Recherches Ufologiques - No 14 - 3e et 4e trim 1981

Magazine Overview

This document is issue number 14 of "RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES," a publication by the "GROUPEMENT NORDISTE D'ETUDES" (GNEOVNI). The cover, dated "3 / 4 trimestre 1981," features a map of Northern France, a depiction of the Earth, and a stylized flying object, along with the magazine's title and issue number. The ISSN is listed as 0180 159, and the price is 5 F.

GNEOVNI and its Mission

Page 2 details the GNEOVNI, founded in 1965 under the French law of July 1, 1901, for non-profit associations. Its bulletin, "RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES," aims to inform the public and draw attention to unusual aerial manifestations in Northern France, potentially interpreted as unidentified aerospace phenomena. GNEOVNI is a member of the European Committee for Coordination of Ufological Research (C.E.C.R.U.) and the French Federation of Ufology (FFU). The organization holds quarterly public information meetings. Articles published are the responsibility of their authors, and reproduction is authorized with proper attribution.

Subscription information is provided: 20 F for 4 issues, payable by check or postal stamps, sent to the GNEOVNI secretariat. Bulletin N°14 is a quarterly publication, with legal deposit for the 3rd/4th quarter of 1981. The publication director is D'hondt, and the secretariat address is 879 Route de Béthune, 62136 LESTREM.

Table of Contents

Page 3 presents the table of contents, listing articles such as "Les Mots du Président" by Ph. Finet, "Editorial" by J-P. D'Hondt, "Comment se procurer les notes du GEPAN," "Réponse de Michel MONNERIE à la Lettre Ouverte de René LECONTE," "Actualite Ufologique," "Catalogue Régional (suite)," "Un Homme, Un Groupement: Le GESAG (3ème partie)," "Observations sur une Observation," "Les Petites Nouvelles Astronomiques," "La Recherche Au Niveau Supérieur (3ème partie)," "Où Trouver 'RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES'," "Un Choix Pour Vos Livres," and "A Propos De: 'Preuves Scientifiques: L'Isocélie'" by Ph. Finet.

President's Message

In his message, President Ph. Finet reflects on 1981 as a busy year for the Groupement, marked by numerous observations, including significant ones in Feignies (10 in weeks) and an OVNI observed in close-up ground-level flight for nearly an hour. He mentions remarkable conferences, such as one by J-C. Bourret at the "1er Salon de l'Insolite" in Lille, where GNEOVNI was represented. He also recalls friendly events, like the 15th-anniversary dinner honoring Monsieur Sorez and Monsieur Leconte. The President notes the difficulty in publishing the bulletin "RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES," which barely made it out for issue number 14. He expresses hope for continued encounters in 1982 and wishes everyone a happy new year.

Editorial

Jean-Pierre D'Hondt, secretary of GNEOVNI, discusses the reception of technical and informational notes from GEPAN in July. He acknowledges that while some members feel the research is stagnant, GEPAN's work provides encouragement, especially as their findings are not negative regarding the reality of the phenomenon. However, he cautions against premature conclusions. He references an article by Aimé Michel from issue N°6, which summarized a CNES report stating that witnesses observed a "flying machine of unknown nature." D'Hondt quotes GEPAN's technical note N°3, which concludes that a material phenomenon, resembling a flying machine with unknown propulsion and sustentation, is likely behind most observations.

He addresses a concern raised by members regarding GEPAN's lack of response to an article by Mr. Caudron in "INFORESPACE" about the Luçon investigation. D'Hondt states that GEPAN's technical note N°3 provides reassurance on this matter.

How to Obtain GEPAN Notes

Page 6 provides instructions on acquiring GEPAN's notes. The 7 technical notes are sold for 20 F each, and 2 information notes are free with a technical notes order. Sales are by mail order only, with checks made out to "l'agent comptable du CNES" and sent to GEPAN - CNES, 18 Avenue Edouard Belin, 31055 Toulouse Cedex.

