Ovni 43 - No 10 - sept 1979

Magazine Overview

This is the September 1979 issue, number 10, of the bimonthly publication "Bimestriel" (Bimonthly), edited by GLRU (Groupement Langeadois de Recherches Ufologiques). The issue is priced at 5 French Francs and was printed by students under the supervision of S. Weill. The publication is registered with the ISSN 0221 2048. The directors of publication are G. Peyret and Moutoulon Langeac.

The cover features a striking graphic with the number "43" prominently displayed, set against a stylized, futuristic or abstract background that suggests a dome or a perspective grid. The overall design is in black on a light blue background.

Table of Contents

The table of contents lists the following articles:

• Du côté de l'espace (On the side of space) - p. 3
• C.E.C.R.U. - p. 8
• La conquête de l'espace (The conquest of space) - p. 9
• Q.R.Z. - p. 15
• Astronomie (Astronomy) - p. 16
• Humour - p. 20
• Jeux (Games) - p. 21
• Nuits de surveillance - Communiqué (Surveillance nights - Communiqué) - p. 23
• Nouvelle (Short story) - p. 24
• C.E.C.R.U. Revue de presse (C.E.C.R.U. Press review) - p. 29

GLRU and Ufological Research

Page 3 details the "Groupement Langeadois de Recherches Ufologiques" (GLRU). It is an association declared in Brioude (Haute-Loire) on September 29, 1977, in accordance with the law of July 1, 1901. GLRU serves as the regional delegation "Lumières Dans La Nuit" for the Haute-Loire department and is a member of the C.E.C.R.U. (European Committee for the Coordination of Ufological Research).

The bureau members are listed as:

• President: PEYRET Gilbert
• Vice-President: PEYROT Alain
• Secretary: ACHARD Jean
• Treasurer: MOUILHADE François

Honorary Members include Raymond VEILLITH and Daniel VIDAL.

The publication has a legal deposit number 60173 and was printed by the Lycée d'Etat Simone Weill in Le Puy.

Pricing information is provided: single issue at 5.00, a 6-issue subscription at 25.00, and a support subscription (6 issues per year) at 50.00.

Article: "Les météorites qui viennent du froid" (Meteorites from the Cold)

This article, dated September 1979, reports on the discovery of 309 new meteorites in Antarctica by a joint American-Japanese expedition. Announced by the National Science Foundation in Washington, these meteorites are described as potentially providing "archives extraordinarily well preserved by the Antarctic cold" from the early solar system, about four and a half billion years ago. Professor William A. Cassidy of the University of Pittsburgh led the expedition.

The meteorites were found on the ice covering the hills of Allan in Victoria Land and in the Darwin Glacier. One particularly significant find is a metallic fragment weighing 136 kg, described as one of the largest fragments from space ever discovered on Earth. This fragment was found by a team of New Zealand specialists working with Japanese and American collaborators.

These 309 meteorites add to the 310 reported from a similar expedition the previous year. They were collected using equipment similar to that used for lunar samples during Apollo missions and will be stored, mostly at the Johnston Space Center in Houston, Texas, which houses the lunar laboratory facilities. The team in Japan, led by Professor Fumihiko Nishio of the National Polar Research Institute of Tokyo, will receive the Japanese specimens.

Article: "Américains et Russes à l'écoute d'une intelligence dans l'univers" (Americans and Russians Listening for Intelligence in the Universe)

This section discusses the ongoing efforts by scientists in Houston (Texas) and the USSR to detect signals from extraterrestrial civilizations. It acknowledges that while humanity has explored space extensively, with satellites, planetary probes, and lunar landings, the question of other intelligent life remains a significant one.

The article touches upon previous searches, such as the Project OZMA in 1960, which aimed to select stars likely to host intelligent civilizations. Two stars were initially chosen: Epsilon Eridani and Tau Ceti, located at 11 and 12 light-years away, respectively. However, these initial searches yielded no results.

It highlights the development of large radio telescopes capable of detecting signals from billions of light-years away. Both the USSR and the USA have launched new programs to search for contact with extraterrestrial intelligence, questioning whether such intelligence exists within our galaxy or in external ones. The vastness of the Milky Way (100,000 light-years in diameter) and the immense distances to other galaxies are emphasized.

