Inforespace - No 108 - 2004

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: n° 108
Date: June 2004
Volume: 33rd year
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux ASBL)

This issue of Inforespace, a Belgian publication dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena, explores the intricate relationship between ufology, media, science fiction, and the psychological aspects of perception and memory. The editorial by Michel BOUGARD sets the tone, highlighting how the magazine's content has converged on the theme of disinformation surrounding UFOs and the 'lures' used to obscure the truth. He notes the regular solicitation of the organization for its expertise, particularly in light of events like the Belgian UFO wave of 1989-91, which involved a unique collaboration between a private group and the Belgian Army.

Key Articles and Themes

"L'imagerie extraterrestre en 1947, entre science-fiction, occultisme et technologies" by Thibaut CANUTI

This article examines the imagery of extraterrestrials in 1947, arguing against the notion that science fiction and sociocultural influences were the primary drivers of UFO beliefs. Canuti posits that the debate on UFOs was initially confined to occultist societies and early researchers like Charles Fort. He contends that the extraterrestrial figures in early science fiction, such as those in "Buck Rodgers," Bradbury, and Asimov, were far removed from later depictions like the 'little grey' aliens. The author highlights that early UFO observations, like Kenneth Arnold's in 1947, were often reported by qualified military or civilian personnel and that the "Flying Flapjack" aircraft was also considered a possible explanation for UFO sightings. The article critiques the socio-psychological theories that attribute UFO phenomena solely to human imagination, suggesting that the roots of the phenomenon lie in deeper, older realities. It also notes the global expansion of the UFO phenomenon, even in politically closed blocs like the Soviet Union and China, and points to well-documented cases with radar traces and credible witnesses.

"Les limites de la perception" by Franck BOITTE

Franck Boitte's article delves into the fallibility of human perception and memory, particularly in the context of witness testimony. He uses an exercise involving a projected message to demonstrate how easily details can be misremembered or distorted, even under controlled conditions. Boitte argues that the "incoherence" often cited by skeptics in UFO witness accounts is not surprising, given the diverse circumstances under which sightings occur – often under stress, with poor visibility, and with limited observation time. He contrasts these real-world observations with the often more detailed and imaginative depictions found in science fiction. Boitte also discusses the psychological and sociological factors that can influence reporting, citing examples of how pre-existing biases, such as racial prejudice, can alter perceptions of events. He concludes that the lack of rigorous methodology in ufology research is a significant issue, with very few articles in the magazine's index dedicated to defining research principles.

"Roswell - Enquêtes, secret et désinformation" by Gildas Bourdais (Reviewed by Auguste MEESSEN)

Auguste Meessen reviews Gildas Bourdais' book on the Roswell incident. Bourdais, a known ufologist, meticulously investigates the 1947 event, presenting evidence that suggests a deliberate disinformation campaign by the Pentagon. The review highlights that the initial press release announcing the capture of a "flying saucer" was quickly retracted and replaced with the explanation that it was a weather balloon. Bourdais' research, based on witness interviews and newly discovered documents, suggests that actual debris from an extraterrestrial craft was recovered and that the official explanation was a staged event. The review emphasizes the complexity of the Roswell case, involving multiple witnesses, a series of events, and ongoing attempts to obscure the truth. It notes that the book aims to provide a comprehensive documentation for future sociologists studying the reasons behind such prolonged 'blindness' to the truth.

"Deux livres importants sur la désinformation en matière d'ovnis" by Auguste MEESSEN

Meessen also discusses another book that addresses the mechanisms hindering the objective study of UFO phenomena. He stresses the importance of such documentation for ufologists, journalists, and politicians, framing the issue as a societal 'cancer' of truth evasion. The review highlights the need for critical analysis of witness testimonies and the impact of psychological and sociological factors on how events are perceived and reported. The article implicitly links the challenges in UFO research to broader issues of information dissemination and the public's right to know.

"Le Pin's de la SOBEPS"

A brief section promotes the sale of a SOBEPS pin as a way for members and supporters to aid the organization financially while acquiring a collectible item.

Service Librairie de la SOBEPS

This section lists several books available for purchase through SOBEPS, including "DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES AUX OVNI" by Michel Bougard, "MYSTERIEUSES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES" by Fernand Lagarde, "BLACK-OUT SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES" by Jimmy Guieu, and "ET SI LES OVNI N'EXISTAIENT PAS ?" by Michel Monnerie. Payment and ordering details are provided.