Response from Michel Monnerie

Michel Monnerie responds to an open letter from René Leconte (issue N°13). Monnerie expresses his willingness to share his knowledge of astronomy to explain Leconte's observation. He notes that while he has sometimes cited astronomical confusions as explanations for UFOs, it doesn't mean all observations are astronomical. He directly addresses Leconte's sighting, stating, "What you saw, Dear Sir, was quite simply... an OVNI!" He emphasizes that he believes witnesses who are willing to swear to their experience. Monnerie expresses surprise that the "learned people" consulted by Leconte did not point out that what Leconte described as a "material object, vehicle... craft" was, by his own admission, a "BIG STAR."

Monnerie then suggests that the orientation of St Pierre-St Paul in Lille might have influenced Leconte's perception of the trajectory. He proposes that Leconte might have observed the Echo II satellite in the summer of 1967, which was brilliant and majestic. He questions why none of the consulted technicians verified this possibility or noted Leconte's uncertainty about the date (initially writing 1969, then crossing it out). Monnerie criticizes the specialists for not pointing out the cardinal point discrepancies in Leconte's account and for not offering the Echo II scenario, which could explain the perceived looping trajectory as an illusion caused by the object passing near fixed points like stars or a bell tower, or by the eye shifting between Echo I and Echo II.

Monnerie concludes that these specialists failed in their mission to share knowledge and that their actions, whether due to pity, laziness, pride, or calculation, amounted to despising Leconte.

The Nature of Doubt and Scientific Inquiry

Monnerie continues his response by asserting that he prefers to offer possible explanations, even if they are perceived as dismissive, rather than flatter a witness's credulity. He believes in subjecting testimonies to analysis, verification, and criticism. He argues that it is not shameful to be a victim of illusion or misinterpretation, as it is inherent to our senses. He uses the analogy of trying to recall a color or dimension from memory to illustrate the fallibility of human perception.

He clarifies that he is not forcing anyone to believe him but is offering his perspective. He states that while certainty leads to happiness, it is not absolute certainty. He cites the popular saying, "Il ne faut pas briser un rêve" (One must not break a dream), suggesting that questioning an observation, even if it leads to doubt about ufology, is part of the process.

Monnerie then discusses the nature of doubt, stating that those who doubt are unhappy as they constantly question their acquired knowledge. However, he also acknowledges that doubt can lead to masterpieces, progress, and immortal discoveries. He argues that humanity has solved problems precisely because individuals dared to question.

He emphasizes that he is not advocating for scientism but notes that great human endeavors and scientific discoveries often require an irrational engine to start. He points to successful researchers who pursued seemingly "crazy" ideas. He stresses the importance of rigor in scientific method: meticulously recording parameters, considering environmental factors, and accounting for the experimenter's errors.

Finally, he uses Galileo as an example of someone who dared to question sensory perceptions and Aristotelian explanations. Galileo's pursuit of the nature of "weight" led him to discover the materiality of air and concepts like mass and kinetic energy. His true courage, Monnerie suggests, was admitting that the "principle of weight" did not exist.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific inquiry in ufology, advocating for critical analysis of witness testimonies rather than blind acceptance. It highlights the potential for illusion and misinterpretation in observations and encourages a skeptical yet open-minded approach. The GNEOVNI positions itself as an organization dedicated to informing the public and advancing research, while acknowledging the challenges and complexities involved in studying unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance leans towards a cautious, evidence-based methodology, urging members and readers to engage with information critically and to avoid premature conclusions.

This issue of "L'ÉCHO DES OVNI" (The Echo of UFOs), volume 1, issue 13, dated January 1981, is a French publication from the "Cercle d'Études des Phénomènes Aériens." It features a prominent cover headline stating "La conspiration du silence ne pourra pas durer toujours" (The conspiracy of silence cannot last forever).

Editorial Content

The issue opens with a lengthy letter from René Leconte, addressed to "Cher Monsieur Monnerie," which forms the core of the editorial content. Leconte expresses his respect for ufologists who dare to question established ideas and explore fringe domains, but he also criticizes those who erect new dogmas and dismiss serious investigation. He recounts finding a 1947 "illustré" magazine with a story about a flying island remarkably similar to modern UFO descriptions, noting its exorbitant price prevented him from purchasing it.

