Inforespace - No 02 - 1972

Magazine Overview

Title: inforespace
Issue: n° 2, 1ère année
Date: 1972
Publisher: Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of *inforespace*, a bimonthly review published by the Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux, focuses on cosmology, spatial phenomena, and prehistory. It is dedicated to the memory of Jean-Gérard Dohmen. The editorial team includes Lucien Clerebaut as Secretary General, Michel Bougard as Editor-in-Chief, and Jean-Luc Vertongen for layout.

Table of Contents

The issue features a comprehensive table of contents, including:

• Historique des Objets Volants Non Identifiés (History of Unidentified Flying Objects)
• Sodome et Gomorrhe
• Nouvelles internationales (International News)
• Une pièce pour un puzzle (A piece for a puzzle)
• L'effet Costa-Goillot : si on parvenait à l'amplifier... (The Costa-Goillot effect: if we could amplify it...)
• Le dossier photo d'inforespace (The inforespace photo file)
• Le catalogue des observations belges (The catalog of Belgian observations)
• Initiation à l'Astronomie (2) (Introduction to Astronomy (2))
• Nos enquêtes (Our investigations)
• Symposium sur les Objets Volants Non Identifiés (2) (Symposium on Unidentified Flying Objects (2))
• Chronique des OVNI (Chronicle of UFOs)

Historique des Objets Volants Non Identifiés

This section provides a detailed historical account of early UFO sightings and investigations, primarily in the United States. It begins with a letter from the director of the ATIC in September 1947, affirming the existence of UFOs and proposing a dedicated study. This led to the creation of Project Sign, followed by Project Grudge and Project Blue Book, all under the authority of the Air Material Command at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, with astrophysicist Allen J. Hynek at its head.

The article recounts the tragic incident of January 7, 1948, where Captain Thomas F. Mantell and his F-51 aircraft were lost while pursuing a large object over Kentucky. The object, described as enormous and metallic, was observed by base personnel before Mantell's plane disappeared into the clouds. His aircraft was later found disintegrated.

Other significant events covered include:

• April 6, 1948: Circular objects were observed at the Holloman Air Force Base, with the Forrestal commission concluding 'no rational explanation'.
• July 20, 1948: In The Hague, Netherlands, a two-stage, winged object was witnessed by many people.
• July 24, 1948: A DC 3 aircraft encountered a large, reddish, cigar-shaped object with a bright blue glow and 'hublots' that ascended rapidly.
• October 1, 1948: Lieutenant G.F. Gorman of the National Guard reported a bright, intense white ball-shaped object that maneuvered with incredible speed.
• November 1948: A captain in Germany reported a reddish star-like object tracked by radar at high altitude.
• January 1949: Groups of small lights, resembling fireballs, were observed in New Mexico, often forming a 'V' shape and changing color.
• February 1949: A conference at Los Alamos brought together scientists to discuss UFO phenomena.
• February 11, 1949: Project Grudge succeeded Project Sign, focusing on classifying testimonies and reducing unexplained cases.
• April 24, 1943 (recounted): An elliptical, silver object was observed at White Sands, described as a 'spacecraft from another planet' by McLaughlin.

Project Grudge's strategy to downplay UFOs is discussed, including the controversial article by Sidney Challet in the Saturday Evening Post aimed at ridiculing the phenomenon. The article notes that the public largely rejected these explanations.

Further incidents detailed include:

• July 3, 1949: In Longview, Washington, over 150 witnesses saw a metallic disc-shaped object that oscillated and moved erratically.
• August 20, 1949: Astronomer Clyde W. Tombaugh observed luminous, greenish-blue rectangles in the sky.
• December 1949: The magazine *True* published an article by Major Donald Keyhoe, 'Flying Saucers Exist,' which caused a sensation.

In 1950, Donald Keyhoe's book 'Flying Saucers Are Real' was published. A Gallup poll indicated that 92% of citizens believed in UFOs.

