Recherches Ufologiques - No 09 - 3e et 4e trim1979

Magazine Overview

This document is issue number 9 of "GROUPEMENT NORDISTE D'ETUDES RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES", published quarterly in the third trimester of 1979. The magazine is based in France, with its headquarters in Ronchin and secretariat in Lestrem. It is a non-profit association founded in 1965, dedicated to informing the public about unusual celestial phenomena, particularly those occurring in Northern France.

Table of Contents

The table of contents lists several articles and sections:

• Avis Important (Important Notice)
• Editorial by Roger Caffiaux
• L'Ufologie Transcendantée (Transcendental Ufology) by Philippe Finet
• Aspects Divers Du Phénomène OVNI (Diverse Aspects of the UFO Phenomenon) by Vincent Archer
• "L'Etrange" (The Strange) by Philippe Finet
• Un Choix Pour Vos Livres (A Choice for Your Books)
• Observation en 1977 (Observation in 1977)
• Une Sonde OVNI Au Kremlin? (A UFO Probe at the Kremlin?) Translation by Pierre Saglier
• Vos Questions, Nos Réponses (Your Questions, Our Answers)
• Le Catalogue Régional (The Regional Catalogue)
• Les Petites Nouvelles Astronomiques (Small Astronomical News) by Richard Berque
• Le Triangle Des Mines (The Mines Triangle) by Philippe Finet
• Info-Groupement (Group Information)

Important Notice

An "Avis Important" section reminds readers that issue number 10 will be entirely dedicated to analyzing a case classified as 'unexplained' by GEPAN. The GNEOVNI states that the methodology employed by GEPAN was found to be inexact, and they believe it is their duty to reveal the full truth about this affair.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Pas de fumée sans feu, mais certains feux font du bruit" (No smoke without fire, but some fires make noise), discusses a survey conducted by IFOP for the magazine "Marie-Claire" in August 1979. The survey indicated that 28% of respondents believed in extraterrestrials, while 58% did not. The editorial notes that the question was simply "Do you believe in extraterrestrials?" and did not differentiate between UFOs and extraterrestrials, suggesting this reflects a current state of mind. It also references an article in the same issue of "Marie-Claire" titled "What if we were alone in the World?", which is seen as a reflection of public opinion. However, the editorial questions the reliability of this reflection, pointing out that interviews were reserved for personalities from the "World of Spectacle." The author critiques scientists like astronomer Michel Hart for lacking imagination, suggesting they only conceive of extraterrestrials as exiled humans. The editorial argues that for a civilization to arise on another planet, it would require billions of years of stable conditions, a timescale that challenges human comprehension. It also notes that while few people believe in E.T.s, UFO 'news' seems to suggest otherwise. The editorial cites an article from "La Voix du Nord" about a 'haunted' farm where unexplained combustion cases were investigated by firefighters, an exorcist, and a parapsychology lab director, with the journalist drawing parallels to UFOs.

The editorial concludes by stating that phenomena like calcination, combustion, or spontaneous cremation seem to involve very strong new energies, and in an era of oil scarcity, it is urgent to investigate such cases.

Transcendental Ufology

Philippe Finet's article, "L'UFOLOGIE TRANSCENDANTEE OU UN PEU D'HUMOUR ET D'HUMEUR EMUE," explores a more philosophical and humorous side of ufology. It begins by posing a question about a "sublimated mystery" where matter and energy become one, describing it as an "ocean of question marks" that requires careful exploration. The author suggests that this spiritual shift is accessible to all who can perceive a distant "shore" within the universe, a place of "iridescent facets" and a "Mysterious Vibration" that unites matter, energy, time, and space. The article acknowledges that confirmed ufologists might laugh, but asserts that deep down, they believe in this "Great Vibration." It posits the existence of a "bridge" or "islands" across this ocean of mystery, sought by ufologists like ancient mariners, guided by images from distant ancestors.

The author then contrasts two types of ufologists: those who practice a "classic breaststroke" with calm determination, often accumulating vast amounts of research but rarely questioning their path, and those who engage in a more "epic crawl," where technology like telescopes and computers replace their senses. These latter individuals are described as potential future "mutants" or "blocks of Pure Thought." The article humorously depicts ufologists as rushing forward, sometimes questioning their own existence or the reality of the universe, but ultimately driven by a collective force towards a seemingly receding "shore." It describes their struggle, mutual support, and eventual disillusionment, leading them to "sink stoically" into the mystery. A more fortunate few, however, are 'rescued' by a "shooting star" or "miniature sun" that transforms into a magnificent flying saucer, representing a "transcendental elevation."

