Recherches Ufologiques - No 10 - 1980

Magazine Overview

This document is issue number 10 of the French-language magazine "Groupement Nordiste d'Etudes", titled "Recherches Ufologiques". The cover features a map of Northern France, the magazine's title, and an abstract graphic. The issue date is the first quarter of 1980, with a price of 4 French Francs. The publisher is GNEOVNI, based in France.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Jean Pierre D'HONDT, Secretary General of GNEOVNI, apologizes for the delay in publishing an anticipated special issue dedicated to an analysis of a GEPAN (Groupe d'Études et de Recherches en Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) investigation. The author of the GEPAN report, D. CAUDRON, has not yet submitted the work, which was expected in the first quarter of 1980. D'HONDT notes that the subject has already been partially covered in "Inforespace", a Belgian review, with a 25-page summary. He expresses hope that the full study will be published later.

GNEOVNI and its Mission

The GNEOVNI was founded in 1965 and operates under French law for non-profit associations. Its bulletin, "Recherches Ufologiques", aims to inform the public and draw attention to unusual phenomena in Northern France that might be unidentified celestial events. GNEOVNI is also a member of the European Committee for Coordination of Ufological Research (C.EC.RU.) and organizes quarterly public information meetings.

Catalog of Regional Sightings

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a "Catalogue Régional" (Regional Catalog) of UFO sightings, primarily from 1971 in the Nord region of France. Each entry includes the date, location, type of sighting, and a brief description:

• August 8, 1971, Lille: Six white balls seen silently in the sky.
• August 24, 1971, Chéreng: Two witnesses observed a red ball descending towards the horizon.
• September 4, 1971, Wingles: A witness saw a flat, rectangular object that emitted black smoke before flying away.
• September 5, 1971, Mons en Barcail: Several witnesses observed an orange luminous point moving in zigzags for an hour.
• September 13, 1971, Iwuy: A young man witnessed a round, bright object on the ground emitting white sparks.
• September 19, 1971, Ronchin: Two witnesses reported "fireballs" descending and burning a field, with subsequent analysis of melted metallic particles suggesting unusual materials, though other interpretations point to fireworks.
• September 30, 1971, Calais: Two witnesses observed a large, pulsating star moving slowly.
• October 5, 1971, Calais: Students saw a bright point moving high on the horizon over the sea.
• October 10, 1971, Wingles: A witness was overflown by a circular object of two colors at an altitude of approximately 100 meters.
• Late October 1971, Tourcoing: A witness saw a large star moving rapidly horizontally, then descending vertically with a flash.
• November 1971, Dunkerque: Several witnesses observed an orange disc moving slowly and rotating, which then disappeared.
• November 1971, Feignies: Several witnesses saw a bright yellow, disc-shaped object moving in a pendular motion before ascending rapidly.

Article: "DE GRANDES RECHERCHES SUR LE PETIT PEUPLE ?" (Major Research on the Little People?)

This article, referencing work by V. SANAROV from Novosibirsk, USSR, explores the connections between contemporary UFO sightings and ancient legends of fairies, witches, demons, and sprites. SANAROV analyzes the descriptions of UFOs and the "magical instruments" used by alleged occupants, comparing them to ancient legends. The author of the article notes that witnesses use vocabulary specific to their time, social class, and ethnicity, leading to variations in descriptions (e.g., flying cauldrons becoming flying carpets or magical birds). The article posits that a "people of strange beings" interacted with ancestors, enchanting them, and that humans have a need to appease superior beings. It argues that studying ancient narratives and legends is a reliable method for ufological research, potentially more so than relying on hypothetical future scientific advancements. The author also touches upon the idea that legends are distorted accounts of real historical events.

The article critiques the ufological approach that focuses solely on noting facts without extrapolation, advocating for a deeper dive into legends and ancient accounts. It mentions the author's own efforts to collect such stories for a column called "L'Etrange" with limited success. The author also references a statement from Monsieur ESTERLE, Director of GEPAN, highlighting GEPAN's interest in examining witness reactions, physiological aspects, and the historical connections between UFO observations, religious apparitions, and the creation of legends. GEPAN is reportedly compiling dossiers for study by competent research centers.

