Inforespace - No 01 - 1972

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 1, 1st Year
Date: 1972
Publisher: SOBEPS asbl (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Type: Bi-monthly review

This is the inaugural issue of Inforespace, a Belgian publication dedicated to the study of spatial phenomena. The magazine aims to provide a rational and objective approach to the subject, avoiding mystical or pseudoscientific interpretations.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Louis Musin, President of SOBEPS, sets the tone for the publication. He emphasizes that the association is open to all and seeks to pursue the truth without place for mystics or the "illuminated." Musin references the Green-Bank equation, suggesting the possibility of millions of intelligent life forms in our galaxy, and posits that some may have achieved advanced technological levels. He acknowledges potential detractors but asserts that progress cannot be halted by skepticism, citing historical examples of inventors initially dismissed. The editorial concludes by highlighting the passion for studying space phenomena and the potential significance of even a single verified UFO case.

Letters and Organization Information

Page 5 features a letter from Lucien Clerebaut, Secretary General, expressing gratitude to members and collaborators for their support in launching the magazine. He notes the rapid expansion of SOBEPS and the numerous collaboration proposals received. Clerebaut also highlights the importance of Monsieur Patrick Ferryn and thanks Monsieur Louis Musin and Michel Bougard for their roles. The letter also acknowledges the contributions of Gérard Landercy and Jacques Bonabot.

Page 3 details the subscription and affiliation costs for Inforespace in Belgium and abroad, with different rates for ordinary members, students, and patrons. It also provides bank and postal account details for payments to SOBEPS in Brussels. The association's mission is clearly stated: to observe and study spatial phenomena rationally and objectively, disseminating information without prejudice through its review and conferences.

Key Articles and Features

Historique des Objets Volants Non Identifiés (History of Unidentified Flying Objects)

This multi-part historical series begins in this issue, aiming to provide an accurate account of UFO phenomena. The introduction stresses the need to recall previous events and present facts precisely, countering the spread of misinformation. The article aims to inform both researchers and newcomers about the gravity and extent of the UFO problem. It relies on a wide range of references, including official investigations and private initiatives.

The history begins by noting reports of unidentified flying objects reaching US Air Force authorities towards the end of World War II, initially dismissed as optical illusions. The narrative then focuses on the pivotal year of 1947, starting with the famous Kenneth Arnold sighting on June 24th. Arnold described nine "flying saucers" moving at high speed. The article details subsequent sightings, including those of Fred Johnson on the same day, and mentions a pilot's testimony from Oklahoma. These events prompted the Air Force to launch an investigation, which ultimately concluded the phenomenon was a hallucination.

The article highlights several significant sightings from July 1947: erratic evolutions of discoidal objects observed by a sheriff in Portland, Oregon; a DC 3 sighting near Boise, Idaho, where objects without wings or tails were observed; and the appearance of yellowish and silver spheres in California. It also recounts the disappearance of the Lancastrian Star Dust aircraft over the Andes on August 2nd, 1947, after a mysterious transmission, suggesting the possibility of UFOs deliberately "taking" aircraft.

L'étrange site de Nazca (The Strange Site of Nazca)

This section, though brief, points to the enigmatic Nazca lines in Peru as a phenomenon potentially linked to ancient space visitors.

Le pilier de fer de Delhi (The Iron Pillar of Delhi)

This article likely discusses the anomalous iron pillar in Delhi, India, known for its resistance to rust, possibly hinting at advanced ancient technology.

La propulsion des OVNI et ses effets secondaires (UFO Propulsion and its Secondary Effects)

This article delves into the technical aspects of UFO propulsion systems and their potential effects.

Le catalogue des observations belges (Catalogue of Belgian Observations)

This feature presents a compilation of UFO sightings recorded in Belgium.

Initiation à l'Astronomie (Introduction to Astronomy)

This section serves as an introductory guide to astronomy for the magazine's readers.

Nos enquêtes (Our Investigations)

This section details the ongoing investigative efforts of SOBEPS into UFO phenomena.

Le projet « Cyclope » (Project "Cyclops")

This likely refers to a specific UFO investigation or project undertaken by the organization.

