Inforespace - No 109 - 2004

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: 109
Volume: 33rd year
Date: December 2004
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace, a Belgian ufology magazine, presents a diverse range of articles, including an editorial reflecting on the state of ufology and the organization's activities, detailed investigations into crop circles and aerial phenomena, and discussions on various hypotheses. The magazine also includes information on book sales, membership, and subscriptions.

Editorial: "Je vais vous faire une confidence..."

Michel Bougard, President of SOBEPS, opens the issue with a personal reflection on the enduring nature of his involvement in ufology, despite periods of apparent inactivity or public disinterest. He acknowledges the decline in membership and the challenges faced by researchers, but emphasizes that observations of unknown aerial phenomena have never ceased. Bougard highlights the importance of continuing research and information sharing, even if it involves meticulous collection and verification of testimonies rather than groundbreaking discoveries. He also pays tribute to recently deceased figures in ufology, including Maurice Masse and Betty Hill, and ufologist Gilbert Cornu.

Service Librairie de la SOBEPS & Subscription Information

The magazine provides details on how to purchase books and SOBEPS merchandise, including a specific mention of a SOBEPS pin. Payment can be made via bank transfer or postal order to the SOBEPS account in Brussels. Information on renewing subscriptions for 2005 is also provided, with different rates for ordinary and honorary members, and options for France, Belgium, and other countries. The issue also promotes the SOBEPS website, www.sobeps.org.

Table of Contents

• The issue features several articles, including:
• Editorial by Michel Bougard
• "Le cercle dans les blés de Heers" by Jean-Michel Abrassart
• "Agroglyphe : les "pères" d'Oreye" by Gérard Grêde
• "Plates-formes volantes au-dessus de l'Italie" by Gianni Antidormi, Renzo Cabassi & Roberto Rafaelli
• "Gigantesques et silencieux, des triangles survolent l'Amérique du Nord" by Michel Bougard
• "L'ufologie, l'écologie et les dossiers polonais" by Robert K. Lesniakiewicz
• "La propulsion des ovnis et les thèses de Claude Poher" by Auguste Meessen

Article: "Le cercle dans les blés de Heers" by Jean-Michel Abrassart

This article examines two crop circle formations that appeared in Belgium in 2003 (Jeuk) and 2004 (Heers). Abrassart notes that both formations were located in easily accessible fields, suggesting a deliberate choice of location. He argues that the relative simplicity of these Belgian crop circles does not support an extraterrestrial hypothesis, leaning instead towards human fabrication. The author discusses the possibility of artists or "circle makers" being responsible, referencing the website www.circlemakers.org. He also touches upon the 'Ball of Light' hypothesis and the work of George Terence Meaden, as well as studies by W.C. Levengood and N.P. Talbott on bent wheat stalks, while also noting criticisms from researchers like Joe Nickel.

Article: "Agroglyphe : les "pères" d'Oreye" by Gérard Grêde

Gérard Grêde offers a more nuanced perspective on the Oreye crop circle, correcting some details from Abrassart's article, such as the date of discovery and the exact location (Oreye, not Heers). Grêde questions Abrassart's assertion that simplicity favors human fabrication, arguing that objective criteria are needed. He also challenges the idea that crop circles are primarily for advertising, noting that the Oreye formation was discovered unexpectedly and caused inconvenience to the farmer. Grêde discusses three hypotheses: natural phenomena, human act, and unknown intelligent intervention. He expresses skepticism towards the natural phenomena hypothesis, finding it difficult to accept that natural elements could create such precise images. Regarding human fabrication, he questions how perpetrators operate unnoticed, especially in densely populated areas, and points out the lack of evidence for failed or unfinished circles. He also critiques Joe Nickell's arguments for human creation, questioning the causality between media attention and the increase in crop circles.

Article: "Plates-formes volantes au-dessus de l'Italie" by Gianni Antidormi, Renzo Cabassi & Roberto Rafaelli

This section details two sightings of unidentified flying objects in Italy. The first, observed by Grazia and Lino on July 13, 1994, involved a low-flying, square-shaped object with rounded angles and lights, observed near Avezzano in the Fucino plain. The object exhibited unusual movement and emitted a humming sound. The second testimony comes from Enrico, who observed two lights near Pescina in February 1994, which he initially mistook for helicopters but later realized were likely two distinct objects exhibiting synchronized movements and unusual flight patterns.

