Phenomenes Inconnus - No 14 - 1971- CFRS-CFRU

Magazine Overview

This issue, N°14 of the 3rd year of 'Phénomènes Inconnus', published in December 1970, is the documentary and informational review of the Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques (CFRS). The cover features abstract geometric artwork and the magazine's title. The editorial team includes Francis Schaefer as editor-in-chief and Pierre Delval as director of publication.

Editorial: Balance and Perspectives

The editorial, written by Pierre Delval, apologizes for the delay in publication due to unforeseen personal issues that affected his ability to manage the edition since December 1970. Despite these challenges, the CFRS maintained regular activity thanks to its collaborators. To ensure continuity and improve the review, a new quarterly format with more pages and rigorously selected articles will be adopted. The editorial board will only publish carefully chosen works from CFRS members and valuable information from their network of French and foreign correspondents.

The CFRS, in the process of transforming into the 'Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques' (CFRU), held its first general assembly in Paris in September 1970. This meeting of various organizations and CFRS members was fruitful, leading to important decisions for the year. The year 1970 is described as a period of establishing foundations and structures for the organization, requiring a year of dedicated work and contacts.

CFRS Activities and Contacts

The CFRS now has an established administrative committee and a study committee composed of specialists in various technical and scientific disciplines, as well as ufology experts. The president of the study committee is J.P. Rohart, a former astronomer. Numerous contacts were made throughout the year, including regional group meetings in Lille and Grenoble, and public conferences in Nice and Lille. The editorial office of 'Phénomènes Inconnus' also received many visitors. These contacts were described as very fruitful and friendly.

Technically, the CFRS adopted the EDIS system for codifying observations, proposed by US correspondent Patrik Huygue. A network of correspondents and investigators is being finalized to cover Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. This summarizes the essential activities of the organization for 1970.

Space and Ufology in 1970

1970 was also significant in space and ufology. It's confirmed that there are no life forms, not even bacterial, on the Moon. The Apollo missions' exploration of the lunar surface revealed no traces of civilizations, but some uncertainties remain, such as 'obelisk' photos published by 'ARGOSY' and light variations, detailed in a NASA catalog of 'Unusual Phenomena Observed on the Moon' listing 579 unexplained facts. Future lunar exploration is anticipated, but the Soviet space budget is noted as being severely restricted.

Despite these points, UFO observations in 1970 remained numerous globally. Collaboration with foreign groups indicates the phenomenon is ongoing, even if it appears sporadic in France. Examples include 'UFO CHRONOLOGUE' (USA) reporting 325 observations from November 1969 to February 1970, and 'DATA-NET' recording 93 observations from July to December 1970 in the USA. In France, observations reported by correspondents remained regular compared to the previous year, indicating the OVNI phenomenon is permanent.

The Twilight of Charlatans by Francis Consolin (GEMOC)

This article addresses a defamatory campaign allegedly initiated by a former honorary president of the CFRS against the magazine 'Phénomènes Inconnus' (P.I.). The author criticizes the ex-president's actions, which involved sending letters and circulars to discredit the publication. The CFRS was formed to coordinate autonomous regional groups studying UFOs, with a single common review, 'Phénomènes Inconnus'. The article aims to steer the publication away from science fiction, charlatanism, and uncontrolled sensationalism.

It critiques an article titled 'The Unknowns of the Moon' published in 'Velours Actuelles' by J.G. in December 1969, which the ex-president allegedly supported with pseudo-scientific commentary. The author refutes a specific claim that Soviet craft reaching Mars reported comparable signals, arguing that no Soviet craft had reached Mars in a functioning state and that the electronic reliability of Soviet equipment was low.

The article details a series of letters and circulars sent by the ex-president, questioning the meaning of 'to reach' in astrophysics and astronomy, and whether it's absurd to believe scientists. These communications were aimed at discrediting Francis Schaefer and others.

The Zond II Affair

This section delves into the 'Zond II Affair', initiated by the ex-president's claims. The article explains that the Soviet probe Zond 2, launched in November 1964 towards Mars, reportedly failed in April 1965. The ex-president alleged that TASS hid this failure to conceal a significant discovery made four months later: a magnetic field similar to Earth's around Mars. The author dismisses this as an unlikely scenario, given Mars's strategic insignificance and the typical Soviet practice of announcing mission outcomes, even failures.