Leconte clarifies that his books and attitude are not driven by a lack of findings or a desire to be an "anti-saucer" figure. Instead, his extensive research has led him to understand UFO phenomena as a socio-psychological event. He acknowledges that while 99% of cases might be explainable, the remaining 1% holds unique significance, which ufologists have not sufficiently explored. He expresses concern about politically motivated explanations and what he calls "malices cousues de fil blanc" (white-stitched tricks), citing the recent "bétonnage de Valensole" (Valensole concreting) as an example.

He notes that ufologists themselves are actively demystifying cases, sometimes to the point of sawing off the branch they are sitting on. Leconte also mentions that at a recent Montluçon show, ufologists concluded that UFOs do not fall under current methodologies.

Leconte then shifts to a more philosophical perspective, stating that to study UFOs, one must use a mathematics where "two and two do not always make four but three or five depending on what is desirable and necessary to demonstrate." Despite this, he takes ufology seriously, seeing its value in making humanity aware of its cosmic destiny and the need for space expansion. He warns against confining humanity to Earth, which he believes would lead to a slow death and a new Middle Ages.

He concludes his letter by hoping his exposition has been clear and respectful, and that it offers something in return for what he received from Monsieur Monnerie's letter. He adds a postscript clarifying that the explanation involving the Echo II satellite is not conclusive and serves only to demonstrate how easily observations can be attributed to anything when reliable data is absent.

Following Leconte's letter is a section titled "ACTUALITE UFOLOGIQUE" (Ufological News), which presents a series of UFO sightings reported in France during 1981:

• January 9, 1981: Calais - A cigar-shaped object, red and orange, the size of a telephone handset, was observed for several minutes, moving East to West then North. The same phenomenon was reported the previous day.
• June 15, 1981: Nielles-les-Ardres, Pas de Calais - Two colored luminous phenomena, one bright blue and the other emerald green, were observed amidst clouds for ten minutes.
• September 4, 1981: Arras, Pas de Calais - A lenticular object, changing shape and color, was observed for about one minute.
• October 5, 1981: Roubaix, Nord - A luminous object of elongated shape was observed at an altitude of approximately 3000 meters, moving slowly. It reportedly immobilized before departing.
• October 13, 1981: Marcq-en-Bareul - An object resembling Saturn with a ring and a luminous point was observed.
• November 6, 1981: Feignies, Maubeuge, Nord - A non-identified flying object, sometimes luminous, sometimes metallic, was observed for nearly an hour, evolving at times very close to the ground.
• November 9, 1981: Coudekerque-Branche, Nord - Dozens of students and professors observed a bizarre object moving slowly and silently at a low altitude, described as cylindrical with a grey roof, emitting a bright light.
• November 9, 1981: Lille - A luminous point, the size of a balloon, white and phosphorescent, was observed moving rapidly.

Additionally, the issue includes a "CATALOGUE REGIONAL (Suite)" (Regional Catalog - Continued) section, which lists numerous UFO sightings from 1973:

