UFO Informations - No 05 - nov-dec 1974

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO INFORMATIONS
Issue: N° 5
Date: Novembre-Décembre 1974
Publisher: Association des Amis de Marc THIROUIN
Country: France
Language: French
Price: 2,50 F.

This issue of UFO INFORMATIONS is the fifth bimestrial bulletin from the Association des Amis de Marc THIROUIN, also known as the Commission d'Enquêtes sur les O.V.N.I. (O.V.N.I. being the French acronym for UFOs). The cover features a stylized illustration of a UFO and the prominent word "SPECIMEN", indicating it might be a sample copy or a special designation.

Table of Contents

The table of contents outlines the various sections and articles within the bulletin:

1. Contacts: Information regarding renewals and subscriptions.
2. Communiqué commun A.D.E.P.S. - A.A.M.T.: A joint statement from two UFO research organizations.
3. Avant propos détection: An introduction to detection methods.
4. Dossier technique : le détecteur magnétique: A technical dossier on magnetic detectors.
5. Dossier observations: A section for UFO sighting reports.
6. Bibliothèque: A listing of resources available in the library.
7. La propulsion magnétique des soucoupes volantes: An article on the magnetic propulsion of flying saucers.
8. La crédulité des incrédules: Discussing the credulity of skeptics.
9. Les soucoupes volantes face à l'opinion avec J.C. COURRET et Jean GOUPIL: An examination of flying saucers in relation to public opinion.

An inspirational quote from William James (1895) is included: "Our science is but a drop of water, our ignorance an ocean. The only certainty existing: the world of our physical knowledge is enveloped in another infinitely vaster world, of which we cannot presently form any positive idea."

Subscription information is provided, with an annual subscription at 15.00 F. and a support subscription at 30.00 F. Correspondence should be directed to the Association des Amis de Marc THIROUIN at 29, rue Berthelot, 25 000 VALENCE.

PREAMBLE

The "PREAMBLE" section reflects on the year 1974 and looks forward to 1975. It states that 1974 was a positive year for the association and its bulletin, despite the significant work involved. The team expresses hope that they have succeeded in their endeavor and encourages readers to provide feedback for improvement. The section also extends best wishes for the New Year from the Bureau and hopes for the continued development and success of the Association des Amis de Marc Thirouin.

I - CONTACTS

This section details how members can renew their membership or subscribe to the bulletin for 1975. It clarifies that membership renewal includes the bulletin subscription. Members are asked to return forms by January 31, 1975, and to include two identity photos for membership renewals.

It also reports on the General Assembly held on October 13, 1974, in Valence. The assembly, attended by about thirty members, reviewed the past year's activities. These included 15 debate-exposés in the Drôme-Ardèche region, an exhibition at the Mammoth Commercial Center, 30 investigations conducted by members, the bimestrial bulletin, and correspondence with French and foreign ufological research organizations. A financial report was presented, and the election of the 1975 Administrative Council took place. The council, composed of 6 participants and 6 bureau members, reviewed the provisional budget and future activities, which include expanding debate-exposés to new departments, organizing observation vigils and joint meetings, extending the detection network with A.D.E.P.S. technical support, intensifying inter-association liaisons, and publishing information flashes. The General Assembly concluded with a Q&A session and suggestions from members. A full report of this meeting will be published in a January 1975 "flash Association."

Photographs from the General Assembly are included, showing the Bureau members and attendees. Another photo captures a conference in Valence on February 13, 1974, titled "Les Soucoupes Volantes face à l'opinion" (Flying Saucers in the Face of Public Opinion), featuring members of the Bureau, J. GOUFIL, J.C. BOURRET, and M. DIDIER from the Tribune de Montélimar.

3 - Notre nouvel exposé débat

This section announces a new audio-visual debate presentation titled "O.V.N.I. - Affaire Sérieuse" (UFOs - A Serious Matter). The presentation consists of a one-hour audio-visual projection with musical background and 250 slides, divided into four parts: the solar system/galaxy, the history of UFO phenomena, observed UFO shapes and effects, and landings/humanoids. This is followed by a two-hour debate. Members interested in hosting this presentation in their town are asked to provide at least one month's notice, as only two public presentations will be held per month. Two options are available: the association can present it within the framework of M.J.C. cultural evenings (where the member handles initial contacts), or the association can organize it by renting a venue.