La SOBEPS est sur Internet

An announcement informs readers that SOBEPS has launched a new website at www.sobeps.org, inviting feedback and suggestions for its ongoing development.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, with a strong emphasis on debunking simplistic explanations and exposing disinformation. The magazine adopts a stance that is both investigative and analytical, encouraging readers to engage with raw data and witness accounts rather than relying solely on theoretical frameworks or media narratives. There is a clear skepticism towards socio-psychological explanations that dismiss UFO reports as mere psychological projections or cultural artifacts. Instead, the publication champions a rigorous, evidence-based approach, acknowledging the complexity and often baffling nature of the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for transparency and a deeper, more honest investigation into UFO sightings, challenging both official denials and the sensationalism often associated with the topic. The magazine positions itself as a resource for serious researchers and informed individuals seeking to understand the multifaceted reality of UFOs.

This issue of "infospace" is primarily dedicated to exploring the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and their connection to secret military prototypes and widespread disinformation campaigns. The magazine features articles that delve into specific cases, historical developments, and the underlying political and industrial motivations.

Article 1: Analysis of UFO Debris and Disinformation (Pages 18-19)

This section discusses the examination of debris found at a crash site, described as extraordinary and metallic, with properties like flexibility, resistance to burning, and the ability to return to its original shape. The author highlights the meticulous work of Monsieur Bourdais in documenting the Roswell incident and notes attempts by the CIA and secret services to sow confusion. The article criticizes disinformation tactics that mix truth with falsehood to obscure the reality of UFOs, suggesting that political-military powers aim to hide the truth about extraterrestrial contact. It points to specific elements of the Roswell case, including the detention of farmer Brazel, the collection of debris, and the discovery of a second site with a crashed UFO and humanoid occupants. The narrative emphasizes how the initial press release only covered what could not be hidden, with the sheriff and Mac Brazel having alerted the public. The article also touches upon the alleged cover-up involving Major Jesse Marcel and Captain Cavitt, and the confirmation by General DuBose that the weather balloon story was a fabrication ordered from higher up.

Article 2: The Role of Disinformation in UFOs (Pages 20-23)

This part of the magazine focuses on the book "OVNI : 60 ans de désinformation" by François Parmentier. The author of the review, Pascal Hubrecht, explains that Parmentier's work analyzes the mechanisms of disinformation that prevent the public from understanding the reality of UFOs. Parmentier argues that this disinformation not only endangers American democracy but the principle of democracy itself. The review highlights that public opinion is manipulated by pressure groups, often operating in secret, with the tacit consent of high-ranking officials. The article draws a parallel between the suppression of information about UFOs and broader issues of governmental control and manipulation. It suggests that the US government has a strategy of global information warfare, aiming to maintain an advantage by controlling knowledge about extraterrestrial civilizations. The text also touches upon the psychological aspects of disinformation, noting how people tend to reject ideas that challenge their existing beliefs, leading to a form of self-deception.

Article 3: The Semmelweis Case and Scientific Resistance (Pages 24)

This section presents the case of Dr. Ignaz Semmelweis, a Hungarian physician who, in the mid-19th century, discovered that hand disinfection significantly reduced mortality rates from puerperal fever. Despite overwhelming evidence, his findings were met with resistance, ridicule, and eventual dismissal by the medical establishment in Vienna. The article uses this historical example to illustrate how established scientific and medical communities can reject groundbreaking ideas that challenge their existing paradigms, even when faced with clear evidence. Semmelweis's eventual internment in an asylum and death are presented as a tragic consequence of this resistance.

Article 4: Disinformation and the Military-Industrial Complex (Pages 25-26)

This section continues the discussion on disinformation, linking it to the actions of "skeptics" who often accuse others of illogical beliefs. It argues that while critical thinking is important, it should also be applied to oneself. The article criticizes the organized and often coercive actions of political-military powers that undermine democracy. It points to deliberate lies and well-orchestrated disinformation campaigns, citing examples of alleged coercion and even suspicious deaths related to UFO investigations. The text mentions the existence of strict regulations, such as JANAP 146, that enforce silence within the military regarding UFO observations, treating such disclosures as espionage. The article also draws a parallel between the current situation and historical instances of nationalistic self-interest that led to global conflicts, suggesting that the US, as the sole superpower, may be operating above international law.

