UFO Informations - No 34 - 4e trim 1981

Magazine Overview

This document is issue number 34 of the French magazine U.F.O.-INFORMATIONS, published by the Association des Amis de Marc Thirouin and the Commission d'Enquête sur les O.V.N.I. Drôme Ardèche. The issue is dated the fourth quarter of 1981 and has an ISSN of 0249-6828. The cover features the magazine title prominently, along with a stylized circular logo containing the acronym 'AAMA'. The price for this issue is 9.00F.

Table of Contents (Sommaire)

The table of contents outlines the articles and sections included in this issue:

1. Editorial (p.3)
2. When Astronomers See UFOs (p.5)
3. From Orgone to UFOs (p.8)
4. Regarding...
5. The Prophecy of St. Malachi (p.18)
6. Drôme-Ardèche Catalogue (p.25)
7. World Information (p.29)
8. Dolmens and Menhirs (p.35)
9. Investigation Dossier (p.38)
10. Readers' Mail (p.41)
11. Observation Dossier (p.46)

A quote attributed to J.E. de Miivilio precedes the subscription and contact information.

Editorial

The editorial addresses the financial realities of publishing the bulletin at the start of a new year. Despite rising costs, the association aims to continue its work, relying on the support of its readers. The editorial expresses gratitude for spontaneous support subscriptions, which help maintain the association's efforts to study and disseminate information about UFOs. Readers are encouraged to share the bulletin and help find new subscribers to support the association's mission. A significant portion of the editorial is dedicated to protesting recent increases in postal tariffs by the PTT (Post, Telegraph, and Telephone services). The author highlights the arbitrary nature of these increases, particularly the suppression of preferential rates for individuals sending newspapers, leading to a substantial price hike (from 5.10F to 9.00F for UFO-INFORMATIONS in September 1981). This change is seen as detrimental to the dissemination of information and potentially harmful to the creation of new publications. The editorial notes that international postage rates, while also increased, remain comparatively lower than domestic rates for non-urgent mail.

La Presse a Protesté (The Press Protested)

This section compiles statements from various publications protesting the new postal tariffs. 'L'ERE NOUVELLE' (December 1981) criticizes the arbitrary suppression of preferential postal rates for individuals sending newspapers, citing a violation of the April 1930 law and a 310% increase in costs. 'LA CROIX' (November 10, 1981) reports on similar protests from its readers regarding the increased cost of sending newspapers, noting that the cost of re-sending 'LA CROIX' increased from 0.80F to 2.60F. It encourages readers to write to the Minister of PTT. 'L'ECHO et le VALENTINOIS réunis' (June 27, 1981) reports on a general assembly of regional weekly information press syndicates expressing concern over rising postal tariffs, which threaten the financial stability of modest press companies.

Quand les Astronomes Voient des OVNIS (When Astronomers See UFOs)

Authored by Philippe Schneyder, President of CNROVNIS (France), this article investigates whether astronomers have ever seen or photographed UFOs. Schneyder recounts an anecdote from a 1980 astronomy conference in Paris where a young scientist dismissively stated that he didn't believe in UFOs because no astronomer had ever observed or photographed one. Schneyder and his colleagues, seeking to avoid a polemic, reported this to the institution's director, Mr. Rose. They received a response that attempted to evade the direct question. The article then presents a list of historical observations by astronomers and others, aiming to provide a factual basis for the discussion. These include:

• 1677 (May): Edmund Halley observed an unknown object over southern England.
• 1686 (July 9): Godfried Kirch observed an unusual object near Leipzig, Germany.
• 1762 (August): Swiss astronomers Sole and Rostan observed an 'oblong' object above the solar disk.
• 1777: Messier observed 'luminous objects' or 'objects of black hues' evolving in the sky (date not specified).
• 1820: Arago made several observations of unexplained spatial phenomena.
• 1883 (August 2): Jobe Bonilla, astronomer at the Zacatecas observatory in Mexico, observed and photographed up to 143 'fusiform' objects in procession before the solar disk. This is presented as potentially the first photographs of UFOs.
• 1889: Fayton and Codde in Marseille observed an unknown luminous object described as a 'round vessel'.
• 1954 (June 11): Near Charleston-Atlanta, British astronomer Wilkins observed three 'oval objects, with sharp and brilliant edges like steel' at an altitude of 2,700 meters.
• 1965 (December 1): In Argentina, Reverend Father Reyna photographed several large, round objects near the lunar disk.

