inforespace hors serie - No 04 - 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 4 hors série, 9th year
Date: December 1980
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

Content Summary

This special issue of Inforespace, titled "OVNI: un phénomène parasolaire ?" (UFO: a parasolar phenomenon?), presents a detailed statistical analysis of UFO sightings. The primary goal is to identify periodicities in observations over time and to investigate a potential correlation between UFO phenomena and solar or parasolar activity. The study leverages a global file of approximately 10,000 UFO cases, analyzed using statistical methods and computer equipment.

Introduction and Methodology

The introduction highlights the work of two researchers who have spent over four years analyzing UFO data. It suggests that by using scientific tools, the field of ufology can be significantly advanced. The analysis of nearly 10,000 references aims to uncover new characteristics and previously unsuspected analogies. The issue proposes that 1981 could be a decisive year for UFO research, potentially shifting its orientation. Readers are encouraged to engage with the mathematical aspects of the study and provide feedback.

The magazine also addresses potential delays in publication due to the complex nature of scientific work and the effort involved in creating the numerous illustrations (tables, graphs, maps).

Subscription and Membership Information

Information is provided regarding annual subscriptions for Inforespace, with different rates for ordinary members, students, and supporting members, valid for various years and back issues. Payment details for SOBEPS are given, including CCP and bank account numbers, with specific instructions for international payments (postal money orders or bank transfers, no checks).

SOBEPS is described as a non-profit, secular association dedicated to the rational observation and study of unidentified aerial phenomena. Its activities include investigations, diffusion of information through its quarterly review, and conferences. Members are encouraged to contribute information, participate in promotion, and become active collaborators.

A book titled "DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES AUX OVNI" by Michel Bougard, published by SOBEPS, is also advertised as a collective work aiming to summarize ufological research.

Table of Contents

The table of contents outlines the articles within this issue:

• Avant-propos (Foreword)
• Introduction
• 1. Fichier global mondial (Global File)
• 2. L'analyse par zone géographique (Analysis by Geographical Zone)
• 3. L'analyse mensuelle (Monthly Analysis)
• 4. L'observation horaire (Hourly Observation)
• 5. Les observations nationales mensuelles (National Monthly Observations)
• 6. Elévation solaire et observations OVNI (Solar Elevation and UFO Observations)
• 7. Les observations journalières (Daily Observations)
• 8. Les cycles (Cycles)
• 9. Relation climat - OVNI (Climate - UFO Relationship)
• 10. Brainstorming
• 11. Conclusions générales (General Conclusions)

The editorial notes that signed articles represent the author's responsibility.

Article 1: Global File

This section details the global UFO file compiled up to 1976, containing 4954 cases. It presents a table (Tableau I) showing the monthly distribution of UFO sightings from 1940 onwards. The analysis highlights a remarkable constancy in the number of cases during the winter months (December, January, February, March, April, May) and summer months (July, August, September). A trend of shifting peak observation months is noted from 1966 onwards, with peaks appearing in November, October, and September in successive years, suggesting a potential drift.

Article 2: Analysis by Geographical Zone

This section examines the geographical distribution of UFO sightings. It introduces a classification of zones based on longitude (A-H) and latitude (I-N). Figures 2a and 2b illustrate the monthly distribution of UFOs in the Northern and Southern hemispheres and across different geographical zones. Table II lists the selected geographical zones and their corresponding data codes. The analysis notes that major UFO waves (e.g., 1952, 1954, 1957, 1966-1968) are observable across various zones, indicating the global nature of the phenomenon. The study aims to refine the analysis by considering specific countries within these zones.

Article 3: Monthly Analysis

This section delves into the monthly distribution of UFO sightings, analyzing effects of longitude and latitude.

#### 3.1. Effect of Longitude

Figure 4 visualizes the monthly distribution for zones B through H. It shows that UFO observations tend to occur in different patterns depending on longitude. For example, zone G (Central Europe) shows a peak in September, and observations seem to shift. The results for zone B (USA) are compared to statistics from the "Project Blue Book," showing a similar "head and shoulders" pattern, characteristic of UFO phenomena. The findings are also aligned with research by Michael A. Persinger and Gyslaine F. Lafrenière, who observed peaks in April and a resurgence in July, August, and September.

