Phénomènes Inconnus

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomènes Inconnus
Issue: No. 2, Nouvelle série
Year: 1972
Publisher: Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques (CFRU) in collaboration with the Fédération Suisse d'Ufologie.
Country of Publication: France
Language: French

This issue of Phénomènes Inconnus is dedicated to exploring various facets of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena, blending scientific inquiry with historical and sociological perspectives.

Editorial

"Une science fondamentale" by Francis Schaefer

Francis Schaefer, the Editor-in-Chief, introduces the concept of ufology as a fundamental science, distinct from charlatanism. He emphasizes the Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques (CFRU)'s commitment to studying celestial phenomena objectively and scientifically. Schaefer highlights that this research, initially focused on a single mystery, has led to the discovery of numerous unknown phenomena, necessitating the study of related disciplines. He acknowledges the vastness of the unknown in ufology, comparing it to an amateur's realization of how little they know after extensive reading. Schaefer stresses the dual need for scientific and intuitive research, noting that official scientific schemas are often too one-sided to adequately address ufological phenomena. He calls for a comprehensive approach, considering all hypotheses, and emphasizes the importance of public information alongside research. Schaefer thanks collaborators and subscribers for the magazine's evolution and appeals for continued material support.

Featured Articles and Reports

UFOs Detected by Radar

This section, based on information from Swiss correspondent M. Jean Wachs, details a radar detection of UFOs over Geneva-Cointrin on December 12, 1971. The objects were observed flying at Mach 10 (12,000 km/h) at an altitude of 18,000 meters. The report notes that this was not a new phenomenon for the radar controllers. The regional radar controller, covering a 150 km radius, had previously observed similar objects and phenomena three to four years prior. The speed of these objects made it clear they were not conventional aircraft, and their trajectory did not correspond to known air corridors. The radar's maximum range is approximately 18,000 meters. The article suggests that UFOs may frequently use specific air corridors. An investigation led by M. Jules Laurent, head of air security at Geneva-Cointrin airport, confirmed that radar systems can detect UFOs whose speeds are difficult to attribute to aircraft. The report concludes that Geneva's radars can and have detected UFOs whose speeds are unlikely to be civilian or military aircraft.

About Metallic Fragments of UFOs

This article details the analysis of metallic fragments collected by investigators from GNEOVNI following a UFO incident in Ronchin, France, on September 17, 1971. The fragments, described as having a metallic appearance, somewhat oxidized and carbon-stained, were submitted for laboratory examination. The analysis revealed that the fragments were primarily composed of aluminum, magnesium, and traces of zinc, existing largely in metallic form. A preliminary analysis showed: 84.9% ash (including 42.8% alumina and 39.3% magnesia), and 1.2% zinc oxide. A subsequent analysis of the metallic portion indicated a composition of 95% aluminum, 50% magnesium, and 2% zinc. The report highlights that the proportions of aluminum and magnesium were not constant, suggesting it was not a simple alloy. The composition was deemed "unusual" compared to standard aluminum alloys like Alpax or Duralumin. The article also references a similar metallic object discovered at Vin-sur-Caramy in 1957, which was analyzed by a military laboratory and found to contain iron, silicon, aluminum, calcium, titanium, and trace amounts of magnesium, chrome, and manganese. The article thanks M. Sorez, M. Lefebvre, and M. J.-P. d'Hondt for their contributions to the investigation.

The Little Oversight of Dr. Warren (or Sociology Without Psychology)

This piece critiques Dr. Donald I. Warren's study, published in the journal "SCIENCE," which analyzed socio-professional categories of people who see and report UFOs. Warren's theory suggests that individuals reporting UFOs are "afflicted with an incoherent social status" and experience a "marginal psychological state" leading them to reject American societal values or distort information. The article cites French press coverage of Warren's thesis and mentions criticisms from Dr. Leo Sprinkle and Dr. Stuart Appelle. Sprinkle argues that Warren's thesis is contradicted by his own data and that the interpretation of data can differ. Appelle points out Warren's failure to distinguish between those who admit seeing something and those who actually write reports, questioning the assumption that Gallup survey respondents share the same characteristics as report writers. The article contends that Warren's study is flawed because it ignores the "psychological brainwashing" campaign in the U.S. following the C.I.A.'s involvement in the Robertson Report. This campaign, it argues, aimed to reduce the mystery of flying saucers and penalize those who spoke out, thereby creating a "ridicule factor" that prevents individuals with stable social positions from reporting unusual sightings. Consequently, such individuals are absent from surveys like Gallup's, leading to a biased sociological study. The author concludes that Warren's thesis is "very sick" and should be dismissed.