Schneyder also notes that, similar to the GEPAN organization in France, other countries like Brazil and Japan have official UFO research bodies. He points out that American investigation commissions after 1947 were preceded by British and German efforts during World War II. He mentions that in 1943, the British created their own investigation agency under General Massey.

The article further discusses the phenomenon of 'foo-fighters' during WWII, which the Allies initially suspected were secret Nazi weapons. The Germans had a 'SONDERBURO' (Special Bureau) NUMERO 13, tasked with investigating 'MOC' (Mysterious Objects in the Sky) sightings. Schneyder highlights a specific incident on September 29, 1944, where a Nazi test pilot in a new ME 262 jet encountered an unknown fusiform and cylindrical object, over 100 meters long, moving at speeds exceeding 2,000 km/h, at a distance of less than 500 meters. He suggests that such encounters were likely more numerous but censored due to the war. The article concludes by mentioning the work of Dr. Richard F. Haines, who has cataloged nearly 2,600 UFO observations since 1932.

De l'Orgone aux OVNI (From Orgone to UFOs)

This section, referencing Wilhelm Reich, explores the connection between 'orgone' and UFOs. It suggests that certain topics become fashionable in ufology, leading to periodic focus on specific cases. The author notes that conclusions or hypotheses about these cases often tend to be negative in the long term. The article criticizes a tendency among some ufologists to 'work' witnesses, attempting to discredit their observations by suggesting misinterpretations (e.g., mistaking Venus for a UFO) or by waiting for witnesses to die or become infirm before re-evaluating their accounts. The author advocates for prudence in both negative and positive assertions regarding UFOs, arguing that many ufologists, including some scientists, lack a scientific approach. The current trend in ufology is described as moving towards 'less' enthusiasm and more discouragement due to a lack of concrete results, leading to a sense of being overwhelmed and public fatigue.

Bibliothèque (Library)

This section provides brief reviews or descriptions of several books:

• L'EVOLUTION COSMIQUE - PATIENCE DANS L'AZUR by Hubert Reeves (ed. Seuil): Described as a book that tells the story of our cosmos, exploring the search for our deep roots.
• CONNAISSANCE DE L'ASTROLOGIE by André Barbault (ed. Seuil): A comprehensive work by an astrologer with forty years of experience, offering a synthesis of astrology.
• NOSTRADAMUS TRAHI by Elisabeth Bellecour (ed. Laffont): This book critiques Jean-Charles de Fontbrune's interpretation of Nostradamus's prophecies, particularly concerning the predicted destruction of Paris in 1983. Bellecour argues that Nostradamus's prophecies referred to a different, foreign city and that the same quatrain has been used to predict Paris's destruction multiple times in history (1789, 1848, 1870, 1914, 1940).
• INTELLIGENCES ETRANGERES by Stuart Holroyd (translated by Claude Farny, ed. Laffont): This book examines evidence for the existence of extraterrestrial intelligences and discusses 'materializations' studied by spiritualists, as well as the multiplication of UFO observations.
• LA PENSEE ESOTERIQUE DE LEONARD DE VINCI by Paul Vulliaud (ed. Dervy Livres): This work argues that Leonardo da Vinci's philosophical and religious thought has been overshadowed by his scientific achievements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include historical UFO sightings, the challenges and methodologies of UFO investigation, the role of astronomy in understanding UFO phenomena, and the financial and logistical hurdles faced by UFO research organizations. The editorial stance, as expressed in the editorial and the 'La Presse a Protesté' section, is one of concern over rising costs and bureaucratic obstacles impacting the dissemination of information. There is a clear advocacy for a more rigorous and scientific approach to ufology, while also acknowledging the difficulties and potential for skepticism within the field. The magazine appears to be a platform for sharing research, historical data, and opinions within the UFO community in France.

This issue of UFO-INFORMATIONS, identified as number 33, delves into a range of topics related to ufology, with a particular focus on the theories of Wilhelm Reich and the controversial Roswell Incident. The magazine presents a critical perspective on public opinion regarding UFOs, quoting Reich's dismissive view of it as a sum of 'petty' opinions driven by fear. The issue explores Reich's concept of 'orgone' energy, presenting it as a fundamental cosmic force that he believed was not only related to biological life but also to UFO technology and a phenomenon he termed 'desertification.'