The article further elaborates on how the failure of Zond 2 became known. Space probes are tracked by countries with suitable antennas. In Zond 2's case, tracking was done by US facilities in Goldstone, Johannesburg, and Voomera, and by Jodrell Bank in the UK. The probe only transmits when in line-of-sight with ground stations. The author explains that the British were able to capture Zond 2's weak signals despite the geographical distance from the Soviet launch site. In April 1965, the probe stopped emitting, and the Soviets remained silent until Sir Bernard Lovell's visit to the USSR, which forced them to publicly admit the failure of the space probe. The author notes that the previous mission, Mars 1, had also failed similarly.

The article then addresses the ex-president's claims that French press reported on Soviet stations' provisional and reiterated contact with Mars 1 and Zond 2, but that readers paid little attention. The author points out that even the 'Cosmos-Club de France', led by Albert Ducrocq, did not seem to pay attention, as this fact was omitted from a special issue of 'Sciences et Avenir' titled 'Ten Years in Space'.

Is it Absurd to Believe Charlatans?

This section critically examines the claims made by the ex-president, particularly those published in 'Valeurs Actuelles'. The author argues that if these claims had been presented by reputable journalists like Albert Ducrocq or Francois de Closets, they might be credible. However, the competence of individuals like J.G. and L.D. is questioned, making it difficult to blindly accept their conclusions from a scientific standpoint.

The article details the history of Zond 2's failure, explaining how its cessation of transmission in April 1965 was eventually confirmed by Sir Bernard Lovell's inquiry in the USSR. The author also mentions that the previous mission, Mars 1, had failed in a similar manner.

Regarding the ex-president's assertion that French press reported on Soviet stations' contact with Mars 1 and Zond 2, the author notes that this information was not given sufficient attention. He also points out that the 'Cosmos-Club de France' did not mention this fact in their publication.

The article then addresses specific claims attributed to Dr. SEABORG and J. GRANDMOUGIN regarding signals from Soviet craft and discoveries on the Moon. It questions the scientific basis for these claims, particularly the idea that Cosmos 300 was equipped to measure phenomena on the hidden side of the Moon while in a low Earth orbit. It also dismisses the notion that astronaut Michael Collins was shocked by the lunar surface, citing the proven competence of astronauts like Armstrong, Lovell, Haise, and Swigert.

Furthermore, the article refutes the claim that Apollo 12 astronauts were exposed to unknown, unidentifiable radiations from Surveyor 3 fragments. It explains that space suits are designed to withstand known forms of radiation, such as solar wind and cosmic rays, and that detecting unknown radiation would require a theoretical basis and a detector.

Twilight of a Charlatan

This section continues the critique of the ex-president's claims, particularly those concerning the speed of light and the existence of tachyons. The author explains Einstein's theory of relativity and its limitations, noting that it is not universally accepted in its generalized form because it does not unify astronomical and quantum phenomena. The article discusses Feinberg's concept of tachyons, hypothetical particles that could travel faster than light but whose mass increases infinitely as they approach light speed, thus not violating the theory of relativity.

The ex-president is accused of misrepresenting these concepts, particularly by claiming that the existence of tachyons has been proven by mathematics. The article suggests that the ex-president's arguments are based on a selective interpretation of scientific information and a desire to discredit the CFRS and its members.

Conclusion

The article concludes by questioning the veracity of the claims attributed to Dr. SEABORG by 'Valeurs Actuelles' regarding Mars and Zond 2 missions, and alleged photos of roads and structures on the Moon. It states that there is no way to verify these claims, but the narrative in 'Valeurs Actuelles' contains too many implausibilities to be credible and should be dismissed. The author attributes the ex-president's resignation and subsequent campaign of insults to the committee's decision to remove questionable texts from the review. The article emphasizes the importance of rigor and clear thinking in scientific research, contrasting it with the sensationalism and charlatanism that often surround paranormal phenomena. It suggests that as scientists make progress in understanding these areas, charlatans will be increasingly marginalized.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the progress and challenges of ufological research, the importance of scientific rigor, and the need to combat misinformation and charlatanism within the field. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, aiming to present factual information and debunk unsubstantiated claims, while promoting a disciplined approach to understanding unexplained phenomena. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious research, distinct from sensationalist or pseudo-scientific narratives.