Article 5: UFOs and Secret Prototypes: Industrial and Technological Approach (Pages 28-32)

This article explores the hypothesis that UFOs might be secret prototypes developed by advanced terrestrial technology, particularly from the United States. It highlights the remarkable aeronautical performances attributed to UFOs, which defy conventional understanding of aerodynamics. The author notes the significant investment and secrecy required for such projects, suggesting that only a nation with immense financial and technological resources, like the US, could undertake them. The article contrasts this with Europe's fragmented industrial landscape and political institutions, which are deemed less capable of supporting such ambitious endeavors. It discusses various advanced aircraft projects from the US and Europe, including the Mirage series, the B-1 bomber, and the Northrop YB-35, suggesting that the development of UFO-like technology is a long-term process driven by industrial and technological advancements. The text also touches upon the historical context of technological innovation, emphasizing the synergy between social, political, economic, and cultural factors.

Article 6: Historical UFO Sightings and Technological Revolutions (Pages 33-35)

This section examines historical waves of UFO sightings, particularly the 1886-1897 period, and discusses whether these could be attributed to secret prototypes or hoaxes. It analyzes early aviation pioneers like George Cayley and the Wright brothers, highlighting the challenges of invention, innovation, and diffusion in technological development. The article then shifts to the Second World War, discussing German secret weapon programs, including advanced aircraft like the Horten Ho IX V-2 and the Arado Ar 234 Blitz, as well as rocket projects like the A9/A10. It suggests that some of these German technologies may have been recovered by the Allies and could be linked to the post-war UFO sightings. The text also touches upon the organizational structure of German research and development, which was highly decentralized and led to inefficiencies. The article questions the reliability of some sources regarding German "saucer" projects like the V7, suggesting that many accounts may be based on speculation or even hoaxes.

Article 7: The Evolution of Aviation and the UFO Phenomenon (Pages 36-38)

This part of the magazine continues the discussion on the historical development of aviation and its potential connection to UFO phenomena. It details the Horten brothers' work on flying wing designs and the Arado Ar 234 Blitz, emphasizing their advanced aerodynamic concepts. The article then moves to the Focke-Wulf 1000x1000x1000 project and the German rocket research at Peenemünde, including the A9/A10 project aimed at reaching America. It discusses the capture of German scientists and technology by the Allies after the war, particularly the transfer of Wernher von Braun and his team to the United States. The text also examines the V7 and other alleged German "saucer" projects, questioning the authenticity of some claims and suggesting that many accounts may be exaggerated or fabricated. The article concludes by noting that the development of aviation was a gradual process, dependent on advancements in various fields like thermodynamics and engine technology, and that early UFO sightings do not necessarily align with the technological capabilities of the time.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "infospace" revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs, the potential for advanced secret technologies developed by military powers, and the pervasive nature of disinformation used to control public perception. The editorial stance appears to be critical of official narratives and supportive of investigating unconventional explanations for UFO phenomena, while also emphasizing the importance of rigorous analysis and critical thinking. The magazine advocates for transparency and questions the motives behind secrecy in governmental and military circles, suggesting that the suppression of information about UFOs may be linked to a desire to maintain technological and political advantages. The case of Semmelweis serves as a cautionary tale about the resistance to new ideas and the potential for established institutions to suppress inconvenient truths. The overall tone suggests a belief that UFOs represent a significant phenomenon that is being deliberately obscured from the public, with potential implications for human understanding and the future of democracy.

Title: Inforespace

Publisher: SOBEPS

Country: Belgium

Language: French

Document Type: Magazine Issue

Cover Headline: VAGUE D'OVNI SUR LA BELGIQUE (UFO WAVE OVER BELGIUM)

Content Focus: This issue of Inforespace primarily focuses on the Belgian UFO wave of 1989-1991, presenting it as a significant and unresolved enigma. It also delves into historical aspects, including alleged German secret weapons from World War II, political conspiracies within Nazi Germany, and early American aeronautical research.

Article 1: German Secret Weapons and Conspiracy Theories

The article begins by addressing claims about German secret weapons, specifically mentioning the V7 and other 'gadgets'. It dismisses the idea that all German prototypes were destroyed before May 8, 1945, as a "monstrous blunder." The author suggests that Allied intelligence had information on these prototypes. A significant portion of this section discusses internal German politics during WWII, detailing a plot by generals to overthrow Hitler starting in the 1930s. Key figures like Carl Goerdeler, former mayor of Leipzig, and generals like Von Brauchitsh and Beck are mentioned. The text highlights a secret communication from the German army to London in September 1938, warning of a potential march on Berlin if England and France did not stand firm on Czechoslovakia. This is presented as an early, albeit unsuccessful, attempt at unofficial contact with Western powers.