Upcoming meetings are scheduled for January in Portes-les-Valences and Aubenas, and in February in Montélimar and Romans, though dates are not yet finalized.

4 - Interruption du courrier

Due to a postal interruption, members did not receive the first "flash-Association" dedicated to the visit of J.C. BOJRRET and J. GOUFIL. An apology is extended for this.

5 - Voeux de bienvenue

Best wishes are extended to Mme BONNAVENTURE for joining the 1975 bureau and to MM. ANTON, DERARD, DALICIEUX, FIGUET, PERALDO, and Melle CORNU, elected to the 1975 Administrative Council.

2 - COMMUNIQUE COMMUN A.D.EP.S. - A.A.M.T.

This communiqué details the growing contacts between French and foreign UFO groups, emphasizing correspondence and documentation exchange. It highlights the priority of face-to-face meetings for advancing UFO research. An example of successful collaboration is the experience at MORMOIRON in Vaucluse on October 5-6, 1974, between the Association des Amis de Marc THIROUIN (A.A.M.T.) and the Association pour la Détection et l'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (A.D.E.P.S.). This meeting resulted in agreements deemed positive and conclusive.

Participants from A.A.M.T. included MM. DUQUESNOY (President) and BONNAVENTURE (Secretary). From A.D.E.P.S., participants were MM. PALA (Deputy Secretary), ADAGNALE, VANDINI, and BEDET (who is also a local delegate for Bouches-du-Rhône).

The communiqué outlines the results of their discussions:

1. Vaucluse Coverage: Following a request from M. LAGARDE, the A.A.M.T. and A.D.E.P.S. have divided responsibilities for the Vaucluse department. A.A.M.T. will cover the northern part (above Avignon), and A.D.E.P.S. will cover the southern part (below Avignon), pending the formation of a departmental group.
2. Information Exchange: Both groups will share regional information, such as local newspaper clippings about sightings and other ufological data, with each other and with L.D.L.N.

3 - Nuits d'observations

Monthly observation vigils will be organized in various territories, with members being notified through a pre-established program in the bulletin or individual information sheets.

4 - Bulletins

Currently, both organizations publish their own bulletins: A.A.M.T. with 400 bi-monthly copies and A.D.E.P.S. with 500 quarterly copies. These bulletins serve as information dissemination organs and complement each other. The possibility of a joint bulletin was considered but poses significant material challenges.

5 - Réseau de détection

As mentioned in A.D.E.P.S. bulletin No. 1, the detection network's organization is flexible and evolving. The A.D.E.P.S. network is expanding into the Drôme-Ardèche-Vaucluse departments. Detection posts will be identified by 5-digit numbers, where the first two digits indicate the department and the last three indicate the order of installation. For example, "06 OOI" signifies the first detector in Alpes Maritimes, and "26 OOI" signifies the first detector in Drôme. Geographic coordinates will be provided using Lambert projection. A map of the network situation will be available for purchase from A.D.E.P.S.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue emphasizes collaboration between UFO research organizations, the importance of information exchange, and the ongoing efforts in UFO detection and investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging member participation and feedback. There is a clear focus on organizing activities, sharing data, and expanding the reach of their research efforts across different regions of France.

This issue of L'ÉCLAIR, identified as issue number 7, is primarily focused on the topic of magnetic detection related to UFO phenomena. It details technical aspects, observational reports, and organizational collaborations within the field of ufology in France.

Collaboration and Organization

The magazine highlights a collaboration between two organizations: A.A.M.T. and A.D.E.P.S. (Association pour la Détection et l'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux), which is affiliated with Lumières dans la Nuit. Further details regarding the acquisition and role of detectors will be provided to A.A.M.T. members via the bulletin. The exploitation of detection results will be handled by A.D.E.P.S. Meetings for members of both groups are planned according to a defined calendar, offering an opportunity for direct exchange of ideas on UFO research. The editorial expresses conviction that this close collaboration will advance ufological research.