A key challenge discussed is the time delay in communication. Given that the speed of light is the fastest possible speed, any message received would be from the past, and any response sent would take an equally long time to arrive. This raises questions about whether civilizations would still exist by the time messages are exchanged, or if they might have evolved or disappeared.

The article notes that while the search is exciting, the probabilistic calculations do not always favor optimism. It suggests that humanity, despite its long history on Earth, has only recently developed the technical capability to engage in such listening efforts.

It mentions that the technical level required for such communication implies a civilization that reached a high level of technology millions of years ago, and that the time difference between civilizations must be less than the distance in light-years for communication to be possible. The possibility of past, present, or future civilizations is considered.

Article: "Les journées de biologie et de médecine spatiale: un bilan de recherche positif pour les équipes françaises" (Space Biology and Medicine Days: A Positive Research Assessment for French Teams)

This section summarizes a colloquium on space biology and medicine held in Clermont-Ferrand on March 30-31, 1979. Organized by the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES) and the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), the event brought together researchers to assess French contributions to space research.

Professor Curien, President of CNES, and Professor Hoyniol, President of the Life Sciences section of CNESA, outlined the objectives of the meeting. The presence of Professor Berkalofi (Director of Life Sciences at CNRS) and Professor Morel (Deputy Director General of CNES for Scientific Programs) underscored the national importance of these discussions.

Professor Joyon of the University of Clermont I also expressed interest in space research. The colloquium aimed to review existing research by French teams, identify ongoing work, and evaluate prospects for cooperation.

Key themes discussed included:

• Exobiology: The transmission of messages by extraterrestrial beings using radio waves, and the study of how chemical elements can form amino acids and more complex molecules under environmental conditions. The role of physical factors in the origin of life is also explored.
• Physiology, Embryology, and Radiobiology: Debates focused on practical experiences gained worldwide. In radiobiology, the challenge of replicating the effects of space radiation on Earth and understanding indirect effects and repair mechanisms in space was discussed. The radio-sensitivity and lifespan of cells are affected by space travel, necessitating further research into cellular and molecular mechanisms.
• Human Behavior in Space: Understanding how humans behave during rocket launches, space flights, and re-entry requires continuous animal experimentation to gather data without causing trauma or compromising attention. These studies aim to determine optimal adaptation conditions for space and prepare humans for long-duration missions.
• Equilibration and Sensory Organs: A European program focusing on equilibration, particularly the role of the inner ear and ocular movements, was presented. Experiments involving weightlessness are crucial as they cannot be simulated on Earth, offering insights into sensory organ interrelations and electrophysiology of the eye.
• Biological and Medical Engineering: The development of specialized equipment for space experiments that can be reused to reduce costs was also a topic.

The discussions highlighted the importance of environmental factors such as microgravity, magnetic fields, and cosmic radiation in obtaining valuable information. A key question addressed was whether the current economic climate justifies the resources allocated to these research areas. The findings are to be refined by specialized groups before presentation to the CNES scientific council.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on topics related to space exploration, astronomy, and the search for extraterrestrial life. There's a strong emphasis on scientific research, with detailed reports on expeditions, experiments, and scientific findings. The publication also includes elements of ufology, as indicated by the GLRU's affiliation. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, presenting research and theories while acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties involved, particularly in the search for alien intelligence and the complexities of space travel. The inclusion of "Humour" and "Jeux" suggests an effort to balance serious scientific content with lighter material.

This issue of "La Conquête de l'Espace" (The Conquest of Space) delves into two distinct yet significant areas: the technological marvel of the Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) developed for NASA's Apollo missions, and the organizational efforts within the European ufology community.

The Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV)

The magazine dedicates a substantial portion to the "Lunar Roving Vehicle" or "Moon Buggy," detailing its development, design, and capabilities. The article highlights the rapid development timeline, with Boeing delivering the first LRV in just 17 months, a record compared to the longer development periods for other Apollo program components like the Lunar Module or spacesuits. The cost of the program is noted at $38.5 million, a significant investment for a vehicle described as more than just a simple jeep, but an "engin conçu et réalisé avec les mêmes critères qu'un vaisseau spatial" (an engine designed and built with the same criteria as a spacecraft).

