Ufologia - No 04 - Mai-Juin 1976

Magazine Overview

Title: ufologia
Issue: N°4
Date: May-June 1976
Publisher: CERCLE FRANCAIS DE RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES (C.F.R.U.)
Country: France
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial: "Trajectoire Ininterrompue"

The editorial, written by the Director of Publication, Francis Schaefer, celebrates the consistent regularity of "UFOLOGIA" and highlights improvements in presentation, particularly illustration. It emphasizes that the magazine's progress is solely dependent on reader subscriptions and the dedication of its volunteer team. The editorial notes that the magazine's trajectory is becoming clearer, with reader reactions arriving. It stresses that ufology is a complex and serious field that must avoid sensationalism, advocating for a methodical and objective approach. The current issue (N°4) is dedicated to the significant problem of power outages, a topic that has been linked to UFO phenomena. The editorial explains that by thoroughly examining important questions, the essence of the UFO mystery can be better understood. It also announces a change in publication frequency to quarterly, with more pages, starting after the current issue, to accommodate the growing scope of information and work involved.

Information and Support for UFOLOGIA

The magazine is presented as an independent publication funded solely by its subscribers and collaborators. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to support its mission of providing objective information to the public. The C.F.R.U. has an international network of correspondents and investigators, enabling "Ufologia" to publish detailed investigations, theoretical developments, reports on cases, articles on paranormal phenomena (especially the PSI phenomenon), and informative summaries on related fields like astronautics, astronomy, archaeology, exobiology, and general curiosities. It also provides bibliographical references for further study. Subscription conditions are listed for France and abroad, with options for ordinary and support subscriptions, and special rates for USA & Canada via airmail. A specimen copy is available for 3 French Francs in stamps. Readers are asked to make checks or money orders payable to the headquarters address and to include a stamp for any letter requiring a response.

Collaboration and Notes

"UFOLOGIA" is open to contributions from its readers. Submissions intended for publication will be reviewed by the editorial team and should ideally be typed on 210/297 mm sheets. Collaborators are encouraged to illustrate their texts with sketches or photographs on white Canson or Bristol paper. Political, religious, or advertising content will be refused. Articles are published under the responsibility of their authors. Reproduction of excerpts or articles is permitted with the title and address of the magazine. Readers are invited to become local correspondents by providing their name, address, and the area they intend to monitor. They are also urged to report any observations they encounter, with anonymity guaranteed upon request. All submitted articles must include their dated source. The bulletin is also available free of charge in exchange for other publications of a similar nature, through reciprocal publicity.

Editorial Staff and International Correspondents

Issue N°4, dated May-June 1976, lists the editorial team: Francis Schaefer as Director of Publication, Roland Lienhardt as Editor-in-Chief, and Michel Knittel as Deputy. Technical advisors include Jean Ferre and Pio Mauss, with Jean Torres as Deputy. Francis Schaefer also handles technical constructions, and Jean Ferre manages translations. Georges Schweitzer is the coordinator of the study committee. The magazine lists its foreign correspondents in Canada, USA, England, Belgium, Guadeloupe, Switzerland, Germany, and Luxembourg, including names like C.Mac Duff, N. Spehner, Angelo Bellasai, Gilbert Doel, Michel Koster, Fred Idylle, Maurice Fluckiger, H. Even, H. Schwartz, and Gusty Metzdorff. Regional sections are noted for Bas-Rhin, Haut-Rhin, Gironde, Essonne, and Nord/Pas-de-Calais. The C.F.R.U. is registered as a non-profit association under the law of April 19, 1908. The issue is legally deposited for the second quarter of 1976 in Metz/Forbach. The publication is non-profit, and the articles published do not engage the responsibility of their authors.

Table of Contents (SOMMAIRE N°4)

The issue includes an editorial titled "Trajectoire ininterrompue" (Uninterrupted Trajectory) on page 4. Other articles cover: "Ténèbres sous contrôle" (Darkness Under Control) on page 5, "OVNI et phénomènes électriques" (UFOs and Electrical Phenomena) on page 7, "La grande panne de New York" (The Great New York Blackout) on page 11, "Le bilan de 30 années de perturbations 'EM'" (The Balance of 30 Years of 'EM' Disturbances) (to be continued) on page 15, "Enigmatique disparition d'un navire de 227 500 T" (Enigmatic Disappearance of a 227,500 T Ship) on page 16, "Créature non identifiée" (Unidentified Creature) on page 18, "Opération 'VIKING'" (Operation 'VIKING') on page 19, "Un Lorrain poursuivi par un OVNI" (A Man from Lorraine Pursued by a UFO) on page 21, "Le bloc-notes d'UFOLOGIA 4" (UFOLOGIA 4's Notebook) on page 22, and "Informations bibliographiques" (Bibliographical Information) on page 23.

