Phenomenes Inconnus - No 09 - Aout-Sept 1969 - CFRS

Magazine Overview

Title: PHÉNOMÈNES inconnus
Issue: No. 9
Date: August-September 1969
Publisher: Cercle Français de Recherches Scientifiques (C.F.R.S.)

This issue of 'PHÉNOMÈNES inconnus' is dedicated to exploring complex phenomena, with a significant focus on the enigmatic Tunguska event of 1908. The editorial board expresses a desire to improve the bulletin's format, aiming for a more professional offset presentation that would allow for the publication of more detailed illustrations, plans, and maps. They emphasize the importance of reader support for the bulletin's continued existence and improvement, noting that its growth relies heavily on word-of-mouth and new subscriptions, as it carries no advertising.

The magazine highlights its international network of correspondents, which provides information from around the globe. A notable mention is made of the Canadian pavilion 'MONDE ETRANGE' at Expo 69 in Montreal, created with the contributions of Norbert SPEHNER and Henri BORDELEAU, which has become a popular attraction.

Editorial Stance and Approach

The editorial team asserts that their work is effective and action-oriented, rather than merely boastful. They are committed to providing useful information and distinguishing fact from fiction, avoiding sensationalist or 'far-fetched' stories. The bulletin aims to be a platform for scientific research, characterized by a uniform approach driven by the pursuit of scientific truth, supported by authentic collaborators. The Cercle Français de Recherches Scientifiques (C.F.R.S.) is presented as a simple rallying point for action, free from bureaucracy.

The Tunguska Event: Scientific Investigations and Hypotheses

The core of this issue delves into the Tunguska event, presenting a detailed analysis of scientific perspectives, particularly those from the USSR. The article 'LE POINT DE VUE DES SAVANTS DE L'URSS' (The Viewpoint of Soviet Scientists), a continuation from a previous issue, examines the possibility of an atomic disintegration of a pure uranium meteorite. However, it quickly dismisses this, noting that even a refined piece of uranium-235 would likely disintegrate spontaneously. The author, Louis DUBREUCQ, introduces the work of A. Monotskov, an engineer, who studied eyewitness accounts of the Tunguska event. Monotskov's analysis suggests the object was decelerating, not accelerating, and calculated its speed at approximately 0.7 km/s, closer to that of a modern jet aircraft than a typical meteorite. This leads to the hypothesis that the object might have been a flying apparatus, an interplanetary vessel.

Further analysis questions the conventional meteorite impact theory. If it were a meteorite impact causing destruction equivalent to a million tons of explosives, its mass would need to be immense, contradicting observations that the sky was not obscured. The article contrasts this with the Sikhote Alin meteorite fall in 1947, which was a more conventional event with a clear impact and crater formation.

Academicians Fessenkov and Krinov are cited for their article 'Météorite ou Vaisseau martien' (Martian Meteorite or Spaceship), which challenged Kazantzev's hypothesis. Readers' questions are raised regarding the disappearance of the 'meteorite' and the lack of magnetic detection. The absence of a large crater, comparable to the Arizona impact site, is also highlighted as problematic for the impact theory. The preservation of peat layers and permafrost despite the supposed explosion is another point of contention.

Despite the passage of years, interest in the Tunguska phenomenon persisted. In 1957, Krinov and Stenioukovitch suggested the meteorite had disintegrated in the air. Analysis of soil samples from the site revealed fine metallic dust, including iron, nickel, and magnetite, suggesting the fusion of metal in the air.

The article questions the cause of the disintegration and the immense energy released, which felled trees over hundreds of kilometers. Kazantzev's conclusion, advocating for the study of radioactivity at the site, is presented. He suggests that a powerful radioactive emission, particularly neutron flux, could have altered atomic nuclei, potentially transforming nitrogen into heavy carbon or creating 'marked atoms.' This could serve as evidence for a nuclear event.

Further Hypotheses and International Perspectives

Jean René GERMAIN is quoted, suggesting that the combination of free radicals could have initiated a localized disintegration, releasing jets of gas that acted as control engines for the spacecraft. Analysis of microbarograms revealed infrasonic waves characteristic of high-altitude nuclear explosions, implying interaction with matter. The possibility of detecting isotopes like Sr-99 and Cs-137, or isotopes of H-3, Be-10, or Co-69, would point towards a nuclear or thermonuclear explosion. The article also touches upon the speculative idea of encountering an antimatter fragment.