Other incidents from 1950 include:

• March 8, 1950: A conference at the University of Denver discussed UFOs.
• March 8, 1950: A TWA aircraft pilot and control tower operators observed a bright light near Dayton, Ohio.
• May 1, 1950: Hundreds in France witnessed a sparkling UFO.
• May 20, 1950: Professor Hall observed a brilliant metallic disc.
• May 22, 1950: Dr. Seymour L. Hess reported observing a brilliant disc.
• June 23, 1950: A DC 4 aircraft disintegrated near Benton Harbor, Michigan, after a rose-colored sphere approached it.
• June 26, 1950: Pilots and ground observers in Las Vegas saw a metallic, blue-tinged, fusiform object moving at supersonic speed.
• August 1950: A Japanese merchant ship was reportedly overflown by Soviet aircraft and a spherical object.
• August 15, 1950: A color film of two circular, metallic UFOs was taken at Great Falls, Montana, and subsequently confiscated by the Air Force.

Sodome et Gomorrhe

This section explores the biblical account of Sodom and Gomorrhe from Genesis, chapter XIX, and proposes scientific interpretations for the event. The narrative describes the arrival of two angels in Sodom, the attempted assault on Lot and his guests, and the subsequent divine destruction of the cities with fire and brimstone, resulting in Lot's wife being turned into a pillar of salt.

The article then presents two distinct scientific approaches to understanding this event. The first is by Richard Hennig, an astronomer, who notes that the region of the Dead Sea is a geologically active fracture zone with frequent earthquakes, bitumen pits, and sulfurous springs. Hennig suggests that a sudden subsidence of the land south of the peninsula dividing the Dead Sea could have caused the fertile valley to be inundated by the sea, and that 'rain of sulfur and fire' could be explained by fissures releasing volcanic material.

The text implies that while traditional explanations might dismiss such events as mere legend, a more audacious, yet coherent, scientific explanation that integrates all details of the biblical narrative should not be rejected.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of *inforespace* demonstrates a strong commitment to investigating and documenting unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine adopts a serious, analytical approach, presenting historical accounts, witness testimonies, and official reports from various countries. There is a clear focus on debunking simplistic explanations and exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial or unknown technological origins for UFOs. The inclusion of scientific analyses, photographic evidence, and historical parallels (like the Sodom and Gomorrhe account) suggests an editorial stance that seeks to understand these phenomena through rigorous investigation and open-minded inquiry, while also acknowledging the role of government investigations and public perception.

The magazine appears to be a platform for detailed reporting and discussion within the ufological community, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject matter.

This issue of "Nouvelles internationales" focuses on two significant topics: the mysterious phenomenon observed in Ronchin, France, on September 19, 1971, and the death of Dr. James E. McDonald, a prominent UFO researcher, in June 1971. The magazine presents detailed accounts of the Ronchin incident, including witness testimonies and physical evidence, alongside an exploration of scientific theories related to UFOs and the challenges faced by researchers in the field.

The Ronchin Phenomenon

The article details the events of September 19, 1971, in Ronchin, near Lille, France. The incident began around 8:15 PM when several witnesses reported seeing two luminous, violet-colored spheres descending from the sky. Descriptions varied slightly, with some noting a reddish-violet hue and others describing them as "fireworks." The objects reportedly descended slowly and vertically before disappearing behind buildings or over the horizon.

Following the visual sightings, a fire was reported in a seigle field. Firefighters arrived to find a "highly unusual" fire, characterized by its coloration and combustion, with no smell of burning. A burnt trace, approximately 20 meters by 20 meters, was discovered. This trace showed seigle that was blackened and dried, with parallel bands of unburnt seigle. Small fragments of melted aluminum containing iron were found within the trace, suggesting local melting. Despite the initial reports of a UFO landing, investigations by police, gendarmes, and ufological research groups (CFRU, LDLN, CEPS, SOBEPS) gathered around 15 direct testimonies. However, no definitive conclusion was reached regarding a "flying saucer" or "landing."

Several witnesses also reported experiencing physiological disturbances in the hours and days following the phenomenon, including headaches, tingling in the arms, vision problems, fatigue, and restless sleep.

The Death of Dr. James E. McDonald

The magazine also dedicates significant space to the death of Dr. James E. McDonald, an eminent specialist in UFO studies. His body was found on June 13, 1971, in the Arizona desert, with police reporting it as a suicide by gunshot, and a letter found at the scene. The article highlights the enigma surrounding his death, particularly the contents of the letter, which the police refused to reveal.

Drawing from an article in the French magazine "Phénomènes Spatiaux," the report details a conversation between McDonald and Walter H. Andrus of the MUFON network. McDonald had declined an invitation to speak at a UFO conference, stating he was "out of steam" and no longer wished to speak to the general public, preferring to find other avenues to interest the scientific community.

