Ouranos - Nouvelle Serie - no 10 - 1er trim 1974

Magazine Overview

Title: OURANOS
Issue: N° 10, Nouvelle série, Bimestrielle
Volume: 21e Année
Date: 1er trimestre 1974
Publisher: UNION DES GROUPEMENTS ESPIOLOGIQUES DE FRANCE ET DES PAYS DE LANGUE FRANÇAISE
Country: France
Price: 5 F Français (France), 5 F Suisse (Suisse), 6 F Français (Other countries)

This issue of OURANOS, a review dedicated to Unidentified Flying Objects and related phenomena, presents a diverse range of content, including detailed witness testimonies, investigative reports, and critical analyses of alleged hoaxes. The magazine aims to serve the truth by seeking positive explanations for these phenomena, acknowledging the complexity and importance of the UFO question.

Articles and Features

A PROPOS D'UN TRUCAGE EXCEPTIONNEL (Regarding an Exceptional Hoax)

This article by Joël Vermeersch critically examines a widely publicized UFO photograph case from Beert, Belgium, which appeared in a Belgian newspaper on November 3, 1973. The author highlights that while the photo appeared authentic and was even analyzed by a reputable laboratory, it was later revealed to be a deliberate hoax orchestrated by a group of young individuals. These individuals aimed to demonstrate that many UFO photos could be faked and that most sightings were a product of imagination. The article details their meticulous planning, including using a Yashica TL Super camera and staging the photos to appear convincing. It emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing the sincerity of witnesses and the potential for sophisticated trickery, cautioning against accepting photographic evidence at face value without rigorous investigation. The author concludes that while the hoax was well-executed, it serves as a warning about the need for severe investigative protocols.

L'OBJET TEL QUE NOUS L'AVONS VU A BEERT (The Object as We Saw It in Beert)

This section provides the text accompanying the photograph discussed in the hoax article. It describes an unidentified flying object photographed in the vicinity of Beert during All Saints' Day. The report notes that the image was a significant enlargement of a 24x36 negative. The object was described as resembling a "flying saucer" and was seen by a couple, Mr. and Mrs. E., who had just purchased a new camera. The object appeared and disappeared several times before a photograph was taken. The report mentions that the photographer who developed the film advised them to contact the newspaper.

...ET A PROPOS DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE PRISE EN CORSE (And Regarding the Photograph Taken in Corsica)

This section, referencing a previous issue (OURANOS N° 5), discusses another photographic case. The article explains that a series of three slides had caused considerable discussion. The investigation involved examining the photographs and interviewing the witnesses, who were described as belonging to a reputable family from Savoie. Specialists confirmed the authenticity of the photographs, and interviews with the witnesses convinced the investigators of their sincerity. A detailed study of duplicate slides, using horizon superposition and magnification, indicated that the object was relatively immobile, suggesting no wind and a short time interval between shots. The object's slight oscillation and trajectory were also analyzed. The conclusion was that it was unlikely to be an object launched from the ground or a simple model, as its disc shape would be sensitive to wind, requiring a powerful motive force for stable equilibrium.

STRATÉGIE TOUS AZIMUTHS (Strategy in All Directions)

Francis Consolin's article explores the challenges and strategies in UFO research. He posits that developing a specific strategy for UFOs is difficult without a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. The author emphasizes the importance of continued research, even if imperfect, as it is better than no research at all. He advocates for a multi-disciplinary approach, acknowledging that the 'X' phenomenon touches upon physical, psychological, religious, and even fantastical domains. The article references studies on detection and correlation between geophysical parameters (magnetic and gravitational fields) and UFO sightings, citing research that suggests a link between variations in the Earth's magnetic field and UFO waves.

TEMOIGNAGES D'OBSERVATIONS (Witness Testimonies)

This section presents several witness accounts of UFO sightings:

• Témoignage N° 1: From M. G.M. of Bourg-en-Bresse, describing an object detected telescopically and photographically near the Moon on June 9, 1973. The object, visible on only one of eight photos, was round and appeared relatively immobile.
• Témoignage N° 2: From Saint Denis, Réunion, on October 13, 1973. A luminous point was observed ascending and accelerating, appearing triangular or circular when viewed through binoculars. It displayed unusual lights and disappeared rapidly.
• Témoignage N° 3: From Machecoul (44) in early December 1973, where a witness reported seeing five elliptical, luminous objects in formation moving rapidly in a curved trajectory.
• Témoignage N° 4: From L'Epine, Île de Noirmoutier, on December 20, 1973. A rapidly moving luminous object was observed, which then slowed, descended, ascended at a right angle, and disappeared at high speed.
• Témoignage N° 5: From near Montauban on December 28, 1973. A witness described a large, luminous object, red at the top and orange-yellow below, which vanished suddenly.

