Inforespace - No 03 - 1972

Magazine Overview

Title: inforespace
Issue: 1972, Number 3, 1st Year
Publisher: SOBEPS asbl (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Type: Bi-monthly review

This issue of 'inforespace' is dedicated to the memory of Jean-Gérard Dohmen, founder of the Fédération Belge d'Ufologie (FBU). The magazine covers a range of topics related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs), cosmology, prehistory, and astronomy, featuring articles, news, and historical accounts.

Table of Contents

The issue includes a detailed table of contents, listing articles such as:

• Historique des Objets Volants Non Identifiés (History of Unidentified Flying Objects)
• La dalle de Palenque (The Palenque Slab)
• Nouvelles internationales (International News)
• Le dossier photo d'inforespace (The inforespace Photo File)
• Le catalogue des observations belges (The Catalogue of Belgian Observations)
• Nos enquêtes (Our Investigations)
• Les théories du Dr Pagès (Dr. Pagès' Theories)
• La machine Dean (The Dean Machine)
• L'aveu ? (The Confession?)
• Russes et Américains à la recherche des autres mondes (Russians and Americans in Search of Other Worlds)
• Initiation à l'Astronomie (3) (Introduction to Astronomy (3))
• Pionnier 10 : premier message pour extraterrestres (Pioneer 10: First Message for Extraterrestrials)
• Symposium sur les Objets Volants Non Identifiés (3) (Symposium on Unidentified Flying Objects (3))
• Chronique des OVNI (OVNI Chronicle)

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

This section provides a historical overview of UFO investigations, starting with the creation of the International Ouranos Commission in Paris and London in 1951. Jimmy Guieu was appointed head of investigations in 1953. The article details the early efforts of Ouranos, its growing documentation, and the involvement of the French Air Force's scientific bureau in studying mysterious celestial objects. It recounts several specific sightings from 1951:

• January 20, 1951: Captain Lawrence W. Vinther reported a bright light near Sioux City, Iowa, which was identified as a cigar-shaped object with glider wings.
• May 29, 1951: Technical editors at North American Aviation in Downey, California, observed about thirty bright, round objects with blue lights.
• June 15, 1951: French military pilots observed a metallic disc near Orange, France, which performed high-speed maneuvers.
• June 19, 1951: Radar at Goose Bay, Labrador, detected a red object moving at high speed.
• July 8, 1951: An observer in Pompaples, Switzerland, witnessed two squadrons of UFOs, with a bright disc appearing like a star.
• August 1, 1951: A strong light was detected over Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, pursued and photographed by pilots before it ascended rapidly.
• August 25, 1951: Hundreds of people in Lubbock, Texas, observed about thirty silent, luminous objects in formation.
• August 30, 1951: A young man in Lubbock photographed about twenty objects in a V-formation, accompanied by a larger 'mother ship'.
• December 20, 1951: Three fighter pilots died in the US after encountering an OVNI at high altitude and speed, leaving behind only burned debris.

The section also discusses the evolution of UFO investigation projects, including Project Grudge and its transformation into Project Blue Book, under the direction of Captain Edward J. Ruppelt. The objectives of Blue Book were to determine if UFOs posed a threat to national security and if they could advance scientific knowledge.

La dalle de Palenque (The Palenque Slab)

This article explores the archaeological significance of a carved stone slab discovered in a crypt beneath the Pyramid of the Inscriptions in Palenque, Mexico. The slab depicts a figure in a reclining or crouching position, surrounded by complex hieroglyphs and symbols, including a cross-like figure with a serpent and a bird. The discovery was made in 1952 by archaeologists led by Alberto Ruz Lhuillier.

Several interpretations are presented:

• Archaeological Interpretation: Based on the hieroglyphs and context, the scene is interpreted as a representation of Mayan religious concepts, including the cycle of life and death, the veneration of maize, and the cosmic order. The date 633 AD is associated with the hieroglyphs.
• Fanciful Interpretation: This interpretation, presented by authors like Henry Durrant, Peter Kolosimo, and Guy Tarade, suggests the carving depicts a man operating a flying machine. The figure is shown seated, holding controls, with an 'inhalator' attached to his nose and feet on pedals. The 'engine' is described with compartments and energy collectors, and the propulsion system involves flame-like emissions. The quetzal bird is seen as symbolizing solar energy.