Magnetic Detection Dossier

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a technical dossier on magnetic detection, presented in a simplified manner for accessibility. It explains the concepts of direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC), including frequency and period. The dossier then details the components of a magnetic detection circuit, such as transformers, diodes, capacitors, resistors, photocells, and thyristors. Two specific magnetic detector models are described: the KI and the KI BP.

Detector KI

The KI detector operates on 220V mains power and is designed for permanent installation. It features a mechanism where a palette attached to a small magnet pivots. This palette can block a light beam directed at a photocell. Variations in the local magnetic field cause the magnet to deviate, moving the palette and allowing light to reach the photocell. This triggers a current impulse to the thyristor's gate, making it conductive when the mains voltage is in the positive alternation, which then activates a buzzer. The detector returns to standby when the palette fully screens the photocell.

Detector KI BP

The KI BP detector also operates on 220V mains power but can also be powered by batteries (2 x 4.5V or a 6V car/motorcycle battery), providing greater autonomy for observation nights. Its triggering principle is similar to the KI, involving the photocell being illuminated, triggering the thyristor and activating a buzzer. It returns to standby when the palette stabilizes and screens the photocell.

The KI detector is priced at 100 French Francs, and the KI BP at 110 French Francs.

UFO Observation Reports

The issue includes a substantial "Dossier Observations" section, detailing numerous UFO sightings reported in France during 1974:

• May 16, 1974 - PLANOLAS, Spain: Mme T. observed a saucer-shaped object with orange and blue lights that landed in a wood, reportedly causing small fires.
• August 4, 1974 - CASTELNAUDARY, France: M. G. saw a luminous ball of changing colors (green, blue, orange) that passed overhead. The next day, fig trees in its path had lost their leaves.
• August 10, 1974 - SETE, France: An anonymous witness reported a classic saucer-shaped object. Later, an object was seen turning and projecting colors.
• August 11, 1974 - SALLES LA SOURCE, France: Four witnesses reported an oval, gray object moving slowly at low altitude, disappearing on the horizon.
• August 12, 1974 - PONT-EN-ROYANS, France: M. A. heard a noise and saw a white, vibrating ball with a halo stabilize above the village clock tower for 10-15 minutes.
• August 12, 1974 - ST-MICHEL-ST-GEOIRS, France: M. D. observed a luminous, rugby ball-shaped object moving silently, which stabilized and ejected two 'rockets' before disappearing.
• August 16, 1974 - ROMANS, France: M. H. saw a luminous, oviform object moving South to North, which stabilized and then resumed its course.
• August 16, 1974 - Jura, France: Mme S. and her son witnessed 6 luminous ball-shaped points. A similar observation was made in ST-CLAUDE.
• September 7, 1974 - PIZANCON, France: Three observers reported a bright white point moving East-West, followed by others, forming a formation before ascending and moving away at high speed.
• September 9, 1974 - POITIERS, France: Two young men saw a red rectangular object that turned yellow in the center.
• September 29, 1974 - NANTES, France: An object described as a dark, red-orange, rotating light, shaped like an overturned plate, landed in a park. It emitted white smoke, and traces were found on the ground.
• October 10, 1974 - FONTAINES/SAONE, France: A couple observed a luminous object that illuminated the sky. A ball-shaped object with flames emanating from nozzles moved at 400m altitude, increased in volume, and disappeared.
• October 20, 1974 - MONTMIRAIL, France: An enormous petal-shaped craft was seen flying at low altitude and high speed.

Books and Resources

The "Bibliothèque" section lists recent books related to UFOs and related phenomena:

• "En quête des humanoïdes" by Charles BOWEN (French translation of "The Humanoids").
• "La Planète inconnue" by Peter KOLOSIMO.
• "Les juifs de l'espace" by Marc DEM, suggesting extraterrestrial origin for humans.
• "Chronique des mondes parallèles" by Guy TARADE, exploring parallel worlds and ancient civilizations.
• "Le livre qui dit la vérité" by Claude VORILION, which is recommended against as "naive and unserious."
• "Le roman de la matière" by Albert DUCROCQ, discussing the universe and its evolution.
• "Le monde fabuleux des grandes énigmes" by Erich Von DANIKEN.
• "Les clés de la Cinquième dimension" by André Jean BONELLI, available from Editions Hélios in Canada.

