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Magazine Overview

This issue of Inforespace, identified as number 48, features a prominent cover story titled "Table ronde avec le Dr Hynek" (Round table with Dr. Hynek). The magazine is published by SOBEPS and appears to be based in Belgium. The issue date is estimated to be November 1979, based on the subscription renewal notice for the year 1980.

Interview with Dr. Hynek

The main article is an extensive interview with Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a renowned ufologist. The interview, conducted in Brussels after a conference in London, covers several key aspects of UFO research.

Financial Challenges and Information Dissemination

Dr. Hynek states that the primary concern for CUFOS (Center for UFO Studies) is securing the necessary funds to continue its work. He warns that failure to meet this objective could lead to reduced public information. Efforts are underway to make the "International UFO Reporter" bulletin more attractive, though Hynek fears this might compromise quality.

Scientific Acceptance and Public Perception

Regarding the scientific community's view on UFOs, Hynek notes a mixed response. A survey by "Industrial Magazine" indicated that 54% of researchers and engineers in advanced projects believe UFOs exist, and 80% consider the Condon report's conclusions to be non-definitive. However, he acknowledges that UFOs have not yet achieved mainstream scientific acceptance, largely due to the anecdotal nature of many reports and the persistent harassment from cultist groups, which discredit the subject.

UFO Classification System

Hynek discusses his classification system, introduced in "The UFO Experience," which aims to categorize reports based on how and under what conditions the observation occurred, rather than the phenomenon itself. He explains that this system, while useful for initial analysis, has limitations and overlaps between categories. He highlights the importance of trajectory analysis, using indices from 1 to 9, to differentiate between phenomena like astronomical objects, satellites, aircraft, and truly unknown aerial phenomena. This system is also used by David Saunders in Ufocat.

Ufocat Database and Report Analysis

Addressing the Ufocat database, Hynek corrects the figure of 80,000 observations, stating it's closer to 50,000. He clarifies that Ufocat is primarily a catalog summarizing observations to trace primary sources, not a deep analytical tool.

Reasons for Believing in Authentic UFOs

When asked why he believes authentic UFO reports exist, Hynek offers three main points:

1. Persistent Reports: Despite official commissions often dismissing UFOs, reports continue to flood in from around the world.
2. Internal Coherence: Serious reports, when analyzed, exhibit an internal coherence that can be tested.
3. Bizarre Nature: Some observed phenomena are so bizarre that they warrant scientific investigation, suggesting they are not easily explained by conventional means.

He also recounts an instance where a seemingly normal witness described an advertising plane as a circular object with a dome and portholes, highlighting how perception can be distorted and how ufology can reveal much about human psychology.

Critiques of Ufologists and Theories

Hynek expresses skepticism towards ufologists like Philip Klass, who propose that mass media can create UFO "waves" by amplifying initial reports. Hynek counters this with the example of Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," which did not trigger a significant increase in UFO sightings despite its release during a period of economic and energy crisis.

He also touches upon the work of Robert Stringfield, noting that his book lacks verifiable identities and specific details, making it difficult to authenticate. He praises Raymond Fowler as an excellent investigator but is unfamiliar with a specific case Fowler reported.

Regarding Jacques Vallée, Hynek describes him as a friend and acknowledges Vallée's work with sophisticated computer equipment for conferences. However, he believes Vallée overemphasizes the "cultist" aspect of the UFO phenomenon in "Messengers of Deception."

Future of Ufology

Hynek's current ideas for advancing ufology include:

• Continued Data Accumulation: Gathering more reports is essential.
• Professionalization: Ufology needs to move beyond amateur status and involve professionals from various disciplines.
• Improved Investigation Standards: Reports should be more thorough, quantifying as much as possible and detailing the investigation process.

He emphasizes that the role of an investigator is to eliminate as many Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) as possible, noting that reports with only a single witness have limited value.

Subscription Renewal Notice

The magazine includes a prominent notice for subscription renewals for the year 1980. It reminds readers that their subscription ends with issue #48 and provides details on the cotisation (membership fee) for ordinary, student, and supporting members in Belgium, France, and other countries. Payment can be made via CCP or bank transfer.

UFO Sightings Chronology

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a chronological listing of UFO sightings, primarily focusing on triangular formations observed in Belgium and other locations.