Robert Charroux offers further interpretations of the hieroglyphs, linking them to celestial bodies, wind, spirit, and Venus, suggesting a connection to a 'space vessel' related to Venus. He also raises the possibility that the slab was influenced by hallucinogenic mushrooms.

The author emphasizes that while the 'space hypothesis' is bold, it is supported by similar data found worldwide, and encourages readers to reserve judgment until they have reviewed a series of articles on the subject.

Nouvelles Internationales (International News)

This section compiles recent UFO-related news from various countries:

• Cointrin Radar Detects UFOs (Switzerland): In December 1971, the radar at Cointrin Airport near Geneva reportedly registered UFOs flying at high altitudes and speeds, far exceeding those of conventional aircraft. The Swiss authorities have not commented on these sightings.
• Austria, Switzerland, France: On March 18, 1972, a luminous object was observed over Linz, Austria, and later reported in Switzerland and France. Pilots described it as a large, funnel-shaped object. The phenomenon was captured on slides by Freddy Bütikofer in Geneva.
• Italian Observation: On September 27, 1969, near Lake Bracciano, Italy, an unusually bright, metallic 'star' was observed during daylight by multiple witnesses. The object appeared to be a rotating sphere.
• UK Pilot Encounter: A British European Airways pilot nearly collided with a UFO estimated to be at 10,000 meters altitude. The object reportedly made a sharp 90-degree turn.
• Yugoslavia: Recent observations in Yugoslavia include an object sighted on September 29th at an altitude of 19 km, photographed by the AAAK astronomical club. While initially thought to be a balloon, its origin remains undetermined.

Observations Scandinaves (Scandinavian Observations)

Roger Johansson reports that hundreds of people in Norway and Sweden observed mysterious luminous objects flying in formation on New Year's Eve. These objects, moving at high speeds and altitudes (10,000-20,000 meters), did not register on radar. Military authorities could not identify them as aircraft, satellites, or meteorites. A pilot flying from Las Palmas to Bergen described a triangular formation of bright white objects.

Un couple d'automobilistes suivi par un OVNI (A Couple Followed by a UFO)

In Spain, on December 22, 1971, a couple driving near Granada reported being followed for several hours by a powerful light that interfered with their car's radio and seemed to apply the brakes. The light disappeared when other vehicles approached.

Derniere minute... (Last Minute...)

This section provides an update on UFO sightings in Yugoslavia, referencing previous reports in 'inforespace'. It details an object observed on September 29th above Pula, at an altitude of 19 km, and mentions a photograph taken of an object by the AAAK club in Sarajevo on October 8th. The article notes that 'inforespace' will publish more interesting UFO photos from Eastern European countries in future issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of 'inforespace' are the historical documentation of UFO sightings, the exploration of archaeological mysteries through the lens of potential extraterrestrial contact, and the scientific investigation of aerial phenomena. The magazine adopts a stance of open inquiry, presenting various hypotheses, including those considered 'fanciful' by mainstream science, while encouraging critical analysis and reserving judgment. The editorial emphasizes the importance of objective analysis based on scientific evidence but acknowledges that current knowledge is incomplete and future discoveries might validate seemingly improbable theories. The publication is committed to presenting a wide range of data and interpretations related to UFOs and related phenomena.

This issue of "Le dossier photo d'inforespace Internationales" focuses on photographic evidence of UFOs, with a prominent feature on the Rex Heflin sighting in Santa Ana, California, in 1965. The magazine presents a detailed account of the event, including witness testimony, photographic analysis, and the subsequent investigations by various organizations.

The Rex Heflin Case (Santa Ana, August 3, 1965)

The main article details the experience of Rex Heflin, a road services inspector for Orange County, California. On August 3, 1965, while on duty near Santa Ana, Heflin's radio communication suddenly failed. He then observed an aerial object that he initially mistook for a conventional aircraft. The object, described as discoidal with a domed top, approximately 9 meters in diameter and 2.50 meters high, stopped and oscillated slightly before resuming its movement. Heflin managed to take two photographs of the object with his Polaroid camera through his truck's windshield. The object then moved away, and Heflin observed a faint beam of light emanating from its underside. After the object accelerated and ascended, a blue-colored smoke ring was visible for about 30 seconds, which Heflin also photographed.