McDonald's widow recounted how he was a passionate scientist who worked tirelessly, despite pleas from his family to slow down. He was reportedly suffering from extreme tension and had attempted suicide in April 1971, which left him completely blind. The article suggests that his overwhelming depression ultimately led him to end his life in the solitude of the Arizona desert.

The magazine provides a biographical sketch of Dr. McDonald, noting his academic background in chemistry and meteorology, and his professorship at the University of Arizona. His interest in UFOs began around 1966, prompted by a statement from Secretary of State Brown that allowed researchers to examine "Blue Book" files. McDonald believed these files held clues to extraordinary atmospheric phenomena.

He became a vocal critic of official UFO investigations, particularly the Condon Report, and consistently challenged governmental explanations. McDonald argued that the number of unexplained cases was far higher than officially reported and that the scientific community was being misled. He was a strong proponent of the extraterrestrial hypothesis for many UFO sightings.

Scientific Theories on UFO Propulsion

The issue also explores scientific theories related to UFO propulsion, referencing the work of L.G. Cramp. Cramp's theory of antigravitational propulsion suggests that UFOs create a localized gravitational field that counteracts planetary gravity, enabling them to hover and maneuver. The article explains Newton's law of universal gravitation and how Cramp's theory proposes manipulating this force.

Cramp's hypothesis involves creating an attractive gravitational field (G) above an engine, which would then be drawn towards it. Alternatively, a repulsive gravitational field (R) could be generated below the craft, explaining flattened ground instead of craters. The article touches upon the immense energy required for such propulsion, suggesting the total transformation of matter into energy, as described by Einstein's E=mc².

It also discusses potential optical effects of such fields, including the bending of light and the creation of atmospheric lenses, which could explain visual distortions observed during UFO sightings. The phenomenon of "angel hair" is also mentioned as a possible byproduct of energy-to-matter conversion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Nouvelles internationales" appears to champion the pursuit of independent scientific inquiry into UFO phenomena, highlighting the contributions of researchers like Dr. James E. McDonald who challenged official narratives. The magazine provides detailed accounts of specific cases, such as the Ronchin incident, and explores speculative scientific theories, such as antigravitational propulsion. The editorial stance seems to favor open investigation and a critical examination of evidence, suggesting that many UFO cases remain unexplained and warrant further scientific study, even if they lead to controversial conclusions or personal tragedies for the researchers involved.

This issue of "Le dossier photo d'inforespace" (The Photo File of Inforespace), dated April 1969, delves into UFO phenomena and related scientific theories, alongside astronomical and planetary science. The magazine features photographic evidence of alleged UFO sightings and explores experimental physics concepts that might explain anomalous observations.

Theoretical Explorations: Cramp's R-Field and the Costa-Gillot Effect

The issue begins with an introduction to L.G. Cramp's theory, which posits that electric, magnetic, and gravitational fields are manifestations of a single underlying force. Cramp's "R-field" is a repulsive field that, in conjunction with an attractive "G-field," could potentially explain UFO propulsion. The article illustrates this with diagrams (Figure 4 and 5) showing how these fields might interact and be converted, leading to the concept of a "bipolar G-field" analogous to magnetic field lines. A significant challenge addressed is the condition of life for an onboard crew, which Cramp proposes to solve by creating small secondary fields within the vehicle to simulate Earth's gravity (1g).

Michel Bougard, the author of this section, concludes by quoting Cramp, who expresses hope that his ideas will encourage further research into the hidden causes of these phenomena.

Following this, Jacques Scornaux discusses the "Costa-Gillot effect," an experimental observation that purportedly demonstrates a force displacing a ferromagnetic object when an electric current passes through it. This effect is presented as not being fully explained by current laws of electrostatics and magnetism. The article touches upon the concept of electron "spin" and its role in magnetic properties, suggesting that the Costa-Gillot effect might be related to an "inertial spin effect." The potential for amplifying this effect and its possible connection to antigravity are raised, with a speculative mention of its relevance to "authentic flying saucers."

