Phenomenes Inconnus - No 08 - incomplete

Magazine Overview

This issue of "PHENOMENES INCONNUS", identified as N°8 and dated June 1969, is an editorial focused on unexplained phenomena observed on the Moon. The publication, from GEMOC-Grenoble, aims to provide objective documentation on these unusual occurrences.

Editorial: The Moon - Occupied?

The editorial begins by referencing a previous issue (N°6, February 1969) that discussed lunar phenomena, noting that with humanity's approach to the Moon, these events were expected to become more topical. The article "Apollo Io" and a "Paris-MATCH" report from June are cited as confirming these phenomena. The editorial team, described as a cohesive group, is preparing for a broader dissemination of their ideas and research.

This effort is supported by the "Cercle Français de Recherches Scientifiques" (C.F.R.S.) and "PHENOMENES INCONNUS" itself. The collaboration is credited to "Amis de 'P.I'" and specifically mentions MM. Tarade, Ignécioglu, Schaefer, J.P.Degrace, and L.Dubreucq, along with international correspondents Norbert Spehner (Canada), G.Metzdorf (Luxembourg), and I.Hobana (Romania).

The editorial expresses a desire to better honor the efforts of collaborators and announces plans for an improved bulletin, aiming for 24 pages with an offset, illustrated cover for issue N°9 in September. To fund these improvements, a subscription drive is launched, with the list of subscribers and fund usage to be published in the next issue.

Readers are encouraged to contribute by subscribing and by promoting the bulletin to others. The team thanks its supporters and wishes them a good and restful vacation.

The editorial concludes with a note about the next issue (N°9) being released in September and N°10 in November, due to vacations and planned modifications to the bulletin.

The Moon - Is It Occupied?

This section, authored by Pierre DELVAL, delves into the question of lunar occupation, presenting historical observations and recent findings. It acknowledges that the question might seem outlandish but asserts its validity based on centuries of observations.

Historical Lunar Observations (18th and 19th Centuries)

The article begins by citing an inexplicable lunar phenomenon reported in the late 18th century by Englishman William Henschel in 1783 and 1787, who observed strange luminous points in the Plato crater. In 1821, English astronomers reported similar phenomena, including white, flashing lights and moving objects on the Moon's surface. In 1886, German astrophysicist Julius SCHMIDT noted the disappearance of the Linné crater in the Sea of Serenity.

Further observations include Thomas G.ELGER's account on April 9, 1867, of a dark part of the Moon suddenly illuminating. Around the same time, other astronomers observed geometric objects in the Eratosthenes crater and regular lines in the Gassendi crater. By 1877, English, French, and American astronomers reported mysterious lights in craters such as Eudoxus, Proclus, Bessel, and Plato.

Telescopes Reveal More Enigmas

Up to 1910, phenomena like moving objects, dark spots, and straight or curved walls were observed in lunar craters. Camille Flammarion suggested the Moon was not entirely dead.

Starting in 1919, a prominent US astronomer discovered mysterious dark spots on the surface of the Eratosthenes crater, termed "Variable Spots." These spots varied in intensity and dimension, leading the astronomer to consider them a form of vegetation. They were primarily observed near the lunar equator in craters like Eratosthenes, Riccioli, Crimaldi, and Plato.

In 1937, a British astronomer observed a colored, brown-orange streak along the western rim of the Plato crater. A month later, this streak was replaced by a larger, variably colored surface. In February 1950, Dr. P. Wilkins, director of the British Astronomical Association, observed a strange glow in the Aristarque crater region. Three months later, astronomer C. Bartlett reported a similar light in the same area.

A 1956 article in the review "Ouranos" by Jimmy Guleu mentioned Dr. P. Wilkins' observation of numerous "domes" in the Mare Criscuim region, with the smallest measuring about 2 miles in diameter and appearing very bright white.

A "Bridge" on the Moon

An article in "Space Review" by F.Ka lan raised the question of whether Russia or the US had reached the Moon. It reported the discovery by astronomers of a sort of "transparent bridge" or "tunnel" on the Moon. Dr. Wilkins described this "bridge" as approximately 2 miles long and 5000 feet high, casting a distinct shadow and showing a "reverberation" on the ground. He also reported a large ravine with vertical walls and a flat floor near this mysterious bridge.

In 1954, astronomers reported that certain lunar craters, particularly Alphonse, appeared to be smoking, though the article questions the possibility of ongoing volcanic activity.