Wilhelm Reich and Orgone Theory

The articles highlight Wilhelm Reich's belief that 'orgone' is a pre-atomic energy present in the universe, which organic materials attract and store. Reich developed 'boxes' made of alternating organic and metallic materials to capture and amplify this energy, which he claimed manifested as luminous spots. The magazine connects Reich's work to the 'Kirlian' photography phenomenon and discusses his theories on the 'bioplasma' state of matter, as explored by other researchers like Inyushin. Reich's experiments, such as allegedly causing rain in Arizona and incapacitating UFOs, are presented as evidence of his theories' practical application.

Reich's work is framed within a context of persecution, with the author suggesting he was targeted for his radical ideas, including his critique of the 'Food and Drug Administration' and the prevailing 'mechanical-chemical vision of biology.' His laboratory was reportedly destroyed, and his works were burned. Despite this, the issue notes a growing interest in his theories among scientists and physicists.

Desertification and UFOs

A significant theme is 'desertification,' which Reich linked to natural processes of dehydration and death, extending to emotional and biological realms. The magazine posits that UFOs might be utilizing atomic installations for energy and that their presence, combined with nuclear activity, could exacerbate this 'desertification' of the soil, minds, and bodies. The concept of 'DOR' (Deadly Orgone Radiation) is introduced in relation to atomic radiation, suggesting a connection between nuclear energy, plasma, and UFOs.

The Roswell Incident

The issue directly addresses the Roswell Incident, specifically refuting claims made by Jean Bastide that Charles Berlitz's book on the subject was based on an April Fool's joke. The author, Jean Sider, argues that the incident is not a hoax and that Berlitz's work, while containing exaggerations, is not fundamentally flawed. Sider emphasizes that the Roswell event occurred on June 7, 1950, and was officially reported, and that Leonard Stringfield had previously gathered testimony about the debris found at the site. The article criticizes the US Air Force's handling of the affair and suggests a cover-up.

Other Topics

The magazine also briefly touches upon other subjects, including a response to Jean Bastide regarding the 'humanoide' photo from the 'Wiesbadener Tagblatt,' which is deemed unrelated to the Roswell case. A section on the 'Prophecy of Saint Malachy' discusses the nature of Christ's divinity and humanity, referencing Teilhard de Chardin and the concept of 'panthéism.' The Shroud of Turin is also mentioned as a piece of evidence, with reference to a NASA study.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the suppression of unconventional scientific theories, particularly those of Wilhelm Reich, and the potential connection between 'orgone' energy, UFOs, and nuclear technology. The editorial stance appears to be one of defending controversial research against mainstream skepticism and alleged cover-ups, advocating for a more open-minded approach to ufological and fringe scientific topics. There is a clear critique of established authorities and a call for serious investigation into these phenomena.

This document, titled 'CATALOGUE DROME ARDECHE', appears to be an issue of a magazine or publication focused on UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings, primarily from the Drome and Ardeche regions of France. The content is heavily focused on cataloging specific incidents, with a significant portion dedicated to detailed accounts of sightings, dates, locations, times, and witness testimonies. Interspersed with these reports are more theoretical and historical discussions relating UFO phenomena to religious beliefs, ancient prophecies, and psychological interpretations.

UFO Sightings Catalog

The core of the document is a chronological catalog of UFO sightings. Each entry typically includes:

• Date: The date of the sighting.
• Location: The specific place where the sighting occurred, often with department codes (e.g., -26 for Drôme).
• Time: The time of day or night.
• Duration: The length of time the sighting lasted.
• Witnesses: The individuals who observed the phenomenon, often with their professions or backgrounds (e.g., farmer, chauffeur, military personnel, railway workers).
• Meteorological Conditions: Weather details at the time of the sighting.
• Observation: A detailed description of the object(s) observed, including their shape, color, size, luminosity, behavior (movement, speed, altitude), and any associated phenomena (e.g., beams of light, sounds, or lack thereof).
• Sources: The origin of the report, often citing local newspapers (e.g., Dauphiné-Libéré, Le Provençal) or investigation groups (e.g., AAMT, SLUB).