Article: "Gigantesques et silencieux, des triangles survolent l'Amérique du Nord" by Michel Bougard

This article is not fully detailed in the provided OCR text, but it is listed in the table of contents and likely discusses sightings of large, silent triangular craft over North America.

Article: "L'ufologie, l'écologie et les dossiers polonais" by Robert K. Lesniakiewicz

This article, also listed in the table of contents, suggests a connection between ufology, ecology, and specific cases from Poland.

Article: "La propulsion des ovnis et les thèses de Claude Poher" by Auguste Meessen

This article, listed in the table of contents, likely explores theories about UFO propulsion systems, referencing the work of Claude Poher.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are crop circles, UFO sightings, and the critical analysis of various hypotheses, particularly the debate between human fabrication and extraterrestrial origins. The editorial stance, as expressed by Michel Bougard, favors rigorous and scientific investigation, acknowledging the challenges and the need for continued research. The magazine promotes a balanced approach, presenting different viewpoints while leaning towards explanations that do not invoke extraordinary phenomena without sufficient evidence. The emphasis on detailed case studies and empirical evidence is a consistent feature.

FAQ

• Q: What is the main focus of Inforespace issue 109? A: Inforespace issue 109 focuses on ufology and spatial phenomena, with particular attention to crop circles in Belgium and sightings of flying platforms in Italy.
• Q: What is the conclusion regarding the Belgian crop circles? A: The article analyzing the crop circles in Jeuk and Heers concludes that they are likely of human origin, based on empirical evidence and the principle of Occam's Razor.
• Q: What are the key hypotheses discussed for crop circle formation? A: The main hypotheses discussed are natural phenomena, human fabrication, and extraterrestrial intervention.
• Q: What is the price for subscribing to Inforespace in 2005? A: The subscription for 2005 (issues 110 and 111) is 30 Euros for ordinary members in Belgium and France, and 33 Euros for other countries. For honorary members, it is 40 Euros in Belgium and France, and 45 Euros for other countries.

This issue of Inforespace, identified as issue number 100, is a special edition featuring an index of the magazine's first 100 numbers. It also includes articles on UFO sightings, ecological concerns in Poland, and ufological classifications.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

The magazine presents several detailed accounts of UFO sightings, focusing on triangular and silent aerial objects.

Italian Sightings

An article details investigations into sightings in the Abruzzo region of Italy. Following an initial observation by Enrico, who described powerful humming sounds and objects near power lines, a search was organized. Investigators Cabassi and Raffaelli met with witnesses, including Gianni Antidormi, and considered possibilities ranging from conventional aircraft to experimental prototypes. The possibility of deltaplanes or sophisticated ULMs was initially entertained due to the 'pipe-like' structure reported, but the dynamic maneuvers and unconventional propulsion suggested otherwise. The article also recounts a sighting on August 16, 1994, near Roccaraso, where four tourists reported a large, silent, triangular object with multicolored lights. The witnesses initially mistook it for a large aircraft but noted the absence of engine noise.

North American Sightings

Michel Bougard contributes an article titled "Gigantesques et silencieux, des triangles survolent l'Amérique du Nord," which compares recent sightings in the United States with earlier Belgian cases. Several incidents from Illinois in January 2000 are described, involving large, silent, triangular objects observed by multiple witnesses, including police officers. Officer Ed Barton and Officer Craig Stevens reported sightings of objects described as 'larger than a Boeing 747' and 'arrow-shaped' with unusual lights. The objects were noted for their silent flight and low altitude. Another case from July 23, 2002, describes a large, illuminated, silent object observed over Los Angeles by ufologist Mark Hunziker. A sighting from Cow Bay, Nova Scotia, Canada, on August 13, 2002, by Helen M., describes a large, dark, silent triangle moving slowly across the sky.