A Hypothesis: "UFO-MEGA"

This section explores the "UFO-MEGA" hypothesis, which posits a connection between ancient megalithic structures and extraterrestrial aerial navigation. Jean-François Boedec of the Centre Breton de Détection et d'Etude d'Objets Spatiaux (CBDEOS) suggests that menhirs and dolmens might have served as an "aerial exploration survey" or "beacons" for UFOs, potentially attracting them due to their magnetic properties. Historical accounts are cited, including Nennius's chronicle from the 11th century mentioning mysterious "ships of the air" in Ireland, and the "Liber Leinsterum" describing three aerial vessels. The article also references the "Roth Ramarach," a legendary "whirlwind wheel" described as a space vessel capable of flight. The hypothesis is further supported by observations of UFOs in Brittany that appear to follow lines formed by megalithic alignments. The CBDEOS is planning scientific verification, including the placement of UFO detection and telluric current detection devices along these lines. The study acknowledges that this remains a hypothesis due to the abundance of megaliths and the need for international research to confirm the connection between ancient stone structures and potential advanced civilizations.

Mysterious Frescoes of Detchani

This brief section discusses mysterious frescoes found in the Detchani monastery in Yugoslavia, dating back to the 14th century. A detail from the "Resurrection" fresco is shown, depicting winged figures in aerodynamic machines. The article notes that these details were only observable from a distance using a telephoto lens. One figure, not depicted with a halo, is shown holding an object with fleeing lines, suggesting movement. The text implies a connection to advanced technology or aerial phenomena, possibly linking to the broader themes of the magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, with historical accounts, ancient civilizations, and scientific investigation. There's a clear stance against dismissing UFO reports and a commitment to rigorous, albeit sometimes speculative, research. The editorial approach favors presenting evidence, hypotheses, and critiques, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations for observed phenomena. The issue highlights the challenges in ufological research, including the need for objective analysis, the influence of sociological factors, and the potential for ancient myths and structures to hold clues about past aerial activities. The magazine aims to inform and engage its readership on these complex and often controversial topics.

This issue of "Phenomènes Inconnus" (Unknown Phenomena), published as Nouvelle Série, Issue 12, in December 1971, focuses heavily on the concept of periodicity in UFO sightings, questioning whether these events are random or follow discernible patterns. The cover headline, "PERIODICITÉ OU HASARD?" (Periodicity or Hazard?), sets the tone for the main investigative article.

Periodicity or Hazard?

The lead article explores the idea that UFO sightings might not be random occurrences but could be linked to specific cyclical patterns, particularly those related to lunar movements. It details a series of observations in the Gironde region of France, starting with an event on August 24, 1969, at Mérignac airport. Witnesses reported a large, bright, star-like object appearing over the runway. The article maps out the locations and times of these sightings, noting their proximity and the intervals between them.

The Periodicities and Lunar Rotation

The investigation delves into the concept of periodicity, identifying recurring intervals of approximately 109, 123, and 137 days between sightings. It draws a parallel between these periods and the time it takes for the moon to traverse half its orbit, suggesting a potential link. The article posits that these lunar cycles might influence the orientation of the Earth-Moon system relative to sidereal axes, thereby correlating with UFO appearances. It presents a statistical analysis showing a concentration of sightings around specific dates, which aligns with a Gaussian distribution curve, suggesting a non-random pattern.

The Case of Rimouski

This section discusses a case from Rimouski, Quebec, Canada, linking it to similar events in July 1971. It mentions a series of power outages in Quebec and UFO sightings in Rimouski, including one that reportedly left traces on the ground. The author suggests that certain regions might have been "inspected and tested" during this period, drawing parallels with other "hot periods" of UFO observations worldwide.

UFOs Across the World

This section provides a roundup of UFO observations from various countries in 1971, highlighting the international nature of the phenomenon. Reports are cited from Canada, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Australia, England, Scotland, and Yugoslavia. Specific Canadian reports include an object seen near Ste-Thérèse, Quebec, which caused a localized power outage, and another observed over Sainte-Foy, Quebec. In England, a widely publicized sighting in Staffordshire involved a UFO observed by police constables and civilians, with photos later confiscated by the Ministry of Defense. A particularly interesting case from Enstone, Oxfordshire, describes a luminous orange object seen by a television crew, which appeared to hover, accelerate, and leave vapor trails.

An UFO Landing in Isère

A detailed account of a UFO landing in Flachères (Isère), France, on March 24, 1972, is presented. The witness, Mme G., reported seeing a luminous glow in a field and hearing a humming sound. The following day, circular marks, approximately twenty centimeters in diameter and fifteen centimeters deep, were discovered in the ground, arranged in a square pattern. The report notes that by the time investigators arrived, the marks were no longer clearly visible due to the presence of free-ranging chickens.

Space: Martian News

This section shifts focus to space exploration, specifically the Mariner-9 mission's findings regarding Mars and its moons, Phobos and Deimos. It discusses the hypothesis that Phobos might be artificial, but the photographs taken by Mariner-9 reveal it to be an irregularly shaped rock. The article also mentions the discovery of silicates and evidence of internal heat on Mars, along with indications of mascons (mass concentrations) beneath the planet's surface.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the search for order and meaning within the phenomenon of UFO sightings. The editorial stance leans towards the belief that UFOs are real and that their appearances may follow predictable patterns, possibly influenced by astronomical factors like lunar cycles. The magazine actively encourages reader participation and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and detailed investigation within the ufological community. There's a clear effort to present a scientific approach to the subject, even while acknowledging the inherent mysteries and the need for further research.