Following the sighting, Heflin initially kept the photos private, fearing they depicted a secret military experiment. However, he eventually shared them with the "The Register" newspaper, which published them. The report notes that the original photographs were later requested by NORAD for "official" analysis, but the organization later denied possessing them, attributing the matter to the USAF. The USAF's initial conclusion was that the photographs were a hoax. This conclusion was contested by various experts, including Ralph Rankow from NICAP, photographic services from United Press and the "Santa Ana Register," and specialists in photogrammetry. They concluded that the documents were genuine. The USAF's arguments, such as the impossibility of taking four photos with a Polaroid in the given timeframe, were refuted by reconstructions and analyses, including one by Dr. E. Condon, which stated that an experienced photographer could take three shots in 12 seconds.

Further analysis by scientists from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena demonstrated that if the object were a hoax of the size claimed by the USAF (30-90 cm diameter), it would have cast a distinct shadow, which was absent in the photos. Experts from NICAP, including John R. Gray, an aeronautical engineer, estimated the object's distance at 217 meters and altitude at 40 meters, aligning with Heflin's estimates for a 9-meter diameter object. The USAF's report also omitted mention of a visible circular zone beneath the UFO in photo 5, which, when enlarged, appeared to be a mixture of earth, sand, and debris, rising about 30 cm from the ground. Similar effects have been noted in other UFO observations, particularly over water, suggesting a possible link to the propulsion method.

In October 1965, Major Quintanilla of the Blue Book commission announced that the USAF, after re-analyzing the documents, concluded they were photographic fakes. This announcement caused indignation among NICAP, the press, and the public. Rex Heflin, though morally supported by NICAP personalities, magistrates, and politicians, withdrew from the controversy to seek tranquility.

Later, Captain C. H. Edmonds from the Space Systems Division visited Heflin, asking numerous questions about the original photos. Heflin noticed he was being filmed from a parked car during this interview. An investigation was launched, but Captain Edmonds was never identified.

The magazine also mentions that similar UFO photographs taken in Cluj, Romania, will be published soon. Two documents, photos #10 and #11, taken by Carl Robbins in Bordesley Green, England, on June 18, 1969, are presented as having a striking analogy to the fourth photo from Santa Ana. These photos show a ring of black smoke at an altitude of about 150 meters, persisting for a few minutes. This is also compared to the disappearance of an object observed in Forli in 1394.

Catalog of Belgian UFO Observations

The issue includes an extensive catalog of UFO sightings, primarily from Belgium, spanning from 1955 to 1965. Each entry provides the date, time, location (province and town), and a brief description of the observed phenomenon, often including witness names and sources. The sightings describe a wide variety of objects and behaviors:

• Shapes and Colors: Objects are described as spheres, discs, rings, tubes, cigar-shaped, V-formations, pear-shaped, elliptical, and hemispherical, in colors such as green, blue, orange, red, white, yellow, grey, purple, and black.
• Movement and Behavior: Sightings include objects hovering, oscillating, moving slowly or rapidly, accelerating, changing direction, zigzagging, rotating, ascending, descending, and disappearing.
• Altitude and Size: Estimated altitudes range from a few meters to 15,000 meters, with sizes varying from that of a walnut to large discs comparable to the size of the moon or Atomium spheres.
• Associated Phenomena: Some sightings mention luminous effects, smoke rings, trails, sounds (or lack thereof), and electromagnetic interference (radio failure).

Notable entries in the catalog include:

• 1958: Greenish objects, green bolides, and a bright white sphere observed in Lessines, Soignies, Brussels, and Uccle.
• 1959: Reddish discs, luminous rings, and objects in formation observed in Brussels, Erembodegem, and other Belgian locations.
• 1960-1961: Numerous sightings of luminous objects, spheres, and discs in various Belgian provinces, including Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège.
• 1962-1964: Continued reports of unusual aerial phenomena, including objects described as "like a star," "like a firefly," and "like a flying saucer," with detailed descriptions of their movements and appearances.
• 1965: A significant number of sightings, including a "tube"-shaped object in Athus, a luminous object in Liège, a "rotating fire" in Vedrin, and a large orange object in Brussels.