Notable Sightings:

• April 3, 1959, Kapellen, Belgium: Three orange objects in a V-formation.
• December 18, 1966, Anvers, Belgium: Three non-scintillating, grey, matte "stars" in a triangle.
• April 21, 1968, Laeken, Belgium: Three "big stars" in a triangular formation.
• July 1969, Corbion, Belgium: Three luminous points forming a triangle, moving at different speeds.
• October 20, 1971, Deurne, Belgium: Three red luminous points in a triangle formation.
• October 1971, Yvoz-Ramet, Belgium: Three matte white luminous points in a triangle formation.
• January 6, 1972, Berchem-Ste-Agathe, Belgium: Three luminous balls of fire in a triangle formation with a faint light beam.
• January 1972, Laeken, Belgium: Three distinct luminous points in a triangle formation.
• July 4, 1972, Provinces of Liège, Namur, Hainaut, Belgium: Multiple sightings of three luminous white points in a triangle formation.
• July 8, 1972, Lamonriville, Belgium: A group of witnesses observed a triangle of three white luminous points.
• July 14, 1972, Liège, Belgium: Three luminous points in a triangle formation that accelerated and ascended.
• July 16-19, 1972, Duinbergen, Belgium: Three luminous spheres moving slowly over the sea.
• August 24, 1972, Irchonwelz, Belgium: Three luminous white points in a triangle formation, moving rapidly.
• August 31, 1977, Sturno, Italy: Two students observed a humanoid figure near colored lights.

Each sighting is briefly described, often with witness details and investigator notes.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine consistently promotes a serious, investigative approach to ufology, aiming to elevate the subject beyond mere anecdote and speculation. The interview with Dr. Hynek underscores the importance of scientific rigor, data collection, and classification. The extensive catalog of sightings, particularly the recurring triangular formations, suggests a focus on pattern recognition and the search for common characteristics in UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for the scientific study of UFOs, while acknowledging the difficulties and skepticism encountered from mainstream science and the public. There's a clear effort to present UFOs as a legitimate area of research, distinct from sensationalism or cult-like beliefs.

International News

Under the heading "Nouvelles internationales" (International News), the magazine reports on an incident in Sturno, Italy, on August 31, 1977. Two students, Michele Giovanniello and Rocco Cirullo, along with several other witnesses, reported seeing a humanoid figure with silvery-white reflections near colored lights. The figure was described as articulated and moved in a way that frightened the witnesses. The event involved multiple lights and a modulated sound. The report includes a sketch of a cylindrical luminous body observed on a hillside.

Other Sections

The issue also contains a short piece reflecting on the nature of ufology, comparing it to finding a needle in a haystack, and a brief mention of the work of Ira Einhorn and Jacques Vallée.

Conclusion

This issue of Inforespace provides a detailed look at the challenges and progress in ufology, featuring a key interview with Dr. Hynek and a comprehensive catalog of UFO sightings, emphasizing the need for a more scientific and structured approach to the phenomenon.

This issue of "Vagues d'OVNI et inquiétudes" (UFO Waves and Anxieties), issue (2), delves into the complex relationship between UFO sightings and societal anxieties, particularly economic downturns. The central focus is a critical analysis of the theories proposed by P. Viéroudy, who posits a direct link between economic crises, psychological distress, and the occurrence of UFO waves.

Analysis of Viéroudy's Theories

The article systematically dissects Viéroudy's arguments, which are largely based on correlating economic indicators with UFO sighting statistics from 1940 to 1974. Viéroudy's primary hypothesis suggests that periods of economic hardship and public anxiety lead to an increase in reported UFO phenomena. The author of this article, however, challenges this premise on several fronts.

Critiques of Economic Correlation

One of the main points of contention is Viéroudy's reliance on specific economic indicators, such as 'short-term interest rates,' which the author deems too restrictive and lacking in direct correlation with public anxiety. The article points out that Viéroudy's own data sometimes contradicts his conclusions, particularly regarding the 1957 UFO wave, which he attempts to explain by the launch of artificial satellites rather than economic factors. Furthermore, the article questions why only certain countries (France and Spain) would experience UFO waves during global economic depressions, while others remain unaffected.

Questioning the 'Psychological Trigger' Hypothesis

Viéroudy also proposes a 'psychological trigger' theory, suggesting that a significant UFO sighting reported in the media can create a 'coups-de-foudre' (panic) among the public, leading to a surge in reports. This is challenged by citing the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947, where numerous cases predated the media coverage. The article also scrutinizes the 1973-1974 French UFO wave, questioning Viéroudy's assertion that a specific observation in Turin triggered a wave months later, and highlighting the lack of concrete evidence from a widely publicized observation night.

Methodological and Statistical Flaws

The article extensively details methodological and statistical flaws in Viéroudy's work. It points out discrepancies in data presentation, such as the omission of the year 1973 in French unemployment figures, which artificially inflates the correlation with UFO sightings. The author also demonstrates that the graphs presented by Viéroudy are factually incorrect, with reported UFO numbers not aligning with the visual representation. The critique extends to the Spanish data, where reported UFO counts do not match the graphical representation of the wave.