The LRV's design is thoroughly examined, including its chassis, which is divided into three distinct parts: the central section for seating and controls, the front for batteries and electronics, and the rear for the propulsion system. The article emphasizes the innovative wheel design, a "treillis métallique" (metallic lattice) made of steel wire, chosen for its lightness and ability to provide good traction and flotation on the lunar surface. This design was a departure from traditional tires due to the unique challenges of the lunar environment, particularly the vacuum and dust.

Key technical specifications are provided, such as the vehicle's dimensions (3.1m long, 1.38m wide), weight (218 kg for the lunar version, 431 kg for the training version), and its ability to carry a payload of 454 kg (75 kg on the Moon). The propulsion system, consisting of four small electric motors (one per wheel), is described, along with the continuous variable harmonic drive transmission. The article also touches upon the safety features, including the need for astronauts to stay within a certain distance of the Lunar Module (LM) for safety, with a maximum recommended distance of 5-6 km.

Special attention is given to the problem of lunar dust, which proved to be a significant issue, adhering to spacesuits, visors, cameras, and potentially affecting the LRV's sensitive components. This led to the inclusion of "garde-boue" (mudguards) above each wheel, a unique feature on the otherwise utilitarian vehicle.

The article mentions the "Molab" (Mobile Laboratory) project from 1964, which was a precursor to the LRV but was deemed too ambitious and costly. It also discusses the "LSSM" (Local Scientific Survey Module) and the "Rover" as the chosen system for Apollo missions. The training version of the LRV, nicknamed "Grover," was used by astronauts for practice.

Navigation on the Moon is also discussed, with the LRV equipped with a gyroscope and a computer to assist astronauts in finding their way back to the LM. The article concludes that the LRV significantly enhanced the astronauts' operational capabilities, allowing them to achieve in three days what would have previously required three to six expeditions.

European Ufology and the CECRI

The second major theme revolves around the organization of ufological research in Europe, specifically detailing the 5th session of the "Comité Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique" (CECRI) held in the Nîmes region. The session is described as highly productive, with participating groups focusing on developing study programs and work plans rather than engaging in what was sometimes perceived as a "foire aux gadgets" (gadget fair).

Several commissions were established to bring structure to ufological investigations:

• Commission Contactés: This commission was tasked with studying "commercial contactees" – individuals who claim to have had extraterrestrial encounters and subsequently profit from it through books, conferences, etc. The goal was to analyze these cases critically to determine their validity and distinguish them from genuine scientific inquiry.
• Commission Enquête: This commission focused on developing a standardized pre-enquiry questionnaire that could be processed by computer. It also took on the task of collecting and centralizing ufological information, particularly articles from daily newspapers (regional and national) that report on UFO sightings (OVNI - Objet Volant Non Identifié). The CLRE was assigned the responsibility of gathering these articles.
• Commission Détection: This commission aimed to compare various detectors developed by different groups, with the objective of proving their effectiveness, calibrating them, and standardizing their construction. A "cahier des charges" (specifications document) was to be presented to the administrative commission.

An administrative commission was also established to define a course of action that would maintain the independence of each group while guiding the overall research effort. The article concludes that the CECRI is making progress in organizing ufological research, making it a noteworthy development.

Other Content

The issue also includes a short piece titled "La C.B. en vacances" (CB Radio on Vacation), which discusses the increased use and importance of CB radio during the summer months for communication and camaraderie among enthusiasts. It highlights how CB radio can foster connections and provide assistance, especially when people are traveling in unfamiliar regions. The author, PAPA ECHO 43, also announces a meeting of CB clubs from the Puy region in September to foster better relationships and encourage new acquaintances.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on technological advancements in space exploration, particularly concerning manned missions and the equipment used. The detailed coverage of the Lunar Roving Vehicle underscores a fascination with the engineering and practical applications of space technology. Simultaneously, the emphasis on organizing and professionalizing ufological research suggests an editorial stance that seeks to move beyond anecdotal evidence towards more systematic and credible investigations within the field of unexplained phenomena. The inclusion of the CB radio segment indicates an interest in communication technologies and community building among enthusiasts.