Figure 5, from the "Project Blue Book," shows the monthly total of UFO sightings and "Non-Identified" cases, noting a similarity in the peaks for April and July with the distribution in zone B. The study suggests that the "UFO report pattern" has remained constant over several decades.

#### 3.2. Effect of Latitude

Figure 6 illustrates the monthly distribution of UFO sightings for zones I to N (latitude-based). It compares SOBEPS data with national files from Sweden, Spain/Portugal, Brazil, and Argentina. The analysis indicates that Swedish and Spanish/Portuguese sightings show peaks in April and July, while the November peak is less prominent in Spain/Portugal. Brazilian and Argentine data align with SOBEPS findings. The study summarizes the monthly patterns for different latitudinal zones, noting that northern zones tend to have multiple peaks, while equatorial and southern zones show different distributions. The data suggests that the phenomenon is observed globally, with variations based on longitude and latitude.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the rigorous statistical analysis of UFO sightings to uncover patterns, cycles, and potential correlations with natural phenomena, particularly solar activity. The editorial stance, as expressed in the "Avant-propos" by Michel Bougard, is one of encouraging scientific inquiry and detailed investigation, moving beyond mere historical critique. There is an emphasis on the importance of data analysis and the potential for significant breakthroughs in UFO research. The publication promotes a rational, scientific approach to understanding these phenomena, encouraging collaboration and active participation from its members.

This issue of "L'Observation des OVNI" (UFO Observation) delves into a detailed statistical analysis of UFO sightings, focusing on temporal and geographical patterns. The content is primarily driven by data analysis, presented through graphs, tables, and textual interpretations. The magazine explores hourly, monthly, and seasonal variations in UFO reports, examining their distribution across different longitudes and latitudes, and comparing findings between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Key Articles and Findings

Figures 7 and 8: Hourly Distribution by Longitude and Latitude

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the hourly distribution of UFO sightings according to longitude and latitude, respectively. The analysis notes a symmetry in observation peaks around midnight in latitudinal distribution (Figure 8). The gap between peaks increases from northern to southern zones. The data suggests that in the northern hemisphere, three peaks are generally present, with two being very marked. In the magazine's zone of interest, the winter peak occurs later. Spain shows a profile similar to the north. Near the equator, peaks correspond roughly to the four seasons (March, June, August, December), though this observation is made with caution due to a low number of cases.

In Brazil, UFO observations are as significant in July-August (their winter) as in January, with a confirmed summer peak further south.

Section 3.3: Conclusion on Seasonal Patterns

The conclusion drawn is that July-August (7-8) and March-April (3-4) are privileged periods in the Northern Hemisphere, while June-July (6-7) predominates in the Southern Hemisphere. These findings align with SOBEPS statistics and national statistics, as well as global statistics from Hynek and Lagarde.

Section 4: Hourly Observation Patterns

#### 4.1. Effect of Longitude (Figure 7)

This section analyzes the number of selected cases as a function of local hour, without time correction, as cases originate primarily from the local time zone. The graph shows a distribution of sightings across hours, with specific peaks and troughs.

#### 4.2. Effect of Latitude (Figure 8)

This section presents a representation similar to Figure 7 but scanning from south to north. It identifies a minimum at midnight and a symmetry around 24 hours, which is more pronounced in the south. The frequency of sightings is higher in the north. The interval between peaks lengthens when moving from the northern to the southern hemisphere. The conclusion suggests that the distribution of apparitions varies greatly with north-south location, drawing an analogy to a spherical projectile in a water jet, where trails spread out from the impact point.

#### 4.3. The European Zone

Despite a large number of cases (over 4000), establishing month-by-month hourly statistics for all zones was not feasible. However, for European zones E and F, analysis was possible. Zone F, in particular, allows for valid quantification of results. When plotting the hours of maximum UFO observations against sunrise/sunset times (Figure 9), it's observed that sightings occur 1-2 hours after sunset and 1 hour before sunrise. This aligns with previous work by Monnerie and Anderson. A doubling of the peak is noted in February and October, with morning peaks at 7 am (February) and 6 am (October).