Pierre GAUROY's article 'Météorites-Bolides-Astéroïdes-comètes' is referenced, discussing the risks of Earth collisions. He recounts an incident where a bolide, potentially thousands of tons, traveled at 75 km/s and exploded before impact, causing widespread destruction. However, the author of 'PHÉNOMÈNES inconnus' critiques Gauroy and others for merely repeating unverified theories, particularly those originating from the USSR or other sources, without sufficient verification.

A significant development is the publication in April 1969 of an article in the French magazine 'Sciences et Vie,' which presented a sensational hypothesis: 'A NATURAL H-BOMB?' The article explored the possibility of a natural nuclear bomb or a ball of lightning, daring to suggest the existence of a 'NATURAL H-BOMB.'

Chapter III: Investigations and Dialectical Aspect

This section aims to synthesize the commentaries and research related to the Tunguska event, not to persuade, but to intelligibly suggest possibilities. It revisits Kazantzev's texts and the 'Sciences et Vie' article to evaluate the arguments and information presented. The author intends to cite Kazantzev again for his 1968 complementary precisions and also plans to include statements from American and foreign scientists specializing in antiparticles and free radicals, aiming to refute existing hypotheses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes a rigorous, scientific approach to investigating unexplained phenomena. It advocates for objective reporting and critical analysis, cautioning against accepting information uncritically, even from reputable scientific sources. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensationalism and a dedication to uncovering the truth, even when faced with complex and controversial subjects like UFOs and unexplained explosions. The importance of reader engagement and support is a recurring theme, highlighting the reliance on the community for the publication's survival and growth.

This issue of "Phenomena Unknown" (Phenomenes Inconnus), dated January 1969, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, with a strong emphasis on UFO sightings and related topics. The magazine features articles on telepathy, space exploration, archaeological finds, and historical unexplained events.

Articles and Content

"A PROPOS DE TELEPATHIE..." by Guy Tarade

This article explores the concept of telepathy, referencing experiments conducted by astronauts during the Apollo XI mission, where a secret experiment aimed to transmit thoughts between Earth and the Moon. It also mentions a 1958 experiment with a telepath on board a ship transmitting symbols to an operator 2700 km away, achieving over 70% accuracy. The author notes that both the East and West have continued such experiments. In the USSR, cosmonauts are trained in telepathic practices, seen as an ideal communication method. The article highlights numerous UFO landing witnesses who claim extraterrestrial entities communicated telepathically with them, though these witnesses were often ridiculed. The author suggests that scientific curiosity warrants a re-examination of "contactee" cases and the declarations of witnesses, potentially finding a key to "extra-sensory" perceptions studied by figures like Richet, Dr. Ostie, and Dr. Rhine. The article speculates that telepathy might have been the original form of communication before the "last deluge," referring to it as the "Lost Word" or "Verbum-dimiseum."

"Traduction d'un article de Peter Moon" by Norbert Spehner

This section presents a translation of an article by Peter Moon, originally published in "The Canadian Magazine Star Weekly" on January 4, 1969. Norbert Spehner, a professor and correspondent, translated it for "P.I." The article discusses the growing number of UFO reports and the scientific community's cautious acknowledgment. Dr. Millman of the NRC is quoted as accepting that many observed objects "have not been explained by our current scientific knowledge." The article also references the "Strange World - Unknown World" pavilion at Expo 69, which showcased UFO history, including famous cases like Kenneth Arnold (1947), Socorro (1964), Thomas Mantell (1948), and Carracas (1954). It mentions that models of extraterrestrials were created based on precise testimonies, challenging Donald H. Menzel's skepticism.

#### UFO Sightings in Canada

Several recent UFO sightings in Canada are detailed:

• October 1968: A circular object with a dome and multicolor lights was chased by a resident near Portage du Fort, Ontario, at 90 mph. The object prepared to land but then ascended at high speed.
• August 1968: A couple and their daughter in Ontario were terrified by six flying objects near Springhill, Nova Scotia, which surrounded their car.
• July 1968: A woman encountered a 5-foot wide saucer near Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. Its tail whipped the windshield.

