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Inforespace - No 101 - 2000
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Title: Inforespace Issue: N° 101 Date: December 2000 Volume: 29th year Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux) Country: Belgium Language: French
Magazine Overview
Title: Inforespace
Issue: N° 101
Date: December 2000
Volume: 29th year
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French
This issue of Inforespace, a Belgian publication dedicated to the study of ufology and space phenomena, offers a comprehensive exploration of current debates and research within the field. The cover prominently features the title 'inforespace' and the main theme 'ufologie phénomènes spatiaux'.
Editorial
The editorial by Michel Bougard, President of SOBEPS, reflects on the history of ufology, noting the passage of time and the loss of significant figures in the field. He pays tribute to Michel Figuet and Pierre Guérin, acknowledging their contributions to the study of UFOs. Bougard also announces the launch of the SOBEPS website and extends New Year's wishes to the readers, emphasizing the importance of membership renewals for the association's continued work.
Key Articles and Themes
"Où en sommes-nous en ufologie?" by Auguste Meessen
This central article by Professor Emeritus Auguste Meessen, a physicist from UCL, provides a detailed analysis of the current state of ufology. Meessen frames the discussion around four key problems:
1. The Fermi Paradox: Meessen explores the paradox of extraterrestrial intelligence, questioning why, if advanced civilizations exist, they have not made their presence known on Earth. He discusses recent astronomical discoveries of exoplanets and the implications for the search for extraterrestrial life (SETI).
2. Physical Aspects of UAP: The article stresses the necessity of studying the physical characteristics of UFOs (OVNI) to shift the scientific community's perspective. Meessen argues that understanding the energy sources and propulsion mechanisms of these phenomena is crucial.
3. Human Psychosociology: Meessen examines how human psychosociology hinders the rational study of UFOs, suggesting that ingrained skepticism, fear of the unknown, and a reluctance to challenge established paradigms contribute to the dismissal of evidence.
4. Extraterrestrial Psychosociology: The article touches upon emerging elements of extraterrestrial psychosociology, questioning the nature of alleged alien communications and the potential for extraterrestrials to conduct large-scale psychosociological experiments.
Meessen delves into the scientific community's resistance to UAP research, citing astronomers like Jean Heidmann and Hubert Reeves who express skepticism, often attributing UFOs to psychological phenomena or misidentifications. He contrasts this with the more open approach of scientists like Alfred Vidal-Madjar, who advocate for examining all hypotheses, and Paul Davies, who highlights the profound impact of discovering extraterrestrial life.
The article critically examines the arguments of scientists who dismiss UAP, such as the reliance on the "Condon Report" and interpretations of ancient myths by Carl Jung. Meessen advocates for a rigorous scientific approach, emphasizing the need to study the physical evidence and explore potential extraterrestrial origins.
Propulsion and Physics of UAP
Meessen discusses theories related to UAP propulsion, including Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). He references the work of Jean-Pierre Petit, who also explored MHD in relation to UFOs. The article highlights the challenges of interstellar travel and the potential for advanced extraterrestrial civilizations to possess scientific knowledge far beyond current human understanding. Pierre Guérin's perspective is also presented, suggesting that extraterrestrials might manipulate space-time and possess capabilities that seem miraculous to us, but are based on advanced scientific principles.
Scientific Skepticism and Resistance
The issue extensively covers the resistance encountered by ufologists from the scientific establishment. Scientists like Hubert Reeves and Carl Sagan are quoted expressing doubts, with Sagan comparing the idea of alien visitors to the Easter Bunny. The article points out that UAP literature is often relegated to the 'paranormal' or 'esoteric' sections in bookstores, reflecting a broader societal and scientific bias.
The "Club Galactique" and Interstellar Travel
Crawford's hypotheses regarding the Fermi Paradox are discussed, including the possibility that extraterrestrials might choose not to interfere with less developed civilizations, observing them discreetly. The concept of a "galactic club" is mentioned, suggesting a potential non-interference pact among advanced civilizations. The article also touches upon the theoretical challenges of interstellar travel, including the immense distances and energy requirements, and the possibility of manipulating space-time.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of Inforespace strongly advocates for a rational, scientific approach to ufology. It challenges the prevailing skepticism within the scientific community and encourages open-minded investigation of UAP phenomena. The magazine highlights the contributions of researchers who are willing to explore unconventional hypotheses, while also emphasizing the importance of rigorous methodology and evidence-based analysis. The editorial stance is one of persistent inquiry, aiming to bridge the gap between the observed phenomena and scientific understanding, and to overcome the psychological and sociological barriers that impede progress in the field.