#### 4.4. The Tasmanian Zone

In the Southern Hemisphere, observations in summer occur around 10 pm and in winter around 8 pm. A graph indicating the time of observation and sunset in the Southern Hemisphere (Sao Paulo) shows a parallelism between UFO observation times and sunset. Additionally, a morning peak is observed around 3-4 am in February. Observations in the south occur around 10 pm in January and December (summer) and around 8 pm from May to September (winter).

Conclusions from this section state that UFO observations are directly linked to the sun's position relative to the observation site. A morning peak occurs in February in both hemispheres, irrespective of the season. The common rule that maximum observations occur at 10 pm is only valid if the most significant observations happen in summer. For winter waves, optimal observation can occur as early as 6-7 pm, with nothing observed at 10 pm.

Section 4.5: Fine Representation (Zone F)

Figure 13 details monthly UFO observations in the Northern Hemisphere. It highlights a shift in patterns, with January showing a seemingly doubled peak. February exhibits a peak doubling and a significant observation spike at 7 am. From March to September, a "head and shoulders" pattern is observed, with two secondary peaks around the main peak. October, like February, shows a doubled main peak and a peak around 6 am. November and December also show a doubling of the peak.

Figure 14, from a SUFOI publication, presents Danish observations in 30-minute intervals for 1975. It confirms the doubling of the peak (7 pm and 10 pm) for months like January, February, March, October, November, and December. A mean around 8 pm corresponds to the average noted in Figure 9. A solid line indicates a maximum around 10-11 pm for summer months (May, June, July, August). Summing observations in 15-minute intervals (Figure 15) makes explaining the phenomenon difficult. P. Andersen suggests a decrease in observations between 7 pm and 8 pm might be due to Danish television news, but this is questioned.

Conclusions from this section highlight statistical symmetries: "head and shoulders" from March to September, a doubled main peak from October to February, and a symmetrical doubling with peaks around 7 am in October and February.

Section 4.6: Poher-Vallée Modulation

This section introduces a modulation technique that corrects hourly observation counts by considering the potential presence of witnesses.

Section 5: National Monthly Observations

#### 5.1. Generalities

This section discusses the progression to monthly studies and revisits the hypothesis of a monthly shift in observations over successive years, suggesting potential annual "waves" of sightings.

#### 5.2. Tests

Several countries with a significant number of cases were selected for analysis. The study aims to analyze monthly variations over the years.

Section 5.3: Creation of an International Committee

An appeal was made in 1979 to form an international committee to collect national UFO observations from groups worldwide. Several organizations responded favorably from Germany, Australia, Spain, Finland, Italy, Norway, Sweden, and Tasmania.

#### 5.4. Research Results

When studying the variation in monthly observations over time for a country, certain peaks become apparent.

Figures 16a and 16b: Hourly Observation Integrals

These figures present integrals of hourly observations, showing the percentage of total observations by hour. Figure 16b, specifically, shows data from Sweden and Denmark. The average percentage of witnesses between 4 pm and 6 am is detailed, with a significant drop in potential witnesses after 6 pm. A new distribution of UFO cases, when reporting the number of cases against the percentage of potential witnesses, shows a maximum around 3 am when this correction is applied.

Section 5.1: Generalities (continued)

Comparing these results with Figure 13 reveals different distributions. The potential for "modulating" all hourly observation curves with witness potentiality curves adjusted for geographical zone and season is discussed. This adjustment could lead to better symmetry and amplify the hypothesis of a pulsatile phenomenon. Andersen's fine representation, showing an average period of 40 minutes between pulsations, is cited as an example.

Section 5.2: Tests (continued)

This section continues the analysis of national data, with the goal of identifying patterns and potential influences.

Figures 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22: Various Graphical Analyses

Figures 17a-e plot determined periods against latitude, showing a potential lengthening of the period as one approaches the equator. Figure 19 illustrates parameters for calculating the sun's height. Figure 20 shows UFO observation frequency based on the sun's angle of elevation. Figures 21 and 22 present the sun's height below the horizon as a function of latitude and the time elapsed since sunset as a function of latitude.