The author expresses frustration with the lack of motivation within GNEOVNI to pursue this line of research, despite the clear connection between legends and the marvelous. The article concludes by suggesting that the "Little People of Antiquity" might one day be revealed as the "Great People of our descendants."

Book Reviews and Recommendations

"UN CHOIX POUR VOS LIVRES" (A Choice for Your Books)

This section provides a list of books available to GNEOVNI members with a 10% discount from the bookstore "Le Furut du Nord". Titles include:

• "OVNI: NOUS NE SOMMES PAS SEULS" by J. von BUTTLAR
• "LE NOEUD GORDIEN OU LA FANTASTIQUE HISTOIRE DES OVNI" by TH. PINDIVIC
• "LES APPARITIONS D'HUMANOIDES" by E. ZURCHER
• "ALERTE GENERALE OVNI" by L. Stringfield
• "LES OVNI DU PASSE" by PIENS

Review: "OVNI: NOUS NE SOMMES PAS SEULS" by Johannes von BUTTLAR

This review by Ph. Finet describes the book as belonging to the classic series on UFOs, reiterating well-known cases like Kenneth Arnold and Socorro. The reviewer finds it lacking originality, largely due to its reliance on standard bibliographies. However, the review highlights that the book's beginning reveals "political undercurrents" that have hindered ufological research, particularly in both capitalist and communist countries. Von BUTTLAR reportedly gained access to secret KGB and CIA files, which he claims were previously unpublished.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine strongly advocates for a multi-faceted approach to ufology, emphasizing the importance of studying historical legends and folklore alongside contemporary sightings. The editorial stance suggests that ancient narratives may hold clues to the nature of UFO phenomena, and that a comprehensive understanding requires integrating historical, cultural, and scientific perspectives. There is a clear interest in the psychological and sociological aspects of witness accounts and the potential for political interference in ufological research. The publication also aims to foster a community of researchers through its bulletin and meetings.

This issue of "Les Petites Nouvelles Astronomiques" (The Little Astronomical News) presents a diverse range of topics, from space exploration and physics to historical UFO sightings and the organization of UFO research in France. The magazine features articles on the European 'Hermes' shuttle, challenges to Einstein's theory of relativity, marine UFO phenomena, a critical look at the 'Bermuda Triangle', and an analysis of photographic evidence of unidentified flying objects.

Space Exploration and Physics

The issue opens with an article titled "AH ! Navette, Oh, Jolie Navette !" by Richard BEROGE, discussing the European space shuttle 'Hermes'. It highlights that while the 'Spacelab' is known, Europe is developing its own shuttle, 'Hermes', with a projected first flight in the 1990s. The launch vehicle will be the Ariane 5 H, capable of carrying 10 tons of payload. The 'Hermes' is described as a hypersonic delta-winged glider designed to carry 5 astronauts for 7 days, with fully automatic piloting and guidance. The project is being studied by CNES and SNIAS.

A subsequent article, "Plus vite que la lumière ?" (Faster than light?), questions the established limits of the speed of light as proposed by Einstein. It references observations in the galaxy 3 C 120, suggesting that two celestial bodies might be traveling at speeds 5 and 8 times faster than light, respectively. However, it cautions against hasty conclusions, noting that these might be optical illusions if the objects are moving on an oblique trajectory, and that 3 C 120 could be a quasar.