Other Content
The issue also includes advertisements for SOBEPS's bookstore, offering books on ufology, and promotes the SOBEPS membership and pin. Contact information for SOBEPS and details on subscription renewals are provided. A table of contents lists articles such as "Où en sommes-nous en ufologie?" by Auguste Meessen, "Complément à l'analyse de deux photos et propriétés des radiations ionisantes" also by Meessen, and "Roswell: nouveaux éléments" by Jean Sider.
This issue of "inforespace" delves into the complex and often controversial subject of UFOs, extraterrestrial contact, and government secrecy, with a particular focus on the Roswell incident and its far-reaching consequences. The magazine explores the evolution of thought regarding UFOs, moving from a mechanical 'nuts and bolts' perspective to more abstract interpretations, and highlights the challenges of paradigm shifts in scientific understanding.
The Nature of Reality and Extraterrestrial Contact
Christian de Duve, a Nobel laureate, is cited for his belief that humanity is not alone, based on the prevalence of life-supporting planets. However, the idea of extraterrestrial visitors poses significant conceptual challenges, requiring a departure from established scientific frameworks. The article notes de Duve's view that the evolution of life may favor the development of advanced intelligence capable of interstellar travel, suggesting extraterrestrials might resemble humans but possess superior intellect.
The Roswell Incident and Government Disinformation
The Roswell crash of 1947 is presented as a foundational event for a massive disinformation campaign by US authorities. The goal was to conceal the recovery of alien technology and possibly alien bodies, thereby maintaining secrecy for technological development. The article details how initial reports of a crashed saucer were quickly retracted and replaced with the explanation of a weather balloon, a tactic designed to prevent further inquiry.
The Robertson Commission and Scientific Scrutiny
The 1953 Robertson Commission is discussed for its cautious yet dismissive stance on UFOs, stating that while inhabited celestial bodies are possible, there was no evidence to suggest visitation. The commission's findings, along with later reports like the 1969 Condon Commission, are portrayed as attempts to steer scientific inquiry away from UFO phenomena, often by labeling them as misidentifications or psychological illusions.
The Shift to Psychosociological Explanations
The magazine explores the transition in ufology from focusing on physical craft to examining the psychological and sociological aspects of the phenomenon. Jacques Vallée's early work is mentioned, which drew parallels between UFO occupants and figures from myth and folklore, suggesting a possible connection to a 'parallel universe' or a psychological construct. This approach, while controversial, aimed to understand the 'Magonie' concept, a mythical realm associated with aerial phenomena.
The 'Magonie' Concept and Historical Parallels
The article traces the concept of 'Magonie' back to the 9th century Archbishop d'Agobard of Lyon, who documented accounts of people claiming to have traveled to such a realm. These narratives, though dismissed at the time as impossible, are re-examined in the context of modern UFO abduction reports, suggesting a recurring theme of otherworldly encounters.
The Rise of 'Debunking' and Skepticism
In the 1970s, some ufologists, frustrated by the lack of definitive answers, shifted towards 'debunking' UFO sightings, attributing them to misperceptions or psychological factors. This trend aligned with the 'skeptics' movement, which continues to challenge the validity of UFO evidence. However, the article notes that some researchers, like Bernard Méheust and Pierre Lagrange, maintain a more nuanced perspective, suggesting that the UFO phenomenon may not be reducible to simple mental phenomena and could involve complex interactions between human consciousness and extraterrestrial intelligence.
The Roswell Film and Autopsy Evidence
The 1995 emergence of the 'Roswell film,' purportedly showing an alien autopsy, is discussed. While efforts were made to discredit its authenticity, the article suggests it warrants serious consideration, particularly in light of other related evidence, such as a film of a different autopsy. The potential for hybrid beings is also raised.
State Lies and the Risks of Cover-Ups
The article posits that the decision to maintain secrecy about UFOs since 1947 has created a self-perpetuating cycle of disinformation. The author argues that this secrecy has hindered scientific progress and created a 'state lie' that is difficult to retract. The comparison is made to historical events like the assassinations of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, where official narratives were contested by evidence and witness testimonies.
The Role of the Military and 'Big Science'
The post-World War II era saw the rise of 'big science,' heavily influenced by military interests, particularly after the successful development of the atomic bomb under secrecy. This model, where military powers controlled vast scientific resources, is seen as a precursor to the secrecy surrounding UFOs. The article highlights the ethical debates surrounding the use of nuclear weapons and the warnings from scientists like Albert Einstein about the dangers of an unchecked arms race.