Photographic Evidence of UFO Sightings

The magazine presents photographic evidence of UFO encounters:

• Salem, Massachusetts, USA (July 16, 1952): Shell Alpert, of the U.S. Coast Guard, observed four UFOs in formation. The photograph shows four luminous, blurry, elliptical spots. This sighting occurred during a period of intense UFO activity in the summer of 1952. The official report could not determine the cause of the luminous spots.

• Franois, Doubs, France (December 12, 1968): M. Froidevaux captured a photograph of a luminous white and yellow UFO during its landing. French investigators from the "Lumières dans la Nuit" group confirmed the event with multiple witnesses. The analysis of the photograph and testimonies suggests the UFO had a diameter of approximately 9.15 meters, with a possible variation of 0.50 meters. The object was observed at an altitude of about 400 meters.

Astronomical and Planetary Science

The issue includes a section titled "Initiation à l'Astronomie: La Terre" (Initiation to Astronomy: The Earth), which provides a comprehensive overview of our planet:

• Earth's Position and Structure: The Earth is the third planet from the Sun, part of a solar system with nine principal planets. It orbits the Sun due to gravitational forces balanced by centrifugal force from its rotation. The Earth is not a perfect sphere but an ellipsoid, with its polar diameter being shorter than its equatorial diameter. Its average diameter is 12,735 km, and its circumference is approximately 40,000 km.

• Scale of the Solar System: Using a scale where the Sun is a 60 cm ball, the Earth would be a tiny speck, and the solar system's known limit would extend to Furnes and Spa.

• Earth's Movements: The Earth undergoes several movements: revolution around the Sun (30 km/s), rotation on its axis (23 hours, 56 minutes, 4 seconds), nutation (a small gyroscopic movement of its axis), and precession of the equinoxes (a larger conical movement of the axis over 27,000 years).

• Atmosphere and Water: The Earth's atmosphere, composed mainly of nitrogen and oxygen, is held by its mass and is crucial for life. The troposphere extends to about 12 km, followed by the stratosphere (containing ozone) up to 80 km, and then the ionosphere. The planet is covered by water, with seven-tenths of its surface submerged. A significant temperature increase could lead to a substantial rise in sea levels.

• Age and Internal Structure: The Earth is estimated to be 4.5 billion years old, based on radioactive isotope studies. Its internal structure is understood through seismology, revealing concentric layers. The outer crust, composed of basalt and granite, is about 35 km thick and is made up of about ten tectonic plates floating on a semi-fluid mantle.

Catalog of Belgian UFO Observations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a catalog of UFO sightings in Belgium, spanning from 1955 to 1958. Each entry provides the date, location, and a brief description of the observed phenomenon, often citing the source of the report.

• 1955: Numerous sightings are reported across various Belgian provinces, including Ostende, Coxyde, Braine l'Alleud, Zelzate, Ypres, Poperinge, Oostkamp, Gand, and Saint-Marc. These observations include objects described as globes of fire, spheres of fire, red objects with yellow-green spots, and disc-shaped craft.

• 1956: Sightings continue in Verviers-Stembert (an oval, aluminum-grey object with rotating secondary objects), Bruxelles (an ovoïde sphere with an orange nucleus and red edges), Laeken (a punctual green object), and Beauvechain (an anomalous crescent-shaped light observed by meteorological station personnel).

• 1957: Reports include radar observations of UFOs over the Zaventem airport, a green luminous object over Ostende, and a crescent-shaped light observed in Beauvechain. Other sightings involve objects described as white, blue-white, or green spheres, some with trails.

• 1958: Observations include a white punctual object near Zaventem airport, a green object over Ostende, and several sightings in Gand of punctual, blinking objects, some of which are compared to satellite trajectories (Sputnik I and II). A green sphere moving parallel to the horizon is reported in Wolvertem.

Philately Section

A small section is dedicated to Belgian philately, announcing limited edition postal documents on silk thread, including special envelopes and postcards.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on anomalous aerial phenomena and their potential scientific explanations, ranging from theoretical physics to experimental observations. There is a clear interest in documenting sightings and exploring theories that challenge conventional scientific understanding, such as antigravity and exotic fields. The inclusion of detailed astronomical and planetary science suggests a broader interest in the cosmos and humanity's place within it. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting both theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence, while acknowledging the speculative nature of some of the topics discussed. The extensive catalog of Belgian sightings underscores a commitment to documenting and analyzing UFO phenomena within a specific geographical context.