Some notable sightings include:

• A luminous ball with a descending beam of light and moving shadows near Montélimar in 1924.
• A bizarre object resembling an overturned casserole hovering above rooftops in Buis-les-Baronnies in February 1954.
• A cigar-shaped object with front legs and rear 'claws' observed in Charmes in February 1954.
• A bright, intense light followed by a luminous ball and three saucer-shaped objects detaching from it, seen in Aubignas in September 1954.
• A phosphorescent disc changing color, hovering, and disappearing, observed near Miscon in October 1954.
• An unusual object progressing in spirals at high altitude, seen by military personnel in Valence in October 1954.
• A luminous, saucer-shaped object moving in the sky at night, reported by railway workers in Valence in October 1954.
• An egg-shaped object emitting red light, moving at high speed without noise, seen in Eurre in October 1954.
• A brilliant metallic sphere moving at high altitude, observed by numerous witnesses in Valence in October 1954.
• A large fireball exiting a valley with superior speed in Neyrac-les-Bains in October 1954.
• A luminous sphere that elongated and changed colors, with visible silhouettes inside, observed in Vernosc-les-Annonay in October 1954.

One report from Vernosc-les-Annonay also mentions potential physical trace evidence, with the witness experiencing persistent issues with fingernails and toenails after an encounter.

Theoretical and Historical Discussions

Beyond the catalog of sightings, the document includes extensive discussions that attempt to contextualize these phenomena within broader historical, religious, and psychological frameworks. These sections explore:

• Freud and Religion: An analysis of Sigmund Freud's theories on the origins of religion, linking it to primal instincts, the Oedipus complex, and the concept of the totemic meal as a symbolic act of killing and consuming the father figure. This is connected to the idea of original sin and redemption through Christ's sacrifice.
• The Concept of the Soul and Immortality: The document delves into the philosophical and theological concepts of the soul, immortality, and resurrection. It contrasts Platonic ideas of the soul with the more prosaic views of ancient Jews, who primarily focused on earthly rewards. The Hebrew terms for 'soul' or 'life force' (nephesh, ruach) are examined, highlighting their ambiguity and the biblical emphasis on life originating from God.
• Prophecy and Messianism: The role of prophecy, particularly the prophecies of Daniel, is discussed in relation to the Jewish expectation of a Messiah. The 'seventy weeks' prophecy is analyzed, with different interpretations suggesting a connection to the coming of Christ and his subsequent 'cutting off'. The document explores the dual concepts of a spiritual versus a temporal Messiah expected by the Jewish people.
• Utopianism and Collective Consciousness: The text touches upon utopian ideals and the idea of a cosmic fraternity, linking them to ancient prophets like Amos and Isaiah, and suggesting that these concepts may have influenced the Jewish expectation of a messianic kingdom. It posits that the figure of Christ became the crystallization point for many of these utopian visions and prophecies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the investigation of anomalous aerial phenomena, the exploration of religious and mythological narratives, and the attempt to find connections or explanations between them. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting detailed sighting reports alongside speculative interpretations that draw from psychoanalysis, religious history, and ancient texts. There's a clear interest in how modern phenomena might be understood through the lens of historical beliefs and psychological archetypes. The document seems to suggest that the human desire for meaning and transcendence, expressed through religion and prophecy, might also be projected onto or find resonance with unexplained aerial phenomena.

The document concludes with a forward-looking statement, indicating that future chapters will examine which prophecies have been considered 'fulfilled' or not during Christ's time, and how this influences the interpretation of post-Christian prophecies.

This issue of INFORMATIONS MONDIALES, dated December 1981 (Issue No. 33), is a press summary compiled by M. DORIER. It features articles on the geometric mysteries of Stonehenge, critical analyses of UFO reports, and speculative research into ancient civilizations and their potential technological capabilities.

Stonehenge: Message from the Cosmos?

The lead article explores the geometry of Stonehenge, suggesting it is not merely a historical or archaeological site but a monument commanded by mathematical principles. The applied pentagonal figure is described as unique and possessing surprising mathematical properties. The dimensions of Stonehenge's concentric rings are said to coincide with the circumferences of this pentagon, possibly reproducing the diameters of the Earth and Moon with less than 1% deviation. The 'Earth' is represented by the outer embankment and the 'Moon' by a ring of sandstone. The article posits that the monument's dimensions and arrangement are characterized by constants such as 106 meters (Stonehenge's diameter, or a terrestrial diameter), 3.6 (the idealized ratio of Earth's and Moon's diameters), and fractions like 1/11, 1/22, and 1/7 of the circumference. The number 11 is suggested to have been a numerical module for the builders. The analysis concludes that an 11-angled polygon was used to encode the solution to squaring the circle with remarkable precision, a feat that would have required solving 5th-degree equations for ancient mathematicians.