This document, an excerpt from a publication by CFRS, details an unusual landing incident that occurred in Corbieres, Basses-Alpes, France, in October 1954. The primary focus is on the testimony of H. Maxime Pignatelli, a hunter who encountered an unidentified object and its occupants. The issue also delves into the concept of 'orthoteny,' a proposed geometric alignment of UFO sightings, and presents a separate report on a UFO maneuver in Riec-sur-Bélon.

The Corbieres Landing Incident (October 1954)

The investigation into the Corbieres landing was conducted by Francis Schaefer (GEOCNI) and Pierre Delval (GEMOC) on July 28, 1970. They were led to the case through information related to the Valensole sector. The primary witness, H. Maxime Pignatelli, had since passed away, so the investigation relied on interviews with his family members.

The Facts of the Case

In early October 1954, H. Maxime Pignatelli was hunting with his dog near the Durance river, close to the village of Corbieres. Around 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM, while aiming at a thrush, he heard a noise of crashing branches and then saw the upper part of an oval object, approximately 3 to 4 meters in diameter, described as black and without reflections. On the upper edge of this 'apparatus,' he observed two heads of small beings, described as being 'like children.'

This startling spectacle lasted only a few seconds. Pignatelli was overcome by an 'unspeakable panic' and fled so rapidly that he fell into a water-filled ditch. While extricating himself, he saw his dog approaching, crying and dragging its hind legs as if it had received a painful shock. The article states it is incontestable that the dog was seriously injured, and the cause of its ailment could only have come from the occupants of the object.

Physiological Effects and Aftermath

At the time, the incident was not readily accepted as authentic. However, a significant detail that intrigued Pignatelli's family was that upon his return, he felt a 'torpor,' comparable to fatigue or drowsiness. His family even stated that 'the shock was reflected in his heart.' The article notes that the Corbieres landing is characterized by one or more physiological effects. Tragically, H. Maxime Pignatelli passed away in early September 1955, making it impossible to establish a definitive cause-and-effect relationship. Nevertheless, the state of somnolence immediately after the incident is recorded.

Similarities with Other Cases

• The article draws parallels between the Corbieres landing and a more recent case in Valensole:
• Two small beings: Present in both cases.
• Positioning: In Valensole, the beings were 'crouching'; in Corbieres, they were 'hidden' or 'behind a bush.'
• Object Description: In both cases, the machine resembled a 'rugby ball.'
• Physiological Effects: H. Masse (Valensole) felt paralyzed, while H. Pignatelli (Corbieres) experienced torpor. The dog in Corbieres was visibly affected, possibly by an indeterminate ray or electric discharge.

Location Details

The Durance river separates the landing site from an airfield located two kilometers away in Vinon-sur-Verdon (altitude 279m). The landing site is also 3 km from the Cadarache dam.

Corbieres and Orthoteny

This section explores the connection between the Corbieres landing and the phenomenon of 'orthoteny,' as identified by Aimé Michel in his work "Mystérieux Objets Célestes." Orthoteny describes the tendency of UFO sightings in the autumn of 1954 to align in long, straight lines, forming networks across Europe.

Aimé Michel observed that the structure of orthoteny at a given point often correlated with the evolution or form of the object observed there:
1. Intersection of multiple alignments (star network): Generally associated with a 'large cigar of clouds,' considered a 'base' and the center of UFO dispersion.
2. Intersection of two alignments: Indicated discontinuity in the object's movement, such as descent, immobilization, or change of direction.
3. On alignments: UFOs moved in the direction of the alignment they belonged to.

While initially suggesting a logical and coherent pattern, physicists like Medane and Jacques Vallée demonstrated that most alignments could be explained by chance. However, some lines, like the 'BAVIC' (Bayonne-Vichy, September 24, 1954), were considered indisputable.

Jacques Vallée's computer analysis suggested that random observations on a surface like France would yield, on average, one alignment of 5 points, five of 4 points, and twenty of 3 points. The article asserts that a precise geometric structure, excluding chance, exists.

The Corbieres Landing and the Orthotenic Network of October 7, 1954

Francis Schaefer investigated whether the orthotenic network of October 7, 1954, could provide the exact date of the Corbieres landing. While the landing was reported to have occurred in early October 1954, placing it on the orthotenic map of October 2, 1954, showed nothing particularly surprising. However, when adding Corbieres to the orthotenic network of October 7, 1954, the result was 'astonishing.'