Symposium sur les Objets Volants Non Identifiés (Symposium on Unidentified Flying Objects)

This reports on a symposium dedicated to UFOs, likely featuring discussions and presentations by experts.

Chronique des OVNI (UFO Chronicle)

A regular column providing updates and news on UFO events.

Lu pour vous (Read for You)

This section likely features reviews of books and other publications related to UFOs and space phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical investigation of UFO sightings, the scientific study of unexplained aerial phenomena, and the promotion of rational inquiry. The editorial stance is clearly one of open-minded skepticism, emphasizing evidence-based research and rejecting purely mystical or speculative explanations. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious study and information dissemination, encouraging reader participation and collaboration. The historical articles aim to establish a factual basis for understanding the UFO phenomenon, while other sections cover current events, technical aspects, and related scientific fields like astronomy.

This issue of *Planète* magazine, identified as issue number 17, presents a collection of articles exploring mysteries related to ancient civilizations, unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), and scientific enigmas. The cover features a cartoon with a provocative French quote, hinting at the speculative nature of the content within. The issue includes advertisements for stamp collections and interior decoration services.

Primhistoire et Archéologie: Introduction

The introductory article, "Primhistoire et Archéologie," introduces the concept of 'Primhistoire' as a period preceding classical prehistory, suggesting the existence of advanced, forgotten civilizations. The authors pose the question of whether archaeological mysteries can be explained by extraterrestrial intervention. They state their intention to present facts and various explanations, both from official science and independent researchers, allowing readers to form their own informed opinions. The article discusses two main hypotheses for inexplicable ancient facts: either they are remnants of a highly developed, possibly terrestrial civilization that vanished due to a cataclysm, or they are the result of 'teachings' or 'gifts' from extraterrestrial 'colonizers.' The authors aim to approach the subject with scientific rigor, distinguishing between verifiable facts and sensationalism, and acknowledging that the debate remains open.

L'étrange site de Nazcan

This section, authored by Jacques Scornaux and Pierre Elsen, describes the enigmatic Nazca site in Peru. Located in a desert plateau, the site features geoglyphs – long rectangles, trapezoids, and straight lines, as well as drawings of animals and humans – that are only fully discernible from the air. The scale and precision of these lines, some stretching for kilometers, have led to comparisons with modern airports. The article notes that official science admits its incomprehension of these ancient constructions. It mentions the work of archaeologist Paul Kosok and the extensive research of Maria Reiche, who dedicated her life to studying the Nazca tracings. Various hypotheses are presented, including astronomical observation, a form of ancient communication, or even a message left by a dying, space-faring civilization. The authors also highlight that similar 'tracks' or lines are found elsewhere in Peru and Chile.

Le pilier de fer de Delhi

This article focuses on the mysterious Delhi Iron Pillar in India, a 7-meter-high structure made of iron that has resisted corrosion for centuries, a feat considered anachronistic given its purported age of over 4000 years. The pillar's composition is analyzed, revealing impurities like carbon, phosphorus, and silicon, and a surface layer of iron oxides. While official science attributes its preservation to the dry climate of Delhi, minimal atmospheric pollution, and protective slag, alternative theories suggest a lost manufacturing secret or even extraterrestrial intervention. The article references a study from the 'Journal of The Iron and Steel Institute' and discusses various factors contributing to its preservation, including its thermal conductivity and potential ancient ritualistic coatings.

Observations d'OVNI en Tasmanie (Australie)

This section provides a summary of UFO investigations conducted by Peter Dunbabin of the Tasmanian UFO Observer Investigation Center. It details several sightings from May and June 1971:

• Norwood (Launceston), May 22, 1971: An object with colored lights landed in a field, leaving a circular area of crushed vegetation.
• Cethana, May 23, 1971: A motorist reported being followed by an object for 4 km, estimating its speed and observing its disappearance and reappearance.
• Lynchford, May 26, 1971: An area of flattened grass measuring 10.5m x 5.4m was discovered, along with similar traces nearby, some with rectangular excavations.
• Wilmot, June 1, 1971: Three witnesses saw a large object descend, displaying rotating lights before disappearing without leaving a trace.
• Wilmot, July 9, 1971: Children and their father observed a bright light that changed position and appeared at a significant distance.