RAPPORTS D'ENQUÊTES (Investigation Reports)

• Enquête N° 1 (Italy): Conducted by M. G.F. Lazzareto, detailing observations in Chinognolo d'Isola, La Spezia, and Piedmont in October 1973. These reports include sightings of luminous globes and objects, with one case involving a burnt triangular area and plant samples. Another case involved photographs taken by students and a report of electrical tension drops possibly related to UFO activity.
• Enquête N° 2 (France): Performed by M. P. Maquaire, documenting an observation near Vichy on December 19, 1973. Two white lights were seen, which later turned red and separated, with one object described as a dark square with lights. The witness also reported seeing flashing lights after the object disappeared. The report notes that airport officials attributed the sighting to balises (beacons).
• Enquête N° 3 (France): Conducted by C.F.R.U. of Lille, detailing an observation on December 31, 1973, near Hulluch. The witness reported seeing two objects, one described as a red, dark square with lights, and another luminous object. The report includes a detailed map of the area and the traces found, including circular indentations and footprints. The witness also described seeing two lights resembling anti-fog lights before the main object appeared.

COURRIER DES LECTEURS (Readers' Mail)

This section includes letters from readers. One letter from Roger Manceau critiques an article by M. A. Bonnelli on "The Key to Parallel Universes," questioning the concept of a curved line being the shortest path and challenging the notion of dimensions beyond three. Another letter from Edmond Panet comments on a television program about UFOs, expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of definitive conclusions and the dismissal of primary witnesses. The section also includes an announcement for a country house for sale, suitable for an ufologist.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of OURANOS revolve around the rigorous investigation of UFO phenomena, the critical examination of evidence, and the acknowledgment of potential hoaxes. The magazine emphasizes the importance of objective reporting and scientific inquiry, while also giving voice to witness testimonies. The editorial stance, as articulated by Marc Thirouin, is one of seeking truth and positive explanations, rejecting pure skepticism and systematic negation as unproductive. The publication highlights the increasing number of UFO observations and the need for continued research across multiple disciplines to understand this complex phenomenon. The issue also touches upon the historical context of UFO research and the challenges of public perception and media coverage.

This issue of OURANOS, identified as N° 8, published in January 1974, focuses on a variety of paranormal and scientific topics, with a strong emphasis on UFO investigations and theoretical concepts. The cover prominently features the question of "LA SOUCOUPE DE M. DUBOIS" (Mr. Dubois's Saucer), indicating a detailed case study or discussion on this specific incident.

Investigations and Sightings

The magazine presents several detailed UFO investigation reports:

Enquête N° 4: Lille, France (January 5, 1974)

Investigators from C.F.R.U. examined traces in Lille, finding them effaced but noting three witness points forming a triangle. Magnetic field measurements were negative, but an ionization anomaly was detected near the East trace. Soil samples and grass tufts appeared intact. The witness was deemed credible, suggesting a genuine phenomenon occurred.

Enquête N° 4: Nationale 190, near Treil, France (January 12, 1974)

Witnesses MM. Amorison and Boulanger reported observing two bright, moon-like lights in the sky, approximately 400 meters above ground. One light emitted a beam before dimming, and the other vanished abruptly. A technician from Chrysler France later reported a similar phenomenon.

Enquête N° 5: Saint-Mathieu, Quebec, Canada (January 12-13, 1974)

MM. Maurice Hérard and a friend witnessed a bright, star-like object emitting sparks. The object then hovered, moved erratically, and later appeared as two lights approaching their car. Hérard attempted to signal with his car's flashing lights, which seemed to attract the object.

Enquête N° 6: Ile de Noirmoutier, France (August 9, 1973)

Witnesses observed three unusual lights over the sea, which descended, disappeared, and reappeared multiple times, moving in a pattern before vanishing. The phenomenon was estimated to be 5-6 km away.

Enquête N° 7: Nantes, France (January 16, 1974)

Madame A. and her daughter observed a circular, luminous object with red, green, and yellow lights moving at a low altitude. The object passed over their car and then ascended, disappearing into the clouds. A power outage occurred in the vicinity during the observation.