Despite a slight deviation, the Corbieres landing site occupied a 'coherent' position within the dense network of October 7, 1954. Specifically:
1. Corbieres lies in the prolongation of the 'LES-MON' line, aligning with Les Aubiers, Béruges, and Monteux.
2. The 'CA-JET' line, connecting Jettingen and Cassis (an extremity of the line that 'crosses' Cherbourg, La Ferté-Mace, Ballon, Lavenay, and Montlevic), passes through Corbieres. Jettingen, Corbieres, and Cassis form a straight line.

This leads to the question: was the exact date of the Corbieres landing October 7, 1954?

Notes and Observations

Notes mention Aimé Michel's book "A Propos des Soucoupes Volantes" and the work of Janine and Jacques Vallée on 'phantom alignments.' Additional observations from Basses-Alpes include a luminous disk on July 17, 1962, luminous cigars on August 6-7, 1962, and a luminous ball on December 7, 1963.

The Unusual Maneuvers of Riec-sur-Bélon (Finistère, France)

This section, an investigation by Jean-Francois Boedec (CBDEOS), details an encounter on September 8, 1970, involving Denis Le Noc and his sisters.

The Encounter

Around 9:10 PM, while looking at the ocean, the witnesses observed a 'yellowish star' that grew in size to resemble a 'centime coin held at arm's length.' The object, described as a 'glass ball with sharp contours, illuminated by a brilliant yellow light,' was estimated to be about 5 km away. The witnesses cautiously estimated its diameter to be between 20 to 30 meters.

As object 'A' became stationary, another identical 'star' maneuvered, appearing to approach from the opposite direction. Over a rhythmic interval of approximately 30 seconds, other UFOs ('B' through 'F') joined 'A,' forming a perfectly geometric figure. The conditions were clear, with stars and the moon visible.

The Maneuver and Disappearance

Thirty seconds after the last UFO ('F') arrived, all six objects began to drift towards the sea at a 45° angle to the horizon. This movement occurred without any change in color, shape, size, or luminosity. The witnesses concluded that the objects could not be conventional aircraft or helicopters.

After this synchronized movement, the six UFOs stopped above the ocean. The first object to arrive ('F') then began to 'disappear,' likely behind the horizon. Thirty seconds later, 'E' disappeared, followed by 'D,' 'C,' 'B,' and finally 'A.' The disappearance was described as a 'door of size,' descending towards the sea or the horizon.

The order of arrival was A-B-C-D-E-F, and the order of departure was F-E-D-C-B-A.

New Developments in Orthoteny?

This section, written by Alain Barbe (OBRIS), discusses the phenomenon of orthoteny and its potential implications.

Orthoteny and Object Characteristics

Barbe reiterates Aimé Michel's findings that UFOs often exhibit characteristics related to the orthotenic structure at their observation point:
1. Intersection of alignments: Associated with 'cloud cigar' bases.
2. Intersection of two alignments: Linked to changes in object movement (descent, immobilization, direction change).
3. On alignments: Objects move along the alignment's direction.

While Vallée's research suggested that many alignments could be due to chance, Barbe asserts that a precise geometric structure exists, excluding chance.

Geometric Structure of Selected Alignments

Barbe explains a mathematical curiosity involving two sets of parallel lines with distances in geometric progression (1 cm, 2 cm, 4 cm, 8 cm...). Superposing these creates intersections that form a beam of concurrent lines. By reversing this process, one can reconstruct the second set of parallels by joining intersection points. This method was used to align the 'PONCEY' network with a specific point and orientation.

Structure of the PONCEY-PELLEREY Network

By applying this construction to the PONCEY-MUREC, PONCEY-VIGNON, PONCEY-LOUILANS, and NISSONCELLES-Les ROUSSES alignments, it was found that they also belong to a beam formed by the intersection of two series of parallel lines in progression. This resulted in the PELLEREY-PONCET network, composed of three elements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the geometric and structural aspects of UFO phenomena, particularly through the concept of orthoteny. It suggests that these alignments are not random but indicative of an underlying intelligence or structure. The detailed analysis of the Corbieres incident, its comparison to other cases, and its placement within orthotenic networks highlight a belief in the significance of these patterns. The Riec-sur-Bélon report further supports the idea of organized UFO activity. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into anomalous aerial phenomena, seeking logical and geometric explanations beyond conventional understanding, while acknowledging the challenges of distinguishing genuine patterns from chance occurrences.