Ufology, Ecology, and Polish Cases

Robert K. Lesniakiewicz presents an article titled "L'ufologie, l'écologie et les dossiers polonais." He discusses the environmental situation in Poland following the fall of communism, highlighting issues such as industrial pollution, radioactive waste from former military activities, and the potential dangers of nuclear power plants. Lesniakiewicz suggests that UFO activity in Poland is often concentrated in areas with environmental problems, leading him to believe that aliens are monitoring the planet's condition. He outlines several categories of alien surveillance and interaction:

1. Surveillance of the atmosphere, soil, and water purity: Aliens are reported to collect samples and observe environmental conditions.
2. Open or secret supervision of civilian nuclear power plants: While Poland has no active nuclear plants, the article notes the presence of two atomic piles, Ewa and Maria, at the Swierk Nuclear Research Institute.
3. Open or secret supervision of military nuclear bases and weapons of mass destruction (WMD) vectors: UFOs are reported to surveil military installations and storage sites, with activity increasing in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in regions associated with Soviet military presence and WMDs.
4. Surveillance of the environmental state before, during, and after ecological disasters: The article mentions alien missions related to floods and the Chernobyl disaster, suggesting they may have been warning humanity.
5. Surveillance of the genome of terrestrial living forms: This involves close encounters (RR3 and RR4) and 'bedroom visitors' (RRO), with a focus on mental and psychological contact.

Lesniakiewicz also discusses the phenomenon of crop circles (agro-formations) in Poland, noting their high radioactivity and magnetic anomalies, and proposes theories linking them to alien communication or extraterrestrial visitors from different timeframes.

Classification System and Observations

The article explains the classification system used by CBUFOiZA, including RRO (biological entities), RR4 (close encounters), and IUFOs (invisible UFOs). It also details numerous observations of 'point lights' (NL/UOO and NL/UCO) that occurred in Poland starting in 1994, with a resurgence in 2003. These phenomena are described as distinct from meteors, aircraft, or satellites due to their altitude and speed.

Index and Publisher Information

The magazine concludes with an index of its first 100 issues and information about the publisher, SOBEPS, including payment details for subscriptions and publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent presence and observation of unidentified aerial phenomena, particularly silent, triangular craft, and the potential connection between these sightings and environmental concerns, including radioactivity and pollution. The magazine adopts a serious, investigative stance, presenting detailed case studies and expert analysis, while also exploring more speculative theories about alien surveillance and intervention. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, encouraging readers to consider the evidence and its implications for humanity and the planet.

This issue of 'infospace' focuses on the complex topic of UFO propulsion and the theoretical frameworks proposed to explain it, primarily centering on the work of Claude Poher and the reactions to his theories. The magazine presents a detailed analysis of Poher's 'universons' concept and its implications for physics and ufology, alongside alternative scientific perspectives.

The Propulsion of UFOs and the Theses of Claude Poher

Auguste Meessen, a physicist and Emeritus Professor, introduces Claude Poher's theory, which posits the existence of hypothetical particles called 'universons.' These particles are suggested to explain universal gravitation and certain astrophysical anomalies. Crucially, Poher's theory proposes that 'universons' could account for the propulsion of UFOs through gravific forces and provide a source of energy for interstellar travel. Meessen notes that Poher, a former founder of GEPAN and a doctor in astrophysics, presented these ideas to the GIRA (Groupe Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Approfondies) in Paris. The article aims to continue the discussion initiated at the GIRA meeting, examining Poher's theses in depth.

Background and GIRA Meeting

The GIRA, founded in late 2003, comprises scientists from various disciplines, some of whom prefer to remain anonymous. Meessen, a corresponding member, was invited to orchestrate the group's activities. An invitation was extended to Claude Poher to discuss 'Universons' on September 8, 2004. Meessen accepted, hoping for a more profound exchange of ideas, and suggested inviting professional astrophysicists to provide independent assessments. However, Claude Poher explicitly refused the inclusion of astrophysicists, fearing they would be hostile to the discussion and derail it. He preferred to engage with individuals already familiar with the dossier, aiming for a focused discussion without external controversy.

Meessen perceived this as a misunderstanding, as the meeting's objective was to discuss 'universons.' He believed clarifying the scientific foundations and astrophysical implications required specialists. Despite Poher's reservations and a somewhat confrontational tone in his communication, Meessen agreed to proceed, hoping for a more convivial discussion among those present.

The agenda for the September 5th meeting, as communicated by Mme Brunie, included a presentation by Poher for about an hour, followed by an open discussion, with Patrick Marquet also scheduled to present his findings.