Enquête N° 9: Lannemezan, France (January 14, 1974)

Witnesses MM. Marcel Viau, Jean Rouy, and Clery Marmouget observed a conical object with a colorful trail moving horizontally at a low altitude. They initially mistook it for a comet but realized it was something else due to its distinct appearance and movement.

Enquête N° 10: Draguignan, France (February 19/22, 1974)

Mme Nivêt described a large, luminous golden rectangle stationary in the sky. The object then moved rapidly north-west and disappeared, leaving a faint golden trail. The witness is described as a credible and realistic individual.

Theoretical Concepts

The Aura (VI - Second Part) by René PEROT

This section continues the discussion on the research of Dr. W. J. Kilner regarding the human aura. It details Kilner's methods using chemical screens (Spectauranine, Dicyanine) to make the aura visible. The article describes the structure of the aura (ethereal double, inner aura, outer aura) and its characteristics, including its general ovular shape, which differs slightly between men and women. It also touches upon the aura's relationship with physical health, electrical charges, and chemical agents. Kilner's classification of individuals based on aura color (blue, grey-blue, grey) and the influence of diseases on the aura are also discussed. The article notes the potential for photography of the aura, though it hasn't been achieved yet.

Parapsychological Research in the USSR

A brief mention of the book "Fantastiques Recherches Parapsychologiques en U. R. S. S." by Laffont (1973), which discusses Soviet research on "biological energy," including experiments on tissue effects at a distance and the detection of an electromagnetic field around living organisms, akin to the aura.

Conception d'Avant-Garde en Propulsion: "Projet Outgrowth" aux Etats-Unis

This article reviews a US Air Force report on advanced propulsion systems, including electrostatics, Alfven frequency propulsion, and electromagnetic propulsion for spacecraft. It highlights the concept of antigravity propulsion, which aims to utilize Earth's gravitational field and other celestial bodies for propulsion. The report suggests potential for near-light speeds and economic space exploration. It also notes the challenges in understanding gravitation and the potential for new discoveries in physics.

Models of Evolution and Ufology

Application d'un "Modèle" d'Evolution Générale à une Étude de l'Évolution de l'Ufologie by Ph. TOURNIER

This extensive article, co-authored with Pierre DELVAL, presents a model of general evolution based on a "base 5" rhythm, developed by Michel BASIRE. The model is applied to understand the historical evolution of ufology. It posits that human history can be divided into stages, with specific characteristics and "image" levels (conception and execution). The authors discuss the "adolescence" phase of ufology (roughly 1975-76) characterized by openness and duality, and the subsequent phases of "Social Age" and "Moral Age." They predict a future phase of "Wisdom Age" by 1982-85, potentially leading to a "favorable mutation" for humanity or a "fall." The article includes a detailed periodic table of historical events and their relation to ufology's evolution.

A Propos du Problème "La Soucoupe de M. Dubois" by Francis CONSOLIN

This piece addresses the case of Mr. Dubois's saucer, suggesting that normal explanations should be exhausted before resorting to extraordinary ones. It discusses the hypothesis of a "voluntary machine" that cancels its own weight by creating a reaction with Earth's gravitational field, referencing the "PLANTIER hypothesis." The article calculates the potential trajectory and impact of such a craft if its antigravity system were to fail.

Book Reviews and Bibliography

The issue includes reviews of several books:

• LE DEFI DE L'ANTIGRAVITATION by Dr. Marcel PAGES: A historical overview of antigravity research, emphasizing Dr. Pages's work since 1916.
• CIEL ET ESPACE: A specialized astronomy magazine.
• LA PARALYSIE ET LE MIMETISME: A synthesis of research on the UFO phenomenon by the Gabriel team.
• LES RACINES DU MAL by Jean CHOISEL: A book analyzing regressive anthropological evolution and "essential non-human entities."

The bibliography lists other received works, including titles on spirituality, tradition, literature, extraterrestrials, and historical stories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings and investigations, the scientific exploration of paranormal phenomena (like the aura), and theoretical models for understanding advanced propulsion and the evolution of human knowledge and society. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, seeking scientific explanations where possible, but also open to exploring theoretical and even speculative concepts in ufology and related fields. There's a clear interest in applying structured models (like the "base 5" evolution model) to understand complex phenomena and historical trends.