The narrative continues by describing how, by 1943, defeats pushed the German general staff to consider conspiring against Hitler. Secret contacts occurred in Switzerland in April 1944 between Allen Dulles (OSS representative) and German army officials to negotiate a conditional surrender of the Reich. Generals Von Rundstedt and Falkenhausen proposed involving General Rommel and excluding negotiations with the Russians, a condition unacceptable to the Allies. Despite this, Eisenhower, Dulles, Churchill, and Marshal considered supporting a coup in Germany. However, President Roosevelt opposed this, institutionalizing the concept of "unconditional surrender" after the Casablanca conference in January 1943, aiming to destroy the Nazi war machine completely.

Further contacts were made not only with the German army but also with the Reich's secret services, including the Abwehr under Admiral Canaris and even the SS, with General Wolf mentioned. The desperate attempt by the Luftwaffe in late 1944 to deliver jet aircraft to the Allies is framed within this context of seeking a separate peace to continue fighting the Russians. Hermann Goering is noted for using his influence in this regard. Eisenhower refused, but seized the prototypes, such as the Messerschmitt 262.

The author strongly doubts the existence of the V7, arguing that if it had existed, it would have been a subject of negotiation, unlike the V2 or the Messerschmitt 262, whose technologies were pursued by the US. The article posits that the V7 simply never existed, dismissing claims of secrecy as insufficient after 60 years without any trace of such a project. The industrial effort required to produce such complex machines as the V7, beyond the V2, is deemed unrealistic. The conclusion drawn is that "Foo-Fighters" and flying saucers were not German.

Article 2: Early American Research

This section shifts focus to early American aeronautical research, highlighting Charles H.Z. Zimmermann and Stanley Hiller. Zimmermann, a proponent of drag reduction, worked at NACA (precursor to NASA) from 1933 on projects emphasizing an "inverted V-wing" design. The article notes that the flattened shape and high angle of attack (35 degrees) of his V-173 aircraft (first flown in 1942) provided excellent maneuverability and prevented stalls, which were crucial advantages in aerial combat before the advent of missiles. The US Navy showed significant interest in Zimmermann's work. Stanley Hiller, a friend of Zimmermann, is mentioned for his work on original programs, including a flying platform that first flew in 1955.

SOBEPS Publications and Activities

The magazine then details the activities and publications of SOBEPS, an association dedicated to the rational study of unidentified aerial phenomena. It emphasizes its non-profit, non-denominational, and apolitical stance, relying on volunteer work. SOBEPS disseminates information through its semiannual review, Inforespace, as well as conferences and debates. They actively seek collaboration from members for various tasks, including translation, research, and promotion.

SOBEPS offers two main publications related to the Belgian UFO wave:

1. "VAGUE D'OVNI SUR LA BELGIQUE: 1. UN DOSSIER EXCEPTIONNEL": A 504-page book detailing the 1989-1991 wave, including historical events, media coverage, radar analysis, international comparisons (including the 1983-84 American wave), and discussions on stealth technology. It features over 200 illustrations.
2. "VAGUE D'OVNI SUR LA BELGIQUE: 2. UNE ENIGME NON RESOLUE": A 1994 report building on the first, presenting new cases, detailed analysis of the Petit-Rechain photograph, daytime sightings, and scientific reactions. It also explores meteorological and radar anomalies, and prospects for scientific ufology.

These two volumes are offered together for €37 (1500 FB / 275 FF), or separately for €26 (1050 FB / 200 FF).

The magazine also mentions the availability of slide series: three series of 12 color slides (€15 per set, €42 for all three) and two series of 12 slides on the Belgian wave of 1989-91 (€18.5 for both sets).

SOBEPS also provides access to its library and documentation for members by appointment on Saturdays between 2 PM and 6 PM. A dedicated phone number (02/524.28.48) is available for UFO testimonies, with a 24-hour answering machine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of claims regarding advanced German technology during WWII, the historical context of political dissent and conspiracy within Nazi Germany, and the detailed investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly the Belgian wave. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims of secret weapons and a rigorous, evidence-based approach to UFO research, as exemplified by SOBEPS's extensive documentation and analysis. The magazine promotes a scientific and rational approach to understanding unexplained aerial phenomena, encouraging public participation and information sharing.