• September 4, 1973: Maing - An orange shape that grew larger, then descended, oscillated, and ascended vertically.
• September 4, 1973: Louvroil - A light of varying intensity observed for 40 minutes.
• September 10, 1973: Outreau - A bright orange ball, approximately 70 cm in diameter with large wings, hovered 3 meters above the ground before ascending vertically.
• September 10, 1973: Le Portel - A bright rose ball moving rapidly and disappearing.
• September 12, 1973: Saint-Étienne-au-Mont - A red ball with white lights on each side and a blue light in the center, flying at low altitude.
• September 16, 1973: Valenciennes - A red sphere, sometimes transforming into a mushroom shape, observed for nearly half an hour.
• September 19, 1973: Bray-Dunes - A sparkling white object, resembling two plates joined together with a luminous dome, hovered near the ground before ascending vertically.
• September 28, 1973: Boulogne-sur-Mer - A strongly lit object observed immobile at low altitude.
• September 29, 1973: Le Quesnoy - An unidentified engine emitting a red glow and a deafening noise, flying at low altitude.
• October 11, 1973: Marcq-en-Baroeul - A large yellow light moving rapidly, identified as a lenticular object.
• October 18, 1973: Maubeuge - Three "large stars" observed successively, stopping and expanding enormously before resuming their initial aspect.
• October 19, 1973: Limont-Fontaine - A dazzling blue cigar-shaped object emitting orange rays, moving slowly about 5 meters above the ground.
• November 3, 1973: Quarouble - A black disc with a luminous white dome, photographed.
• November 7, 1973: Fourmies - A disc with a luminous red dome, observed on the ground.
• November 26, 1973: Maubeuge - Unusual footprints discovered in the snow.
• December 1973: Auchel - Large white light beams resembling St. Jacques shells, from which a dark mass emerged, observed for fifteen minutes.
• December 5, 1973: Hulluch - A luminous ball, identified as a saucer-shaped object about 3 meters in diameter, departed at high speed.
• December 6, 1973: Lille - A bright ball followed by a trail, and two other similar balls moving in the opposite direction.
• December 13, 1973: Haine-les-Bassée - A brilliant object shaped like a Chinese hat with orange lights and a large flashing red light, evolving rapidly and silently.
• December 13, 1973: Guînes - A circular object with a fluorescent green base, moving at high speed without noise at an altitude of about 50 meters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a nuanced approach to ufology. René Leconte, the primary voice, advocates for serious, open-minded investigation while cautioning against uncritical acceptance of unsubstantiated claims or the imposition of dogmas. He highlights the socio-psychological aspects of UFO phenomena and their potential to broaden human perspective towards space exploration. The "Ufological News" and "Regional Catalog" sections provide raw data of sightings, serving as the empirical basis for the discussions. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging continued research, critical thinking, and a broader understanding of the implications of UFO phenomena, moving beyond mere sensationalism towards a more profound comprehension of humanity's place in the cosmos. There's an underlying theme of the importance of science coupled with conscience, morality, and spirituality, suggesting that progress in any field, including genetics or technology, is detrimental if not guided by ethical principles.

This issue of 'LE G.E.S.A.G.' (Groupement d'Etudes des Sciences d'Avant Garde) is presented as the '3ème Partie' and features an article by Ph. FINET titled '"NO COMMENT!"'. The content primarily focuses on UFO investigations, particularly in Belgium, and touches upon related scientific and technical topics.

Investigations in Belgium: Linguistic and Cultural Barriers

Ph. FINET's main article details his interviews with Jacques BONABOT, President of GESAG, regarding the challenges of conducting UFO investigations in Belgium. BONABOT explains that the country's linguistic and cultural separation significantly hinders cooperation. He notes that people are less likely to come forward with information if the investigator is from a different linguistic region (e.g., a French-speaker in Flanders or a Dutch-speaker in Wallonia). This makes information gathering difficult, requiring translators and a deep understanding of the local context. BONABOT suggests that the lack of widespread UFO reports in Belgium might be due to a self-censorship or a lack of public awareness, rather than a true absence of phenomena. He contrasts this with France, where he implies a more active, though perhaps selective, approach to information dissemination.

BONABOT also shares his perspective on the broader significance of ufology. While acknowledging it as a major scientific and philosophical issue, he does not consider it the 'number one' problem facing humanity. He points to more pressing global concerns such as pollution, depletion of natural resources, incurable diseases, and population growth. He is skeptical of 'miracle solutions' but believes that understanding UFO phenomena might offer ways to mitigate some human concerns.

Case Study: Outreau, France (September 10, 1973)

The issue includes a detailed report on a UFO sighting that occurred in Outreau, Pas de Calais, France, on September 10, 1973. The investigation was conducted by Mr. D. from the Lille section of CFRU. Several witnesses, including the H. family (military, wife, son, daughter, and son-in-law who is a gendarme), Madame G., Madame F., and Monsieur L.C., reported observing an object.

Witness Testimony (Monsieur H. family):

During the evening, the H. family saw a bright red-orange light above their garden. They observed an immobile, spherical object, approximately 70-10 cm in diameter, with four or five large wings, hovering about 3 meters above the ground. The object's wingspan was estimated at 10 meters. No heat or sound was detected. The object moved vertically and then headed north-south over the houses. The observation lasted about a minute. Notably, the family dog did not react. The next day, Monsieur H. discovered that a portion of carrots in his neighbor Monsieur L.'s garden had been cut, covering an area of approximately 3 square meters. The land had been restored by the owner before the investigation.