Article: "Ténèbres sous contrôle" (Darkness Under Control)

This article, which serves as a starting point for the issue's focus, discusses recent incidents linking power outages and other electromagnetic effects to UFOs. It recounts an event in Ardèche, France, on October 8, 1975, where a baker, H. Gilbert Bernard, observed a luminous sphere with an orange halo causing rapid power cuts for about thirty minutes before disappearing. Similar observations were made in Romans, Drôme, on September 24, 1975, where luminous discs were seen during a power outage. The article highlights modern society's vulnerability due to its near-total dependence on electricity and notes that over fifty cases of power outages linked to UFO presences have been reported worldwide between 1953 and 1976. It raises the question of whether these disturbances are accidental or deliberate, hinting at extraterrestrial objectives. The article also includes a quote from a NICAP scientist suggesting that UFOs might cause power issues through strong air ionization, making the atmosphere a better conductor of electricity and potentially interacting with high-tension lines.

Article: "OVNI et phénomènes électriques" (UFOs and Electrical Phenomena)

This article aims to summarize electromagnetic and electrostatic phenomena that can occur on power lines and cause outages, without definitively proving that UFOs cause them. It acknowledges that the study is not exhaustive due to the article's brevity and ongoing research into unexplained phenomena. The analysis of UFO observations in conjunction with these phenomena might lead to new interpretations. The article details the principles of energy transport and distribution, illustrating the complex network of power lines, substations, and transformers that supply electricity to urban, rural, and industrial users. It explains how distribution lines, often at medium voltage, are fed by distribution substations that step down the voltage for public distribution networks. The article also outlines the constitution of aerial networks, identifying potential causes of network failures, including mechanical issues (aging, impacts, storms, overloads) and electrical issues. Electrical failures are categorized into those stemming from design and technology (excessive thermal stress, electrodynamic constraints, dielectric breakdown, electrochemical deterioration, faulty connections) and those arising from maneuvers or atmospheric conditions (surtensions and short circuits).

Surtensions (Overvoltages)

The article explains industrial frequency overvoltages, which can occur due to sudden discharges from alternators or when a transmission line is energized without a load, leading to a significant voltage increase at the output. It also discusses maneuver overvoltages, where opening a circuit breaker can cause a surge. Atmospheric overvoltages, primarily from lightning strikes, inject massive currents into power lines, causing extreme voltage spikes that can damage equipment. The article details the characteristics of lightning surges, including their high intensity and rapid rise time.

Courts-circuits (Short Circuits)

Short circuits are described as accidental connections between conductors or between conductors and ground, leading to a massive current flow limited only by the impedance of the line and generator. These can reach hundreds of thousands of amperes, causing significant Joule effects, arcs, and electrodynamic stresses. Causes are generally accidental, such as grounding of a phase or shorting between different phases.

Précisions sur certaines effets électromagnétiques (Details on Certain Electromagnetic Effects)

L'effet couronne (The Corona Effect): This phenomenon occurs when the voltage between a conductor and the ground increases, leading to a visible luminescence around the conductor. As voltage rises, the luminescence intensifies, accompanied by a characteristic crackling sound and disruption of nearby radio reception. If the voltage reaches a critical point, an arc forms. The article explains that ambient air, ionized by cosmic radiation, becomes slightly conductive under the influence of an electric field.

Information-Librairie

Readers in the Moselle region and surrounding departments can find essential books for their research at the LIBRAIRIE BERNARD WINTER in Forbach. The bookstore offers a wide selection of titles on ufology, archaeology, parapsychology, and sciences, with a permanent stock and mail-order service.

Book Review: "LE PROCES DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES" (The Trial of the Flying Saucers)

This review discusses a book by Claude Mac Du from Canada, described as impactful and passionate. The book uses a trial format to present evidence for the existence and presence of UFOs and extraterrestrials in Quebec and globally, citing eloquent testimonies, exhibits, and proofs. Several Quebec researchers contributed to this "trial."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "UFOLOGIA" strongly emphasizes the potential link between UFO phenomena and unexplained electrical disturbances, particularly power outages. The editorial stance is one of objective investigation, urging readers to approach the subject methodically and avoid sensationalism. The magazine positions itself as a crucial source of information, relying on a network of international correspondents and aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex issues. The recurring theme is the exploration of the unknown, whether it be UFOs, electromagnetic phenomena, or other unexplained events, with a commitment to rigorous analysis and documentation. The magazine also highlights its independence and reliance on reader support, fostering a sense of community among its readership.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, identified as number 4 and published by CFRU, focuses on unexplained phenomena, particularly the 1965 Great Blackout of New York and its potential links to UFOs. It also features a compilation of historical electromagnetic disturbances attributed to UFOs, investigations into mysterious ship disappearances, and an update on the Viking space program's mission to Mars.