This issue of "L'Électronique" magazine, identified as issue number 10 and volume 43, appears to be from 1950, with a specific mention of 'Paris' in relation to a congress. The cover prominently features the headline "L'ÉLECTRONIQUE A LA PORTEE DE TOUS" (Electronics Within Everyone's Reach), accompanied by an illustration related to electronics and a photograph for "VELAY-PHOTO A. RABERIN". The magazine is published by "electron 43" and is in French.

Articles and Content

Astronomy and Space Exploration

The magazine delves into astronomical subjects, explaining how scientists determine distances to celestial bodies. It details the historical methods used to calculate the distance to the Moon, referencing an experiment by "LA CAILLE" over 200 years prior, which involved measurements from Berlin and Africa to establish a base of 9000 km. The article explains how the Moon's diameter was calculated based on its apparent size and distance. It then extends this concept to calculating the Earth-Sun distance through triangulation, noting the increasing difficulty as objects become more distant.

The text introduces the concept of stellar distances measured in light-years, using "Bételgeuse" as an example. It explores the scientific methods used to determine these distances, including spectroscopy to analyze stellar composition and the study of variable stars like "Delta Cephée". The contribution of French inventor André LALLEMAND and his "Caméra électronique" (electronic camera) is highlighted for its ability to amplify starlight, making faint stars more observable.

A section also addresses a common misconception, correcting the speed of light to 300,000 km/s instead of 200,000 km/s, and clarifies that the Galilean moon "Io" is not the closest to Jupiter, but rather "Amalthée".

Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs)

An article touches upon UFO sightings, presenting a dialogue between a witness and an investigator. The witness describes an "enormous ball", estimated to be 50 or 60 meters in diameter, observed at an altitude of 3000 meters. The text discusses the challenges of estimating the size and distance of such objects.

Business Directory and Advertisements

The magazine includes a comprehensive directory of local merchants in "Le Puy" under the heading "VOS ACHATS PENSEZ AUX COMMERCANTS «CHAINE D'OR»" (For Your Purchases, Think of the "Golden Chain" Merchants). This directory lists numerous businesses, categorized by their offerings, such as clothing, home goods, optics, jewelry, photography, and catering services. Advertisements for "JURY" (Transports - Déménagements - Garde-Meubles) and "VELAY-PHOTO A. RABERIN" are also featured prominently.

Electronics Focus

The main cover story, "L'ÉLECTRONIQUE A LA PORTEE DE TOUS", is supported by a detailed listing of electronic components and services offered by "electron 43", located at 18 rue Chènebouterie, 43000 Le Puy. This includes "Kits", "Mesure", "Implantations", "Haut-Parleurs", "Radio Téléphonie", "Outillage", "Composants", "Microprocesseurs", and "Réalisations de circuits imprimés sur place" (Printed circuit board manufacturing on-site), catering to wholesale and retail customers.

Puzzles and Humor

This issue contains a crossword puzzle with horizontal and vertical clues, along with the solutions to the previous issue's puzzle. A "HUMOUR" section features several short anecdotes and jokes, including a story about a soldier filling out a form, a man with a broken phone, a hunter's saying, and a farmer dealing with insurance after a barn fire.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to have a broad scope, covering scientific topics like astronomy and emerging technologies like electronics, while also engaging readers with lighter content such as humor and puzzles. The editorial stance seems to be one of informing and educating the public, making complex subjects accessible, and promoting local commerce. The inclusion of UFO reports suggests an interest in unexplained phenomena, a common theme in publications of this era.

This document appears to be a bulletin or newsletter from A.D.E.R.E.P.O., titled 'Bulletin d'informations diverses et pratiques, où tous peuvent participer.' Issue number 14 is mentioned, with a cover headline focused on 'NUITS DE SURVEILLANCE' (Surveillance Nights).

Surveillance Nights and G.L.R.U. Participation

The bulletin reminds readers that the G.L.R.U. participates in surveillance nights organized by S.V.E.P.S. and C.E.C.R.U. Upcoming dates for these events are listed as September 22, October 20, November 17, and December 15. For more information, readers are directed to contact the G.L.R.U. via mail or by phone.

Bulletin No. 14 Contents

The summary for issue number 14 lists several topics: 'faits bizarres' (bizarre facts), 'expériences d'alchimie en clair' (alchemy experiences in the clear), 'énergie nouvelle' (new energy), 'essence à partir de l'herbe' (essence from grass), 'un petit objet' (a small object), 'le rhombe' (the rhombus), 'la part des membres' (members' contributions), and 'astrologie'. An example copy is available for two stamps.