Buret: Rendezvous with the Strange

This section reports on a series of observations by Mr. A. Lambert, a retired woodcutter living in the Ardennes village of Buret, Luxembourg. Lambert, who lives in a secluded house near a railway line and under a commercial air corridor, reported unusual aerial activity.

On September 25, 1967, Lambert observed a fog-like crown of grey-mauve color, about 100 meters in diameter, hovering over his property. Within this fog, he saw a large, silver, hemispherical object, approximately 20 meters in diameter, suspended without movement. The object was described as smooth, like a block of cast glass, with sharp contours and a metallic color. It then tilted, revealing a flat, circular underside, and moved towards Lambert's house at a slow speed, like "an old man on a bicycle," without noise, smoke, or light. He estimated its size as comparable to one of the spheres of the Atomium (18 meters in diameter).

As Lambert went inside to get his binoculars, his wife saw the object change direction abruptly and move away over the path leading to the village. She also reported seeing a red globe emerge from the top of the silver object. Shortly after, Lambert noticed a second object, described as triangular, emerge from the fog crown. This second object joined the first, and together they disappeared. The entire observation lasted about three minutes, and the fog crown dissipated completely about five to six minutes later.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are photographic evidence of UFOs, detailed witness testimonies, and the analysis of these phenomena by various organizations, including both civilian (NICAP) and military (USAF, NORAD) bodies. The magazine appears to present a pro-UFO investigation stance, highlighting discrepancies in official reports and emphasizing the credibility of witnesses and photographic evidence, particularly in the case of Rex Heflin. The extensive catalog of sightings suggests a belief in the reality of UFO phenomena and their frequent occurrence. The editorial stance seems to favor open investigation and documentation of these events, challenging official dismissals and promoting the idea that UFOs are a genuine subject of study.

This issue of "L'ÉCHO DES RECHERCHES" (Issue 21) delves into UFO sightings and theoretical physics, with a particular focus on events in Buret, Belgium, and the scientific concepts proposed by Dr. Pagès and Norman Dean.

UFO Sightings in Buret

The magazine recounts several intriguing UFO encounters in the region of Buret. The first, in the summer of 1967, involved M. Lambert, who, while walking in a young fir forest, experienced an intense feeling of being observed. He felt a sudden chill despite the warm day and fled back to his home, deeply disturbed. Two years later, he still avoided the area.

In the autumn of 1968, around midnight, M. L., an elderly former woodcutter, was returning home when he observed a bright, oval-shaped object, smaller than the full moon and fire-colored, moving from Luxembourg towards Bastogne. The object displayed a zigzagging trajectory and emitted a noise comparable to a vacuum cleaner. He also noted that the landscape was abnormally illuminated, making his electric lamp unnecessary.

The summer of 1971 saw a return of unusual phenomena. On the night of August 9-10, a group including M. Lambert, his wife, his son R., his son's wife, and two French friends, witnessed a luminous point in the sky. As it approached, its intense glow diminished, revealing a metallic, rounded object with a less distinct lower part. M. Lambert described it as yellow-orange and luminous but not radiating light. The object, estimated to be comparable in size to a small train car, crossed the sky horizontally.

During the same night, the brother of Mme R. Lambert used a flashlight to signal the object. The craft responded by changing color to completely dark, revealing a row of five rectangular, yellow windows. These windows had three sharp sides and one blurry vertical side. The object then returned to its colored state and disappeared.

On the evening of August 10, 1971, the same group observed another phenomenon. A luminous object, initially appearing as a streak, slowly ascended and revealed itself as a discoidal craft. It had a fiery appearance, like molten metal, with the air beneath it seeming to burn. The object ascended majestically, passing less than a hundred meters from the witnesses before disappearing into the clouds without a sound.