The US National Security Council and CIA
Following the Roswell incident, the establishment of the National Security Council and the CIA in 1947 is presented as a strategic move to centralize intelligence and national security, with a particular focus on the potential implications of extraterrestrial technology. The USAF's acquisition of an independent status is also noted.
The Belgian UFO Wave and Political Interest
The article touches upon the Belgian UFO wave and the interest it generated from political figures, such as Senator Robert Byrd's advisor, Richard d'Amato. This interest suggests a recognition within certain political circles of the significance of UFO phenomena and the need for official engagement.
Alien Abductions: A Detailed Examination
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the phenomenon of alien abductions, drawing on the work of researchers like Bud Hopkins, John Mack, and David Jacobs. The article details various aspects of abduction experiences, including:
The 'Missing Time' Syndrome
Abductees often report experiencing 'missing time,' where they find themselves in a different location with no memory of how they got there, suggesting a period of unconsciousness or manipulation.
Physical and Medical Examinations
Abductees frequently describe undergoing invasive medical examinations by alien beings, often referred to as 'little greys.' These procedures include blood samples, tissue collection, and examinations of reproductive organs.
The 'Little Greys' and Hybridization Programs
The 'little greys' are depicted as small, grey-skinned beings with large, dark eyes. The article suggests they are involved in systematic abduction programs, possibly for the purpose of creating hybrid beings. Evidence for this includes accounts of abductees witnessing hybrid fetuses or babies in incubators.
The 'Big Grey' or Commander
In addition to the 'little greys,' abductions often involve a larger, more authoritative alien figure, referred to as the 'big grey' or commander. This being is described as having a more human-like appearance and is responsible for overseeing the abduction process, including 'mind scans' that evoke strong emotions in the abductee.
Psychological and Emotional Impact
Abduction experiences are characterized by intense fear, vulnerability, and a sense of violation. The psychological impact can be profound, leading to trauma, anxiety, and a distorted sense of reality. However, some researchers suggest that these experiences, while traumatic, may also lead to personal growth and a broader understanding of existence.
The Role of the 'Mind Scan'
The 'mind scan' is described as a process where the 'big grey' uses its gaze to evoke a range of emotions in the abductee, from fear and terror to pleasure and even sexual desire. This is seen as a method of psychological manipulation and control.
Hybridization and Genetic Manipulation
The article strongly suggests that a primary objective of these abductions is a hybridization program. This involves the collection of human genetic material (eggs and sperm) for in-vitro fertilization and the creation of hybrid offspring. The abductees are sometimes shown these hybrid beings, indicating a deliberate effort to create a new species.
The Ethics of Alien Intervention
The magazine questions the ethical implications of these extraterrestrial actions, describing them as equivalent to rape. It calls for a global response to make it clear to these beings that such actions are unacceptable and advocates for a shift towards a more open and transparent approach to the UFO phenomenon.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of "inforespace" consistently emphasizes the need for critical thinking and a rational approach to the UFO phenomenon, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding. It highlights the pervasive nature of government secrecy and disinformation, particularly in the United States, and suggests that this secrecy hinders progress. The magazine champions the idea that extraterrestrial contact is a reality that requires serious investigation, moving beyond mere speculation to a more evidence-based approach. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for transparency, scientific inquiry, and a potential dialogue with extraterrestrial civilizations, while also recognizing the profound psychological and societal implications of these encounters. The recurring theme is that humanity is not alone and that understanding this reality is crucial for our future.
Title: infospace
Issue: 100
Volume: XXV
Date: October 2000
Publisher: infospace
Country: Belgium
Language: French
This issue of "infospace" delves into complex and often unsettling aspects of the UFO phenomenon, focusing on extraterrestrial interactions with humanity. The articles explore theories of alien hybridization, telepathic communication, the psychological impact of abductions, and the potential for extraterrestrial influence on human society and belief systems. It also examines specific phenomena like crop circles, cattle mutilations, and the mysterious 'chupacabra'.
The Accelerating Process
The lead article discusses the increasing frequency of alien abductions reported since 1998. Professor Jacobs suggests this acceleration might be due to extraterrestrials 'going all out' to ensure their hybridization program succeeds, possibly fearing disruption or aiming for exponential growth. An alternative hypothesis is that extraterrestrials view genetic information as the most valuable resource in the universe and are manipulating DNA to influence human evolution. The author urges readers to be aware and reflective, moving beyond simplistic notions of invasion or denial.