Fictional Narrative: The Alchemist and the Extraterrestrial

A significant portion of the document is dedicated to a fictional story about an alchemist named Maître Simon in the year 1517. He has spent 40 years trying to discover the secret of alchemy, specifically how to create gold. The story details his struggles, the persecution of alchemists during that era, and his discovery of a book that he believes is the Devil's, which promises the power to achieve his goals. The book, written in Hebrew, describes how to summon a powerful entity. Simon, driven by his failures and a desire to prove himself, decides to follow the book's instructions. He constructs a device involving a crystal of rock, copper wire, and a glass box. The narrative culminates on April 25, 1517, when Simon performs his experiment at a specific location in the Massif Central. During the experiment, a tall, shining being appears, accompanied by a flying machine. The being, identified later in the story as an extraterrestrial from the ORION IV starship, interacts with Simon and his device before departing in its craft. The extraterrestrials, TAR and OLGAR, discuss the primitive state of Earth in 1517 and the alchemist's premature encounter.

News Briefs: UFO Sightings and Phenomena

Several brief reports of UFO sightings and unexplained phenomena are included:

• Bannalec, France (January 6): A flying object described as a 'Breton hat' with an antenna was observed by the manager of a fish farm. It emitted a blue-green light and a slight whistle.
• Sabadell, Spain (January 26): Approximately fifty inhabitants claim to have daily contact with extraterrestrial beings from the planet 'Ganymede' (near Uranus), using a 'stylus method' for communication.
• Loreto, Argentina (January 18): Two extraterrestrials in aluminum-colored suits reportedly immobilized a twelve-year-old boy. This event coincided with a power outage and radio silence in the village.
• Genoa, Italy: A security guard named Fortunato Zanfrotta claims to have been abducted twice by tall, green-skinned beings with triangular eyes, who arrived in a triangular craft. His testimony was recorded under hypnosis.
• Wemours, France (October 13, 1977): Two oval-shaped, luminous objects were seen flying north-south. Shortly after, another oval object of similar appearance hovered at low altitude before disappearing.
• Norwegian Fjords: The Norwegian navy is investigating mysterious Unidentified Marine Objects (UMOs). Despite extensive sonar surveys, the cause remains unknown. While some speculate about foreign submarines, the reports of phenomena like water columns suggest something more unusual.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, extraterrestrial encounters, and the intersection of unexplained phenomena with historical or pseudoscientific pursuits like alchemy. The inclusion of a fictional narrative alongside news reports suggests an editorial stance that embraces speculative and imaginative content within the realm of the unexplained. The bulletin aims to inform and engage readers with diverse and practical information on these subjects.

This document is a page from the French newspaper "Dauphiné Libéré", dated August 11, 1977. The page discusses observations of submarines in Norwegian fjords and speculates on their origin and implications.

Submarine Activity in Norwegian Fjords

The article details the observation of submarines moving just below the surface in a Norwegian fjord. It notes that the narrowness of such fjords would logically lead a submersible commander to navigate using a periscope. The author questions the nationality of these submarines, acknowledging the presence of American strategic submarines and NATO submarine hunters in the area. However, it is noted that the Norwegian navy is typically informed of all NATO vessel movements in the zone.

This leads to the logical consideration that the observed submarines might belong to the Warsaw Pact, and more specifically, the USSR. The article implies that Norwegian authorities are reluctant to publicly confirm this possibility.

The text contrasts these potential military threats with the more folkloric "monsters" like "Nessy" from Loch Ness, Scotland, suggesting that the submarines, if identified as Soviet, represent a far more significant and "redoutable" (formidable) presence.

Source and Context

The article is attributed to the "Dauphiné Libéré" and dated "11 août 1977". The page number indicated is "31". The content appears to be a news report or commentary on military and geopolitical matters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the potential presence and identification of foreign submarines in Norwegian waters, framed within the context of Cold War tensions between NATO and the Warsaw Pact. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious speculation, highlighting the secrecy surrounding military activities and the potential for significant geopolitical implications. The comparison to the Loch Ness Monster serves as a rhetorical device to emphasize the perceived threat posed by the submarines.