Marine UFO Phenomena

Philippe BRUNET's article, "UN GRAIN DE SEL ET UN GRAIN DE SABLE !" (A Grain of Salt and a Grain of Sand!), explores the frequent reports of UFOs interacting with marine environments. It notes that many UFO sightings involve hovering over or emerging from bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. The article suggests that this focus on liquid elements is a recurring theme in UFO reports. It references historical accounts from the 19th century, including a description of a triangular object resembling a sail observed near Bermuda in 1865, and luminous wheels seen near the steamer Patna in the Persian Gulf in 1880. Other incidents include a flaming mass falling into the sea near the ship 'Innerwich' in 1885 and luminous objects emerging from the ocean near the brigantine 'Victoria' in 1945. The author also touches upon the work of Patrice GASTON, who linked UFOs to maritime disasters, but critically examines Gaston's historical knowledge.

The 'Bermuda Triangle' Debate

The article "TRIANGLE ...OU PAS TRIANGLE? Les à côtés invérifiables de l'étude" (TRIANGLE... OR NOT TRIANGLE? The unverifiable sidelines of the study) by ARCHER Vincent critically analyzes the 'Bermuda Triangle' phenomenon. It challenges the sensationalist interpretations often associated with this region, particularly those promoted by authors like Charles Berlitz. The author argues that the supposed 'mystery' is largely a construct, and that the high number of accidents and disappearances in the area can be explained by the dense air and sea traffic, as well as meteorological conditions. The article references Larry Kusche's work, which reportedly provides explanations for many of the alleged 'disappearances'. It draws a parallel with the high density of traffic accidents in the Paris suburbs, suggesting that a concentration of activity can create an illusion of mystery.

Photographic Analysis and UFO Research Groups

Another section, "RAPPORT EXPLICATIF SUR UNE PHOTO D'UN PRESUME OBJET VOLANT NON IDENTIFIE" (Explanatory Report on a Photo of a Presumed Unidentified Flying Object), by ARCHER Willy, analyzes photographs presented by Jean-Claude BOURRET. The report concludes that the object in the photographs is not an extraterrestrial craft but rather a small, close-proximity object, possibly a camping plate or hat, thrown into the field of view of the camera. The analysis is based on comparing two photographs taken in quick succession, noting the apparent movement of the object and the vegetation.

The final major section, "LES GROUPES UFO EN FRANCE" (UFO Groups in France), provides a survey of UFO research organizations across France. It highlights the importance of regional private groups in gathering information and contrasts their effectiveness with the limited coverage of some national organizations. The article maps the distribution of these groups, identifying areas with strong coverage and significant gaps. It calls for readers to report any known local groups in underserved departments or to consider forming new ones, emphasizing the need for better organization and cooperation among investigators.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained sightings and phenomena, it tends to favor rational explanations and scientific inquiry over sensationalism. The articles on the 'Hermes' shuttle and the speed of light demonstrate an interest in cutting-edge science and space exploration. The critical examination of the 'Bermuda Triangle' and the photographic analysis suggest a skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The focus on organizing UFO research indicates a desire for more rigorous and systematic investigation within the field. The overall stance appears to be one of open-mindedness tempered with a strong emphasis on evidence-based reasoning and debunking pseudoscientific claims.

This issue of INFO-GROUPEMENT, dated 1979, focuses on the intersection of ufology, religion, and scientific investigation. It details the technical design of a proposed UFO detection station, discusses the perceived conflict and potential synthesis between ufology and religious beliefs, and presents several UFO sighting reports.

Technical Design of a UFO Detection Station

The magazine outlines the conceptual design for a UFO detection station, emphasizing modularity and the use of a 'Bus' system for data communication. The control panel ('Pupitre de Contrôle') is divided into three main functions: 'Lecture de données' (Data Reading), 'Enregistrement' (Recording), and 'Contrôle' (Control), all connected via data, address, and command buses. The station would feature a central computer and a 'METEO STATION' equipped with various sensors. These include meteorological instruments such as a barometer, thermometer, hygrometer, anemometer, and wind vane, as well as specialized UFO detection equipment. The latter comprises a magnetic detector, a Geiger counter for radioactivity, a gravimeter, a photo-electric sensor with a spectrometer for nocturnal detection, and an ionization sensor. These sensors are to be integrated using a 'memory projection' technique, where each sensor acts as a memory address accessible by the central unit. A clock is included for timekeeping and date recording. The station would also incorporate a paper tape punch for data logging and potentially a printer for results.