This issue of "Faits et opinions face aux OVNI" (Facts and opinions on UFOs), part 2 of a symposium, delves into the complex world of unidentified flying objects, blending scientific inquiry with historical accounts and witness testimonies. The publication focuses on the French-speaking ufological community, highlighting research organizations and significant cases.

The Rhode-Saint-Genèse Light Bell Case

The issue details a peculiar sighting by Léon Herbosch on January 24, 1970, near Brussels. Herbosch observed a ground-level, elliptical spot that transformed into a luminous, bell-shaped object approximately 5 meters high. The object vibrated intensely and emitted a bright, almost blinding light before collapsing back into a spot and moving away. Herbosch, though initially frightened, provided a detailed account, and his family corroborated his agitated state afterward. He maintained that the phenomenon was not related to conventional flying saucers. The article notes a similar ground-level 'spot' observed in Franois, France, in 1968.

Terrestrial Magnetism and the Van Allen Belts

An accompanying article explains terrestrial magnetism, describing the Earth's magnetic field and its 'magnetosphere'. It introduces the Van Allen belts, discovered by the Explorer 1 satellite in 1958, as zones of charged particles trapped by the magnetic field, posing a hazard to humans. The article notes that the magnetic field lines form 'wells' at the poles, where radiation is less intense.

Symposium on UFOs: Dr. James E. McDonald's Perspective

Dr. James E. McDonald, a physicist from the University of Arizona, is presented as a serious and rigorous investigator of UFOs, free from preconceived notions. He criticizes the scientific community for dismissing the UFO problem as absurd and for failing to address it adequately. McDonald has spent two years intensively studying the phenomenon, interviewing hundreds of witnesses, and visiting facilities like the Wright Patterson Air Force Base. He notes the vast number of observations cataloged by groups like NICAP and APRO, highlighting striking similarities in descriptions worldwide: discs, cigars, and wingless objects that hover silently, interfere with car ignitions, and are often described with metallic sheens and well-defined edges.

McDonald addresses common skeptical questions, such as why UFOs are not seen globally or by airline pilots, why they are rarely tracked by radar, and why they are more frequently observed at night or outside of cities. He dismisses the idea that UFOs are always seen in groups, citing the Redlands case with 100 witnesses, and mentions the UN sighting in New York. He also references radar data from Washington D.C. in 1952 showing objects moving at extremely high speeds (1000-8000 km/h).

He argues against meteorological explanations, particularly those involving ball lightning or atmospheric plasmas, citing their brief existence and instability, which he believes are incompatible with daytime sightings of solid, well-defined objects. McDonald's own position is that UFOs are real phenomena, possibly advanced extraterrestrial craft on surveillance missions. He advocates for increased financial support from major research organizations like NASA and NSF for UFO research.

Historical Accounts of Aerial Phenomena

The issue includes a section on historical accounts, comparing them to modern UFO observations. A detailed narrative from August 1608 describes "terrible and frightful signs" over the sea near Genoa, Italy. These included "human-like figures" with scaly arms and "flying serpents," as well as "carriages pulled by figures of fire in the semblance of dragons." The events reportedly caused widespread fear, with some people dying of fright, and led to religious observances like fasting and processions.

Another account from the same period describes "blood rain" falling along the coast of Provence, France, staining houses and vegetation. Additionally, two men were observed fighting in the air over Martigues, France, with weapons and shields.

The author of this section, Capella, suggests that these historical events, particularly the "dragon" imagery, might be interpreted through the lens of modern UFO phenomena, such as the propulsion systems of experimental aircraft or the sheer terror inspired by unknown aerial objects. The accounts are presented as credible because they predate the concept of "flying saucers" or mass hysteria related to them.

Organizations and Publications

The issue highlights the "Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques" (CFRU), an organization promoting collaboration among serious ufological groups. CFRU publishes the review "Phénomènes Inconnus" and is presented as a well-structured entity founded in 1972 by Pierre Delval and Francis Schaefer. Information is provided for Belgian and other international researchers interested in subscribing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFOs, the analysis of witness testimonies, the historical context of aerial phenomena, and the skepticism faced by researchers in the field. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging serious study of UFOs while critically examining various explanations, from meteorological phenomena to potential extraterrestrial origins. There is a clear emphasis on the need for scientific rigor and the importance of documenting and analyzing sightings, both historical and contemporary.