Section 4.5: Fine Representation (continued)

Further analysis of the European zone (F) data (Figure 13) refines the patterns observed in Figures 9 and 10. The monthly distribution reveals specific characteristics for January (doubled peak), February (doubled peak and 7 am spike), March-September (head and shoulders with secondary peaks), and October (doubled peak and 6 am spike). The text notes that the superposition of several movement types with different phases, as seen in Portugal and Spain, suggests multiple factors influencing the OVNI phenomenon.

Section 4.6: Poher-Vallée Modulation (continued)

This section reiterates the concept of modulating observation data based on witness potentiality.

Section 5.4: Research Results (continued)

When examining the variation of monthly observations over time for a country, certain peaks stand out. The text mentions that the analysis of monthly totals for different geographical zones, including latitude and longitude effects, suggests one, two, or three annual waves.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the statistical analysis of UFO sightings, focusing on temporal patterns (hourly, monthly, seasonal) and geographical variations (longitude, latitude, hemispheres). There is a strong emphasis on correlating UFO sightings with astronomical phenomena, particularly the position of the sun (sunset/sunrise). The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, data-driven investigation, seeking to identify underlying patterns and potential explanations for the phenomenon, while acknowledging the complexities and limitations of the data. The use of multiple statistical methods and the comparison of data from various countries underscore a commitment to a comprehensive and systematic approach to UFO research. The magazine also promotes international collaboration in data collection and analysis.

This issue of "Phénomènes Aériens Inhabituels" (Unusual Aerial Phenomena) delves deeply into the statistical analysis of UFO (OVNI) observations, focusing on identifying periodicities and potential correlations with astronomical phenomena. The publication date is estimated to be around December 1979, based on the content referencing data up to that period.

Astronomical Correlations and UFOs

Solar Elevation and UFOs The first section, "Elévation solaire et observations OVNI" (Solar Elevation and UFO Observations), investigates the relationship between the sun's position and the timing of UFO sightings. It notes that UFO sightings are not uniformly distributed throughout the day, with a tendency for more frequent observations in the evening. The article presents calculations of solar elevation above the horizon using astronomical formulas, considering different regions like Tasmania, Europe, and Argentina. Table IX provides monthly averages of solar elevation and time differences (Δt) between sunset and the peak observation time for UFOs. Figure 20 illustrates the variation in the number of UFOs as a function of solar elevation for the USA. The findings suggest that UFOs are often observed when the sun is below the horizon, and this relationship varies with geographic location and time of year.

Monthly Distribution of UFO Observations Section 6.2, "Distribution des observations mensuelles" (Monthly Distribution of Observations), examines the frequency of UFO sightings across different months. It proposes a method to determine the month with the highest frequency of observations for a given period and region, rather than just summing up observations. Figure 24 shows the global frequency of months with the maximum number of UFO observations, highlighting July as the most favorable month, with secondary peaks in March and November. The study notes that October, often associated with significant UFO waves in Europe, does not appear as a privileged month in this global analysis.

Annual UFO Phenomenon Maximum Section 6.3, "Le maximum du phénomène OVNI au cours de l'année" (The Maximum of the UFO Phenomenon During the Year), analyzes UFO observation patterns based on latitude. It groups countries by 10° latitude bands and identifies the months with the highest frequency of sightings. Table X and Figure 25 present these findings. Figure 26 illustrates the absolute deviation of these 'high-frequency' months from July, showing a clear influence of latitude. As latitude increases, the 'sensitive' months shift away from July. The article also touches upon the concept of continuous twilight in polar regions and its potential impact on observation periods.

Daily and Intra-Annual Cycles

The Major Obstacle: Average Periodicities Section 7, "Les observations journalières" (Daily Observations), introduces the search for cycles within the UFO phenomenon. It notes that long-term cycles (around 11 years) observed in UFOs are similar to those found in solar activity. The challenge lies in identifying precise periodicities.