The article further breaks down the proposed station into series of components, suggesting a phased approach to construction. The first series includes the central computer, bus card, RAM, and the control panel. The second series involves a paper tape punch and a digital clock. Subsequent series detail the individual sensors: a magnetic detector, Geiger counter, photoelectric cell, digitizer/multiplexer, gravimeter, ionization sensor, spectrometer, barometer, thermometer, wind vane, anemometer, and hygrometer. Optional components like a punched tape reader and a mini-printer are also mentioned.

Ufology and Religion

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the relationship between ufology and religion, particularly within the context of Catholicism. The author initially believed ufology and religion to be incompatible, as ufology challenges established religious myths and interpretations of historical events. The article recounts an invitation to debate ufology with students at Collège Ste ANNE de Somain, who were tasked with creating a comic strip about UFOs. The author notes the students' desire to understand the subject before discussing it, leading to discussions that oscillated between 'philosophy' (the love of truth) and 'science'.

The author describes being warmly welcomed by the staff, including a professor named Madame POLLET and a surprisingly open-minded director. Despite initial apprehension about facing potential 'fauves' (a metaphor for skeptical individuals), the author found the students to be highly engaged and well-prepared, having thoroughly researched the subject. The students' questions were precise and often touched upon the core tenets of their religious education, posing a challenge to their worldview. However, the students never directly questioned the existence of UFOs in relation to their faith, much to the author's relief.

During lunch, the author engaged with professors who shared their own potential UFO observations. The author cautiously shared their personal opinion on UFO doctrines and the potential intervention of extraterrestrials in the Old Testament. Surprisingly, this was met with a response of 'Discussable but acceptable.' The author was particularly struck by a dialogue read during Holy Week, which depicted God in a more humanized, less divine manner, suggesting a potential parallel with the concept of 'ufonautes' or extraterrestrial visitors interacting with humanity. The author reflects on the idea that 'Dragons evolve, UFOs evolve, and Religion too.'

Later, the author recounts a discussion with adolescents who were fans of the cartoon 'Goldorak' but also seriously questioned the rapid acceleration capabilities of UFOs and expressed concern about adult attitudes towards UFOs. The author felt a strong connection with these young people, noting their shared 'question' but differing 'emitters and receivers.' The author also expresses concern about the rapid evolution of thought within the Catholic community compared to secular ideologies, suggesting a potential 'glass wall' separating different ways of thinking.

UFO Sighting Reports

Several UFO sighting reports are detailed:

• Mediterranean Sea (1979): Personnel aboard a French Navy escort observed three large, red, stationary luminous spheres at low altitude for about fifteen minutes. The onboard radar detected nothing.
• Tours Air Base (1967): A UFO appeared on radar at the Tours military air base, becoming stationary. The radar signature was described as 2cm. A fighter jet was scrambled, and the pilot was guided by the control tower. As the pilot was about to make visual contact, the UFO disappeared simultaneously from both the aircraft's and the control tower's radar screens, leaving the pilot and radar operator perplexed.
• Loison-sous-Lens (September/October 1979): Madame C... reported a second UFO sighting. Her younger brother alerted her to a circular, white UFO hovering immobile in the sky. Initially hesitant due to a previous unsettling experience, she eventually observed the object. It then 'tilted' and took the form of a saucer, remaining white with intermittent flashes, perfectly still. After about fifteen minutes, the saucer-shaped object seemed to diminish in volume and ascended rapidly before disappearing.

Complementary details for the Loison-sous-Lens case include that both witnesses requested anonymity. The observation occurred in an urban area bordering the countryside, under clear, cool, dry, and windless atmospheric conditions. The topography was the same as for Madame C...'s first observation. No other testimonies had been reported at the time of writing, and an in-depth investigation was underway.