La Gendarmerie française et le problème des OVNI

This article examines the French Gendarmerie's official stance on UFOs, as published in their study 'Sur les traces des soucoupes volantes.' It highlights the Gendarmerie's shift from skepticism to a serious investigation of the phenomenon. The article notes their objective approach, emphasizing the need to discard prejudices and avoid supernatural interpretations. It mentions their interest in theories like Aimé Michel's 'orthoteny' and F. Lagarde's work on geological faults. The authors acknowledge that while this official position is a significant step, public awareness and media coverage have often been superficial or ironic, failing to address the UFO problem in its true complexity. The article also touches upon the Gendarmerie's detailed investigative questionnaire, including sections on witness descriptions of alleged beings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and the intersection of science, speculation, and official investigation. The magazine adopts an open-minded yet critical stance, presenting various hypotheses and evidence without necessarily endorsing any single explanation. It encourages readers to consider alternative perspectives, particularly concerning the origins of ancient civilizations and the nature of UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to favor a thorough, evidence-based approach, even when dealing with subjects often relegated to sensationalism or dismissed by mainstream science. The inclusion of the Gendarmerie's official investigation into UFOs suggests a growing acceptance of the phenomenon as a subject worthy of serious study.

This issue of "Nouvelles internationales" focuses on international UFO phenomena, with a primary focus on sightings in Yugoslavia and a detailed exploration of a theoretical propulsion system for UFOs. It also includes a photographic case from the United States.

International UFO Observations

Yugoslavia

The issue reports extensively on UFO sightings in Yugoslavia during September and October 1971. The Belgrade newspaper "Novosti" published a photo of a UFO seen over Pula on September 29, 1971, described as circular with a suspended cylinder. Another sighting on September 30, 1971, near Zadar, involved an object estimated to be 50 meters by 30 meters, observed at an altitude of 25 kilometers, with a luminosity 100 times that of Venus. This object was visible for an hour and was thought by some to be a foreign observation craft. The article notes a similar object was seen over Sarajevo in October 1968. On October 1, 1971, two Yugoslavian airline pilots reported a triangular, metallic white UFO at an altitude of 15,000 meters. The newspaper "Politika" later reported that Yugoslavian military circles dismissed these sightings as balloons, possibly used for espionage, calling any other interpretation "stupidity." The article questions this explanation, given the testimonies of pilots and engineers. A large balloon, described as "bell tower" size, reportedly fell in a Croatian village.

Tasmania, Australia

Under the heading "Observations d'OVNI en Tasmanie (Australie)," the article by Michel Bougard discusses the scientific approach to UFO investigation. It emphasizes the importance of detailed questionnaires and the need for authorities to adopt such methods. Bougard suggests that lost time in this area will be significant when French Gendarmerie results are eventually aligned.

United States

A photographic case from Tiorati Lake, near Pearl River, New York, is presented. On December 18, 1966, Vincent Perna photographed a UFO described as copper mat in color, with a diameter of 5 to 6 meters. Experts from "Rockland New" and NICAP reportedly declared the documents authentic. The article notes that the Condon Commission requested Perna's negatives for analysis but that the results were not published in their final report.

Theoretical Exploration: Plantier's UFO Propulsion Theory

Introduction to the Theory

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to explaining the propulsion theory of Captain Jean Plantier, first published in 1955. The theory, presented as a potential explanation for UFO behavior, posits that UFOs can apply a force proportional to the mass of atoms within a given volume, which is orientable and modifiable. This force, termed "artificial gravity" (F), is contrasted with natural gravity (P). Unlike conventional propulsion, where force is applied to a part of the system (e.g., the engine), Plantier's theory suggests that artificial gravity acts directly on every atom of the UFO and its occupants simultaneously, thus eliminating inertia-related issues during maneuvers like sharp turns.

Mechanism of Artificial Gravity

Plantier's theory suggests that this artificial gravity force would be parallel to the UFO's axis. The surfaces of equal intensity would be ellipsoidal or spherical around the disk. The effect of this force would extend slightly beyond the craft, causing the surrounding air to be drawn along with it without abrupt contact, thus explaining the silent operation of some UFOs. The interaction between the entrained air and the fixed air would involve adiabatic compression, leading to increased temperature within the contact zone. However, by increasing the distance between the craft and this zone, the occupants would remain unaffected.