The Theories of Dr. Pagès

The issue dedicates significant space to the theories of Dr. Marcel Pagès, a physician from Perpignan, who proposes a revolutionary interpretation of physics. Pagès argues that there are no attractive forces in nature, only repulsive ones. He posits that the vacuum is not empty but an immense reservoir of energy. What we perceive as attractions are actually pressures exerted by this vacuum.

According to Pagès, matter and energy arise from local imbalances or "holes" in this vacuum, creating a state of lower density. This imbalance leads to a pressure differential, causing bodies to move towards each other, thus explaining universal gravitation. He compares this to Archimedes' principle, where an air bubble rises in water.

Pagès's theories also suggest a mode of cosmic propulsion based on creating a "relative vacuum bubble," which would repel matter, effectively achieving antigravity. His work has garnered attention from prominent scientists, including Louis de Broglie, who acknowledged the possibility of a sub-quantum level and a vast amount of energy within the vacuum.

The Dean Machine

The magazine also examines the "Dean Machine," an invention by Norman L. Dean, which purportedly achieves lift by converting rotational motion into unidirectional movement. The machine consists of two counter-rotating masses that, at a specific point in their trajectory, cause the apparatus to ascend. Despite its simple design, the machine's operation contradicts fundamental principles of classical mechanics, specifically the law of action and reaction.

Physicists have largely dismissed the Dean Machine, citing its impossibility based on established laws. However, the article notes that Dean's invention, if proven functional, could be a significant step towards antigravity. The author suggests that perhaps classical mechanics is incomplete rather than incorrect, and that Dean's machine might operate on a principle not yet fully understood.

Other UFO Reports and Space Exploration

The issue includes reports of other UFO sightings, including an incident in Haut-Doubs, France, where two young women claimed to be followed by a luminous object, and a case in Spain where a car was followed by a flying saucer. It also references historical UFO encounters reported by astronauts, such as those during the Gemini and Apollo missions, and mentions the U.S. Air Force's long-standing dossier on unidentified flying objects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained phenomena of UFOs and UAPs, the exploration of unconventional scientific theories that challenge established physics, and the intersection of these topics with space exploration. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting detailed accounts of sightings and theoretical concepts, while also acknowledging the scientific skepticism and the need for rigorous proof. The magazine encourages readers to consider possibilities beyond current scientific understanding, highlighting the potential for intuition and overlooked phenomena to drive future discoveries.

This issue of "Faits et opinions face aux OVNI" (Facts and opinions on UFOs), part of a symposium on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), delves into various aspects of the phenomenon, scientific investigations, and related astronomical research. The issue is dated October 8, 1971, and is published by "Science" magazine.

The Condon Report and Unexplained Cases

The article critically examines the U.S. Air Force's Condon Report, published in December 1969, which aimed to definitively address the UFO issue. Despite the report's conclusion that UFOs did not pose a threat and that most sightings could be explained, the authors highlight that 15% of observations remained unexplained. A typical example cited is the U.S. Air Force's explanation of a 1966 incident at Migo Air Base in North Dakota, where radar detected UFOs. The report attributed the sightings to confusion with the star Capella and aircraft position lights, a conclusion the article finds questionable given the qualifications of the personnel involved.

However, the Condon Report itself acknowledges that a certain number of cases could not be explained. Two such typical cases are detailed:

• Lackenheath, Great Britain (August 13-14, 1966): Radars at two bases detected a mysterious object, also observed by multiple witnesses. RAF fighters were scrambled, and onboard radar confirmed the object's presence. One object engaged a fighter jet in a prolonged 'cat and mouse' game, leading the report to conclude that the participation of at least one authentic UFO was "extremely probable."
• Beverly, Massachusetts (April 26, 1966): Three lights appeared, with one descending and revealing itself as a metallic disc about ten meters in diameter. It hovered before rejoining the others. Police officers also witnessed the event. The report concluded that no explanation was offered for this close-range UFO observation.

The Condon Report reportedly covered 90 cases.