These accounts are housed in building M50 at the National Research Council in Ottawa.

#### NRC's Role in UFO Investigations

The article explains that while other countries keep UFO reports secret, Canada transferred its files to the NRC in March 1968. Dr. Peter Millman, head of High Altitude Research at the NRC, stated their goal was to "lift the veil of mystery and secrecy." The NRC's open policy aims to change the public perception of UFOs, yet Ottawa's UFO data remains largely secret. The Canadian Panorama's request for files was the tenth of its kind since they became available. The most compelling dossier concerns Steve Michalak of Winnipeg, who claimed to have been burned by a flying saucer near Falcon Lake in May 1967. Despite the investigation team's inability to refute his testimony, some members remained skeptical. Dr. Millman maintains an open mind but has found no evidence of extraterrestrial origin.

#### UFO Observation Statistics

Approximately thirty UFO observations are reported monthly in Canada, coming from various sources including the public, armed forces, and government agencies. The article notes that while many reports are from serious individuals, some stem from terrified witnesses. Police officers also report sightings. Dr. Millman acknowledges that many objects have been seen and not explained by current science, hence the NRC's continued collection of reports. Meteorites are cited as the only proven objects from space that can be examined, contrasting with the lack of any physical evidence from flying saucers.

#### A Colombian "Flying Saucer" Encounter

A case from Colombia is presented where a man reportedly died from radiation emitted by a UFO he encountered eight days prior. His family claims he saw orange flashes from a luminous, yellow and green saucer with a bizarre silhouette inside. The object was silent. Authorities were alerted, but autopsy requests were refused. This article was published in the German edition of "Républicain Lorrain" on August 3, 1969.

#### Extraterrestrial Footprints in Australia

An Australian bulldozer operator, Mr. Ford, discovered giant footprints, estimated at 61 cm, in a desert area of the south coast. He believes they belong to a non-terrestrial being. These tracks were found after a storm on January 14, 1969, the same night a 148-meter chimney was damaged in Port Kembla. Experts ruled out lightning as the cause. Ford suspects a UFO caused the damage and landed to check for damage, leaving the footprints. Workers repairing the chimney found no evidence of burns or similar damage.

#### Mysterious Object Over Grenoble

On June 16, 1969, Mr. and Mrs. Perez observed a mysterious object in the sky above Grenoble, France. They heard a helicopter-like noise, then saw a luminous glow. The object was described as rectangular, much larger than the Moon, with imprecise, degraded contours and an incandescent red-orange color. It appeared stationary for two minutes before its light faded and it became invisible. The phenomenon was not a reflection from the Grenoble Olympic Games projectors.

#### Luminous Object Near St. Nizier

On July 14, 1969, Mr. René Vial observed a bright white, luminous, round object near St. Nizier. It followed a north-northwest trajectory and disappeared after a few seconds. Vial, a member of GEMOC, assured that it was not a firework.

#### Archaeological Discoveries

• Tanzania: A 1.75 million-year-old human skull, identified as belonging to "homo habilis," was discovered in the Olduvai Gorge by M. Louis Leakey.
• Nazareth: A tomb containing the skeleton of a child, dating back to the Mousterian period (40,000 BCE), was found near Nazareth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and presents a wide range of international reports and investigations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the examination of evidence and witness testimonies, even when they challenge conventional scientific understanding. There's a clear interest in documenting sightings, analyzing potential causes, and connecting them to broader themes of extraterrestrial life, ancient mysteries, and the unknown aspects of space exploration. The magazine also highlights the importance of scientific research bodies like the NRC in investigating these phenomena. The inclusion of archaeological finds suggests a broader interest in human origins and ancient mysteries that might intersect with unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of 'P.I. Phénomènes Inconnus' is a French publication from the CERCLE FRANCAIS DE RECHERCHES SCIENTIFIQUES-CFRS, dated the 3rd quarter of 1969. It functions as a periodic bulletin for study groups and a network of investigators across France and internationally. The magazine focuses on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena, aiming to disseminate information, encourage serious study, and publish scientific research.

