failure of 1965 and the widespread UFO sightings that occurred around the same period and subsequently. The magazine strongly implies a connection between these events, suggesting that UFOs, through their advanced technology and potential energy absorption capabilities, may have caused the blackout. The editorial stance is one of advocating for open investigation and belief in witness testimonies, challenging the skepticism of some scientific circles and government officials. The publication aims to inform the public about these phenomena and encourage further reporting and research.

Title: OURANOS
Issue: 34
Date: 1966
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of OURANOS magazine delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, scientific perspectives, and documentation efforts. It features a critical statement from Sir Bernard Lovell, director of the Jodrell Bank radio-astronomical observatory, who dismisses unidentified flying objects as "nonsense" while acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The magazine also touches upon a television program titled "Les p'tits bonshommes du dimanche" (The Little Men of Sunday) that discusses ESPI (Encountered Situations of Possible Intelligence), suggesting that the topic is being introduced to children to make it more accessible.

Key Articles and Features

Sir Bernard Lovell's Statement and Scientific Skepticism The issue opens with a report on Sir Bernard Lovell's declaration in Montreal in April 1966, where he stated that "observations of unidentified objects are nothing but nonsense." Despite this, he conceded a high probability of extraterrestrial life forms different from our own. The author reflects on the courage it might take for prominent scientists to acknowledge the reality of ESPI, questioning whether their reputations might suffer for doing so.

"Les p'tits bonshommes du dimanche" Television Program A curious television program on ESPI, broadcast on channel 10, is highlighted. The show, hosted by a figure calling himself "Professor Moustique," uses animated drawings to engage children, while also presenting information about ESPI. The program's creators apparently believe that by appealing to children, they can indirectly reach a wider audience, especially if the scientific knowledge presented surpasses mere science fiction.

Alphonse Leveille's Commentary Alphonse Leveille comments on the unusual approach of mixing ESPI with a children's program, suggesting it might be a strategy to avoid being misunderstood by the "adult world."

Upcoming Features (Au prochain numéro) The magazine previews several articles for the next issue, including: * "Ancient Observations: Contribution to the study of unusual aerial phenomena from 1896–1898" by Jean Senelier. * "The situation in West Berlin" by François Leh. * A Canadian column. * "On the frequency cycles of observations" by Marc Thirouin. * "The 'Great Wave' of 1965 (conclusion) and the evolution of opinion" by Marc Thirouin. * "The 'Great Blackout' of New York: is it a unique phenomenon or due to technical failures?" by Marc Thirouin. * Observations and Investigations.

Bibliography (BIBLIOGRAPHIE) The magazine provides an extensive bibliography of books available through its Documentation Service. This includes: * French Works: Titles by Jimmy Guieu, E. Farnier & René Leduc, Michel Carrouges, Jacques & Janine Vallée, J.M. Ferrari, Walter Sullivan, Jean Sendy, Robert Charroux, Serge Hutin, Ivar Lissner, Francis Mazière, Vincent Gaddis, and Amiral Jubelin. * English Works: Including "Anatomy of a Phenomenon" by Jacques Vallée, "The Extraterrestrials" (English translation of a French work), "The UFO Evidence" by N.I.C.A.P., "Flying Saucers – Serious Business" by Frank Edwards, "Incident at Exeter" by John G. Fuller, "The Flying Saucer Story" by Brinsley Le Poer Trench, and "The Book of Saucers" by Gray Barker. * Science and Space Technology: A reference to "Progress in Astronautics & Aeronautics, Vol.17 (June 1966): Methods in Astrodynamics & Celestial Mechanics" by Raynor L. Duncombe and Victor G. Szebehely, detailing aspects of space navigation and celestial mechanics. * Symposium Proceedings: "Proceedings of the Plasma Space Science Symposium" (1963) and "Proceedings of the Plasma Space Science Symposium" (1965) are listed, covering topics like solar phenomena, cosmic rays, magnetosphere, and space program applications.

CIES Initiatives

1. The "Affaires Mystérieuses" Collection:
This collection is designed to inform CIES members and OURANOS readers about UFO-related subjects through monographs. It aims to be objective and valuable, with a simple presentation to keep costs accessible. The first fascicule, "La Vérité sur l'Affaire de Fatima" (The Truth About the Fatima Affair) by Jean-Michel Ferrari, with a preface by Marc Thirouin, is available.

2. PHOTO-DOCUMENTS Service:
Recognizing the vast amount of UFO documentation (texts and photos) gathered since 1947 that remains unpublished, the CIES has created a monthly service to disseminate this information via photocopies. This service, described as unique, cooperates with international correspondents and colleagues, publishing approximately 500 photos and texts annually. Subscriptions are available for 6 months or 1 year.

Correspondence and Announcements

• Dr. Marcel Pagès: Readers are encouraged to contact Dr. Pagès for documentation on antigravitation and the use of natural energies for revitalization. He offers personalized health advice.
• M. F. Rameau de St-Sauveur: Announces a series of lectures on ancient civilizations (Pre-Columbian, Tibetan, Egyptian, Easter Island, etc.) and Vimanas, held every Saturday at 8:30 PM in Paris.
• Announcement: A request for used books on ESPI and related subjects, specifically mentioning "They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers" by Gray Barker and "Flying Saucers, Space & Gravity" by L.G. Cramp.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO phenomena, the scientific community's response to such claims, the importance of documentation and historical research, and the dissemination of information. The magazine appears to support the investigation of UFOs, as evidenced by its sponsorship of the CIES and its various documentation services. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, while also acknowledging the skepticism within mainstream science, as represented by Sir Bernard Lovell's comments. The inclusion of a bibliography and previews of future articles indicates a commitment to providing comprehensive coverage of the subject matter.