The Great Blackout of New York

The lead article, "LA GRANDE PANNE DE NEW YORK," examines the massive power outage that occurred on November 9, 1965, affecting the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. The blackout impacted over 200,000 km² and 30 million people, causing widespread disruption to transportation, communication, and daily life. The official explanation attributes the failure to a relay rupture in an Ontario hydroelectric station, leading to a chain reaction. However, the article raises questions about the time it took to identify the cause and the effectiveness of the security systems. It also references the prophetic element from the film "The Day the Earth Stood Still," which depicted New York plunged into darkness by an extraterrestrial craft.

The article details the interconnectedness of the power grid, comprising 42 companies and over 400 production centers, primarily powered by the Mohawk hydroelectric plant utilizing Niagara Falls. The system is designed to automatically share power during peak hours and to shut down overloaded stations. Despite these safeguards, the blackout occurred. The text highlights the ensuing chaos, including immobilized subways, elevators, and traffic, as well as the unusual sight of city dwellers observing the stars due to the lack of light pollution.

UFOs and Electromagnetic Disturbances

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to documenting instances where UFOs have allegedly caused electromagnetic disturbances. The section "LE BILAN DE TRENTE ANNEES DE PERTURBATIONS ELECTROMAGNETIQUES" (The Balance of Thirty Years of Electromagnetic Disturbances) compiles a catalog of "E-11" effects. Several cases are detailed:

• August 28, 1945, Iwo Jima: The engines of a C-46 aircraft experienced disturbances during an encounter with three unidentified flying objects, predating the Kenneth Arnold sighting.
• November 21, 1953, New Haven, Connecticut: A luminous object flying over the city caused lights to flicker and dim in nearby homes, with the effect varying with the object's distance.
• August 1954, Tananarive: An unidentified flying object caused lights to go out in apartments and stores as it passed overhead.
• October 7, 1954, Tremblay, Sarthe: A blue glow over a car stopped its engine and extinguished its headlights.
• October 8, 1954, Bergerac, Dordogne: An automobilist witnessed a UFO on the road, causing his car's engine to slow down and stop.
• October 9, 1954, Seine-et-Marne: A yellow, cigar-shaped object hovered over a car, stopping its engine and headlights.
• October 10, 1954, Saône-et-Loire: A car was overflown by a reddish object, causing its engine to stop and headlights to go out.
• October 11, 1954, Haute-Loire: A car was overflown by a UFO, stalling its engine and extinguishing its headlights.
• October 11, 1954, Saône-et-Loire: Two automobilists felt an electric discharge from a round object, stopping their engines and headlights.

The article "CARTE AMÉRICAINE DES EFFETS ÉLECTROMAGNÉTIQUES LIÉS AUX SURVOLS D'OVNIS" (American Map of Electromagnetic Effects Linked to UFO Overflights) presents a map illustrating numerous locations in the USA where such phenomena have been reported. The text suggests that a similar phenomenon, involving a massive energy absorption, could explain the Great Blackout.

Mysterious Ship Disappearances

The issue also addresses the enigmatic disappearance of large vessels, particularly the Norwegian mineral carrier "BERGE ISTRA." The ship, over 227,000 tons, went silent on December 29, 1975, approximately 200 km from Mindanao. Despite extensive searches, no trace was found. The article notes that other large ships have disappeared in recent years, and highlights the "Sea of the Devil" or "Philippine Black Square" region as a hotspot for unexplained disappearances of both ships and aircraft. The "Berge Istra" incident is described by survivors Barretto and Perdomo, who reported a compressed air-like noise, followed by three explosions that lifted the ship out of the water before it sank within three minutes.

Operation Viking and Mars Exploration

The article "OPERATION 'VIKING'" discusses the American space program aimed at landing on Mars. It details the launch of Viking 1 and Viking B, with the primary objective of detecting signs of life on the planet. The mission involves sophisticated imaging equipment to create a map of Mars and "life sensors" to identify biological activity. The planned landing site, Chryse, is noted for its potential volcanic activity. The program also includes comparing images with data from previous missions like Mariner 9 and Soviet probes to identify changes on the Martian surface. The article expresses some pessimism, recalling past issues with other space probes, such as Mariner 7's exploding accumulators and the obstruction of Mariner probes by a strange spatial cloud.