Alternative Interpretations and Criteria

The author proposes that Viéroudy's demonstration is selective, incomplete, and sometimes historically inaccurate. Instead of solely focusing on economic crises, the article suggests a broader range of criteria for public anxiety, including wars, natural disasters, political instability, and economic crises. It argues that Viéroudy's narrow focus on specific economic indicators and his selective interpretation of data render his conclusions unreliable.

Case Study: Sturno, Italy Encounter

Beyond the theoretical critique, the issue includes a detailed account of a specific UFO encounter. On August 31, 1977, seven witnesses in Sturno, Italy, reported observing a humanoid being near an old quarry. The entity is described as cylindrical with dark vertical bands and a bright white dome, similar to a cupola. It was observed to gesticulate, emit a modulated sound, and project an intense white light beam from its head. The witnesses estimated its height to be over 2 meters. The encounter also involved observations of strange lights and sounds, and the discovery of physical traces, including compacted earth and metallic residues on rocks.

Forum and Events

The issue also announces upcoming events, including a forum on ufology and archaeology organized by SOBEPS in collaboration with KADATH in Brussels. The forum features conferences by notable figures like Jean-Claude Bourret, Simone Waisbard, and Michel Bougard, covering topics ranging from military UFO information to the mysteries of Nazca and Stonehenge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of ufological theories, the importance of rigorous methodology and statistical accuracy, and the distinction between objective phenomena and psychological interpretations. The editorial stance is clearly critical of unsubstantiated claims and emphasizes the need for a rational and evidence-based approach to the study of UFOs. The article advocates for a more comprehensive understanding of societal anxieties rather than a narrow focus on economic factors when analyzing UFO waves.

Title: Les grands cas mondiaux
Issue: n° 47
Volume: 1978
Date: 1978
Publisher: Inforespace
Country: France
Original Language: French
Cover Headline: Une nuit de terreur à Kelly (1)

Article 1: Les grands cas mondiaux: Une nuit de terreur à Kelly (1)

This extensive article details the infamous Kelly-Hopkinsville encounter of August 21, 1955, in Kentucky, USA. The report, compiled by Ted Bloecher and Isabel Davis for the Center of UFO Studies under J. Allen Hynek, and further elaborated by M. Robert J. Stevens, reconstructs the events from witness testimonies.

The incident began around 7 PM when Billy Taylor reported seeing a "flying saucer" land in a nearby ravine. Later, around 11 PM, the family dog began barking, and Lucky Sutton and Billy Taylor went to investigate. They encountered small, strange beings described as about 1.05 meters tall, with large, round heads, enormous arms reaching almost to the ground, and claw-like fingers. Their eyes were large and phosphorescent, and their bodies emitted a strange, silvery light.

The occupants reportedly approached the house, and the witnesses fired upon them. The beings exhibited unusual agility, recoiling and then continuing their approach, sometimes appearing to "float" or move with incredible speed. Several shots were fired, and the occupants were described as being hit but continuing to move. The beings were seen at windows and doors, seemingly observing the inhabitants, but not displaying overt hostility.

The article details the layout of the Sutton farmhouse and the surrounding fields, including the ravine where the object was believed to have landed. It also provides a list of the eight adults and three children present at the farm that night, along with their relationships.

Article 2: Crises politiques graves, Crises économiques de grande envergure, Crises de société

This section, written by Nicolas Greslou, explores various types of societal crises that can be indicators of widespread public anxiety. It categorizes these crises into six main types:

1. Wars: Characterized by fear of defeat, loss of loved ones, economic disruption, and suppression of liberties.
2. Natural Calamities: Including routine events like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and exceptional events like catastrophic floods, climate disruptions, and epidemics.
3. Serious Political Crises: Situations that threaten the stability of a state, such as unstable regimes, coups d'état, and dictatorships.
4. Large-Scale Economic Crises: Beyond typical cyclical fluctuations, these include financial crises (devaluation, capital flight), price hikes or drops, stock market crashes, supply shortages, overproduction, and severe crop failures.
5. Societal Crises: Moral and psychological issues where a population feels "uncomfortable in its own skin." This includes the questioning of traditional values (family, religion, state), rejection of material benefits (leading to phenomena like hippies), and a general sense of unease.
6. Fear of the Future: Such as anxieties about the year 1000 or 2000, nuclear war, pollution, and the collapse of civilization.

Greslou argues that it is often vain to focus on a single criterion of crisis and that multiple factors usually combine. He uses the post-WWI period in Europe (1919-1922) as an example of a time when several crisis criteria converged.

The author then lists various reactions of a population when it is in a state of crisis, including suicide, emigration, reduced birth rates, financial investment in safe havens, increased religious observance, revolutions, drug use, and the creation of sects. He pointedly notes that in these crises, people do not typically report UFO sightings.