Stages of Abduction Experience
Dr. Henning Alberts, a neurologist and psychiatrist, outlines five stages experienced by abductees: initial disbelief and confusion, feelings of helplessness and anger, the search for meaning, personality restructuring, and finally, a new value system and sense of awakening. These stages suggest a profound psychological transformation resulting from the abduction experience.
Telepathic Communication and Alien Society
David Jacobs' reflections on the psychosociology of extraterrestrials highlight the abandonment of acoustic communication in favor of telepathy. This shift implies a society where individual thoughts are shared, leading to a form of social control and conformity, akin to a 'hive mentality'. Such a society would lack privacy and potentially have a reduced range of emotions, prioritizing logic over compassion. The article speculates on the physiological mechanisms behind telepathic communication, suggesting it might involve modulation of light signals perceived by the eyes, a concept explored in detail by Auguste Meessen.
The Role of the Eyes in Alien Interaction
Auguste Meessen, in a supplementary article, proposes a theory that extraterrestrials, particularly the 'greys' and 'tall beings', use their eyes for telepathic communication and 'mind scanning'. He suggests that the eyes might modulate light signals to transmit information, akin to a visual form of telepathy. This theory attempts to explain how aliens might access emotions and thoughts, drawing parallels to visual processing in the human brain.
Crop Circles and UFOs
The phenomenon of crop circles, which emerged in the early 1980s, is discussed as a potential psychosociological experiment by extraterrestrials. Initially appearing as simple circles, they evolved into complex 'pictograms' with intricate designs, often appearing overnight. While some attribute them to human hoaxers like 'Doug and Dave', the scale and complexity suggest a non-human origin. The association of crop circles with 'strange lights' and UFO sightings further links them to extraterrestrial activity.
Contactees and Their Stories
The issue profiles several 'contactees' who claim to have communicated with extraterrestrials. George Adamski reported encounters with beings from Venus, Mars, and Saturn, describing flying saucer technology and messages about nuclear radiation. Dr. King received telepathic messages from 'Aetherius', promoting a quasi-religious worldview. Other contactees like Angeluci, Bethurum, Fry, Green, Menger, and van Tassel also shared messages from extraterrestrials, often deemed 'aberrant' or lacking credibility.
The 'Men in Black' and Information Control
The phenomenon of 'men in black' is presented as a more aggressive form of extraterrestrial interaction, possibly designed to test human reactions to authority and instill fear. These figures, often described as wearing black suits and driving black cars, reportedly threaten witnesses and researchers to suppress information about UFOs and abductions. The case of Albert Bender, who was coerced into ceasing his UFO publications, and Dr. Herbert Hopkins, who was pressured to destroy evidence, are cited as examples.
Cattle Mutilations and the Chupacabra
Cattle mutilations, first reported in 1963, are discussed as a widespread phenomenon involving precise surgical excisions of animal organs without significant blood loss. The article suggests this, along with the appearance of 'black helicopters', might be part of a psychosociological experiment. The 'chupacabra', a creature reported in Puerto Rico and other parts of the Americas since the mid-1990s, is also examined. Its description as a blood-sucking creature attacking livestock, with unusual physical characteristics, leads to speculation about its origins, with some suggesting a link to extraterrestrial activity.
Conclusions and Scientific Lethargy
The author concludes that many of these phenomena, from abductions to crop circles and men in black, share characteristics of psychosociological experiments designed by extraterrestrials to test human maturity, credulity, and reactions to authority. The article criticizes the 'intellectual lethargy' of the scientific community in addressing the UFO phenomenon and calls for a more integrated approach that considers both the physical and psychosocial aspects.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the increasing evidence of extraterrestrial interaction with Earth, focusing on their potential motives (hybridization, genetic resources, social control) and methods (abductions, telepathy, psychological manipulation). The magazine adopts a stance that encourages open-mindedness and critical reflection on these phenomena, urging the scientific community and the public to confront the implications of potential extraterrestrial contact. There's a consistent emphasis on the idea that many of these events may be part of deliberate, large-scale experiments by advanced alien civilizations to understand and potentially influence humanity.
This issue of "inforespace" focuses on the Roswell UFO incident, presenting new elements and analysis. The main article, "Roswell: nouveaux éléments" by Jean SIDER, revisits the events of July 1947, incorporating testimonies from former military personnel and researchers.