Doubts About GEPAN

This section expresses dissatisfaction with the GEPAN (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés), suggesting it has failed to produce positive results and is increasingly disappointing. A letter from J.P. PETIT to NOSTRA is quoted, describing GEPAN as a 'one-stop shop' where observations and documents can be submitted, but with an 'take it or leave it' attitude. The personality of Alain Esterle, the current head of GEPAN, is cited as the reason for this approach. The letter mentions that Esterle dismissed Pierre Guérin, an astrophysicist who had worked on UFOs for over twenty years and held the status of an external collaborator.

Negative Research in UFOlogy

This article critiques a trend among some scientists to dismiss paranormal events but show interest when they are normalized. It discusses the case of a reported UFO crash on July 7, 1948, where the Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) concluded negatively. The GSW is quoted as being convinced that the 'extraterrestrial' was a misinterpretation of a laboratory monkey (Rhésus or Orang-Outan). However, the article highlights the serious implications if the government was illegally testing monkeys via rockets over populated areas in 1948. The GSW accused the US Army of deliberately promoting the extraterrestrial theory to cover up their 'sinister activities.' The article suggests that between 1945 and 1948, five to six similar 'crashes' involving monkeys might have occurred. It further states that since the USA did not have its own rockets at the time, the monkeys were likely sent aboard captured German V2 rockets. The article references Dr. Gregory Kennedy of the American Museum of Air and Space and the Smithsonian Institution, who confirmed that between June 1934 and June 1949, four V2 rocket launches with monkeys aboard were attempted to study the effects of weightlessness and acceleration. These monkeys were all Rhesus monkeys, approximately 65cm in size. The GSW even produced a photo of Albert I, a Rhesus monkey, reportedly the first to be sent in a V2 rocket, who died during the launch on June 11, 1948.

A New UFO Hoax Revealed

In November 1981, an article from the 'Wiesbadener Tagblatt' from 1950 is revisited, revealing it to be a hoax. Ufologist Jean BASTIDE brought this to light, informing 'La Recherche' magazine. The hoax concerned a photograph of a supposed survivor from a crashed flying saucer in 1950 near Wiesbaden. The 'creature' was described as one-legged, moving on a rotating disc, with clawed hands and a shapeless head with large, round, bulging eyes. The photograph showed the creature flanked by two American soldiers, one holding an oxygen regulation device connected to it. The idea for the hoax came from various newspaper articles about UFOs, and the photographer, Peter Sheffler, was reportedly amused by the prank. The two soldiers were authentic, having been obtained through special permission from the occupation forces in Heidelberg. The transformation into an extraterrestrial was executed with 'skillful retouching' by Scheffler. The information was obtained through French ufologist Jean Bastide, who contacted Klaus Webnes.

Mirages: Another Scientific Reversal

This section discusses how scientific understanding of phenomena like mirages has evolved, moving from denial to acceptance. It recounts an observation by Barentsz's expedition in 1597 near Novaya Zemlya, where the sun was visible two weeks before its expected reappearance during the Arctic night, despite being theoretically below the horizon. This observation, initially doubted, was studied by Kepler. In 1915, an Antarctic expedition observed the sun reappearing on May 8th, seven days after its theoretical disappearance, and again on July 26th, five days before its legitimate appearance. A more recent observation in the Antarctic on July 1, 1951, noted the sun appearing when it was four degrees below the horizon. The image was distorted into a narrow band of red light, explained by Lehn as a phenomenon caused by a horizontal warm front at an altitude of 50-100 meters, creating a uniform temperature gradient over vast flat areas. The light is trapped between the cold ground and the warm air layer, reflecting and traveling long distances, similar to fiber optics. The moral drawn is that past accounts should not be dismissed lightly, as our ancestors may have possessed a keen observational ability that has been lost.

