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Magazine Overview

This issue of inforespace, a semestrial review of ufology and spatial phenomena, is issue number 80, dated April 1991, marking its 20th year of publication. Published in Belgium, the magazine delves into various UFO/UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) cases and related theories.

"TOUPIE" VERTICALE DANS LE CIEL DU PETIT MATIN (Vertical "Saucer" in the Early Morning Sky)

This article details a fascinating observation made by Mr. Romano T. and his wife, Silvana C., on April 22, 1990, around 8:25 AM in Pont-de-Loup, Hainaut, Belgium. The object was described as a triangular mass with rounded corners, metallic grey in color, moving vertically (point downwards) and rotating counter-clockwise. It emitted lights resembling an arc-en-ciel, with a dominance of red-orange, when hit by the sun. The witnesses, Italian immigrants with limited French, provided detailed accounts, with Mr. T. describing the object's lamps blinking rhythmically and a 'square like wood' shape associated with it. His wife described it as heart-shaped with three headlights. The object was estimated to be at an altitude of 600-700 meters and made no noise. The article notes the difficulty of the investigation due to language barriers and obstacles at the observation site. The report also draws parallels with other sightings published in Inforespace, including cases in Basècles, Profondeville, and Brussels.

OBSERVATION A GRIMBERGEN LE 23 NOVEMBRE 1989 (Observation at Grimbergen on November 23, 1989)

This section presents a letter from Mr. Didier D. R., describing an observation made on November 23, 1989, around 10:30 PM in Grimbergen, Belgium. He and his wife observed a significant luminous source with 6 to 8 'spots' that blinked on and off rapidly, describing a circular movement of about 6-8 meters in diameter. The blinking was compared to car diagnostic strobe lamps. The object was stationary except for this circular movement and was partially obscured by a low-lying, unnaturally defined cloud. The witnesses felt an inexplicable urge to go to bed shortly after the observation. Mr. D. R. explains his reluctance to contact the police, citing the recent media coverage of UFOs and a desire to avoid being labeled. He also mentions his later discovery of SOBEPS. The article notes that the altitude was estimated to be around 45 meters and the dimensions were uncertain. The witness also reported a strange feeling of unease for three months following the event.

AVIONS FURTIFS CONTRE AWACS (Furtive Aircraft vs. AWACS)

This lengthy article explores the theory that some UFO sightings, particularly those exhibiting characteristics of stealth and unusual flight, might be advanced, secret military aircraft rather than extraterrestrial craft. It begins by referencing a 'wave' of sightings in Belgium in October 1990, initially attributed to AWACS (Airborne Warning And Control System) aircraft. However, the article presents arguments against this simple explanation, including witness testimonies that strongly differentiate the observed objects from AWACS. It discusses the nature of AWACS aircraft, which are essentially Boeing 707s equipped with large radar domes, used for airborne surveillance and command.

The article then delves into the concept of 'furtivity' in aircraft design, referencing Tom Clancy's novels and the development of stealth technology, exemplified by the F-117A 'Nighthawk' and the B-2 bomber. It explains the principles of stealth, including radar-absorbent materials, specialized shaping to deflect radar waves, and reduced heat signatures. The author suggests that the observed characteristics of some UFOs—such as triangular shapes, silent flight, rapid acceleration, and low-altitude maneuvers—align with the capabilities of advanced furtive aircraft.

Several specific incidents are analyzed in this context:

• October 18, 1990 (Namur region): Reports of a large flying object, initially linked to an AWACS, but some witnesses were adamant it was not.
• November 12, 1990 (Herstal): A witness observed an AWACS and a brighter, unidentified point of light that seemed to be observing the AWACS.
• November 22, 1990 (Viaduc de Viesville): A large, silent, triangular object with rounded sides, described as 'manta ray-like', was seen, followed by an AWACS.
• February 20, 1990 (Flémalle-Grande): An object was observed, filmed, and followed by an AWACS and two F-16 fighters.

The article poses two main hypotheses: either AWACS are actively searching for UFOs, or UFOs are observing AWACS. It further breaks down potential reasons for this interaction, including security, identification, or even the possibility that UFOs are testing or simulating scenarios with AWACS, perhaps related to furtive aircraft operations.