The article also touches upon the role of "coast guards" (metaphorically) who might try to suppress the stories of those who have experienced these phenomena. It references a book, "Livre Bleus Blue Book (ou Book émissaire)," in relation to this.

Diverse Aspects of the UFO Phenomenon

Vincent Archer's contribution, "ASPECTS DIVERS DU PHENOMENE OVNI," focuses on the investigative process and the nature of UFO sightings. He emphasizes that the investigator must focus on how an object appeared and disappeared, as witnesses often recall the disappearance more vividly than the appearance. Archer highlights "instantaneous" appearances and disappearances as the strangest types, providing examples:

• Mendoza, Argentina (September 28, 1973): A professor saw a green, emerald-colored triangular object that flew directly towards a hill and disappeared.
• Vlierzelle, Belgium (November 18, 1968): An automobilist witnessed a dazzling yellow sphere that exploded on his windshield with a detonation.
• Wavre, Belgium (May 1962): An automobilist observed a pale green sphere with undulating lines that ascended and crashed into his windshield without leaving a trace.

Archer poses a significant problem: how can immobile or moving objects disappear instantly without leaving traces, or vanish into the sky, without any apparent change in motion or visible obstacle, according to the laws of physics?

The Technology of the Unknown

This section delves into potential explanations for these phenomena, including:

1. Hallucination: While considered the simplest and most "rational" hypothesis, it is difficult to prove unless it's a medically evident delirium tremens or two consistent, uncontacted testimonies. Its lack of proof relegates it to a less favored explanation.
2. Psychic Induction: This involves inducing coordinated sensations in the witness's brain to create a perfect illusion of reality. Methods include direct hypnosis during observation, post-hypnotic suggestion, and momentary suggestion (e.g., making someone see something at a specific time). Subliminal suggestion, through film messages or influencing brainwaves, is also mentioned as a possibility for creating false observations.
3. Hyper-Acceleration: This section discusses how the human eye perceives objects. An object can appear to vanish if it accelerates rapidly, moving out of the field of vision within a fraction of a second. The article calculates the immense acceleration required for an object to disappear from view, noting that such acceleration would subject any occupant (like a human) to extreme forces, potentially turning them into a "mush." Two solutions are proposed: creating a counteracting force field to negate inertia, or eliminating inertia altogether, as in science fiction scenarios. A third, unspecified solution is also hinted at.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, particularly those observed in Northern France and Belgium. It adopts a stance that encourages investigation and critical analysis, questioning official explanations and scientific limitations. There's an underlying theme of exploring the more 'mysterious' or 'transcendental' aspects of ufology, blending scientific inquiry with philosophical and even humorous perspectives. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards unexplained phenomena, while also being critical of potential misinterpretations or flawed methodologies from official bodies like GEPAN. The publication aims to be a platform for sharing observations, research, and diverse viewpoints within the ufological community.

Title: ANGE... L'ETRANGE... L'ET
Issue: n° 170
Date: December 1977
Publisher: GNE OVNI
Type: Magazine

This issue of the GNE OVNI publication, 'ANGE... L'ETRANGE... L'ET', delves into historical UFO sightings and explores various hypotheses surrounding these phenomena. The magazine features a chronicle by Philippe FINET and articles by Vincent ARCHER, V.I. SANAROV, and others, presenting a mix of historical accounts, scientific speculation, and organizational updates.

Article: Hypotheses on UFO Displacement

Vincent ARCHER's article discusses several hypotheses for how UFOs might achieve apparent displacement. These include:

• Time Acceleration: Modifying the flow of time to achieve apparent high speeds without the occupants experiencing extreme forces.
• Landosintegration: A future system for self-destruction of a probe after its mission.
• Time Travel: Explaining sightings as future visitors studying history.
• Space Travel (Hyperspace/Fourth Dimension): Utilizing concepts from science fiction, particularly the idea of a four-dimensional universe where space can be 'folded' to connect distant points.
• Cessation of Phenomenon: Spontaneous disintegration or disappearance, akin to ball lightning.

The author emphasizes the need to verify these hypotheses and suggests that a human-made flying saucer could aid in understanding the phenomenon.

Article: A Dragon, a Dragon and a Half!