The Mystery of the Satellites

Donald Keyhoe, a specialist in flying saucers, revealed in early 1954 that two "natural" artificial satellites had been discovered orbiting Earth. The Air Force confirmed the observation by the unknown space bodies research group led by Clyde Tombaugh, who also reported witnessing a cigar-shaped flying object with "portholes" on August 20, 1949.

The article notes the coincidence with a wave of UFO sightings across Europe that year. It states that these unknown objects have since disappeared, as no artificial satellite launches since 1956 have revealed their existence. These objects reportedly orbited at altitudes of 600 km and 1000 km, with irregular orbits similar to those of Mars' moons, Phobos and Deimos.

The existence of such unknown objects orbiting Earth (and sometimes the Moon) is not new, with observations dating back to 1780. A 1968 bulletin from the Société d'Astronomie Populaire de Toulouse (S.A.P.T.) cited a 1780 "Journal de physique" observation of a total solar eclipse during which a luminous point, described as "fiery red," crossed the Moon for 60 seconds. A similar phenomenon was reportedly observed during a 1778 solar eclipse.

American Astronautics Confirms Lunar Phenomena

In 1952, a luminous object of oval shape, visible to the naked eye, crossed the Moon from East to West. It was observed by American astronomers and calculated to be moving between Earth and Moon at less than 6500 km from Earth, with a speed of 20 km per second, implying a revolution of only 20 minutes, which is deemed impossible for an Earth-orbiting body.

On August 17, 1953, thousands observed a brilliant disk above Bourgogne, France. On October 2, 1954, a brilliant sphere appeared near the Moon, moving slowly from East to West over Avignon, France.

More recently, in 1966, reports emerged of two "natural" satellites orbiting Earth, in addition to the Moon. Two American astronomers, including the deputy director of the Loksley Observatory, claimed to have observed these satellites for years. However, other astronomers, particularly French ones, found this claim questionable, noting that spacecraft should have detected them.

The article questions the nature of these "phantom satellites" and points out that American astronautics is confirming lunar phenomena.

It asks how the luminous phenomena and smoke observed in lunar craters since the 18th century could be missed by automatic probes launched over the past decade.

The "Lunar Orbiter" missions, particularly Lunar Orbiter II in 1965, recorded unusual features, such as protuberances resembling stalagmites on the lunar surface. NASA specialists reportedly refused to provide further details, despite their usual openness. These protuberances are described as 12 to 25 meters high with bases up to 15 meters in diameter.

A photograph from Lunar Orbiter, shown to the author by the director of the "Ourancs" Commission in Valence, revealed a "curious quadrangular excavation" on the lunar surface, which did not appear natural.

Lunar Craters and Their Origins

A review in "LA RECHERCHE SPATIALE" (June-July 1968) discusses the ongoing debate among specialists regarding the origin of lunar craters: meteorite impacts versus secondary volcanic phenomena, or purely volcanic origins. Recent American studies lean towards the meteorite impact hypothesis, classifying craters into four groups based on their geometric characteristics.

• Craters less than 3.5 m in diameter: non-flat, slightly rounded bottom, depth a quarter of diameter.
• Craters 3 to 7 m in diameter: flat bottom with a central mound.
• Craters 7 to 9 m in diameter: flat bottom, no central structure.
• Craters larger than 9 m: have a central secondary crater.

Even proponents of the meteorite hypothesis admit to volcanic action on the Moon, attributed to heat generated by impacts melting subsurface rocks and causing lava to emerge through fissures.

The article questions how luminous phenomena and smoke observed in craters can be explained by these hypotheses.

Evidence of Ancient Rivers and "Foreign Bodies"

Photographs from Lunar Orbiter IV and V reveal unusual features resembling dried-up riverbeds. The same review notes that these valleys, often hundreds of kilometers long, are generally devoid of tributaries or sedimentary deposits, making them distinct from soil fractures.

It is considered improbable that liquid water exists on the Moon's surface today, given the low precipitation and high evaporation rates. However, it is suggested that deep subsurface ice deposits might exist.

To explain these lunar "rivers," it is hypothesized that ice could melt under certain conditions, such as intense heat from giant meteorite impacts, forming natural lakes from which rivers could emerge through evaporation or return to subsurface fractures.

A.Ignécioglu of B.E.R.E.I.C. shared information published on March 16, 1969, in "Le Provençal," titled "The Enigmas of the Moon."

Six "enormous projectiles" were located by the automatic Lunar Orbiter observatories. These are believed to be metallic (iron or nickel) projectiles that have embedded themselves in the lunar soil. The largest measures approximately 200 km in diameter and is buried about 50 km deep. These "foreign bodies" were discovered using gravimeters on the Lunar Orbiter.