Stability and Maneuverability

Stability, according to Plantier, would not rely on conventional aerodynamic surfaces but possibly on a gyroscope effect created by the rotation of the outer band of the disk. This theory also addresses the seemingly impossible right-angle turns observed in UFOs. Because the artificial gravity acts on all atoms simultaneously, the entire craft stops or turns as one unit, negating the effects of inertia that would normally cause catastrophic results for occupants. The theory also suggests that the intense light emissions often reported during UFO appearances could be due to electrons being forced to jump between atomic layers, a process that generates light.

Cosmic Energy and the Void

Plantier further hypothesizes that UFOs might utilize "cosmic energy," a natural energy present throughout space. He suggests that the void, or "Néant," is not truly empty but a state of equilibrium of various energy components (mass, movement, charge, etc.). By manipulating these components, an imbalance can be created, leading to the birth of matter and movement. The UFO would use a toroidal coil around its perimeter to manage this energy and create movement.

Scientific Scrutiny and References

The article acknowledges the complexity and potentially controversial nature of Plantier's theory, stating that its purpose is to present rather than critique. It mentions that the theory has been developed over time and is supported by numerous UFO sightings. The magazine also provides a bibliography of approximately 30 books concerning UFO phenomena, including works by authors like Jacques Vallée, Donald Keyhoe, and Aimé Michel, as well as Plantier's own work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for a rigorous, scientific approach to UFO investigation, emphasizing detailed observation, data collection, and the avoidance of subjective interpretations or "fantastic" elements. The editorial stance appears to be open to the possibility of advanced technology behind UFOs, particularly as explored through theoretical frameworks like Plantier's, while maintaining a critical distance and encouraging further scientific inquiry. The inclusion of a bibliography suggests a commitment to providing readers with resources for deeper study.

This issue of "Nos enquêtes" delves into the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), with a primary focus on sightings that occurred in Belgium in late September 1969, particularly the "Zellik Triangles." The magazine presents witness testimonies, analyzes the chronological and topographical aspects of these events, and touches upon broader scientific and historical contexts related to UFO research.

The Zellik Triangles and Related Sightings

The main article, "Les triangles de Zellik," details an observation by M. Camille Breeus on September 24, 1969, around 8:10 PM, who reported seeing triangular objects. The report notes that other testimonies, published in the Flemish newspaper "Het Nieuwsblad," enriched the Zellik case, with most occurring in early October but some in late September. While these later accounts couldn't precisely confirm Breeus's sighting, two observations were considered potentially related.

Kessel-Lo Sighting (September 24, 1969)

Between 8 PM and 9 PM on September 24, 1969, a woman and her 14-year-old daughter observed a strange object above the Kesselbergen near Kessel-Lo. They described the lights as yellow and red, similar to an airplane, but the object was stationary. The woman's husband added that the object could be described as "fireworks" or a "Christmas tree." The women wrote that they saw "yellow and red lights like those of a stationary airplane, lighting up and going out alternately, before finally going out definitively."

Grimbergen Sighting (September 25, 1969)

Around 1 AM on September 25, 1969, an anonymous resident of Grimbergen (8 km northeast of Zellik) was awakened by his dog's unusual nervousness. He then heard a sound described as "ten circular saws making a sound harmonically related to each other." Going outside, he observed a strange object above Vilvorde (2 km southeast), at an estimated altitude of 2000 meters. He described it as an assembly of small lights in the sky, seemingly rotating like "neon signs." The color was orange-red, possibly with a violet hue. He watched the object for six minutes until it disappeared over Ganshoren (a town adjacent to Zellik) and Zellik. Like M. Breeus, this witness stated, "It is certainly not an airplane; every day many pass over my head, so I know very well how they appear."

Chronological and Topographical Analysis

The article notes that while the three observations (Zellik, Kessel-Lo, Grimbergen) occurred in distinct locations, they show a temporal spread. The movement from Vilvorde towards Zellik suggests a northeast to southwest direction. However, based on the times (Zellik at 8:10 PM, Grimbergen at 1:00 AM on the 25th), a simple linear progression is difficult to explain. M. Breeus noted the triangles "coming from the north," while Kessel-Lo was east of Zellik. Topographically, the observation points are not on a straight line, with Vilvorde being 4 km north of the Zellik-Kessel-Lo line. If it's the same phenomenon, its curved trajectory might have been to avoid the Zaventem National Airport.