Solar Activity and Intra-Annual Cycles Section 7.2, "A la recherche d'un cycle intra-annuel" (Searching for an Intra-Annual Cycle), focuses on solar activity. It explains that the sun's rotation period (approximately 27.3 days) is a significant factor, leading to an expected cyclical flux of solar emissions. Figure 30 shows the evolution of solar flux at 2800 MHz, correlating with sunspot numbers, and highlights a mean cycle of around 27 days. The study tests the 'event method' to refine this period, finding it to oscillate between 24 and 30 days annually.

Searching for Shorter UFO Cycles Section 7.3, "La recherche théorique d'un cycle OVNI de plus courte durée" (Theoretical Search for a Shorter UFO Cycle), investigates shorter periodicities. It explores the 'year-month' relationship, suggesting that an 11-month periodicity would require 11 to 13 years to repeat in the same month. It also examines the 'month-day' relationship, proposing a periodicity of 27.7 days for the phenomenon to reappear every 11 months, which is surprisingly close to the solar rotation period. The article acknowledges the difficulty in finding such short cycles due to data limitations.

The 28-Day Hunt Section 7.4, "La chasse aux 28 jours" (The 28-Day Hunt), attempts to identify a 28-day cycle in UFO observations. This involves analyzing days with a high number of sightings. Figure 31 presents an initial attempt using data from 1965-1967, identifying specific days with notable observation counts. Figure 32 illustrates a regression analysis of UFO sightings from 1947 to 1970, suggesting a 28-day periodicity. This is further supported by Figure 33, which shows regression lines for Belgian and Tasmanian data, also indicating a periodicity close to 28 days. Table XIII provides a table of days with a high probability of UFO observation based on a 28.1-day periodicity. The study notes that this 28-day cycle is remarkably close to the solar rotation period.

Data Analysis and Verification Figures 34 and 35 present histograms of UFO observations in Belgium from 1974 to 1978, further analyzing the distribution of sightings relative to predicted dates based on identified cycles. The research acknowledges the limitations and potential for error in such analyses but emphasizes the consistency of the findings across different datasets and methodologies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring theme throughout this issue is the systematic, data-driven search for patterns and cycles within UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous scientific inquiry, employing statistical and astronomical methods to understand the underlying causes or correlations of UFO sightings. There is a clear emphasis on comparing UFO data with known natural cycles, particularly solar activity and Earth's rotation, suggesting a belief that these phenomena might be interconnected. The publication aims to move beyond anecdotal evidence by presenting detailed analyses of historical observation data, even while acknowledging the inherent challenges and limitations of such research. The use of figures, tables, and detailed explanations of methodologies underscores a commitment to a scientific approach to the study of UFOs.

This issue of "Lumière dans la Nuit" (issue 154, dated October 1969) delves into the statistical analysis of UFO observations, exploring cyclical patterns and their potential correlations with various natural phenomena. The content is primarily in French, with a focus on scientific and ufological research.

Article 1: Test on Daily Histograms of LDLN (7.4.6)

This section analyzes a histogram of UFO observations from 1965, originally published in LDLN no. 102 (October 1969), based on the work of Vuillequez. The authors attempt to estimate the dates of peak observations by measuring the distances on a photocopied month, given that daily values are unavailable. They identify five main peaks: late March, late July, early August, late August, and mid-November. The article presents a table comparing estimated peak dates (D) with predicted dates (P) from Table XIII, showing a "very satisfactory" agreement for 1965. Further analysis of May and June peaks also indicates good agreement. A second histogram, tested from Viéroudy's work, covers the period from November 1973 to June 1974. The authors note that the histograms generally align well with predictions, suggesting that a smoothed histogram would yield even clearer results. They observe "other 'peaks' of observations" occurring between predicted dates and highlight a cycle of approximately 28 days, with secondary cycles of around 14 days appearing when the intensity of 28-day cycle observations exceeds a certain threshold. The impact of J.C. Bourret's emissions on UFO observation amplification is questioned.