Another category of lunar enigmas involves "furrows" that appear to be created by liquid flow on the lunar surface. If water exists beneath the surface, occupation of the Moon might be possible.

The article finds the idea of a 200 km iron meteorite buried 50 km deep extraordinary, but suggests it supports the American space effort's goal of conquering the Moon for its water and nickel deposits.

Apollo X Mission Insights

The article then discusses the recent Apollo X mission, quoting astronaut Stafford's enthusiastic description of the lunar landscape: "A magnificent, fantastic region, we see different shades of brown, of gray. We see large black and gray rocks, mysterious valleys with blue and black hues!" This contrasts with the gray, desolate Moon described by Borman during the first lunar orbit in December 1968. The colors observed could be those seen by astronomers at various times, but their nature and development remain unknown.

Mysterious Lunar Lights and UFOs

On April 21st, press reports detailed "MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS IN A LUNAR CRATER." Observations from the Oudenbosch National Observatory in the Netherlands, along with other global observatories, detected strange lights emanating from the Arictarchus crater between 5:17 and 5:27 AM during the Apollo X circumlunar flight.

The Houston control center requested the Dutch observers to study and monitor this phenomenon. Professor T. Vermeesch suggested it could be a volcanic eruption. Arictarchus crater is located on the far side of the Moon, midway between the lunar equator and the north pole.

These lights were clearly visible from about a thousand kilometers away, near a planned landing site for the upcoming "Apollo XI" mission.

The article notes that these "mysterious protuberances of the lunar relief" and "concentrations of mass" that influenced the trajectory of "Apollo VIII," along with other lights and colors, are not new discoveries, dating back to 18th-century astronomical observations. However, American astronautics "confirms the unusual facts."

It is suggested that by "Apollo XX," clarifications will be provided, and the mysteries of the Moon will be illuminated. The possibility of flying saucers using the Moon as a relay base will also be determined. The article hints at the potential discovery of traces of astronauts from another Earth, referencing an article by J. Sendy.

Jean Sendy's Hypothesis

In his book "La Lune clé de la Bible," writer and researcher Jean Sendy proposes a hypothesis that traces of cosmonauts will be found in an "arranged" crater on the Moon. He interprets the Genesis account as relating the stay of cosmonauts on Earth, arriving 21,000 years ago and departing around 8,000 years ago, with potential for future verification. He also points to a series of "troubling coincidences" in the re-edition of "Cahiers de cours de Moïse."

Based on the prophecy of Malachi, attributed to 1595, Sendy's interpretation suggests that the "Pope of the Moon" (De Mediate Lunae) coincides with the reign of Paul VI, under whom humanity conquered the Moon.

Notes Complémentaires

1. Enormous Meteorites: Recent discoveries by "Lunar Orbiters" have caused surprising variations in orbital trajectories. Mathematical studies at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena indicate these accelerations occur over specific lunar "seas" (Sea of Rains, Sea of Serenity, Sea of Crises, Sea of Nectar, Sea of Humors), but not over others. These "seas" are defined as clearly delimited, nearly circular plains. The theory suggests that buried meteorites influence the speed of satellites flying over them.
2. Apollo 12 Mission: The Apollo 12 mission, scheduled for four to six weeks after Apollo II, will deploy more significant scientific equipment on the Moon.
3. Lunar Lights: Specialists recall that in 1964, Soviet astronomer Nicolas Kozyrev observed a particular luminosity above the Arictarchus crater. Kozyrev was the first to detect such a phenomenon on the Moon in 1957, at the center of the Alphonse crater.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent observation of unexplained phenomena on the Moon, the role of space exploration (particularly the US Apollo program and Lunar Orbiter missions) in confirming these anomalies, and the ongoing scientific debate about the origin of lunar features. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, presenting historical and contemporary evidence of lunar mysteries and suggesting the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement or past occupation. The publication actively encourages reader participation and support for its research efforts.

This issue of "Les Inconnus de l'Astronautique" delves into a variety of mysterious phenomena, focusing on unidentified flying objects (UFOs), ancient mysteries, and paleontological enigmas. The publication presents itself as a platform for exploring the unknown, drawing on scientific research, historical accounts, and eyewitness testimonies.

Content Analysis

Cosmic Reflections and UFO Observations

The issue begins with philosophical reflections on humanity's place in the cosmos, suggesting that humanity is an expression of the universal Humanité and that the cosmos is eternal. This sets a contemplative tone before diving into concrete reports.