Claude Poher's Presentation

Just before the meeting, Poher mentioned giving a lecture at the 'Repas Ufologiques Parisiens' the previous evening. Meessen anticipated a specific presentation for the GIRA but found that Poher largely repeated his prior lecture, using the same slides. Poher extensively discussed the history of GEPAN and his own activities, which he stated had conditioned the development of his 'universons' theory. He mentioned that earlier theoretical developments, which Meessen had contested, had been modified, but the core conclusions of his theory remained unaffected.

Meessen's Objections and Alternative Theories

Meessen recalls his past interactions with Poher, dating back to 1975-76, and their renewed contact in 2001 regarding 'advanced propulsion systems.' This led to Poher's manuscript, 'GRAVITATION UNIVERSONS et VOYAGE INTERSTELLAIRE.' Meessen provided extensive objections, particularly concerning the fundamental theorem of 'universons,' which he found to contain a physical error that, when corrected, caused the theory to collapse. He advised against publication, but Poher proceeded, publishing the work under a different title with minor revisions.

Meessen felt it necessary to publish an analysis of Poher's theory to ensure its validity was examined objectively by other scientists. He notes that Poher responded, leading to a public debate and the creation of Poher's dedicated website.

Meessen outlines three main theses derived from Poher's presentation: (1) the non-existence of dark matter, (2) 'universons' as an energy source for interstellar travel, and (3) UFO propulsion being gravific rather than MHD. Meessen then presents his objections to the fundamental theorem, acknowledging that some errors were corrected but maintaining that a fatal error persists in the concept of 'universons' interacting with accelerated particles.

Interstellar Travel and Dark Matter

Meessen connects the discussion to the feasibility of relativistic interstellar travel, referencing his own work from the 1980s. He highlights that the vast distances involved necessitate speeds approaching the speed of light, thus requiring consideration of relativistic effects. He notes that while Poher's theory suggests 'universons' could provide the necessary energy, Meessen finds this unacceptable and urges for alternative explanations. He also addresses the widely accepted scientific concept of dark matter, which constitutes over 90% of the universe's mass but is invisible and interacts only through gravity. Meessen explains how astronomical observations, such as galaxy rotation curves, provide evidence for dark matter, contradicting Poher's claim that it is unnecessary.

Meessen proposes that 'dark matter' might consist of 'narks' and 'neutralons,' hypothetical particles derived from a quantized space-time theory. He suggests these particles could explain the observed phenomena attributed to dark matter and offers a more detailed theoretical framework than Poher's.

Pioneer Probes Anomaly and Energy Sources

The article discusses the anomalous trajectories of the Pioneer 10 and 11 probes, which exhibit a small, unexplained acceleration directed towards the Sun beyond a certain distance. Poher attributes this to his 'universons' theory, suggesting a cosmological effect. Meessen, however, proposes that this anomaly could be explained by the presence of dark matter rings within the solar system, analogous to Saturn's rings. He also explores the possibility that dark matter could be a source of energy for UFOs, suggesting that UFOs might refuel from these reserves within the solar system.

Propulsion Systems: MHD vs. Gravific

Meessen contrasts Poher's gravific propulsion hypothesis with Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). He acknowledges that Poher dismisses MHD due to inertia effects, citing the example of a helicopter. Meessen argues that this analogy is flawed, as UFOs may not rely on mechanical principles like helicopters. He advocates for MHD, citing observations like the absence of wings or engines, ambient luminosity, and electromagnetic effects associated with UFOs. He suggests that UFOs might ionize ambient air and use electromagnetic fields for propulsion, a concept explored by Jean-Pierre Petit.

PEMP Model and Superconductivity

Meessen details the PEMP (Propulsion EM Pulsée) model, which involves generating an oscillating electromagnetic field. This field, he explains, interacts with charged particles in the ionized air, creating a reaction force. He emphasizes that this process does not require significant movement of the ambient air itself, only that the air particles are subjected to forces. He describes how this system could produce intense, oscillating magnetic fields, potentially using a superconducting surface on the UFO. This superconducting layer would allow for efficient energy transfer and propulsion, overcoming the limitations of conventional superconductors which require extremely low temperatures.