The Skepticism of Scientists

The article discusses the reasons behind the skepticism of many scientists regarding UFOs. It suggests that deeply ingrained beliefs about the impossibility of interplanetary travel lead them to dismiss evidence. Despite incredible performances attributed to UFOs, such as speeds of 36,000 km/h and altitudes of 80,000 meters recorded by radar in 1947, many scientists refuse to consider extraterrestrial origins, preferring to stick to current theoretical physics. This reluctance is characterized as similar to an ostrich burying its head in the sand.

Gendarmerie's Approach and the Possibility of Extraterrestrial Visitors

The article praises the systematic approach of the French Gendarmerie in investigating UFO reports, suggesting that their thorough collection of evidence could significantly contribute to understanding the phenomenon. It notes that collaboration with private research organizations can aid in building a comprehensive database.

The section "De Jupiter?" (From Jupiter?) posits that beings from elsewhere might be observing our planet. It suggests that the observed craft are not necessarily spaceships but could be probes or 'Lunar Exploration Modules' (LEM) deployed from a larger cosmic vessel orbiting Earth. The possibility of these probes being tele-operated or inhabited is considered, drawing parallels with the Apollo missions. The question of their origin remains a profound mystery.

Pioneer 10: A Message to Extraterrestrials

This section details the Pioneer 10 space probe, launched in March 1972. Despite budget cuts affecting NASA's "Grand Tour" program, Pioneer 10's mission to Jupiter proceeded. The probe carries a unique "cosmic message" designed by Professors Frank Drake and Carl Sagan. This message, etched on a gold-anodized aluminum plaque, includes diagrams of a man and a woman, a representation of the hydrogen atom (used as a universal time and distance standard), and the trajectory of Pioneer 10 from Earth to Jupiter and beyond, along with pulsar data to help identify the Sun as the origin point.

Initiation to Astronomy: The Structure of the Universe

This multi-part series continues with "A. Galaxies, islands of the Universe" and "B. Stars, diversified populations of the Galaxy."

• Galaxies: The articles explain astronomical units (AU) and light-years (AL) for measuring cosmic distances. Our solar system spans about 100 AU. The Milky Way galaxy is described as containing approximately 100 billion stars, with a diameter of 100,000 light-years. Other galaxies, like the Andromeda Nebula (M31), are millions of light-years away. The concept of an expanding universe, observed through the redshift of galactic light (Hubble's Law), is discussed, noting that galaxies are receding from us at speeds proportional to their distance.
• Stars: The formation of stars from interstellar gas and dust clouds is explained, leading to the ignition of thermonuclear reactions. The life cycles of stars, from their birth to their eventual death as white dwarfs, neutron stars, or supernovae, are detailed. The article also touches upon stellar characteristics like temperature, color, luminosity, mass, and diameter, providing a comparative table of stars like Antares, Arcturus, and Sirius. The phenomenon of variable stars and novae is also mentioned.

Symposium on UFOs: Dr. McDonald's Testimony

Dr. McDonald's presentation at a 1968 symposium in Washington is summarized. He presented his findings from a 50-page report, arguing that UFOs appear to be extraterrestrial surveillance probes. He addressed common public questions, such as why pilots don't report unexplained phenomena (they do, but are often hesitant), why witnesses are often isolated (not always, with mass sightings occurring), and why astronomers don't see UFOs (they do, but are reluctant to report). He also countered explanations involving weather balloons and discussed the physical effects UFOs can reportedly produce, such as car malfunctions and physiological effects on witnesses. He noted that while no clear hostility has been observed, caution is warranted.

Dr. Carl Sagan's Perspective

Dr. Carl Sagan, an astronomer from Cornell University, evaluated the chances of extraterrestrial life. He stated that while he doesn't believe UFOs are definitively extraterrestrial, he cannot rule it out. He emphasized the vast number of star systems in the universe, making the existence of life highly probable. He suggested that supporting radio astronomy programs might be a more effective use of funds than directly studying UFOs, but acknowledged that ignoring the problem would be detrimental. He advocated for gathering more data on extraterrestrial life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from both anecdotal and scientific perspectives. It highlights the limitations of official explanations and the persistence of unexplained cases, while also delving into astronomical discoveries and the scientific search for life beyond Earth. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging scientific investigation into UFOs and the broader question of extraterrestrial life, while critically evaluating official reports and explanations. The inclusion of the Pioneer 10 message underscores a hopeful outlook on potential contact with other civilizations.