Other Articles and Features

• "CRÉATURE NON IDENTIFIÉE" (Unidentified Creature): A photograph is presented of a creature named OLIVER, allegedly purchased by American lawyer Michael Muller for $8000. Muller intends to conduct tests to determine if it is an animal or a "human creature." Oliver is described as weighing 60 kg, standing 1.50 m tall, and never walking on all fours.
• "UNE FUSÉE DE DETRESSE LANCEE PAR UN BATEAU-FANTONE, CAP CANAILLE" (A Distress Flare Launched by a Ghost Ship, Cap Canaille): A brief report from April 22, 1974, about a red distress flare sighted off Cap Canaille, initially thought to be from a small boat but later dismissed as a false alarm.
• Program Summaries: The issue includes tables summarizing the missions and findings of the Mariner and Venus space programs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFOLOGIA are the unexplained, the mysterious, and the potential for extraterrestrial influence on terrestrial events. The magazine adopts a stance of critical inquiry, presenting documented cases and raising questions that challenge conventional explanations. There is a clear interest in phenomena that defy scientific understanding, from electrical blackouts and UFO sightings to unexplained disappearances at sea and the search for life beyond Earth. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards unconventional theories, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond the established scientific paradigm. The publication also emphasizes the importance of detailed observation and reporting in the study of these phenomena.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, designated as N°4 and published in June 1976, is a French-language magazine focused on unidentified flying objects (UFOs), astronautics, archaeology, parapsychology, and unusual phenomena. The cover prominently features the title 'UFOLOGIA' and lists these thematic areas. The magazine is published by CFRU, which originated from G.E.O.C.N.I. created in 1966.

Space Exploration Programs

The issue provides a chronological listing of probe missions to Venus and Mars. For Venus, it details launches from 1969 to 1975, noting dates, communication durations, descent times, and whether landing or analysis occurred. For Mars, it lists probes from 1962 to 1973, including their orbital status, mission objectives, and whether they succeeded or failed. Notably, the Mars program entries indicate several failures, including loss of contact, failed descent capsules, and trajectory deviations.

UFO Sighting Report

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a UFO sighting that occurred on February 9, 1976, in Bousbach, near Forbach, in the Moselle region of France. The report details the experience of M. Daniel F., who, while walking home at night, heard a strange crackling sound and observed a luminous, silent, conical object in the air. The object was described as being 'large like two full moons' and its upper part oscillated. The witness, despite his skepticism towards UFOs, fled in panic, with the object reportedly following him. The crackling sound on the ground seemed to correlate with the object's presence. The object then disappeared, and the sound ceased.

'Bloc-Notes' and Regional Contacts

Under the 'Bloc-Notes' section, UFOLOGIA provides contact information for its readers to connect with regional sections of the CFRU (Centre Français de Recherche Ufologique) across France. Specific addresses and contact persons are listed for regions including Bas-Rhin, Haut-Rhin, Bordeaux, Essonne, and Nord & Pas-de-Calais. It also recommends 'UFO-QUEBEC' for Canadian readers interested in UFOs and 'REQUIEM' magazine for those interested in science fiction and fantasy.

Bibliographical Recommendations and Resources

The magazine offers extensive bibliographical recommendations and resources for its readers. It lists numerous books on UFOs, extraterrestrial civilizations, and related topics, along with their authors and publishers. These include works by Frank Edwards, Henry Durrant, Peter Kolosimo, Jacques Vallée, A. Michel, Aimé Michel, Paul Misraki, and Guy Tarade, among many others. It also highlights specific articles and publications, such as a 'Science & Vie' article on a plasma engine for UFOs and a bulletin called 'ASTROMETEO' for astrometeorology.

Cinema and Future Publications

The 'Cinema' section speculates on Steven Spielberg's potential involvement in directing a film about UFOs, noting his known interest in science fiction. The issue also announces that the next issue will be released in late June 1976.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are space exploration (specifically probe missions to Venus and Mars), detailed accounts of UFO sightings, and the promotion of UFO research through bibliographical resources and organizational contacts. The editorial stance appears to be one of information dissemination and encouraging reader engagement with the subject matter, providing a wide range of resources for further study. The inclusion of a specific UFO sighting report, along with the extensive bibliography, suggests a focus on documenting and exploring the phenomenon.