Meessen proposes that UFOs might utilize a type of superconductivity that operates at room temperature, possibly involving 'electron pairs' formed by plasmon exchange. This would allow for high critical temperatures and magnetic fields, making it suitable for the intense energy requirements of UFO propulsion. He concludes by stating that while Poher's theory is one attempt to explain UFO phenomena, the PEMP model offers a more scientifically grounded alternative, particularly concerning propulsion and energy sources.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the challenges of developing theoretical models that align with known physics, and the debate between established scientific paradigms and more speculative hypotheses. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous scientific inquiry, critical analysis of evidence, and the exploration of alternative explanations, even when they challenge conventional wisdom. There is a clear emphasis on the need for empirical evidence and logical consistency in understanding UFOs, advocating for a methodical approach that acknowledges both the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries. The issue highlights the ongoing tension between the desire to understand the unknown and the resistance to paradigm shifts within the scientific community.

This issue of "inforespace" (n° 110-111, 2005) from SOBEPS focuses on two main areas: the theoretical physics of UFO propulsion and an in-depth look at the 1989-1991 Belgian UFO wave. The publication aims to provide a rational and scientific approach to understanding unidentified aerial phenomena.

Theoretical Physics of UFO Propulsion

The articles critically examine theories related to UFO propulsion, particularly Claude Poher's 'universon' theory. A. Meessen, a key contributor, argues that Poher's fundamental theorem is flawed. Meessen suggests that Poher's initial analysis incorrectly applied classical mechanics' velocity addition laws instead of relativistic ones, and later mathematical errors were identified. Meessen proposes that universons, if they exist, would not interact with matter in a way that explains gravific propulsion or the observed phenomena.

Instead, Meessen explores alternative propulsion concepts. He discusses the possibility of Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and propulsion based on ionic plasma waves. These systems, he suggests, could generate forces by interacting with the ambient medium, potentially explaining the high accelerations attributed to UFOs without ejecting matter. The concept of 'plasmons' as quanta of plasma waves is introduced as a potential mechanism for propulsion, offering a large amount of momentum for small energy.

Meessen also addresses the perception of high accelerations, cautioning that visual perception can be misleading and that neurophysiological processes play a significant role in interpreting rapid events. He emphasizes the need for careful study of visual perception before drawing conclusions about extreme accelerations.

The Belgian UFO Wave of 1989-1991

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique" (Belgian UFO Wave) that occurred from autumn 1989 to summer 1991. SOBEPS presents this as an exceptional dossier, detailing the events, their investigation, and the media coverage.

The dossier includes a preface by Jean-Pierre Petit, director of research at CNRS, and covers the day-to-day activities of SOBEPS during the wave, descriptions of key investigated cases, and media reactions from around the world. It highlights the collaboration with the Air Force and Gendarmerie for radar data analysis and discusses the evolution of official and scientific interest in the phenomenon.

Further sections address triangular UFOs observed internationally, including the American wave of 1983-84, and debunk the 'Stealth' technology explanation for these sightings. Statistical analyses and personal conclusions from the authors are presented, along with a postface by General Wilfried De Brouwer of the Air Force.

Two specific SOBEPS publications are promoted: "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 1. UN DOSSIER EXCEPTIONNEL" (504 pages, over 200 illustrations) and "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 2. UNE ENIGME NON RESOLUE" (a second report building on the first). These books are presented as essential resources for understanding the wave, featuring contributions from philosophers, scientists, and military personnel.

SOBEPS and its Activities

The magazine also outlines the mission and activities of SOBEPS, an association dedicated to the rational observation and study of unidentified aerial phenomena. It emphasizes its non-profit, non-confessional, and non-political nature, relying on volunteer work for investigations, information dissemination through its semestral review "Inforespace," conferences, and debates.

SOBEPS solicits collaboration from its members for information sharing and actively seeks contributions in translation, editing, secretarial work, and coding. Members are encouraged to report any unusual aerial phenomena they observe or become aware of.

Information is provided on accessing the SOBEPS library by appointment and on the availability of slide collections, including those related to the Belgian UFO wave.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO propulsion theories through the lens of physics and the detailed, evidence-based reporting of a significant UFO wave. The editorial stance is clearly one of scientific rigor, rational inquiry, and a commitment to debunking unsubstantiated claims while promoting serious research into unexplained aerial phenomena. The publication advocates for an open yet critical approach, encouraging collaboration and independent evaluation of theories and evidence.