Philippe FINET's chronicle, 'A DRAGON, DRAGON ET DEMI!', investigates historical aerial phenomena, focusing on a sighting from June 22, 1520, near Guignes and Ardres, France. During the 'Field of the Cloth of Gold' event, a dragon-shaped object, approximately eight meters long and appearing to breathe fire, was observed. The object flew at the speed of a walking man. FINET notes the historical significance and official documentation of this event, contrasting it with the difficulty of precisely dating and locating modern sightings. He discusses the interpretation of this event, considering it might have been a meteor or a natural phenomenon misinterpreted due to the lack of scientific understanding at the time. He also touches upon Dominique CAUDRON's skepticism regarding historical UFO reports, arguing that past chroniclers were likely objective observers, similar to modern journalists, and that their descriptions should be taken seriously, using contemporary measures like 'a day's march' or 'arrow shot' for distance and speed.

Article: A UFO Probe at the Kremlin?

This article, by V.I. SANAROV and translated by P. SAGLIER, reports on an unusual event observed at the Kremlin in Moscow on August 5, 1977. A spherical, fiery object, about 1 meter in diameter, appeared and then divided into three smaller spheres. One of these spheres, approximately 5cm in diameter, entered the Arkhangelsk Cathedral. It moved silently at a low altitude, crossed the threshold, and exploded upon contact with the iconostasis. The object emitted a bright light, comparable to a lit filament, and caused a strong smell of ozone. Witnesses reported temporary blindness, hypertension, and severe headaches in the following days. While the phenomenon shares characteristics with UFOs, it is also compared to ball lightning. However, the article notes that the Kremlin's advanced lightning protection systems make a ball lightning explanation questionable. A historical parallel is drawn to a similar incident in the same cathedral about four hundred years prior. The article concludes that neither the UFO nor the ball lightning theory fully explains the mystery, and the investigation is ongoing.

Article: EN 1977, IL Y AVAIT-IL DES OVNI EN VACANCES SUR LE LITTORAL ARTESIEN ?

This piece recounts an observation made by a Monsieur D. from Villeneuve d'Ascq in July 1977, near the Baie de Somme. While sailing at night, he observed two white, punctual lights moving parallel to each other in a zig-zag pattern. Monsieur D., who has astronomical knowledge, stated that these lights did not belong to a conventional or known craft, dismissing the possibility of them being twin satellites due to their erratic movement. The GNEOVNI plans to investigate this observation further and is seeking additional testimonies from the region for the year 1977, noting a peculiar lack of regional cataloged observations for that year.

Book Reviews and Recommendations

The magazine includes a section titled 'UN CHOIX POUR VOS LIVRES', which reminds members of the GNEOVNI about book purchasing discounts through the "Le Furet du Nord" bookstore. It lists several specialized books available, including 'OVNI: LE PROJET "BLUE BOOK"', 'LES EXTRA TERRESTRES DANS L'HISTOIRE', 'DU NOUVEAU SUR LES S.V.', 'LE DOSSIER DES OVNI', and 'A LA RECHERCHE DES TROUS NOIRS DE L'ESPACE' by J.G. TAYLOR. A special recommendation is given to ask for 'Madame Nathalie' at the bookstore for assistance with UFO-related literature.

A review of John G. TAYLOR's book, 'A LA RECHERCHE DES TROUS NOIRS DE L'ESPACE' (In Search of Black Holes in Space), is also featured. The reviewer highlights the book's popularity and its author's background as a nuclear physicist. The review suggests that the book blends scientific inquiry with philosophical exploration, comparing TAYLOR's approach to that of authors like Carell, Bergin, and Pauwels. It posits that understanding the 'unknown' is key to comprehending the universe and that black holes might hold the secret to this mystery.

Questions and Answers Section

The 'VOS QUESTIONS... NOS REPONSES...' section addresses reader inquiries. One question asks about the hypotheses for UFO displacement. The response reiterates some of the points made in Vincent ARCHER's article, including aerodynamic evolution, force fields (anti-gravity), and reaction-based propulsion (chemical or nuclear energy). It also mentions the classification of UFOs and phenomena, referencing the work of Professor Hynek and the GEPAN classification system.