Future Publications and Contact

Readers interested in acquiring detection equipment are directed to Monsieur CESARI in JUAN-LES-PINS. Future owners of detection posts will receive quarterly report forms. The next bulletin will cover detection memorization possibilities. The issue is signed by R. BONNAVENTURE.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the technical aspects of UFO detection, specifically magnetic detection, and the reporting of numerous UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of active engagement and promotion of ufological research, emphasizing collaboration between organizations and the dissemination of information through bulletins and technical dossiers. There is a clear effort to demystify the technology and encourage participation in data collection.

This issue of La Recherche magazine, dated October 1974, delves into a variety of scientific and pseudoscientific topics, with a particular focus on UFOs and the history of scientific skepticism. The cover highlights "Science et science fiction" and lists several periodicals, including "Sciences et Avenir," "Science et Vie," "La Recherche," "Paris-Match," "XXème siècle Larousse," and "Le Charivari," with their respective issue numbers and publication dates.

L'énigme des Andes

The issue opens with a reference to Robert CHARROUX's book "L'énigme des Andes," published by Editions Robert Laffont. It mentions 20,000 stones from Peru, dating back 40,000 years, which allegedly depict extraordinary scenes such as heart and brain transplants, and the use of telescopes, magnifying glasses, and stethoscopes.

Les Périodiques

This section provides a summary of recent articles from various magazines:

• Sciences et Avenir (September 1974, No. 331): Features articles on neutral currents and naked-eye satellites by Albert Ducrocq.
• Sciences et Avenir (October 1974, No. 332): Discusses water in comets and the discovery of planet Mercury.
• Sciences et Avenir (November 1974, No. 333): Covers the logic of the universe and its effects by Albert Ducrocq, and galaxies by Pierre Kolher.
• Science et Vie (November 1974, No. 686): Articles include humanity's colonization of stars, unification of atoms and electricity by neutral currents, Planck's constant observed, and the existence of an invulnerable spy plane for 10 years.
• Science et Vie (October 1974, No. 685): Features articles on stellar tremors and Russian progress in MHD (Magnetohydrodynamics).
• La Recherche (October 1974, No. 49): Titled "Science et science fiction."
• Paris-Match (October 1974, No. 1328): Features Uri Geller recounting his ability to bend steel remotely.
• XXème siècle Larousse (November 1974, No. 10): Covers astronautics and astronomy.
• Le Charivari (No. 20): Discusses magic and criminality.
• Paris-Match (November 1974, No. 1331): Explores whether Uri Geller is real or fake.

Tribune Ouverte

This section addresses the challenges of ufological research, stating that the goal is not to provide irrefutable answers but to offer elements for analysis. It acknowledges the difficulty of the subject, which is still in the observational stage. The authors believe it is honest and logical to present works that, without proselytism or mysticism, can open doors to understanding this mysterious phenomenon. They offer a free written piece by a correspondent, M. André VILLETTE, titled "La vérité sur les Soucoupes Volantes" ("The Truth about Flying Saucers"). The author of this work attempts a synthesis of the UFO phenomenon, which he calls an "irritating problem of flying saucers." The conclusion suggests a supernatural or divine origin for UFOs.

La Propulsion Magnétique des Soucoupes Volantes

This article explores the concept of magnetic propulsion for UFOs. It highlights the immense magnetic fields associated with UFOs, citing an example of a UFO in Antarctica radiating 100 million gauss. This field strength is compared to technological capabilities, noting it can be thousands of times greater than our best electromagnets. The article discusses how a magnetic field can behave like a gas under pressure, and how this principle could be used for magnetic levitation. It presents experimental results showing that materials like graphite and water interact with magnetic fields, suggesting a possible reason for UFOs favoring humid areas. A key challenge identified is the decrease in lifting force with altitude, but the article notes that physicists are researching new particles whose magnetic fields decay more slowly.