"Dolmens et Menhirs"

This section summarizes a conference by Georges BRUNOT, professor and researcher, held in Paris in October and December 1981. The conference focused on the enduring mysteries of dolmens, menhirs, alignments, and cromlechs. Fernand NIEL's 1957 work is quoted, stating that these megalithic monuments remain the greatest enigma of prehistory. The distribution of dolmens and menhirs in France is detailed, with a higher concentration of dolmens in the Aveyron, Lozère, and Ardèche regions, and menhirs in Finistère, Morbihan, and Côtes du Nord. Brunot's hypothesis suggests that ancient ancestors might have possessed sophisticated observation and communication means, possibly leaving traces that have been partially preserved despite centuries of destruction. These traditions, passed down orally, might have been used to read the time of day from the shadows cast by dolmens and menhirs, or to mark seasonal festivals. The article connects these ancient possibilities to modern advancements in transportation and communication, such as the TGV, Concorde, Ariane rocket, and artificial satellites, which enable a better understanding of our planet through satellite imagery and geodesic measurements. Brunot proposes that a natural line, observed from high altitude, passes through the Mont Mézenc, Pic d'Anie, and reaches the Atlantic at the Tagus estuary. Within France, two 'cromlechs' are identified on this line: 'Lou Couraus' in Bilhères and 'Les Roches qui dansent' in Saint Barthélemy de Vals. Furthermore, by drawing a line from Mont-Blanc at a 72-degree angle, one passes through Paris, Sligo in Ireland, and Stonehenge in England. A similar line to the south passes through the 'cromlec'h' of Souk-Ahras in Algeria. Brunot suggests that these alignments might indicate ancient infrastructures facilitating landings and contacts with populations. He combines geography, cartography, geometry, and toponymy to identify sites where major megalithic monuments were erected. He posits a network of 'prehistoric airways' marked by dolmens, menhirs, and evocative place names, justified by a ten-degree angle. He also mentions a giant figure inscribed on the ground in Brittany, named 'CARNUTE,' which resembles a flying prehistoric craft. Brunot considers his discoveries provisional and calls for continued research into our ancient ancestors across continents.

Comic Strip: "Les Incroyables"

A comic strip titled "Les Incroyables" by BEBERT (drawings) and M.D. (text) is presented. It depicts a humorous scenario involving a jeep, a gas station selling "SUPER.CARBURANT COSMOS," and a dialogue about a mirage.

Dossier: Enquêtes

This section presents several UFO sighting reports.

Valence, October 27, 1980

A 15-year-old witnessed an object resembling a fast airplane with flashing red, orange, and green lights in a triangle formation. After the object disappeared and reappeared in another direction, he and his 20-year-old brother observed it through binoculars. The lights intensified, and the object performed unusual vertical and oblique movements, with brief stops. The lights remained centered and did not illuminate the surroundings. A dark, egg-shaped form was seen above the lights, making the object appear larger than a plane. Subsequently, a red shooting star-like object was seen moving at high speed towards the UFO.

Valence, the following evening

The same young man, his father, and friends saw a star-like light with multi-colored flashes. They were then blinded by a flash from the 'star.' Several white sparks emerged and disappeared before reaching the ground. Through binoculars, they observed three green, red, and orange points within the 'star,' similar to the previous night's sighting.

Saint-Hilaire-du-Rosier, November 9, 1980

Six young people observed an intense, long-lasting, rose-mauve light that did not illuminate the landscape, unlike a normal lightning flash. It seemed to penetrate the house, reflecting in the corridor. No electrical disturbances were noted. Later, a cylindrical 'luminous tube' about 2.50 cm in diameter entered through the window, with a bright blue center that faded towards the edges. The witnesses experienced eye irritation. At around 1:30 AM, a luminous ball appeared about 50 meters above a mountain, emitting white and orange flashes. This phenomenon was very rapid.

Bourg de Péage, December 17, 1981

A witness saw a bright red disc on the horizon, described as being as bright as the sun, with a well-defined contour. The distance was estimated at 15-20 km. The witness was unable to calculate its actual size but noted that press reports from the same sector mentioned similar observations.

Press Notes: Saint-Ramèze and Vernoux

Two press notes are included:

• Saint-Ramèze (December 1981): Several people reported seeing a 'sort of red ball' in the sky, with descriptions ranging from a low-flying plane to a stationary red ball above a television relay.
• Vernoux (January 1, 1982): Many inhabitants of southern Ardèche noticed a bizarre 'ball' in the sky, described as white and yellow, with a very bright glow. It was observed for about an hour. A local gendarme was alerted, who stated it was not the 'star of the shepherd.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of ancient mysteries (Stonehenge, megalithic sites) with modern scientific inquiry and the persistent phenomenon of UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical examination, questioning official explanations, and exploring unconventional hypotheses. There is a clear skepticism towards simplistic explanations and a willingness to consider advanced ancient technologies and the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation, while also debunking hoaxes and misinterpretations. The magazine encourages continued research and observation, emphasizing the importance of not dismissing past accounts and the need for open-mindedness in the face of unexplained phenomena.