Regional UFO Catalog and Classifications

The issue includes information on the regional UFO catalog for the Nord and Pas-de-Calais departments, which compiles reports of unidentified flying objects. It also outlines the classification systems used, including the VALLEE classification (Type I-V), the GEPAN classification (Identified, Probably Identified, Non-Identified), and Hynek's classification (NL, DD, RV, CE-I, CE-II, CE-III). These classifications provide a framework for categorizing and analyzing UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of historical and contemporary UFO sightings, the exploration of scientific and speculative hypotheses for UFO phenomena, and the cataloging and classification of such events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the collection of data, the critical examination of evidence, and the consideration of a wide range of explanations, from the mundane to the extraordinary. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between historical accounts and modern scientific understanding, and in promoting ufology as a serious field of study.

This issue of 'Catalogue Regional' (Suite) is a compilation of regional UFO (OVNI) sightings primarily from France, spanning from April 1970 to March 1971. It also features an astronomical article and updates on the activities of the GNEOVNI (Groupement d'Etudes des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés) organization.

Regional Sightings Catalogue

The catalogue details numerous individual sightings, each with a date, location, classification (Type 4, Type 3, Type 5, Type 1), and a brief description.

April 1970 - March 1971 Sightings:

• April 5, 1970 (Lompret 59): A witness saw an orange object with a trail of flames moving slowly northwest.
• July 9, 1970 (Calais 62): A luminous point, twice the size of a star, was observed moving faster than a satellite but slower than a meteor, disappearing into clouds.
• July 20, 1970 (Vitry en Artois 62): Using a telescope, a witness saw a red ball, as bright as three Venus, crossing the sky from south to northwest.
• September 28, 1970 (Avesne sur Helpe 59): A bright 'star' moved slowly and disappeared in the sky.
• October 11, 1970 (Dunkerque 59): An orange ball was seen coming from the east, slowing down, moving in jumps, hovering for 5 seconds, then accelerating fantastically and disappearing.
• November 1970 (Boussois 59): Two witnesses observed a ball descend, hover for several minutes, then depart at high speed.
• February 1971 (Waziers 59): A student saw a luminous object with an apparent diameter larger than the moon, located just below it.
• February 23, 1971 (Marles 62): An orange object was observed for 3 minutes, leaving a trail of yellowish sparks, described as 'extraterrestrial'.
• March 13, 1971 (Frais Marais 59): An orange object shaped like a half-circle was observed just above the moon.
• March 1971 (Steenwerck 59): A witness observed a red ball followed by an oval trail for 20 minutes.
• April 17, 1971 (Calais 62): A red ball, the size of the moon, was seen descending towards the ground and disappearing instantly.
• May 23, 1971 (Armentieres 59): Witnesses observed a luminous orange phenomenon for 30 seconds, with small red lights below.
• May 30, 1971 (Camiers 62): A dark-colored being was seen moving in a chalk quarry with an oscillating gait, entering a saucer-shaped object which then flew away at fantastic speed.
• June 1971 (Long 62): Flashes were observed in a starry sky, followed by rectilinear movements and continuous flashes, possibly a satellite.
• June 26, 1971 (Bray Dunes 59): A red point and two fixed green points were observed moving across the sky.
• July 9, 1971 (Clary 50): A red ball whose luminosity intensified suddenly, then started, turned at a right angle, and disappeared.
• July 20, 1971 (Vitry Armois 62): A luminous ball was seen moving at moderate speed above houses, stopping suddenly, emitting a blinding flash, then departing and disappearing.
• July 25, 1971 (Between Elériot and Sangatte 62): Two witnesses saw a 'washing machine' sized object, shaped like a cone, emitting orange light, passing rapidly overhead without noise, and disappearing into the sea.
• August 1971 (Sous-le-Bois Menbaug 56): A green ball hovered motionless for 5 minutes, then moved in jumps, ascended, and disappeared.
• August 1971 (Arleux 59): An orange object was observed moving slowly and silently just above the ground. A known aircraft passed simultaneously, allowing for comparison.

Astronomical Article: "Who Doesn't Have Rings?"

This article, written by Richard BERQUE, discusses recent astronomical discoveries concerning planetary rings and a peculiar star, 55-433.

• Planetary Rings: Saturn is noted to have five rings, Jupiter one ring of 6500 km, and Uranus five rings varying in width between 3 and 100 km.
• Star 55-433: Located in the Milky Way at 10,000 light-years, this star is a puzzle for astronomers. Its spectrum shows hydrogen and helium, but it also emits radio waves with high intensity, similar to quasars. More surprisingly, its spectral analysis reveals two wavelengths corresponding to unknown chemical elements and contradictory emission lines. Some gases are moving towards the infrared edge, suggesting it's moving away from Earth due to expansion theory. However, another emission line shifts towards the ultraviolet, indicating it's approaching Earth. This leads to the conclusion that 55-433 might be simultaneously approaching and receding from Earth.