Article 2: Test on Major Waves (7.4.7)

This section aims to compare predicted dates with those of major UFO waves. The authors acknowledge that large waves, spanning over 30 days, make precise prediction less critical, preferring to focus on punctual observations. They reproduce histograms from figures 38 and 39, which cover historical waves from 1896, 1897, and 1909, as well as US, Spanish, and French data from 1947, 1950, and 1954 respectively. A key observation is that for many of these historical waves (1896, 1897, 1909, 1950, and to some extent 1954), the predicted date corresponds to the start of the wave's growth. In 1947, a 14-day shift in prediction was necessary, with the prediction falling close to the wave's maximum. The authors note that for 1897 in Texas, the prediction was on April 8th, which falls outside the expected pattern. They emphasize the delicate point of wave drift and the "observation window," suggesting that much remains to be understood in this domain. Despite the challenges, they find the coincidences in over half the presented cases "strange."

Article 3: Soleil-OVNI (Sun-UFO)

This section revisits the potential correlation between solar activity and UFOs. The study of emission variations at 2800 MHz, using the "event" method, reveals oscillations between 21 and 30.4 days. For the period 1973-1974, the average periodicity was 25 days. By analyzing days of maximum flux at 2800 MHz, a periodicity of 28.0 days was calculated, which closely matches the periodicity of UFO observations during the same period. The authors note a parallelism between UFO observation days and days of maximum flux, requiring a 14-day shift for coincidence. In other periods, the "event" technique is deemed inadequate, necessitating spectral analysis. The correlation between UFO cycles and lunar phases is dismissed over longer periods, suggesting that "mass effect," as used to explain tides, might not be a factor. However, the parallelism between UFO cycles and solar flux leads them to consider an "energetic effect."

Article 4: Cycles (8. Les cycles)

This section explores various cycles identified in ufology and nature. The SOBEPS study highlights cycles of 11 years, 9-12 months, approximately 28 days, approximately 14 days, and 1 day. Spectral analysis suggests that the UFO phenomenon might be due to a resonance phenomenon with periods such as 188, 100, 50, 21-25, 16-18, 12.6-11.1, 10.5, 9.5, 8.3-8.7, and 6-5 days. Saunders noted a 61-month cycle in the US, while I.E. Anderson hypothesized shorter periodicities, including a 15.4-month cycle. J.B. Delair's comparison of UFO case files suggests two types of waves: Type A with a 10-year periodicity and Type B with a 6-year cycle, possibly linked to landings. The section also briefly mentions natural cycles, including hourly cycles (24h) related to temperature, blood pressure, and oxygen consumption, as well as cycles of 27 ± 3 days (climate, blood coagulation, magnetic field variations), 11-12 months (climate, hair growth, tuberculosis, mental illness, sexual activity, macaque reproduction, suicides), and 9.8-12.5 years (geological climate, tree potential difference, barometric pressure, famine, mortality, sedimentation rate, myocardial infarction, lymphocytosis, wine quality).

Article 5: Comparison of Cycles (Tableau XIV)

Tableau XIV compares various UFO cycles identified in the literature by SOBEPS, Saunders, Anderson, Delair, Ribera, and Dutton, alongside solar activity cycles. The cycles range from years (10.5-12.6, 10.1, 9.5, 8.5-8.7, 5-6) to months (9/12) and days (28.1 ± 14, 36). The article notes a correlation between maximum UFO activity and the appearance of Mars, with phenomena occurring 57 days after Mars' appearance or 2 x 28.1 = 56.2 days after opposition. It also mentions Dutton's finding of a 36-37 day cycle for fireballs in England and Andersen's potential 37-45 minute periodicity.

Article 6: Climate-OVNI Relation (9. Relation climat-OVNI)

This section investigates the relationship between climate and UFO activity, focusing on the period 1900-1980. The authors identify years with major UFO waves and significant climatic variations in France, such as minimum snow days and temperature extremes. Applying a 13-year moving average, they observe that intervals between climatic maxima and minima are not constant. However, the intervals between years of maximum UFO activity are remarkably close to the intervals between years of minimum temperature. A strong correlation is found between UFO activity and "great cold" years since the beginning of the century, a correlation that is better than that with solar activity. The correlation with snow days is less significant. The period appears to oscillate around a well-defined average. The authors propose a schema where galactic influence affects the solar system, which in turn influences the terrestrial system, leading to climate, and finally impacting humans and UFO activity. They also discuss the influence of solar activity on climate, noting that maritime influences can perturb these relationships, making continental locations more suitable for study. Short-term predictions are also considered.