Roswell Incident: New Elements
Jean SIDER details the timeline of the Roswell incident, starting with the events of July 1, 1947. General Martin Scanlon's call to Colonel William H. Blanchard of Roswell AAF, requesting radar specialists for Alamogordo AAF due to unusual radar echoes, is described. Major Thomas, a code name for an officer from the Pentagon's special security service, was also involved. The radar echoes were identified as an unknown object.
On July 2-3, 1947, the team traveled to Alamogordo and observed the object's erratic movements on radar. A violent storm occurred, and during a lightning strike, the echo disappeared, leading to speculation that the object had crashed. The estimated crash site was east of the Sacramento and Capitan mountains.
Major Thomas and Frank Kaufmann were dispatched to the crash site. They found a triangular object with a rounded front and a dome, slightly embedded in a cliff. The object had no visible propulsion system or dashboard. Five humanoid bodies, approximately 1.60m tall, with large heads, small mouths, and large eyes, were discovered. They were wearing greyish suits similar to divers' outfits.
Urgent requests were made for a crane, trucks, ambulances, and tarpaulins. The bodies were placed in mortuary bags, and the craft was covered and transported. A diversion site was also set up to mislead potential witnesses.
Physical Effects of UFO Encounters
The article discusses the physiological effects observed in several UFO incidents. In Venezuela in 1886, intense light entering a house caused symptoms similar to radiation sickness. In Trancas, Argentina, a beam of light passed through a person's arm, causing a sensation of heat. In Finland, a beam reportedly passed through a young man's chest, causing pain and fainting, followed by red spots on his skin.
The case of Travis Walton is mentioned, where he was traversed by a bright blue-green light, causing him to feel numb and experience intense pain, as if burned from the inside out. The author suggests this was not just light but another type of radiation.
The Cash-Landrum incident from December 29, 1980, is detailed. Two women and a child encountered a large UFO emitting intense light and flames. They experienced symptoms like nausea, skin redness, blisters, hair loss, and fatigue. Medical specialists discussed the case in terms of damage caused by ionizing radiation.
The article explains that ionizing radiation can damage cells, particularly DNA, and that the effects can be severe and sometimes delayed. It notes that cells undergoing division, like skin and bone marrow cells, are most vulnerable.
Roswell Debris and Cover-up
William "Mac" Brazel discovered debris on his ranch, described as lightweight and unusual. The debris resisted cutting and burning. The article suggests that some of this debris might have been from a cluster balloon used in the Mogul program, which was designed to detect Soviet nuclear explosions.
Major Jesse A. Marcel and CIC agent Sheridan Cavitt investigated the site and collected debris. The article highlights the unusual properties of the metal, which could not be folded or creased. The official explanation provided to the press was that the debris was from a weather balloon, a story that was part of a staged event.
Witness Testimonies and Analysis
Robert Shirkey's account, based on his time at Roswell AAF, is presented. He emphasizes the secrecy surrounding the incident and the efforts to control information. The article also touches upon the testimony of Frank Kaufmann, whose background and role in the incident are detailed.
Several other pieces of evidence are presented, including a 1950 FBI memo from Guy Hottel mentioning the recovery of three flying saucers with small occupants, and a 1950 conversation with a scientist who confirmed the reality of UFO crashes. Dr. Rolf Alexander reportedly received information from General George C. Marshall about UFOs existing, being piloted by extraterrestrials, and being peaceful.
The article also discusses the discrepancy in witness accounts, suggesting that there might have been multiple UFO crashes in July 1947, possibly involving different types of craft and occupants, which could have been intentionally created to confuse the issue.
Scientific and Official Perspectives
Philip J. Corso, a retired US Army colonel, claimed to have seen documents confirming UFO crashes and the transfer of alien technology. The article also mentions Edgar Mitchell, who confirmed the Roswell incident based on documents he saw, and Gordon Cooper, who also spoke about UFO sightings and the Roswell crash.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue consistently emphasizes the theme of government secrecy and cover-up regarding UFO phenomena. It highlights the importance of witness testimonies, physical evidence, and scientific analysis in understanding these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to uncover the truth behind the official narratives and to explore the potential implications of UFO technology and extraterrestrial contact. The article encourages readers to form their own conclusions based on the presented evidence.
This issue of inforespace, dated December 1999, focuses on significant UFO phenomena, particularly the 1954 UFO wave and the Roswell incident, alongside detailed reports on UFO activity in Belgium.