The article also mentions a promising new propulsion system to be tested in the US in 1975, which could allow a test vehicle to hover 500 km/h above the ground. This technology, developed by Drs. James POWELL and Robert DANBY of BROOKHAVEN, is said to resolve over 50 fundamental questions about UFOs.

Yvan BOZZONETTI, a member of the Association, has written an ouvrage titled "La propulsion des soucoupes volantes - Enigme résolue?" which addresses questions such as the luminosity of UFOs, their ability to hover silently, and their noiseless acceleration. This work is available by subscription for 28.00 F.

N.D.L.R. (Note of the Editor)

This section provides definitions for scientific units:

1. Gauss: A sub-multiple of Tesla, the SI unit for magnetic field strength. 1 Tesla = 10^4 Gauss.
2. Tesla: The unit of uniform magnetic induction. When uniformly distributed over a 1 m² surface, it produces a magnetic flux of 1 Weber through that surface.
3. Mega (M): A notation for a multiple of 10, specifically 10^6.
4. KWh (Kilowatt-hour): Equal to 10³ Wh (Watt-hour). A Watt-hour is the unit of energy produced or consumed at a rate of 1 joule per second for one hour.
5. KT (Kilotonne): Equal to 10³ tonnes.
6. Newton: The unit of force that imparts an acceleration of 1 meter per second squared to a mass of 1 kilogram. The Earth's gravitational field (g) is approximately 9.81 m/s².

L'incrédulité des Incrédules

This section, attributed to Bram STOKER, discusses the historical tendency of science to reject new ideas that challenge established beliefs. It presents numerous examples of scientists and discoveries that were initially met with hostility, ridicule, or disbelief:

• Early Inventions: The telephone, radioscopy, bacteriology, and aviation were all met with skepticism when first proposed.
• Galileo: Faced persecution for his heliocentric model.
• Islamic Scholar (1956): Declared the Earth does not rotate around the sun.
• Simon NEWCOMB: Demonstrated that heavier-than-air flight was impossible, only to be proven wrong by bicycle repairmen.
• RUTHERFORD and MILLIKAN: Believed nuclear energy could not be exploited.
• LAVOISIER: Rejected meteorites as divine gifts.
• Anesthesia and Vaccination: Faced significant opposition.
• R. BACON: Imprisoned for his ideas on gunpowder.
• Bernard PALISSY: Faced hostility for his scientific work.
• AVOGADRO-AMPERE Hypothesis: Initially met with skepticism, it took over 50 years for Cannizzaro to establish atomic theory.
• GAUDIN's Atomic Theory: His work on the synthesis of water was overlooked.
• B. FRANKLIN: His paper on lightning rods was met with ridicule.
• YOUNG's Experiments: On light waves were met with jeers.
• Davy's Idea of Gas Lighting: Was dismissed.
• Wave vs. Particle Theory of Light: Supporters were hostile to each other.
• FARADAY: Warned about the Suez isthmus project, which was dismissed.
• LAUME: Criticized LAVOISIER's elemental theories.
• GIRARD: Demonstrated the impossibility of bringing water to upper floors of houses.
• SILBERMANN: His invention of electroplating was dismissed by his superior.
• WESTINGHOUSE: His air brake invention was rejected by Vanderbilt.
• MENDEL's Laws: Were largely ignored during his lifetime.

The author concludes that "rational" people's incredulity is often a form of sterile credulity. True scientific inquiry involves studying phenomena without preconceived notions, even if it means working with what initially appears false. The universe operates independently of human belief.