Other Witnesses:

Madame G., a neighbor, reported seeing a bright red sphere, about the size of a 10-cent coin held at arm's length, at an approximate altitude of 40 degrees. This object later turned white, and a light smoke seemed to follow it as it moved away slowly. She also observed a second, smaller red object moving in the same direction.

Monsieur L.C., whose home is in the north-south path of the object, was not available for an interview, but an employee stated he saw a red sphere moving in the sky around 9:15 PM that evening.

Remarks on the Outreau Case:

The report notes that the Outreau sighting was a close-range observation (25 meters). The witnesses had no prior knowledge of UFOs or experience in aeronautics or astronomy. The investigators found the witnesses to be credible, with Monsieur H.'s wife initially hesitant to report the sighting for fear of ridicule. The witnesses preferred to remain anonymous. The presence of 'wings' on the object is considered unusual for a ball lightning or plasma phenomenon. The report also mentions that Monsieur L.'s testimony about the cut carrots was crucial, and that the gendarmerie report was not available.

Astronomical News and Technical Articles

Small Astronomical News by Richard BERQUE:

This section shifts focus to aviation and UFOs. The author discusses his visit to the Paris Air Show (Le Bourget), highlighting impressive aircraft like the Macchi MJ-200 and the F-16. He notes the advanced onboard computers of modern aircraft and mentions the 'Ariane' rocket and 'Concorde'. The article raises a concern about future combat aircraft (Jaguars and Mirages 2000) equipped with TASER guided missile systems, capable of extreme precision and speed, posing a potential threat to UFOs, which are described as 'impunity violators of our aerial space'. The author references a previous article on 'The Army and UFOs'. He also discusses the definition of UFOs in the context of military intervention, suggesting the term might be improper for international air forces.

NORAD Data:

The article mentions that NORAD detects eight to nine UFOs daily, totaling approximately 3000 per year, comparable to MATRA's output.

Other Notes:

There's a brief mention of purchasing land on Mercury and a note about the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. The issue also includes a note about a discount for GNEOVNI members.

Technical Study by V. ARCHER: Superior Level Research - Microprocessors

This section delves into the technical aspects of choosing a microprocessor. The author discusses the current market saturation with various microprocessor types and emphasizes the importance of selecting one based on programmability. He recommends sticking to 'genre classics' with readily available utilities. Key factors for selection include the intended use (calculations, data transfer), speed requirements, and specific features like pointer handling. The author expresses a preference for the Z-80 microprocessor due to its balance of cost, required electronics, ease of debugging, and advanced pointer capabilities.

Anemometer and Clock Program:

Appendices include 'ANNEXE 2: Messages affichables', which provides a code for displaying messages using segments (a-g), and 'FIGURE 6: ANEMOMETRE', illustrating a wind speed measuring device. 'ANNEXE 3: Ordinogramme horloge' presents a flowchart for a clock program that advances seconds, minutes, hours, and days, with logic for resetting counters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the challenges of UFO investigation due to socio-linguistic factors, detailed case reports, and the intersection of ufology with military technology and scientific advancements. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation, acknowledging the complexities of the field, and maintaining a grounded perspective on the significance of UFO phenomena within the broader context of global issues. There's a clear emphasis on empirical evidence and logical analysis, even when discussing the more speculative aspects of ufology. The publication also aims to bridge the gap between ufological research and technical/scientific information.

This issue of "RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES" (Ufological Research), identified as issue number 7, is published by GNEOVNI and originates from France. The cover headline, "UN CHOIX POUR VOS LIVRES" (A Choice For Your Books), suggests a focus on literature related to ufology. The price for four issues is listed as 20 French Francs.

Contents and Articles

Computer Programs and Electronics

The first section details a repetitive computer program designed for a clock function, which advances a fraction-of-a-second counter and then seconds, minutes, and so on. This program is called regularly, with a special component called a "horloge" (clock) sending an impulse to the microprocessor every 60th of a second to trigger the program. The article also touches upon the use of an oscillator at 60 Hz and a photo-electric cell for detecting pulses. An anemometer project is also described, involving a disk with slots, a light source, and a photo-electric cell to count pulses and calculate wind speed using the formula V = C.k, where V is wind speed, C is the counter's value, and k is a constant.