The author concludes that while some sightings might be explained by advanced terrestrial technology, the consistent reporting of objects with characteristics beyond current known capabilities, coupled with their unusual flight dynamics, leaves open the possibility of non-human origins. The article acknowledges the complexity of the issue, the secrecy surrounding military projects, and the difficulty of definitively proving any single hypothesis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained aerial phenomena with advanced terrestrial technology, particularly military aircraft. There's a recurring theme of investigating witness testimonies rigorously and comparing observed phenomena to known aircraft, while remaining open to the possibility of unknown or non-human origins. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking evidence-based explanations but not dismissing extraordinary claims outright. The magazine emphasizes the importance of detailed reporting and analysis in the field of ufology.

This issue of OVNI magazine, dated 1991, delves into a significant night of UFO activity in Belgium on December 11, 1989. The publication meticulously documents numerous sightings, presenting detailed accounts from witnesses and the results of investigations conducted by organizations like SOBEPS. The magazine aims to analyze the patterns and characteristics of these events, exploring potential explanations ranging from advanced human technology to extra-terrestrial intelligence.

Key Articles and Reports

The Night of December 11, 1989: A Systematic Reconnaissance?

This section highlights the exceptional nature of December 11, 1989, as one of several particularly active dates for UFO sightings. The article details the systematic collection and computer analysis of over 1200 cases by SOBEPS, aiming to identify structures in the temporal and spatial distribution of these observations. The focus is on the events of December 11th, emphasizing the coherence of witness testimonies regarding chronology, reported details, shapes, and movements. The majority of sightings occurred along the Sambre and Meuse valley, with a particular concentration between La Louvière and Namur.

Detailed Sightings and Witness Testimonies

The magazine presents a series of individual reports, often accompanied by witness sketches and investigator notes:

• Esneux (Liège): Witness Mme Maggy L. observed a luminous object, described as bell-shaped with white and red lights, moving slowly and silently. The object was later observed to have a triangular shape with rounded edges.
• Tilff (Liège): A large, dark grey triangular object with rounded edges, featuring green and red lights, was observed by children while they were watching television. The object emitted a noise described as an electric motor.
• Trooz (Liège): The L... family observed two powerful lights. One was stationary, while another moved and was described as a luminous structure with white and red lights. The object pulsed regularly and was accompanied by fainter lights.
• La Louvière (Hainaut): M. Michel G. reported seeing a large, blurry object with red and yellow lights forming a triangle. The object moved moderately, with slight accelerations, and emitted a faint high-pitched noise. The witness's watch malfunctioned after the sighting.
• Morlanwelz (Hainaut): Witnesses Robert V. and Mic B. observed four luminous points moving laterally, part of a majestic grey structure with white lights and a red light at the rear.
• Seneffe (Hainaut): M. and Mme Willy D. reported seeing two bright white headlights above a farm, with a mass of indeterminate shape and a luminous beam illuminating the ground.
• Jemeppe-sur-Sambre (Hainaut): M. Jean-Claude S. observed a luminous object with a central 'flash' and small red lights, hovering and then moving rapidly north. His wife later observed a similar luminous structure.
• Jumet (Hainaut): Two separate testimonies describe luminous objects, one with red and white lights and another with a central red light and peripheral lights.

Other Pistes and Theoretical Models

Beyond direct sightings, the magazine explores various theoretical frameworks for understanding UFO phenomena:

• Jacques Vallée's Observations: Vallée's work is cited for identifying invariants in folklore, legends, and Marian apparitions, suggesting possible interferences between human and intelligent, but terrestrial, beings inhabiting unknown zones.
• Socio-psychological Models: These models attribute UFO sightings to mental aspects such as errors, aberrations, fantasies, or unknown psychological phenomena.
• Mystical Models: These models equate concepts like 'Supreme Being,' 'superior intelligent being,' 'miracle,' 'marvel of science,' and 'angel' with 'ET,' but are criticized for being anthropocentric and limiting the universe's possibilities to human-like forms.
• The Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis (HET) and Neo-HET: The article discusses the HET, acknowledging its limitations and the development of a 'neo-HET' model. This model posits the existence of conscious, intelligent entities interfering with our environment via UFOs, without specifying their origin (e.g., other planets, the future, other dimensions) or nature (e.g., holograms, materialized concretions).