Les Soucoupes Volantes Face à l'Opinion Dromoise

This article reports on contacts made with Jean-Claude BOURRET and Jean GOUPIL regarding their book "La Nouvelle Vague des Soucoupes Volantes." Two conferences were held in ST-PAUL-3-CHATEAUX and VALINCE, France. The events involved discussions with local economic chambers and the Association. During these events, BOURRET presented the serious reasons for his interest in the UFO phenomenon, emphasizing its complexity and the need for public awareness. He cited his interviews with the former Minister of Armies, Robert GALEY, and his direct contact with witnesses. GOUPIL presented the technical aspects of the phenomenon, proposing a hypothesis of repulsive magnetic fields for UFO propulsion and discussing secondary effects like hovering and silent movement. A witness shared their personal encounter with extraterrestrials.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, from historical scientific rejections to contemporary UFO research. There's a clear interest in presenting alternative theories and historical accounts that highlight the limitations of established scientific paradigms. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the examination of evidence and theories that might be considered fringe by mainstream science, while also acknowledging the importance of rigorous analysis and the historical context of scientific discovery and skepticism. The "Tribune Ouverte" section underscores a commitment to fostering discussion and providing a platform for research that may not yet have mainstream acceptance.

This issue of 'l'oscar' from 1974 focuses on a UFO conference and related activities. It includes reports on lectures, a graph of UFO observations, and details about the publishing association.

Conference Report

The issue details events from a conference, starting with a book signing at the Lycée bookstore at 3 PM, where members questioned a France Inter reporter and Jean Goupil. Later that afternoon, another signing took place in Valence.

At 9 PM, J.C. Bourret and J. Goupil addressed an audience of 400 people with a clear and well-supported presentation on the UFO phenomenon, including 50 commented slides. Following a short intermission and a 15-second film, the audience was invited to ask questions.

During the debate, J.C. Bourret and J. Goupil aimed to demystify 'cranks' and expressed skepticism about humanitarian messages purportedly left by extraterrestrials. However, they acknowledged that the diversity of observed humanoids might be intentional, designed to mislead interpretations of the phenomenon.

They also discussed the Condon Commission and the interest of current governments in the subject. However, they lamented the lack of any budget allocated to UFO research being made available to official organizations like CNES.

The organizers expressed regret at the departure of J.C. Courret (likely a typo for Bourret) and J. Goupil, hoping for their return to the region soon. They also apologized for mail disruptions that prevented timely notification to all members.

Despite these issues, the association is working to organize a new series of conferences with J.C. Bourret during 1975. The issue concludes by thanking the members who helped organize the event and the journalists who informed the public in the Drôme and Ardèche regions.

Observation Graph

Page 2 features a graph titled 'FRANCE METROPOLITAINE DOCUMENTATION LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT GRAPHIQUE DES OBSERVATIONS 1973-1974'. The data is stated as being 'Situation arrêtée le 19 Mai 1974' (Situation as of May 19, 1974).

The graph shows monthly UFO observations from January 1973 to May 1974. Key data points include:

• 1973: January (8), February (8), March (12), April (4), May (13), June (15), July (20), August (18), September (34), October (31), November (28), December (69).
• 1974: January (99), February (129), March (83), April (31), May (31).

The peak in observations occurred in February 1974 with 129 reported incidents.

Association Information

Page 3 provides details about the 'Association déclarée conformément à la Loi du Ier Juillet 190I' (Association registered in accordance with the Law of July 1, 1901), identified as the 'Délégation régionale de Lumières dans la Nuit' (Regional Delegation of Lights in the Night).

It lists the composition of the Bureau for the year 1975:

• Président: David DUQUESNOY
• Vice-Président: Marc REVEILLARD
• Secrétaire-Général: Raymond BONNAVENTURE
• Secrétaire-adjoint: Noël BLACHER
• Trésorière: Chantal BONNAVENTURE
• Trésorier-adjoint: Claude PEYRENT
• Membre d'honneur: André CHALOIN

Further down, it states:

• 'Imprimé en France - Directeur de la Publication : R. BONNAVENTURE'
• 'Imprimé par l'Association sur duplicateur, 29, rue Berthelot à Valence'
• 'Dépôt légal : 4ème trimestre 1974' (Legal Deposit: 4th quarter 1974)

Finally, it identifies the publisher as 'ASSOCIATION DES AMIS DE MARC THIROUIN', located at 29, rue Berthelot, 26000 VALENCE.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO phenomena, public lectures and conferences, and the reporting of UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to demystify claims while acknowledging the complexity of the subject. There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation and a concern over the lack of official support and funding for UFO research in France. The association also seems dedicated to informing the public and organizing events for its members.