Other observations mentioned, though not precisely dated, include those from Braine l'Alleud (late September, 6:30 PM - 7:00 PM), Berchem Ste-Agathe (late September, 9:00 PM), and Hennuyères (last week of September, 10:00 PM).

Scientific Investigations and Hypotheses

The issue also features a section on scientific approaches to UFOs, including the "Cyclope" project. This NASA-led initiative, in collaboration with Stanford University, aims to build a network of ten thousand small radio telescopes to search for extraterrestrial signals. The project seeks to detect high-frequency radio waves from nearby stars, hoping to find coherent emissions that might indicate intelligent communication.

Symposium on Unidentified Flying Objects (July 29, 1968)

A report details a symposium held in Washington D.C. by the House Committee on Science and Astronautics. Six specialists presented their views on UFOs, approaching the phenomenon as a scientific question that required more empirical data. Key figures included Dr. James McDonald (University of Arizona), Dr. Joseph Allen Hynek (USAF scientific advisor), Dr. Robert L. Hall (University of Illinois), Dr. Robert L. Baker Jr. (University of California), Dr. James A. Harder (University of California, Berkeley), and Dr. Carl Sagan (Cornell University).

The symposium aimed to inform politicians, and the discussions covered three main hypotheses: psychological phenomena, unexplained natural phenomena, and extraterrestrial visitors. The article highlights the difficulties in studying UFOs due to the lack of reliable data and the risk of ridicule for researchers.

Dr. Hynek noted that while 70% of cases could be explained psychologically or astronomically, a significant portion remained unexplained. He emphasized the need for more scientific data and suggested focusing on observations made by competent witnesses like pilots or astronomers, and requiring observations to last at least one minute for detailed recording.

Charles Garreau's "Soucoupes Volantes, vingt ans d'enquêtes"

The magazine reviews Charles Garreau's book, which chronicles twenty years of UFO investigation. Garreau categorizes public reactions into "ostriches" (denying UFOs exist) and those who adopt an ambiguous stance, like the U.S. Air Force and official science. The review highlights the "bluff" of American investigative commissions, as detailed by scientist James McDonald, who became disillusioned with the superficiality of official investigations.

McDonald believed UFOs were extraterrestrial probes and found the U.S. Air Force's attempts to discredit the phenomenon understandable, given their mandate to maintain airspace security. The book also presents several seemingly irrefutable observations from credible witnesses, including astronomers and astronauts.

Historical Case: Gallipoli Peninsula (1915)

An older case is recounted from the Gallipoli campaign in 1915. On August 21, a British battalion of 250 men from the 5th Norfolk regiment disappeared near the "Côte 60" elevation. They were reportedly enveloped by an unusual, intense fog reflecting sunlight. The primary source is Fred Reichart's journal, later investigated by Gordon Turkey and Bill Miller. Reichart described observing "6 to 8 cloud-like objects in the shape of loaves" stationary above the coast, along with a larger, solid-looking cloud-like object about 250 meters long. The entire regiment reportedly entered this object and never reappeared. The Turkish army denied any knowledge of the regiment's capture or encounter.

Charles Garreau cites Captain-Pilot Jean Plantier's explanation for such phenomena, attributing them to aerial vehicles manipulating gravitational fields, creating an "ascendance column" that leads to condensation and potentially engulfs objects.

Scientific Theories and Future Research

The issue touches upon Dr. Marcel Pagès's work on antigravitation, proposing that nature operates on repulsive forces rather than attraction. The book review also lists resources for UFO research groups and bibliographies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a serious and investigative tone towards UFO phenomena, presenting witness accounts, scientific analyses, and historical cases without immediate dismissal. It encourages further research and acknowledges the complexity and controversial nature of the subject. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to understand unexplained events and the scientific challenges they present. The "Avis" section also indicates an effort to expand regional investigative sections, suggesting a commitment to grassroots UFO research.