Hypotheses on Object Appearance

Several hypotheses are proposed to explain why UFOs sometimes resemble conventional aircraft:

• Different Species: A visiting species might use camouflage that imperfectly mimics human aircraft.
• Camouflage: Objects might be disguised as conventional aircraft, with imperfections arising from operational necessities, the visitors' inability to perceive human perception, or deliberate imprecision.
• Educational Process: The phenomenon might be part of a global educational effort, introducing new forms and concepts to expand human consciousness towards cosmic openness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the detailed, factual reporting of UFO sightings, emphasizing witness credibility and investigative rigor. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded yet analytical stance, presenting various hypotheses without definitively endorsing any single one. The editorial stance leans towards acknowledging the reality of the phenomena while exploring the complexities of their interpretation, whether they be terrestrial, extra-terrestrial, or psychological in origin. The emphasis is on gathering data and encouraging further research into these unexplained events.

This issue of OVNI magazine, dated 1990, presents a collection of UFO/UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings and investigations primarily from Belgium. The publication focuses on detailed witness testimonies and the findings of various investigators, aiming to document and analyze these unexplained aerial events.

Key Articles and Reports

Section 1: Initial Sightings and Investigations

The magazine begins with several detailed accounts of sightings. One report describes a luminous object with red lights and a white structure that moved silently and rapidly. Another details an observation near Jumet, Hainaut, where witnesses saw a round object with lights and a central ball, likened to a 'flying saucer'.

Section 2: Lieutenant-Colonel André A...'s Testimony (Ernage, Namur)

A significant report comes from Lieutenant-Colonel André A..., who observed a series of white lights forming a triangle with a red beacon on December 11, 1989, near Ernage. He described the object as moving silently and noted its unusual flight characteristics, ruling out conventional aircraft like AWACS, ULM, or helicopters.

Section 3: Further Sightings Across Belgium

The issue continues with numerous other reports:

• Daussoiulx, Namur: A witness observed a large, red, manta-ray-like object moving slowly and silently.
• Mazy-Suarlee, Namur: Multiple witnesses reported seeing white and red lights, described as a 'gigantic UFO' and a 'triangle isoceles'.
• Malonne, Namur: A witness and students observed a luminous object with three white lights and a red light, moving slowly.
• Spy, Namur: A witness observed luminous points forming a triangle, with a red light and a white light directed towards the ground.
• Forville, Namur: A witness observed three bright lights forming a horizontal line, projecting light beams onto the ground.
• Emines, Namur: Witnesses observed a luminous elliptical shape with a yellow central light, a red light, and white lights.
• Bastogne, Luxembourg: A witness observed a truncated cone shape with red and yellow lights, rotating and remaining visible for several minutes.
• Xhendremael, Liège: A witness reported seeing a dark, mushroom-shaped mass with white lights approaching her vehicle.
• Jupille-sur-Meuse, Liège: An observation of an unusual aerial event occurred late at night.
• Remouchamps, Liège: An agent observed an object moving in jerks.
• Sambeville, Namur: A strong luminosity was observed, resembling a balloon of light.
• Pietrain, Brabant: A witness reported a continuous rumbling sound and a cigar-shaped object.

Section 4: Detailed Case Studies and Investigations

The magazine includes detailed accounts from investigators such as Michel Bougard, J. Laurent, Gérard Grede, Denis Moinil, and Serge Surpierre, who interviewed witnesses and analyzed the reported events. Some cases involve photographic or video evidence, though the quality or conclusiveness of this evidence is often noted as limited.

Section 5: Specific Object Characteristics and Witness Perceptions

Throughout the reports, common themes emerge regarding the characteristics of the observed objects: they are often described as silent, luminous, and exhibiting non-conventional flight patterns. Witnesses frequently express their inability to identify the objects as known aircraft, leading to speculation about their origin. The size estimates vary widely, from a few meters to the size of a football field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of UFO/UAP sightings in Belgium during 1990, the diversity of reported phenomena, and the consistent inability of witnesses and investigators to attribute these events to conventional explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, presenting witness accounts and investigative findings without immediate dismissal, and encouraging further research into these unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine emphasizes the importance of detailed documentation and witness testimony in understanding the UFO/UAP subject.

This issue of INFORESPACE, dated December 1989 (Issue 80), focuses intensely on a significant wave of UFO sightings that occurred in Belgium, particularly on December 11th and 12th, 1989. The cover headline, "December 1989: The UFOs are back!", sets the tone for an issue packed with witness testimonies, investigative reports, and analysis of these events. The magazine's primary goal is to document and explore these phenomena, suggesting a sophisticated technological origin.