This issue of CFRS's publication, identified as "PI" and part of Volume 3, focuses on the concept of "Orthotenie" and presents a schema (Schema 3) of the "MONTLEV IC" network. The cover features a map of France with lines connecting various locations, illustrating these alignments. The publication date is indicated as February 1977, with the content likely originating from earlier research and observations.

The Orthoteny Network and its Interpretation

The issue begins by detailing the "MONTLEV IC" network, a series of alignments of UFO sightings. It elaborates on different types of alignments, including those of 4 and 3 points, and a "double triangle" configuration. The text emphasizes that these alignments suggest an order and coherence that practically excludes chance, claiming a near 100% exclusion of randomness.

However, a significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to questioning the nature of orthoteny, particularly through an article titled "ET SI L'ORTHOTENIE N'ÉTAIT QU'UN ARTEFAC?" (And if Orthoteny were only an Artefact?) by Francis CONSOLIN. This article revisits the idea, initially proposed by Jacques VALLEE, that the alignments discovered by Aimé MICHEL might be due to chance. It references a book "LE DOSSIER DES CIVILISATIONS EXTRATERRESTRES" which suggests Aimé MICHEL accepted these results and renounced orthoteny. The author argues that the controversy around orthoteny might stem from a misunderstanding of Aimé MICHEL's original goal: to find order amidst the chaos of UFO reports, which were often attributed to collective psychopathology.

Aimé MICHEL's findings indicated that dated cases (with few exceptions) fell onto these alignments, while known hoaxes did not. The article explores two possible explanations for these alignments: either extraterrestrials, being telepathic, anticipate sightings and move along these predetermined lines, or a complex "hyper-psyche" of extraterrestrials can discern and create complex systems of order that humans can only perceive through a limited sample of data points.

The text also highlights the statistical challenges in UFO research. René FOUERE, in his editorial, points out the significant uncertainty due to the vast number of unreported observations, making a true overview of the phenomenon impossible. He cites Dr. HYNEK's observation that while millions of Americans might have seen UFOs, the US Air Force received only a fraction of reports, suggesting a very low reporting rate. The issue attempts to calculate this rate based on French data from 1954, which led to the discovery of orthoteny.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Sightings

A preliminary report by Gérard ROQUEFERRE of OBRIS-OVNI presents a statistical analysis of 81 UFO sightings in the Aquitaine region between 1947 and 1970. Of these, 31 could be explained by misinterpretations, while 50 remained unidentified. Among the unidentified cases, 23 involved "unknown craft" with apparent extraterrestrial characteristics. The report notes a peak in observations between 1947 and 1958, followed by a resurgence from 1965 to 1970. A detailed table breaks down sightings by year and category (landings, quasi-landings, immobility, evolutions, passages, diverse).

Dossier of Observations

The issue includes a "Dossier des Observations" (Observations Dossier) detailing specific UFO sightings from France, Germany, and Luxembourg, primarily from 1971, with some earlier reports. These entries provide dates, locations, descriptions of the objects (shape, color, apparent size, behavior), witness accounts, and sources (local newspapers, CFRS correspondents).

France: Reports include sightings in Praz-Noellan, Riéc sur Béalon, Freyming-Merlebach, Leuhan (Finistère), Nice, Vacqueville, Woippy, and Bastia (Corse). Descriptions range from small coin-sized objects to luminous spheres and saucers, with varying movements and behaviors.

Germany: Sightings are reported from Hamburg-Harburg (multiple luminous objects), Solingen (red luminous object), Stuttgart (unexplained luminescence), and Garmisch and Griesen (large luminous object). The sources for these reports are "UFO-Nachrichten" and translations by Francis Schaefer.

Luxembourg: Observations include an oval object in Clemency that moved towards Messancy (Belgium), noted to be on the "BRUTUS" orthotenic corridor, and a cylindrical object in Clemency emitting orange light.