Article 7: Volcanic Eruptions and UFOs

This section examines the link between volcanic eruptions, climate, and UFOs. Volcanic eruptions are noted to cause cooling due to ash, leading to a temperature increase between 1920 and 1945 when there were no major eruptions. This period corresponds to a lack of UFO observations. Conversely, the period of volcanic activity (cooling) coincides with increased UFO sightings. UFO observations became frequent from 1880, peaked in 1897, and subsided by 1909, remaining calm until 1947. From 1947 onwards, with renewed volcanic activity, UFO observations increased again. The authors conclude that a very similar periodicity exists between climatic variations, UFO activity, and solar activity, noting surprising agreement across different research schools.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the cyclical nature of UFO phenomena, the search for correlations with natural cycles (solar, lunar, climatic), and the application of statistical and spectral analysis to understand these patterns. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous scientific inquiry, attempting to find objective evidence and correlations, while acknowledging the complexities and limitations of the data. There is a clear emphasis on periodicity and the potential for energetic influences, moving beyond simple coincidences to explore underlying mechanisms. The authors are open to exploring unconventional correlations, such as those with solar activity and even volcanic eruptions, suggesting a holistic view of interconnected phenomena.

This issue of the magazine delves into the complex interrelationships between various phenomena, including climate fluctuations, volcanic activity, solar cycles, and UFO sightings. It presents a detailed analysis of historical data and research, exploring potential connections and hypotheses.

Climate and Volcanic Activity

The issue begins by referencing a graph illustrating temperature changes from 1880 to 2000, noting the impact of events like the Midwest Dust Bowl and volcanic eruptions such as Krakatoa (1883) and Mount Agung (1963) on global climate. It questions whether volcanic ash influences climate or if a third variable affects both.

UFOs and Anomalous Events

The magazine explores the concept of "windows" or specific periods when unusual phenomena are more likely to occur. It highlights three types of events: Marian apparitions, the Loch Ness Monster, and UFO sightings.

Marian Apparitions

Analysis of books on Marian apparitions reveals particular years (1933, 1947-1948, 1954) with an abnormal proportion of sightings, especially in Belgium in 1933. These apparitions are noted to be addressed to privileged individuals, and statistically, the social level of witnesses tends to be lower.

The Loch Ness Monster

Data compiled by Alice Ashton points to characteristic years for Loch Ness Monster sightings, including 1933-1934, 1937, and a resurgence in 1947, 1954, 1960, and 1964-1968, with a peak in 1966. Some authors suggest a parallel between these sightings and UFO activity.

"Phantom" Aircraft and UFOs

The years 1933-1934 were noted for "phantom aircraft" sightings in Sweden. The period of 1946-1947 in Sweden and 1947 in the USA marked the beginning of a significant "OVNI offensive." The French wave of 1954 extended to South America, and by 1966-1967, the phenomenon became global.

Correlation Studies and Hypotheses

The issue discusses the work of psychologists Michael A. Persinger and Gyslaine F. Lafrenière, who analyzed data from 6060 "Fortean" events (including volcanic activity, earthquakes, meteors, UFOs, etc.). Their correlation matrix (Tableau XVI) for events between 1968 and 1971 revealed significant correlations between earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and between "fireballs" and animal deaths. A correlation was also found between sudden climate variations and Fortean phenomena.

The Impulse Hypothesis

This hypothesis suggests that highly energetic cosmic events can trigger terrestrial reactions, such as earthquakes, with a time delay. Events occurring within the same month are correlated, and phenomena like "fireballs" can be linked to subsequent earthquakes or volcanic activity. The Earth's reaction to such impulses is explored in terms of how long it takes to respond, potentially days, months, or years.