Key Sightings and Investigations

The issue details numerous specific cases, often with detailed witness accounts and investigator notes:

• Jupille-sur-Meuse (Liège): A particularly detailed account from M. I.F., an engineer, describes an object observed around 02:00 on December 12th. The object, initially perceived as a noise, was seen hovering over a road. It was described as egg-shaped with a dark, non-illuminated window resembling plexiglass, and a matte grey metallic body. A horizontal band with bluish and reddish lights, compared to arc welding, encircled the object. The witness estimated its size at around 20 meters and noted its unusual, slightly blurred contours, as if behind a light screen. The object reportedly moved slowly, then rapidly, emitting powerful beams of light before disappearing. Later, a vertical column of light was observed. Investigations at the scene by gendarmes and RTL-Liège journalists found three circles of shorter grass in a meadow, though their significance was debated.

• Sambreville (Namur): On December 12th, around 08:30, a witness described a large light source composed of several white points, resembling "two stadium lights" with a rugby ball shape, located beneath cloud cover. This phenomenon disappeared abruptly into the clouds.

• Piétrain (Brabant Wallon): A case, difficult to date precisely but likely around December 11th, involved a witness observing a large, black, cigar-shaped object with red and white lights. The object was described as having a yellow circular light with undulating orange lines, interpreted as a rear jet nozzle. The witness noted its resemblance to an object pictured in "Science & Vie" magazine. The duration of the sighting was estimated at 30 seconds to 1 minute.

• Regional Movements: The article notes observations suggesting rapid movement across Belgium. An object was seen south of Liège (Esneux and Tilff) at 17:45, and about fifteen minutes later, it was visible about a hundred kilometers west, near La Louvière. The analysis suggests potential speeds of around 400 km/h for such movements. Other observations describe objects moving for extended periods over shorter distances.

• Other Cases: The issue also briefly mentions other sightings, including one near Mazy and another at Morlanwelz, highlighting the widespread nature of the events. A case from Tirlemont, described by Mme Garin, is compared to the Jupille object due to its "torpedo" shape and a large window.

Analysis and Witness Accounts

The dossier, compiled by Annie Eyckmans and Michel Bougard, emphasizes the coherence of the testimonies despite potential inaccuracies in timing and distance estimations. The authors suggest that the consistency points towards a sophisticated technology rather than misinterpretation. The article explores the possibility of multiple objects or a single object exhibiting extreme speed changes. The behavior of the objects, including their low-altitude flights, stops, and light emissions, is meticulously documented.

Several other witnesses, including Mme J.L. and Martine R. (daughter of the main witness in Jupille), corroborated aspects of the events, such as unusual noises or lights, reinforcing the credibility of the primary accounts. The investigation involved gendarmes from the Wandre brigade, military personnel, and media teams from RTL-Liège, who interviewed witnesses and visited potential landing sites.

Object Characteristics

Based on the collected testimonies, the objects displayed several common characteristics:

• Shape: Cigar-shaped, egg-shaped, triangular platforms, torpedo-like.
• Lights: Red, white, yellow, bluish, and reddish lights, sometimes described as beams or spotlights.
• Behavior: Hovering, slow and rapid movements, ascending, descending, stopping, and flying at low altitudes.
• Sound: Humming, droning, or mechanical noises, sometimes compared to a motor or chains.
• Physical Traces: In one instance, three circles of shorter grass were noted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently frames these events as evidence of advanced, unknown technology. The editorial stance leans towards validating the witness accounts, highlighting the investigative efforts and the consistency of the reports. The article expresses frustration with the lack of official follow-up or public acknowledgment, suggesting a potential cover-up or a deliberate downplaying of the phenomena. The authors emphasize that the witnesses are not seeking publicity and that their accounts are sincere, often stemming from ordinary circumstances like checking a boiler or walking a dog. The recurring theme is the need for serious investigation into these unexplained aerial phenomena, which are presented as more than mere misidentifications or hoaxes.

This issue of INFOrespace, number 79 from November 1990, published by SOBEPS, focuses on the analysis of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) and the evolving relationship between private research organizations and official military and defense bodies in Belgium. The magazine delves into specific cases, including the Banholt film and the Basècles observation, while also detailing the complex process of collaboration and information exchange with governmental entities.

The Banholt Film: A Detailed Analysis

The article "BANHOLT: LE FILM" examines the video footage taken on the night of December 11, 1989, in Banholt, Netherlands. The author, Patrick FERRYN, meticulously analyzes the visual data, including still images from the recording. The footage shows a luminous object that initially appears as a single light source, then transforms into three distinct points of light, and finally merges back into one before dimming. The analysis notes a fleeting reddish hue on one of the lights, while the rest appeared white. The article discusses the possibility of conventional aircraft, acknowledging that the witnesses' accounts might contradict this, but suggests that the evolution of such an aircraft could produce a similar visual result. The low resolution of camcorders is cited as a factor that can create the illusion of an immobile object.