Title: Le courrier des lecteurs
Issue Date: 1981
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Le courrier des lecteurs" (The Readers' Mail) focuses on themes of skepticism towards established narratives, particularly concerning UFO phenomena and the theory of evolution. The cover headline, "Une honnêteté douteuse" (A Dubious Honesty), sets the tone, suggesting a critique of how information is presented and interpreted.

Reader Letters and Media Criticism

The issue opens with a section titled "Le courrier des lecteurs," featuring letters that highlight concerns about the editorial handling of reader contributions. Jean Bastide sends a letter originally addressed to the magazine VSD, along with the published excerpt. He expresses dismay at VSD's alleged "DESINFORMATION" (Disinformation) regarding a UFO case. Bastide cites a letter from his colleague, Alfred Nahon, and his own book, "La mémoire des OVNI" (The Memory of UFOs), to support his assertion that UFOs are taken seriously by secret services worldwide, despite official silence.

A significant point raised is the declassification of a CIA document concerning the 1964 Socorro (New Mexico) UFO observation. According to the document, the event "embarrassed" and "intrigued" the US Air Force, being considered "the best-documented case on record." The letter quotes Major Hector Quintanilla, who affirmed the credibility of witness Lonnie Zamora and the lack of explanation for the "luminous object" that frightened him.

Another letter, from Mr. Chaloin, originally sent to L'EXPRESS, details how his response to an article about the origin of man was allegedly distorted. Chaloin's letter, dated January 30, 1981, was in response to an article titled "ORIGINE DE L'HOMME, LA NOUVELLE POLEMIQUE" (Origin of Man: The New Controversy) published in L'EXPRESS in January 1981. The article presented a theory suggesting humans are much younger and closer to apes than commonly believed.

Critique of Evolutionary Theory

Chaloin's letter, and subsequent commentary, delves into a critique of the theory of evolution. He questions the scientific certainty and the way it is presented as fact, especially in educational contexts. Chaloin points out that even proponents of evolution, like those cited from "La Vie Claire," acknowledge discontinuities in the fossil record, yet still assert historical continuity. He argues that imposing a theory with "mouvant et douteuses" (shaky and doubtful) bases on students is problematic.

The critique extends to the idea that scientists might be influenced by pre-existing biases. Chaloin references the work of D.Simonnet, who suggests that researchers tend to cling to their established genealogical trees without considering alternative explanations or the broader context. He also mentions the work of spiritualist Wallace in relation to evolutionary theories, implying that even scientific theories might have roots in non-rationalist beliefs.

Further arguments against evolution are presented by referencing failed attempts at inter-species breeding, such as attempts to cross monkeys with humans or pigeons with other species, to illustrate the biological barriers between species. The text questions whether Darwin's haste to promote his theory led him to overlook these limitations.

Dossier Observations: UFO Reports

The "Dossier Observations" section presents two recent UFO reports from the press:

1. Madison, USA: On December 1, 1981, police adjudant Harold Hendsbee and his wife reported seeing a UFO while returning home. They described it as being at the top of a hill, illuminating the region, and directing a light that blinded them. The object remained stationary before they left.

2. Corrientes, Argentina: On December 19, 1981, truck driver Juan Meneses reported being blinded by a strong light from a UFO. He later found himself on a dirt road, 100 km from where he was driving, and suffered from nervous shock, requiring hospitalization.

Association Information

The final pages provide details about the association "LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT" (Lights in the Night), its regional delegation for Drome-Ardèche, and its organizational structure. It lists the bureau members, correspondents, and details for administration, subscriptions, and editorial contributions. The bulletin is printed by AAMT and directed by Michel Dorier. It also includes legal deposit information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards official narratives and media representation, particularly concerning UFOs, and a critical examination of established scientific theories like evolution. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking, questioning authority, and presenting alternative viewpoints or evidence that challenges conventional wisdom. The inclusion of reader letters suggests a platform for diverse opinions and a desire to expose perceived biases or misinformation in mainstream media and science.