Le Triangle des Mines

This section highlights that UFOs appear more frequently in the triangle formed by the towns of Lens, Carvin, and La Basse, which are mining and rural areas. In 1973, two important Type 1-D/BE II observations were made in Hulluch and Haisne, with additional sightings in Wingle, Douvrin, and Vermelles. In August 1979, Haisne, Vendin, and Loos en Gohelle reportedly received visits from one or two UFOs. More recently, two witnesses in Loison-sous-Lens saw a strange white diamond-shaped object.

A detailed account is given of a sighting on September 30, 1979, involving a 'diamond' formed by about fifteen white lights of high intensity. The object appeared and disappeared three times, each lasting between 1 to 1.5 seconds, with 30-second intervals. The witnesses were able to observe it from their car and later from the cemetery.

Complementary information for the investigation notes that the witnesses wished to remain anonymous, the observation occurred in an urban setting under mild weather conditions, the object appeared fixed, and its height did not vary. A railway line and a 'rocade' (ring road) were nearby, as well as a small airfield. An ongoing investigation aims to determine the exact topography of the observation site and its surroundings.

INFO-GROUPE MENT

This section provides updates on the GNEOVNI group's activities:

• Meetings: The group is working to accommodate more members and the public in larger venues for future meetings, with the next one scheduled for December 9, 1979.
• Correspondents: The General Secretary praised the efficiency of local correspondents who send regional press articles, as well as articles from national and foreign press.
• Russian Information: Information from a Russian correspondent was received and translated into English by a member, Mr. SAGLIER.
• Haisnes les Bassée Investigation: An investigation into a sighting in Haisnes les Bassée is underway. Initial reports suggest it might be a helicopter, but conflicting testimonies require further investigation. An LDLN investigator is also reportedly on the case.
• Braderie de Lille: The event was successful in informing the public but less so in selling magazines. A sum was raised for the Groupement, but participation from members was low.
• Media Coverage: The GNEOVNI thanks local newspapers (Voix du Nord, Nord Eclair, Nord Matin) for publishing their press release about the event. Special thanks are given to Mr. LEPART for facilitating coverage in Voix du Nord.
• Radio Interviews: The group was well-received by representatives from France Inter (Mr. LE HUEDE) and RTL (Mr. COLLIN). Mr. COLLIN, a reader of the review and a former student of journalism, visited the stand with his wife.
• Regional Radio Coverage: The article mentions positive experiences with radio stations in the North and Pas de Calais regions. However, it criticizes FIL radio for its discourteous reception and lack of timely information.
• Future Actions: The GNEOVNI plans to use its experiences to know where to turn for important UFO events and encourages other regional groups to do the same.

MATRA Satellite

The national press has reported on Matra's selection to develop the future European satellite.

Lugon Observation (1976) Counter-Investigation

Vice-president CAUDRON will publish a counter-investigation into the Lugon observation (1976), which was previously investigated by GEPAN under Mr. POHER. This special issue is intended to highlight the alleged falsity of the initial investigation.

GNEOVNI Conferences

Audio-visual conferences organized by GNEOVNI are taking place in two departments, offering a new way to disseminate public information. Local correspondents, members, and associations interested in organizing such conferences can contact the Secretariat.

Spanish UFOs - A Case of Conscience

A report on a sighting by a Caravel crew and passengers over Valencia, Spain, has led to numerous denials. While 50 out of 109 passengers signed a document denying the observation (possibly out of fear of not being allowed to return), the remaining 51's accounts, along with radar data and a Spanish fighter jet's involvement, suggest a genuine event. The article lists various explanations offered for the phenomenon, including weather balloons, aerial elements from the US Sixth Fleet, and military radar operators, questioning the competence of those involved and drawing parallels to the confusion during WWII.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the cataloging of specific UFO sightings with detailed observations, the exploration of astronomical anomalies (like star 55-433), and the internal activities and outreach efforts of the GNEOVNI organization. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent reporting of eyewitness accounts, critical analysis of astronomical phenomena, and active engagement with the public and media to promote the study of UFOs. There is a clear emphasis on regional reporting and a commitment to investigating and disseminating information on unexplained aerial phenomena.