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to UFO observations. Under the heading "OBSERVATIONS D'OBJETS VOLANTS NON IDENTIFIES - Dossier "P.I"", the editors state their intention to publish verified observations from their archives, emphasizing that these are previously unpublished accounts from foreign correspondents that have undergone investigation.

One detailed report comes from Nicolae Stefanescu, commander of the oil tanker "Arges", who observed a luminous, orange, disk-shaped object with green-blue rays moving at high speed in the Mozambique Channel on October 24, 1968. The object was described as having a diameter half that of the moon and emitted rays from its center.

Another account is provided by Adina Päum, a psychologist, who reported seeing a greenish-blue, luminous object resembling a "luminous sea urchin" on December 10, 1967. She described it as having distinct luminous spines and appearing to move towards her.

Further reports include an interview with Mlle Tournay regarding an observation in Algeria in August 1965, and a historical account from Madrid in August 1863, describing a reddish, luminous "saucer" with a dome of flames.

Scientific and Astronomical News

The magazine also includes a section of "news briefs" from various publications, covering a range of astronomical and space-related topics from early 1969. These include the launch of a secret US satellite, the development of ion engines, Russian satellite communications, and NASA's plans for probes to Mercury and Venus. There are also mentions of the US OAO satellite confirming theories of an expanding universe and observations of galaxies, including a powerful light source in the Andromeda galaxy that resembles a quasar. Astronomers Van de Kamp and Kumar are cited for their work on exoplanets, suggesting the existence of numerous star systems with planets within a significant radius of Earth.

A compilation of observations from the Bulletin of the French Astronomical Society for March and April 1969 lists several UFO sightings in France, including a triangular object in Bergerac, a bright object in Drôme, three luminous objects in Roncq, an object moving east in Toulon, and a red, brilliant object in Limoges that moved rapidly and then became motionless.

An incident during the launch of Apollo VII is reported, where a brief power outage at the Houston Space Center interrupted communications with the spacecraft, with the cause remaining unknown.

Finally, a report from London in June 1969 mentions the USSR's preparation to launch an automatic lunar station before Apollo II, with the aim of collecting lunar soil samples. Cosmonaut Alexei Leonov is quoted regarding the possibility of Russian cosmonauts landing on the Moon by the end of the year or early 1970.

The Tunguska Event and Extraterrestrial Hypotheses

A substantial part of the issue is dedicated to the "Tunguska Event" of June 30, 1908, in Siberia. The article "LE POINT DE VUE DES SAVANTS DE L'U.R.S.S." examines this phenomenon, presenting the hypothesis that it was caused by a "cosmic spaceship" or a "meteorite." The author, Louis Dubreucq, critically analyzes the findings and theories, particularly those of Soviet scientists. He discusses the work of astronomer Kazantzev, who in 1946 proposed the meteorite was a Martian spaceship. Dubreucq also references an article by Jean-René Germain in "Science et Vie" which discusses ongoing research in the USSR on this "Mysterious Celestial Object."

The article details the event's characteristics: a blinding globe, a column of fire, and subsequent seismic phenomena and atmospheric effects, including luminous clouds visible for days. It highlights that the explosion's effects are consistent with a nuclear explosion, leading to speculation about extraterrestrial involvement. The presence of radioactive isotopes in the Baalbek region is also mentioned as a potential clue.

Dubreucq expresses skepticism towards certain interpretations, particularly those that prematurely favor one theory over others. He emphasizes the need for careful research and refutes what he calls "flagrant errors" in previous reports. The article also touches upon the possibility of extraterrestrial intervention in historical events, referencing the subversion of Sodom and Gomorrah.

The Mystery of Dinosaur Extinction

Another significant section, "LA CHASSE AUX DINOSAURES" by Guy Tarade, explores the enigma of dinosaur extinction. While acknowledging conventional theories like climate change and lack of vegetation, the article presents a more speculative hypothesis from Soviet Professor Efremov. Efremov, based on his extensive study of dinosaur "cemeteries," suggests that these giant reptiles were exterminated by extraterrestrial beings using advanced flying craft and an "ultra-perfected weapon," possibly a "death ray."

The article recounts the discovery of dinosaur fossils with unusual wounds, including a skull with a hole resembling a bullet mark. It describes a vast dinosaur graveyard discovered in Soviet Central Asia, where numerous skeletons, a mix of herbivores and carnivores, were found with similar markings. Efremov's theory posits that intelligent extraterrestrial beings conducted a "vast hunt" to exterminate these creatures, potentially making them "our very distant ancestors."