Collaboration with Official Bodies: SOBEPS and the "Officials"

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the relationship between SOBEPS and Belgian official services, particularly the Gendarmerie and the Force Aérienne. The article "LA SOBEPS ET LES "OFFICIELS"" chronicles how, since late 1989, SOBEPS sought to establish credible contacts to access information. This led to interactions with the Gendarmerie, including directives to local brigades to report UAP observations to SOBEPS. The Force Aérienne's radar station at Glons was also involved, with Lieutenant-Colonel Billen becoming a key contact. The article highlights a press conference on December 18, 1989, where military officials, including Lt-Col. De Brouwer, suggested that the observed phenomena were not Belgian or foreign military aircraft, nor AWACS. A communiqué from the Ministry of National Defence on December 21, 1989, stated that investigations by the Air Force found no correlation between visual sightings and air defense radar echoes, suggesting parasitic radar echoes due to meteorological phenomena. It also confirmed that no stealth aircraft were present and that no drone exercises were conducted in the area.

Official Statements and Investigations

Minister of National Defence, M. Guy Coëme, is quoted stating that all hypotheses regarding military aircraft in Belgian airspace were definitively excluded. The article details SOBEPS's continued efforts to obtain radar data, including a visit to the CRC Glons radar installation. A formal request was made to the Minister of Defence, resulting in a partial satisfaction: the Force Aérienne agreed to provide information on civilian and military aircraft trajectories, but limited the scope to five specific cases. The Minister also clarified that helicopter flights for the REFORGER exercise occurred during the day and not in the affected regions. The article notes that while radar echoes were identified as potentially linked to meteorological conditions, the Force Aérienne took measures to avoid future ambiguities.

Key Events and Developments

The issue recounts the organization of observation vigils by SOBEPS in March 1990, involving volunteers and mobile teams. The Minister of Defence publicly stated his authorization for the Force Aérienne to share information with SOBEPS. A significant event occurred on the night of March 30-31, 1990, when gendarmes in the Wavre region observed luminous phenomena, leading to the dispatch of two F-16s. Radar data from this event reportedly showed unusual echoes, and an F-16 reportedly had a contact with an unidentified target. The official response described the F-16 pilots as returning 'bredouilles' (empty-handed). The same night, a witness in Brussels filmed a triangular object with three white lights and a central red light, which was considered a good match to previous UAP reports.

Towards Structured Collaboration

Following these events, SOBEPS proposed a more structured approach, including the use of infrared cameras on helicopters or planes. This proposal was accepted, leading to a joint operation, "IDENTIFICATION OVNI," planned for April 1990, with support from the Belgian Armed Forces. The article highlights that this was a world first for a private UFO research group to receive such direct military support. The operation involved aircraft on standby and a protocol for confirming ground sightings with local authorities before deploying aerial resources.

Parliamentary Scrutiny and Official Responses

Parliamentary questions were raised by Deputy Daems regarding the government's handling of UAP observations. Minister Coëme responded by reiterating that investigations had not revealed any unexplained phenomena beyond potential radar anomalies and that the government was not wasting resources on 'phantoms.' He emphasized that the collaboration was for scientific research and not security-related. The article also mentions a specific report concerning the night of March 30-31, 1990, which was provided to SOBEPS in June 1990.

The Basècles Observation: Further Data

Another detailed case presented is the UAP observation in Basècles on December 21, 1989. The article provides precise measurements of the object's distance from witnesses (375m), altitude (around 46-50m), and width (around 50m). The object was described as having three white lights, each about 16m in diameter. The witnesses remained consistent in their accounts and cooperative with the investigation.

Call for Collaboration and Service Announcements

The magazine concludes with a call for volunteers to assist SOBEPS due to the increasing number of daily UAP reports. It also lists available books on UAP and related topics from the SOBEPS library, including titles on flying saucers, mysterious objects, and scientific research into UAP.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed analysis of UAP sightings, the challenges and progress of scientific investigation, and the critical, often complex, relationship between civilian researchers and official military and governmental bodies. The editorial stance appears to be one of persistent, evidence-based inquiry, advocating for transparency and scientific rigor in understanding UAP phenomena, while also acknowledging the limitations and potential for misinterpretation. The magazine champions the idea of collaboration between different sectors to advance the study of UAP.