Article 3: Le dossier Bloecher et Davis sur les OVNIS

This section briefly introduces a comprehensive report by Ted Bloecher and Isabel Davis on UFOs, published in March 1978. It mentions that the report covers nearly 200 pages and provides a broad overview of the subject. It notes that in 1947, during a wave of UFO sightings in the US, the concept of "occupants" was not widely discussed, with many attributing sightings to secret American aircraft.

However, the article points out that even in 1947, there were reports mentioning occupants, citing three local newspaper accounts from June and July of that year. These reports described encounters with small, human-like figures. The article also references earlier "phantom rocket" sightings in Scandinavia in 1946, which also included reports of occupants.

Article 4: Les occupants d'OVNI: Premiers rapports et évolution

This section traces the history of UFO occupant reports, starting from the 1947 wave. It highlights early reports from Massachusetts, Tacoma, and Texas, which described encounters with small beings. The article notes that such stories were often treated with irony and not taken seriously by the press.

It discusses the impact of Leslie and Adamski's book "Flying Saucers Have Landed" in 1953, which described personal encounters and telepathic conversations with idealized beings from Venus. The author suggests this book, along with Frank Scully's "Behind the Flying Saucers," negatively impacted the credibility of occupant reports, leading many serious researchers to become skeptical.

The article then details several US and Canadian reports from 1954, including a Chicago sighting involving a being emerging from a white object, and encounters in Garson, Ontario, and Hemmingford, Quebec, with tall, six-armed beings and a large being in a black suit, respectively.

It also mentions the significant impact of Major Donald E. Keyhoe's investigation and his article "Flying Saucers Are Real" in 1950, which, while not directly discussing occupants, implied their existence and began to shape public perception.

Article 5: Rencontre rapprochée à Kelly

This section focuses on the Kelly-Hopkinsville case, stating that newspapers and radio stations reported on "little green men from Hopkinsville" in late August 1955. The article clarifies that the location was actually Kelly, Kentucky, and the beings were not necessarily green. It describes an incident where a saucer landed near a farm, and several small beings emerged, engaging with the inhabitants for most of the night.

The report emphasizes the credibility of the witnesses, particularly Mrs. Lankford, a woman described as having "absolute integrity." Her sons initially dismissed the event but believed it when their mother testified to it.

Article 6: La ferme des Sutton et les circonstances de l'événement

This part of the report provides a detailed description of the Sutton farm in Kelly, Kentucky, including its location, layout, and the surrounding fields. It notes the presence of a ravine that could have concealed a landed object. The article describes the farmhouse itself and the people present on the night of the incident: eight adults and three children.

It highlights the personalities of the key witnesses, particularly Elmer "Lucky" Sutton and his mother, Mrs. Glennie Lankford, emphasizing their perceived honesty and lack of tendency towards fantasy or hysteria. Billy Ray Taylor is identified as a more imaginative individual whose reports might be embellished.

Article 7: La nuit de terreur à Kelly

This section recounts the events of the night of August 21, 1955, at the Sutton farm. It details how the beings, described as about 1.05 meters tall with large heads and phosphorescent bodies, approached the house. The witnesses fired upon them, and the beings reacted with agility and speed, sometimes appearing to float or move on all fours. The article notes the beings' apparent lack of hostility, their curiosity, and their avoidance of direct light.

It describes the beings' movements, their phosphorescent glow increasing when fired upon, and their lack of discernible sex or odor. The encounter lasted for several hours, with the beings reappearing multiple times. The family eventually became terrified and sought refuge in their cars to go to Hopkinsville.

Article 8: Figure 3 and Figure 4 Descriptions

Figure 3 is a drawing by Bud Ledwith based on the descriptions of Mrs. Lankford and her daughters-in-law, depicting one of the creatures. It details its size, head, ears, eyes, mouth, arms, hands with claws, and body. Figure 4 is a reconstitution by Billy Ray Taylor showing a creature hanging from an awning and touching Billy Ray Taylor's head.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on detailed case studies of UFO sightings and alleged encounters with extraterrestrial beings. The editorial stance appears to favor a serious, investigative approach to these phenomena, presenting witness testimonies and attempting to analyze the events critically. There is a clear interest in historical cases and the evolution of UFOlogy, particularly concerning the controversial topic of "occupants." The magazine seems to aim at providing comprehensive accounts, often including diagrams, witness lists, and detailed descriptions of the alleged phenomena and beings. The article on societal crises suggests a broader interest in phenomena that might correlate with or be influenced by widespread public anxiety, potentially linking societal stress to UFO reports.

Note: The summary is based on the provided OCR text and may contain inaccuracies due to the quality of the scan and OCR process. The content is translated from French to English.