The 1954 UFO Wave and "The Rationalist Imposture"
The article discusses the extraordinary wave of "flying saucer" sightings that swept across France and Italy, with some occurrences in Belgium, during the late summer and autumn of 1954. This period coincided with the publication of Aimé Michel's book "Lueurs sur les soucoupes volantes." The text critiques a 1979 book by Gérard Barthel and Jacques Brucker, published by the French Rationalist Union, which attempted to explain these events as mere misinterpretations and hoaxes. Jean Sider is presented as having undertaken a comprehensive research effort to debunk this "rationalist imposture," uncovering many previously ignored close encounters (RR1, RR2, and RR3 according to Hynek's classification). Sider's work aimed to correct errors made by previous authors and evolved into a book accompanied by an illustrated section. The publisher is offering the two-volume set at a 50% discount.
Roswell Crash Debris Analysis
The issue highlights the work of Donald R. Burleson, Ph.D., a researcher with access to advanced computer technology, including a sophisticated electronic microscopy program called Lucis. Burleson conducted an in-depth analysis of the famous photograph showing General Ramey examining the debris of an unidentified craft, reportedly from the Roswell crash. Using his advanced tools, Burleson was able to reconstruct fragments of text from a document held by Ramey. These reconstructed phrases reportedly mention an "operation recovery with the Roswell disk," the transfer of the disk to Los Alamos, the urgent need for resources at a "site n°2" in Carlsbad, New Mexico, and instructions to "calm the press with an explanation of the story," suggesting it was merely "weather balloons." Burleson concludes that these identified terms confirm a crash, the presence of victims, and a cover-up. The article notes that the mention of Carlsbad is new and suggests that if there were three crashes, one might have occurred near this location, potentially casting doubt on the authenticity of a memo attributed to Rear Admiral Hillenkoetter.
SOBEPS Reports on the Belgian UFO Wave
The magazine features two exceptional dossiers from SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Étude des Phénomènes Spatiaux) concerning the UFO wave in Belgium.
Dossier 1: An Exceptional Report
This dossier covers the UFO wave that occurred in Belgium from autumn 1989 to summer 1991. It includes a preface by Jean-Pierre Petit (CNRS), a day-by-day account of events, media coverage from around the world, analysis of photos and videos, radar data collaboration with the Air Force and Gendarmerie, the evolving scientific and official interest, and a discussion of "Stealth" technology. It also presents statistical analyses and personal conclusions from the authors, with a postface by General Wilfried De Brouwer.
Dossier 2: An Unresolved Enigma
Published in 1994, this report details SOBEPS's findings after analyzing tens of thousands of pages of investigation reports. It addresses the political and scientific challenges posed by the wave, including the characteristics of the phenomena, the analysis of the Petit-Rechain photograph, and daytime sightings. It discusses scientific reactions, media influence, and proposes new research avenues. It also explores the possibility of meteorological disturbances and radar interference for specific events, like the night of March 30-31, 1990, and discusses the implications of UFO research for democracy.
These two volumes are offered together for 1,500 Belgian Francs (275 French Francs), including shipping and VAT. Individual volumes are available for 1,050 Belgian Francs (200 French Francs).
SOBEPS Activities and Resources
The magazine outlines the mission of SOBEPS as a non-profit association dedicated to the rational observation and study of unidentified aerial phenomena, operating on a volunteer basis. They disseminate information through a semiannual review, "Inforespace," and conferences. They encourage member collaboration in various tasks, including translation, writing, investigations, and secretarial work. Members can access the SOBEPS documentation (books and journals) at their premises on Saturdays between 2 PM and 6 PM, by appointment. Contact numbers are provided for administrative inquiries and for reporting UFO sightings.
SOBEPS also offers a collection of 360 slides on UFO phenomena, divided into 30 series, which can be used for presentations. Two additional series focus on the Belgian UFO wave. Furthermore, they offer two guides: "The Investigator's Guide," with 200 questions for UFO observations and guidance on estimating altitude, traces, and report writing; and "The Observer's Guide," covering essential astronomical data, potential confusions, and astronomical notions for ufologists. These guides can be purchased separately or together.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue strongly advocates for a rational and scientific approach to UFO research, as exemplified by SOBEPS's methodology. It challenges purely rationalist explanations for significant UFO events like the 1954 wave and the Roswell incident, suggesting that evidence points towards genuine unexplained phenomena and potential cover-ups. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, encouraging detailed investigation and the collection of evidence, while remaining open to the possibility of extraordinary explanations beyond conventional understanding. The emphasis is on rigorous research, data analysis, and the dissemination of findings to the public and scientific community.