Group Activities and Announcements

The 'INFO-GROUPEMENT' section announces a new meeting location for the group at 'Local Collectif de la Résidence CORAIL' in Lille. It also addresses a 'petite annonce' in regional newspapers about learning about UFOs, clarifying that it does not originate from a recognized group. The issue highlights a notable FR3 broadcast from November 25, 1979, featuring Messrs. BJURRET, KOHLER, MULLER, and GOUPIL, which was considered a significant UFO-related program of the year.

The GNEOVNI group offers its services for conferences and debates on ufology to various organizations, youth groups, and educational institutions. The group expresses hope that repeated absences of members in 1979 will not occur in 1980, emphasizing the importance of timely attendance at announced meetings. The issue also lists the GNEOVNI investigators by region and announces the bureau for 1980, with FINET as President, DERYCKER as Vice President, VERBRUGGE as General Secretary, D'HONDT as Deputy Secretary, LECONTE as Treasurer, and BERQUE as Librarian.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and investigative approach to ufology, encouraging member participation through article submissions and suggestions. There's a clear emphasis on data collection, analysis, and the establishment of organized research efforts, such as the proposed 'Groupe d'Enquêteurs du GNEOVNI.' The publication also grapples with the philosophical and societal implications of UFO phenomena, particularly their potential impact on established belief systems like religion. The theme of communication, both in terms of technological data transfer and interpersonal exchange of ideas, is also recurrent. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging rigorous investigation while acknowledging the profound questions UFOs raise about human understanding and belief.

This document is a single page from a publication titled "A L'OUEST, RIEN BE NOUVEAU ?" (To the West, Nothing New?). The content focuses on a UFO sighting reported in the region of Bretagne, France, and discusses the implications and inconsistencies surrounding such observations, particularly concerning radar detection.

UFO Sighting in Bretagne

A correspondent from Bretagne shared an account of a UFO sighting that appeared in the newspaper "Le Télégramme." The incident involved an unidentified object observed first near Pouldergat and then over the Penfeld leisure park in Brest. The sighting occurred around 3:15 AM and was witnessed by an electrician from Brest and his wife. They described the object as an immobile, orange, half-circle shape with a flat lid, emitting black smoke. From their observation point, approximately a hundred meters away, they estimated the object to be about one meter in size.

Radar Response and Official Statements

The article notes that when questioned, the radar technicians in Bretagne stated they had detected nothing unusual during the night of the sighting (Sunday, April 6th to Monday, April 7th). The author characterizes this response as "banal and customary." However, a significant detail is added: the duty officer mentioned that it had "already happened that airplane pilots report phenomena, UFO genre." This statement leads the author to question the existence of such phenomena and highlights the rarity of published observations from radar operators, suggesting this particular case was noteworthy.

Geographical Discrepancies in UFO Sightings and Radar Detection

The author then draws a parallel to past UFO sightings in Eastern France, where radars in Strasbourg and Bâle, situated along the supposed flight path of UFOs, reportedly registered nothing. This leads to a critical question: "Strange that UFOs seem to be particularly frequent in the north of France and the radars of Cambraisis and Somme never 'see' them?" The article poses a question to the SOBEPS (Société d'Études des Phénomènes Spatio-Temporals) regarding Belgian radars.

Concluding Remarks

The author thanks the correspondent for her contribution and concludes with a lighthearted jab at ufologists who subscribe to "psychosociological UFO fantasies." The piece ends by humorously asserting that Breton UFOs are definitely not shaped like "Breton cakes."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the reporting and analysis of a specific UFO sighting, emphasizing the discrepancy between eyewitness accounts and official radar data. The editorial stance appears skeptical of conventional explanations for UFOs and critical of the perceived lack of transparency or effectiveness of radar systems in detecting these phenomena. There's a subtle undercurrent of questioning official narratives and highlighting unusual aspects of UFO reports. The author also uses humor to engage with the topic and to differentiate their perspective from more extreme ufological theories.