Finding Ufological Research Publications

This section provides practical information for readers on how to obtain the "RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES" bulletin. It lists subscription details for the Secrétariat du GNEOVNI (4 issues for 20 frs). It also details various points of sale, including Le Furet du Nord in Lille (specifically in the "Esotérisme, Science Fiction, OVNI" section), a SHELL station in Fives-Lille, a bookstore in Hellemmes Lille, and a bookstore in Merville. Readers are encouraged to look for the GNEOVNI sticker on merchants' windows. The bulletin can also be obtained directly from the Secretariat, though it may take time due to postal costs. Merchants selling the publication are described as sympathizers of GNEOVNI and sometimes ufologists themselves.

Book Recommendations

The main feature of this issue is a curated selection of books for "Vos Livres" (Your Books). GNEOVNI members with a "Carte Privilège du Furet du Nord" can receive a 10% discount on books purchased through this program by contacting Philippo FINET. The article highlights several titles available at Le Furet du Nord, with recommendations from Madame Nathalie. The listed books include:

• PREUVES SCIENTIFIQUES: L'ISOCELIE by Jean Charles FUMOUX (édit. du Rocher)
• ALERTE DANS LE CIEL: LE DOSSIER DES ENLEVEMENTS by Charles GARREAU (édit. A. LEFEUVRE)
• A LA RECHERCHE DE NOS ANCETRES COSMIQUES by Maurice CHATELAIN (édit. du Rocher)
• LE RESCAPE DES CONCLUSES (ROMAN) by Patrick SENNAGE (édit. du Rocher)
• J'AI RETROUVE LA PISTE DES EXTRA-TERRESTRES by Guy TARADE (édit. A. LEFEUVRE)
• HARMONIC 695 = O.V.N.I. : AU CARREFOUR DU CIEL by B. CATHIE & P. TEMM (édit. S. MESSINGER)
• LE MYSTERE DE ROSWELL: LES NAUFRAGES DE L'ESPACE

Additionally, the article mentions that many classic ufological works and recent publications are available in the "J'ai lu" pocket book collection.

Discussion on UFO Theories: Orthoténie and Isocélie

This section delves into the theoretical frameworks used in ufology. It begins by discussing "Orthoténie," a theory developed by Aimé MICHEL, which posits that UFOs follow specific exploration plans, appearing to align in patterns. This theory gained traction in the early days of ufology (1951/52) and was supported by observations from the 1954 wave. The article notes that with the advent of advanced computers, the tedious work of analyzing these patterns became more manageable. However, American ufologists, at the forefront of computer use, began to move away from Orthoténie. The article then introduces "Isocélie," presented as a modern adaptation of Orthoténie by Jean Charles FUMOUX. Instead of tracing straight lines, Isocélie uses perfectly isosceles triangles based on two points to define observation areas. The author expresses hope that this new theory will not be overlooked, unlike some French theories that are initially launched but not fully developed by others. The article questions the practical utility of Isocélie in the age of computers, which can rapidly process coordinates and identify UFO sightings. It references the GESAG group's use of the UFOCAT computer program for UFO analysis and suggests that while Orthoténie and Isocélie were valuable in their time, the efficiency of modern computing might render them less essential for immediate UFO tracking. The author concludes that while the books by FUMOUX and TARADE are good, the practical application of these theories in the current era is debatable, suggesting it might be time to "draw a line" under them.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the practical aspects of ufology, including subscription information, points of sale for publications, and book recommendations. There's a clear effort to engage readers by providing resources and curated content. The editorial stance appears to be critical yet open-minded regarding theoretical frameworks. While acknowledging the historical significance of theories like Orthoténie and the potential of new ones like Isocélie, the publication also highlights the transformative impact of technology, particularly computers, on the field. The questioning of the current relevance of older theories in light of modern capabilities suggests a forward-looking perspective, encouraging readers to consider both historical context and technological advancements in their study of UFO phenomena.