Ancient Civilizations and Enigmatic Artifacts

The issue also touches upon ancient civilizations and their potential advanced knowledge. The article ""PILE OU FACE" AVEC LA PORTE DU SOLEIL: OU: L'HOMME DE TIAHUANACO CONNAISSAIT L'APESANTEUR I" discusses the archaeological site of Tiahuanaco and its "Gate of the Sun." Arthur Posnansky's fascination with the site and its mysterious artifacts is highlighted. The article mentions the work of Soviet academician Koltenikov and American scientists who believe the symbols on the Gate of the Sun represent ionic engines, suggesting a legacy from a lost race with profound knowledge.

It further explores the "Pile" and "Face" sides of the Gate of the Sun, noting unusual conical hinges that point downwards, suggesting a mechanism that defies conventional understanding of gravity. The author implies a conspiracy of "counter-truth" is stifling the monument's secrets.

Lunar Phenomena and Space Exploration

Briefly, the "PHENOMENES LUNAIRES" section reports on numerous observations of bright points, reddish glows, and colored bands on the Moon, as reported by "Paris-Match." It mentions that "Apollo 18" will investigate mysterious red glows in the Schroter valley, and "Apollo 19" will provide explanations for the "HYGINUS" grooves. The launch of "Apollo II" is scheduled for July 16.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the unknown, the possibility of extraterrestrial life and influence, and the re-examination of historical and scientific mysteries through unconventional lenses. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and eyewitness accounts, even those that are speculative or considered esoteric by mainstream science. The magazine encourages readers to question established narratives and consider alternative explanations for phenomena ranging from UFO sightings to ancient extinctions and enigmatic archaeological sites. There is a clear fascination with the unexplained and a willingness to explore hypotheses that challenge conventional scientific understanding.

'Phenomenes Inconnus' is a documentary and scientific review in its third year of publication, dedicated to the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs), related problems, spatial information, and mysterious civilizations. It serves as the official publication for the French Circle of Ufological Research (CFRU) and collaborates with various affiliated groups, both within France and internationally.

Editorial and Administrative Structure

The publication is overseen by an editorial committee and supported by a network of investigators and correspondents from numerous countries. The editorial team includes Francis SCHAEFER as Editor-in-Chief, Pierre DELVAL as Director of Advertising, and Francis CONSOLIN, Jean Pierre ROHART, and Dominique LEFEVRE as technical advisors and secretaries.

The main editorial contributors are Francis CONSOLIN, Francis GROUSSET, J.-Claude BAILLON, Jacques DUCHATEL, J.-François BOEDEC, and Michel WALTER. Guy TARADE contributes to the 'Mysterious Civilizations' section.

Principal foreign correspondents are listed from Belgium (Christian DELMOITIÉ), Luxembourg (Gusty METZDORFF), USA (P. HUYGHE), Portugal (A. MARCAL C. SOUSA), Sarre (Hans SCHWARTZ), Canada (Norbert SPEHNER), Switzerland (Jean WACHS), and West Germany (Horst EVEN).

Administrative services are managed by G.E.M.O.C. in Grenoble for the General Directorate, G.E.O.C.N.I. in Freyming for Editorial and Administration, and the general secretariat of the CFRU is handled by J.-P. D'Hondt in LESTREM.

Objectives and Activities

The primary goals of 'Phenomenes Inconnus' are:

1. To disseminate information about Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs/OVNIs) to the public.
2. To inform and document individuals who wish to seriously investigate this subject, which concerns all of humanity.
3. To publish objective studies and diverse research on UFO phenomena.
4. To explore the enigmas of lost civilizations and related questions within the scope of these investigations.

The publication explicitly states that its activities are non-profit.

Subscription Information

Subscription fees are set at 25 French Francs for ordinary subscribers and 30 French Francs for international subscribers. Payments and correspondence should be addressed to the Director of Publication via C.C.P. 6.963.00, Lyon. The subscription period is effective upon receipt of payment and covers four issues.

A note specifies that any reproduction of documents or articles must be accompanied by the name and address of the bulletin, as well as the author's name. For correspondence, a postage stamp should be included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine focuses on UFOs and related phenomena, aiming to provide factual information and encourage serious research. It also extends its scope to include the study of mysterious civilizations and historical enigmas. The editorial stance appears to be one of objective documentation and dissemination of information, fostering a connection between isolated researchers and private groups interested in these subjects on an international level. The non-profit nature of the publication underscores its commitment to the field of ufology and related research.