Title: Chronique des OVNI
Issue: 41
Volume: XIV
Date: Undetermined

This issue of "Chronique des OVNI" delves into historical accounts of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), focusing on alleged sightings from the 14th century in Italy. The content is primarily derived from an article by Peter Kolosimo, who references notes by Professor Marzocchi.

OVNI in the 14th Century

The article presents two extraordinary passages from the "Cronaca Albertina" (1393-1394) concerning events in Forli, Italy.

September 1394 Sighting

The first account, from September 1394, describes the appearance of numerous "asud" (a term for celestial objects, as noted by Professor Marzocchi) in the sky, alongside shooting stars. A more detailed description from the same year, dated the second day of September, at the second hour of the night, recounts a large "asud" appearing to men gathered in Forli's public square and elsewhere. This object moved very slowly across the sky, remaining stationary for the duration of two "Pater Noster" prayers. It was described as being about a step long. Upon its disappearance, witnesses reported an odor of burning wood. The object's passage through the air was described as being like "fire," and after it became stationary, it disappeared gradually, leaving behind a cloud and vaporous remains that took the form of serpents, an event deemed "quite admirable."

March 1428 Sighting

The second set of accounts dates to March 3, 1428. On this date, at one and a half hours past midnight, a very high flame in the shape of a tower and a column that seemed to be fire were seen rising into the air over Forli. This phenomenon was witnessed by many people, including monks, laymen, and those from the mountains and plains. The same report mentions that on the same day, March 3rd, a "lamp of fire" was seen in the sky over Forli, lasting from one hour past midnight until three hours past midnight.

Analysis of Testimonies

The author emphasizes the direct and unreserved nature of these testimonies, noting the absence of conditional phrases that might suggest doubt or speculation. The descriptions are presented as factual reports, not mere hearsay. The article suggests that the entire town witnessed these phenomena, occurring thirty years apart. It contrasts these accounts with those from the Genoese "Chronique" from two centuries later, finding the Forli descriptions less confused and suggesting that the inhabitants might have been accustomed to such events.

The term "asud" is compared to modern-day "saucers." The article points out the striking similarity between these historical accounts and UFO testimonies from the last twenty-five years. Common elements include objects moving slowly or hovering, apparent incandescence, gradual disappearance, descriptions of clouds, vapor trails, columns of fire, and phenomena visible over a wide area. The author laments the lack of precise descriptions of the objects themselves, noting that while "saucer" or "cigar" shapes are easily imagined, the term "asud" implies a particular form that is not clarified by Marzocchi or Kolosimo.

The article concludes by inviting readers who know the true nature of an "asud" to share their knowledge. It asserts that the clarity and common sense of these testimonies, endorsed by a high ecclesiastical dignitary for the 1428 events, do not suggest collective hallucination. The author implies that if people had reported such things in earlier times, they would have been accused of witchcraft and burned at the stake, suggesting that the witnesses were not prone to fanciful tales.

Bibliography and Call for Contributions

A bibliography entry lists "Des ombres sur les étoiles" by Peter Kolosimo, published by Ed. Albin Michel in 1970. The issue also includes an "Appeal to Members" from the library of the society, requesting contributions of books, specialized magazines, and scientific or general interest publications on UFOs. They are particularly seeking issues of "Science et Vie," "Sciences et Avenir," "La Recherche," "Nature," "Science," "Scientific American," "Flying Saucer Review," "Lumières Dans La Nuit," "Phénomènes Spatiaux," "UFO Nachrichten," and specific reports like "The Reference for Outstanding UFO Sighting Reports" (1966), "Un Caso Perfecto" (1970), "Les Fils du Soleil," and "Les Mathématiques de l'Histoire." The appeal also emphasizes the value of press clippings, even brief ones, for initiating investigations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the historical investigation of UFO phenomena, suggesting that such occurrences are not a recent invention but have been observed throughout history. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into these phenomena, treating historical accounts with respect and seeking to connect them with modern UFO reports. The magazine encourages reader participation in building its archival resources, indicating a collaborative approach to ufological research.