Determination of Speed, Altitude, and Dimensions of Flying Objects

An article by J.P. ROHART provides a methodology for determining the apparent speed, altitude, and dimensions of flying objects. It outlines calculations for apparent speed (Va) based on apparent distance (Da) and time (t), and true dimensions based on apparent diameter and estimated distance. Examples are given, including a calculation for an object with a diameter of 10 meters and another for an object with a true diameter of 8 meters at an altitude of 2000 meters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the statistical analysis of UFO sightings, the search for patterns and order (orthoteny), and the debate between the extraterrestrial hypothesis and the artefact hypothesis. The editorial stance, as expressed by René FOUERE, acknowledges the inherent uncertainties in UFO research due to incomplete data and unreported sightings, emphasizing the need for caution and a critical approach to statistical findings. The publication appears to be a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share data, analysis, and ongoing debates within the field of ufology, particularly concerning the work of Aimé Michel and the interpretation of his findings.

Title: PHENOMENES INCONNUS
Issue: N° 14
Volume: 3e Année
Date: 1959 (indicated by context of the article and issue number)
Publisher: CERCLE FRANÇAIS DE RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES - CFRU
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of "Phenomènes Inconnus" is dedicated to providing a bibliography of specialized UFO reviews and exploring an unusual phenomenon observed by Félix Pasteur.

Bibliography of UFO Reviews

The first section, "Revues spécialisées," lists several UFO-related publications available through exchange with "P.I.".

• In English:
• "AUSTRALIAN UFO REVIEW": Published by the "Unidentified Flying Objects Investigation Centre" in Sydney, Australia. It is described as an excellent review with 60 litho-printed pages, format 255 x 200 mm, covering Australian UFO sightings and investigations.
• "SAUCERS SPACE and SCIENCE": Features articles, numerous sections, and news on various subjects, including Canadian observations and new ideas. This quarterly publication is illustrated and offset-printed. Subscriptions for 4 issues cost 15.00 French Francs and can be sent to Gene Duplantier at 17, Shetland street, WILLOWDALE, Ontario, Canada.

• In Italian:
• "NOTIZARIO UFO": The official bimonthly organ of the "CENTRO UNICO NAZIONALE - C.U.N.", located at Casella Postale N° 796, 40100 BOLOGNE, Italy. It is noted as a very good specialized review, with 25 pages printed on offset, format 320x220 mm.

• In Spanish:
• "STENDEK": The organ of the Centre d'Etudes Interplanétaire - C.E.I. of Barcelona, Spain (CEI, Apartado 282). It is described as a very good quarterly review, printed with sketches and photos.

Additionally, a sticker "UFO YES!" is available for young enthusiasts as a sign of recognition, costing 5 F + 0.50 or 0.30 for postage, orderable from the "P.I." headquarters.

Other Publications and Items

• "Divers" (Miscellaneous):
• "INTERNATIONAL GADGET SERVICE": A novelty and invention bulletin featuring new ideas, special equipment, announcements, and exchanges. A specimen is available exclusively to "P.I." readers upon request. The bulletin is from I.G.S., BP 361, 75 PARIS 02.

• "Ouvrages" (Books - recently published or upcoming):
• "LE DOSSIER DES CIVILISATIONS EXTRA-TERRESTRE" by J.C. RIBES and F. BIRAUD (affiliated with CNRS), published by Fayard. "P.I." recommends it, stating it represents a significant step by two proponents of "official science" who themselves call for more official attention to UFO investigations. This assessment is attributed to J.P. D'HONDT, secretary general of the CFRS.
• "LES DOSSIERS DE L'ETRANGE" by Guy TARADE (CEREIC), published by Robert LAFFONT, is scheduled for release in April.
• "Civilisations Mystérieuses: ILE DE PAQUES, NOMBRIL DU MONDE" by Villaret, published by Editions ARTHAUD (price 26.00 F).

Readers are directed to LA LIBRAIRIE RABELAIS in Metz for indispensable documentation, offering a 5% discount on orders over 50 F.

An Unknown Phenomenon: The Pendulum Experiment

The second major section, under the heading "UN AUTRE PHÉNOMÈNE INCONNU" (Another Unknown Phenomenon), details a remarkable experiment conducted by Félix Pasteur, nephew of the renowned scientist Louis Pasteur.