Partial Hypothesis Testing

Referencing Persinger and Lafrenière's work, the article notes that groupings of events are temporarily associated with changes in solar activity. Several historical episodes are highlighted, including the appearance of a new star in 1866 accompanied by celestial explosions and stone falls, and in 1872, flashes and meteors observed over an Italian earthquake epicenter, followed by stone falls in Italy, Sicily, and England. The appearance of Nova S Andromeda in 1885 coincided with bird migration, temperature drops, and UFO sightings.

Galactic Influence

The possibility of a galactic influence on these phenomena is explored. The article discusses how the Earth's movement through space, particularly its position relative to the galactic center, might affect terrestrial events. Figure 49 illustrates the solar system's position relative to the galactic center throughout the year, suggesting that UFO activity peaks in July when Earth is exposed to direct cosmic particles. The Piccardi test shows an anomaly in March, and seasonal variations are observed in chick hatching rates and geomagnetic activity. Anomalies in European UFO observation hours are noted, with peaks in February and October, and a confirmation for February-March in Danish statistics.

Conclusions and Editorial Stance

The authors conclude that there is a strong link between UFO activity and certain solar aspects, as well as climatic variations. They note that optimal UFO observation times correlate with the sun's elevation, independent of seasons. While solar flares and flux are often invoked, direct correlation with UFO activity is not found; however, average periods of solar and UFO activity are close. The article suggests that electromagnetic and corpuscular phenomena induced by solar eruptions are more promising areas of research than simplistic correlations with sunspot numbers. UFO cycles (11-year, 9-12 month, 28-day) are found to be present in physics, biology, and human and animal life, indicating that matter, both inert and living, is sensitive to electromagnetic and corpuscular radiation. A strong correlation exists between UFO activity and climatic variations, with cold years showing more UFO waves in Europe. These cycles are similar to those involved in solar spot appearance and UFO activity, suggesting an undeniable link between these phenomena and the structure of UFO files. The authors believe that people have genuinely seen, perceived, or believed they saw unusual phenomena. They suggest that while periods of higher UFO probability can be predicted, the exact location of a wave cannot. Latitude appears to be important, with UFOs appearing more frequently in the Northern Hemisphere than the Southern.

The article questions whether planetary influences, such as Mars' role in a 2.2-year cycle, are coincidental. It also considers the role of the moon and suggests moving beyond astrology towards a scientific approach or invoking galactic influence. An hypothesis is put forth that cosmic pulsations affect the solar system, causing Earth to generate waves that lead to Fortean phenomena, including UFOs, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, which in turn can cause temperature drops. This could lead to unexplained UFO sightings, or conversely, UFOs might trigger volcanic eruptions. In any case, such disturbances imply immense energy transfer and a potential modification of our understanding of space-time.

To advance the understanding of UFOs, the authors emphasize the need for in-depth studies of measurable effects, such as traces and effects on humans and humanoids. They conclude that current evidence is insufficient to definitively determine the true nature of these observations, finding it unlikely that terrestrial "visits" are programmed. They posit that a complex cosmic mechanism is perturbing matter and life, and that UFO observations might be explained by this mechanism. However, if the physical reality of UFOs is proven, they believe this mechanism would still represent a natural phenomenon of cosmic origin.

SOBEPS Slideshows

The magazine offers a collection of 336 slides covering various aspects of UFO phenomena, available for purchase in series. These slides can be used to create illustrated presentations.

Bookstore Service

A review of Thierry Pinvidic's book, "Le noeud gordien, ou la fantastique histoire des OVNI," is provided, praising it as a valuable contribution to ufological research. The book, which explores eight main hypotheses for UFO origins, is available for purchase.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena, particularly UFO sightings, with natural events like climate change, volcanic eruptions, and solar activity. The editorial stance leans towards a scientific investigation of these phenomena, exploring both terrestrial and extraterrestrial or galactic influences. While acknowledging the possibility of physical reality to UFOs, the authors maintain that these phenomena are likely natural, stemming from complex cosmic mechanisms rather than programmed extraterrestrial visits. The emphasis is on rigorous study and the search for measurable evidence.