Reader Contributions

The primary content of this issue is a compilation of letters from readers, showcasing their engagement with the bulletin. Paul Misraki found the editorial content and articles highly satisfactory, providing valuable insights. Jean Sendy commented on an article about research in the USSR, suggesting that Soviet UFO research might yield more significant results due to effective censorship that prevents the spread of "insufficiently founded speculations." Several new readers are introduced, including Laurent Cassiau from Evreux, who praises the bulletin's research spirit beyond strict technical studies and its coverage of ancient civilizations and space enigmas. Bernard Lévèque expresses long-standing interest and regret for not discovering the publication sooner. A. Francesini from Lille was pleased to learn about bulletin N°6, "Phénomènes Inconnus," finding it rich and instructive regarding celestial phenomena and extraterrestrial civilizations. Nguyen Van Dang also expressed strong encouragement upon renewing his membership. Raoul Moscatelli from St. Martin d'Hères compliments the bulletin, deeming it important and seeking earlier issues. Bernard Scheidt from Forbach wishes to subscribe, seeing the bulletin as a means to effectively advance research and enhance his information.

The editorial team emphasizes the importance of this reader feedback section, encouraging further suggestions and discussions concerning their articles.

Communications and Announcements

Several communications are featured:

• Translator Request: The bulletin requires translators for Spanish to help record numerous observations from Argentina.
• "SPACELINK" Review: An excellent English-language review on UFOs, "SPACELINK," is mentioned. A specimen copy is offered to readers of "PHENOMENES INCONNUS" upon request, directed to Lionel BEER in London.
• Astronomy Photography Course: A correspondence course on astronomical photography is offered by MM. P. Bury and F. Besson, with details on pricing and contact information provided for Toulouse.

Recommended Literature

The issue includes recommendations for books related to UFOs and connected problems:

• UFOs: "POUR ou CONTRE les SOUCOUPES VOLANTES" by Aimé Michel (recommended as "POUR") is highlighted, published by Ed. Berger Levrault for 6 French Francs.
• New Release: "Soucoupes Volantes et civilisations d'Outre Espace" (Flying Saucers and Civilizations from Outer Space), part of the "L'Aventure Mystérieuse" collection, by Guy Tarade, president of CEREIC, is announced as recently published.
• Related Problems: "Invitation au château de l'étrange" (Invitation to the Castle of the Strange), with a preface by Jacques Bergier, published by Ed. G.P. Maisonneuve et Larose, is also recommended.

A note indicates that the publication intends to procure these books quickly for readers who request them, though prices for the latter two are not yet known.

Group Announcements

• GEMOC Meeting: Members of the GEMOC group in the Grenoble region are alerted that meetings will resume. The next meeting is scheduled for Saturday, September 27th, at 8:30 PM. A new location was found with the help of M. Clérotte.

Publication Details

The bulletin is identified as an organ of the CERCLE FRANCAIS DE RECHERCHES SCIENTIFIQUES-CFRS. It is produced by study committees and a network of investigators. The editorial committee includes Francis Schaeffer (Editor-in-Chief), Pierre Delval (Director of Publication), Guy Tarade (Studies of Civilizations), Louis Dubreucq, and Francis Consolin (Technical Advisors). Principal foreign correspondents are listed from Belgium, Luxembourg, Congo, Sarre, Canada, and Spain.

The stated objectives of "Phénomènes Inconnus" are to inform the public about UFOs, document those interested in the subject, publish scientific studies, and explore the enigmas of past civilizations. The activities are non-profit.

General administration is handled by GEMOC in Grenoble. The annual participation fee is 28 French Francs, payable to the Director of Publication via CCP 6 963 00 LYON. The publication notes that any reproduction of its content must include the bulletin's name, address, and the author's name.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around reader engagement, the international scope of UFO research, and the promotion of scientific inquiry into unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation, encouraging detailed reporting and discussion, while also providing resources such as book recommendations and meeting announcements for interested individuals and groups. There is a clear emphasis on fostering a community of researchers and sharing knowledge across borders, with a particular interest in comparing findings from different countries, including the USSR.