The Apparatus

Pasteur devised an apparatus consisting of a rigid support from which a fine suspension wire (piano wire, nylon, or metallic chain) hangs vertically, approximately 2 or 2.6 meters long. A mass is suspended from the lower end of this wire. On the floor, a line is drawn from the pendulum's resting point, representing the East-West cardinal axis. Equal distances are marked on this axis, on either side of the center point determined by the suspension wire.

The Phenomenon: Auto-Acceleration

When two equal, arbitrary masses (e.g., bottles filled with filings, shavings, or metallic powders) were placed at equal distances on either side of the center, the pendulum, initially at rest, began to move spontaneously in an "AUTO-ACCÉLÉRÉ" (self-accelerated) manner.

Investigations and Observations

Félix Pasteur, who did not initially believe in universal movement, shared his findings in a 1959 booklet titled "MOUVEMENTS PENDULAIRES PERMANENTS SPONTANÉMENT ENTRETENUS" (Permanent Spontaneous Self-Sustained Pendular Movements). He had previously published an excerpt in a review of Scientific and Technical Problems in 1959. His work was brought to the attention of various scientists and researchers, including M. Mel Cordebas (president of the Cercle Alexandre Dufour), Maurice Allais (Ecole des Mines), Professors Risler, Vincent, Nahas, and Barrière. Subsequently, groups studying gravitation, weightlessness, and magnetism were informed of Pasteur's work and the rare trials conducted.

Pasteur reported negative and surprising reactions from some physicists, who found the unusual nature of the experiment perplexing. The search for an explanation remains ongoing, and Félix Pasteur is no longer alive to provide further assistance.

Pasteur conducted experiments in Paris, Trouville, and Besançon, observing no fundamental difference in the pendulum's behavior across these locations. He tested the apparatus in various environments, including ground level and cellars, and investigated potential influences such as micro-winds, magnetic fields, atmospheric electricity, ionization, and tides. He attempted to modify the pendulum's environment to establish relationships with these factors, seeking to prove that the ground participated in the phenomenon.

He sought to involve researchers from diverse disciplines, including cosmography, globe physics, and mechanical or aerodynamic engineering, to gain their judgment on these little-known phenomena.

Favorable Conditions for Auto-Acceleration

Pasteur identified specific conditions that favored auto-acceleration. The amplitude of the pendulum's oscillations was most consistent and greatest during the winter months (September to March), particularly when the atmosphere was dark, misty, or heavy with storm clouds. He noted that if the sun appeared (even through clouds) between 10 and 11 AM, a slight decrease in amplitude occurred. This effect intensified in summer, and around 6 PM astronomical time, the pendulums often became "disoriented," moving in circles, then ellipses, and beating in the meridian plane before returning to the East-West plane. At times, the oscillation became "amended," as if solar radiation was favorably influencing the movement in the direction of Earth's rotation. The installation of screens to protect the pendulums from wind near the ground was intended to reduce the sun's action, especially during winter.

Pasteur also observed that lunar influence was more pronounced during synodic revolutions, specifically at conjunctions, syzygies, and oppositions, but in the opposite direction of the amplitude of high and low tides. The effect was favorable during quadrature periods.

• To compare the sense and amplitude of the pendulum's movements with established data, the author manually traced the fugitive shadow cast by one of the pendulums onto a cardboard placed on the ground. These traces were then compared with curves indicating:
• The daily average of magnetic needle oscillations, month by month, according to the Paris-Montsouris Observatory.
• The components East-West and West-East at various hours.
• The seasonal intensity in relation to solar declination.

The article suggests that such an apparatus would be valuable in all scientific centers, mentioning the "Station SPACE" in Pessac, France, as a potential host for its deployment to deepen understanding of questions related to our spatial and cosmic condition.

This section is a summary by J. LUCHATEL of ARFA, based on documents and correspondence with Félix Pasteur.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Phenomènes Inconnus" demonstrates a strong commitment to documenting and investigating unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging scientific rigor and interdisciplinary collaboration. The publication serves as a central hub for researchers and groups interested in UFOs and related mysteries, aiming to disseminate information and foster a deeper understanding of these subjects. The emphasis on detailed observation, experimental methodology, and the sharing of findings, even those that challenge conventional scientific understanding, is evident throughout the issue. The non-lucrative nature of the CFRU's activities underscores a dedication to the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake.