Inforespace - No 112 - 2006

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: 112
Volume: 35th year
Date: June 2006
Publisher: Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SOBEPS)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace delves deeply into the complex relationship between ufology, scientific inquiry, and governmental secrecy, with a particular focus on the concept of censorship.

Editorial Stance: A Pluralistic Approach to Ufology

The editorial, penned by Michel Bougard, emphasizes Inforespace's commitment to eclecticism and open dialogue. It asserts that the magazine aims to be a platform for diverse ideas and approaches within ufology, deliberately avoiding any single school of thought or ideology. Bougard acknowledges that some readers might object to the inclusion of 'skeptical' viewpoints or texts defending the extraterrestrial hypothesis or global conspiracy theories. However, he stresses that the priority is to maintain an open dialogue and avoid sectarian exclusion, embracing a pluralistic ufology.

Article 1: The Scientific Community Victim of a Double Censure by Jean Sider

This lengthy article by Jean Sider argues that the scientific community has been subjected to a "double censure" regarding UFO phenomena (termed PANI - Phénomènes Aériens Non Identifiés - by CNES). The first layer of censorship, initiated by the United States in July 1947, targeted UFO phenomena, and a second layer was imposed in 1960 concerning space exploration. Sider posits that this censorship has deprived scientists of crucial information about potentially significant discoveries.

He traces the history of UFO investigations in the US, starting with the US Air Force's Project Sign, Grudge, New Grudge, and ultimately Blue Book, which officially concluded in 1969. Sider contends that these public programs were mere "smokescreens" designed to mislead the public and media, while genuine research was conducted in strict secrecy. He cites evidence, including a 1947 secret note from General Nathan F. Twining, which acknowledged the reality of unidentified aerial objects and their potential disk-like shape and size.

Sider highlights the role of the Robertson Panel in 1953, which recommended reducing public interest in UFOs through media manipulation and education, aiming to debunk sightings as explainable phenomena. He also discusses the findings of the Condon Report (Commission Colorado) and the recommendations made by a CIA-sponsored committee in 1952 to the US Air Force regarding the handling of UFO reports. These documents, he argues, reveal a deliberate strategy to downplay and discredit UFO evidence.

The article further explores the Brookings Institution's 1960 report commissioned by NASA, which advised censoring press releases about potential extraterrestrial discoveries due to fears of social and political upheaval. Sider criticizes this approach, arguing that it stifles scientific freedom and public access to information.

He also details the French context, mentioning the creation of GEPAN (later SEPRA) by CNES in 1977 to analyze UFO reports. Sider expresses skepticism about CNES's objectivity, citing the handling of the November 5, 1990, PANI wave over France. Despite numerous witness testimonies, SEPRA initially attributed the event to a Russian satellite reentry, a claim later contradicted by a NASA telex and NORAD confirmation, which identified the object as a satellite connection platform. Sider suggests that official explanations often serve to obscure the true nature of these phenomena.

Finally, Sider points to the consistent use of terms like "Unidentified Flying Object" (OVNI) in French government and military correspondence, along with strict regulations on accessing related reports, indicating a continued, albeit subtle, form of censorship.

Article 2: Voyage au pays de Jules Verne by Franck BOITTE

Franck Boitte's article reflects on the "Utopiales" science fiction convention held in Nantes in November 2005, which celebrated the centenary of Jules Verne's death. Boitte expresses a personal detachment from much of contemporary science fiction, finding it often derivative or uninspired. However, he was drawn to a round table discussion titled "Jules Verne and the Mysteries of Science."

The discussion, featuring prominent figures like Bertrand Méheust, Pierre Lagrange, and Grégory Gutierez, explored the connection between Verne's works and themes of mystery, conspiracy, and the unexplained. Boitte notes that while Verne focused on technology and positive science of the 19th century, his narrative style often mirrored the way UFO phenomena are presented and discussed today – as dramatic, unexplained events that capture public imagination.

The participants debated whether Verne's works, which often dealt with scientific advancements and societal changes, could be seen as precursors to modern conspiracy theories. They discussed how the increasing complexity of modern society might lead people to seek explanations in hidden plots or conspiracies. The conversation also touched upon the idea that the "mystery" surrounding UFOs might stem from the way governments and scientific institutions have handled the subject, creating an atmosphere of secrecy and speculation.

Boitte highlights the idea that the line between science fiction and the public's fascination with UFOs is blurred, with both drawing from a similar wellspring of imagination and a desire to explain the unknown. The article concludes by suggesting that the modern tendency to see conspiracies everywhere might be a way for society to cope with its own complexity and the feeling of losing control.

Article 3: Discussion on Abductions and the Nature of Belief

This section features a discussion, likely from the round table or a related forum, that touches upon the phenomenon of alien abductions. It is suggested that the concept of abduction has been amplified by sociological factors and survey methodologies, rather than being solely a spontaneous reporting of experiences. The discussion contrasts this with the idea of genuine UFO sightings, suggesting that the public's perception of UFOs has shifted over time.

Participants debate whether the current societal fascination with UFOs and related phenomena is a continuation of older themes or a new manifestation. The idea that the "real" UFO of decades past has somehow "dematerialized" into the virtual realm of the internet is proposed, implying a shift in how these phenomena are perceived and discussed.

The conversation also revisits the theory of conspiracy, linking it to the Cold War era and the suspicion of infiltration and disinformation within governments. It is suggested that the study of UFO phenomena could offer insights into the dynamics of the Cold War and vice versa. The participants also ponder the Fermi paradox – if extraterrestrial life is common, why haven't we encountered it? – and how this question relates to the ongoing interest in UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the pervasive nature of censorship and secrecy surrounding UFO phenomena, the role of scientific institutions in either investigating or suppressing information, and the influence of popular culture and science fiction on public perception. The editorial stance, as articulated by Michel Bougard, is one of open inquiry and pluralism, encouraging a broad range of perspectives within the field of ufology while maintaining a critical eye towards official narratives and unsubstantiated claims. The magazine positions itself as a forum for debate, seeking to foster understanding rather than impose a singular viewpoint.

Title: Infospace
Issue: 19
Date: December 2005 (implied by page numbering and content)
Publisher: Infospace

This issue of Infospace, a French publication focused on ufology and related phenomena, features a deep dive into the psychological aspects of UFO sightings, particularly the concept of the 'fantasy-prone personality' and its implications for understanding witness accounts. The magazine also critically examines the 'Belgian UFO Wave' of 1989-1990, exploring sociological contagion and media influence as potential explanations.

Key Articles and Discussions

The Fantasy-Prone Personality and its Role in Ufology

The main article, authored by Jean-Michel Abrassart, a psychologist, explores the characteristics of individuals prone to fantasy and how this trait might predispose them to report paranormal experiences, including UFO sightings and alleged alien abductions. Abrassart draws on research by Wilson and Barber, who identified 'fantasy-prone personality' as a factor in explaining unusual experiences. He notes that approximately 3% of the population may possess this trait, which is not considered pathological but rather a continuum of engagement with the imaginary.

The article discusses how this personality type might explain the reporting of experiences that are difficult to verify scientifically, suggesting that a significant portion of UFO testimonies could stem from a confusion between the inner imaginary world and external reality. Abrassart also touches upon the concept of 'false memories,' particularly in the context of hypnotic regression used in abduction research, citing the creation of the 'False Memory Syndrome Foundation' in the US.

The Belgian UFO Wave: A Sociopsychological Perspective

Pierre Lagrange, a sociologist of science, and Michel Bougard, president of the SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Étude des Phénomènes Spatiaux), offer critical commentary on Abrassart's analysis, particularly concerning the Belgian UFO Wave. While acknowledging the value of Abrassart's work on personality traits, they express reservations about his reductionist approach to the Belgian wave.

Bougard, who was directly involved in investigating the wave, corrects inaccuracies in Abrassart's account, specifically regarding the timeline of SOBEPS's creation and the interpretation of the events. He argues that while sociological contagion might play a role, it doesn't fully explain the phenomenon and criticizes Abrassart's dismissal of the unexplained cases.

Lagrange emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor and the need for robust evidence, referencing David Hume's principle that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. He suggests that while military aircraft or unknown phenomena could be involved, the lack of concrete proof for extraterrestrial visitation means that mass testimonies, even if numerous and seemingly coherent, do not constitute scientific evidence.

The Role of CNES and GEIPAN

Jacques Patenet, an engineer and member of CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales), discusses the French agency's involvement in studying unidentified aerospace phenomena through GEIPAN (formerly GEPAN). He explains that CNES's official stance is to study 'unidentified flying phenomena' (PFN) rather than strictly 'UFOs,' acknowledging the broader spectrum of observations. Patenet highlights that while the number of cases studied is large, only a small percentage presents truly unexplainable elements.

Olivier Delcroix, a journalist, facilitates the discussion, probing the reasons behind CNES's official involvement and the public's perception of it. The conversation touches upon the historical context of UFO research in France, including the work of Yves Sillard and Hubert Curien, and the challenges of public communication and scientific validation.

Media Influence and Sociological Contagion

Several contributors discuss the powerful role of media in shaping public perception of UFOs. Philip J. Klass's theory of 'sociological contagion' is presented as an explanation for UFO waves, suggesting that media attention can amplify misinterpretations and create a mass hysteria effect. The article posits that fantasy-prone individuals might be more susceptible to this contagion, projecting their imaginary experiences onto perceived phenomena.

Scientific Approach to UFOs

The magazine advocates for a scientifically grounded approach to studying UFOs, emphasizing the need for rigorous methodology, reproducible data, and critical analysis. The limitations of eyewitness testimony are discussed, and the importance of distinguishing between subjective experiences and objective evidence is stressed. The role of organizations like SOBEPS and the scientific community's engagement with the topic are also explored.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Infospace adopts a predominantly skeptical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases and the public's fascination with the topic, the editorial line favors psychological and sociological explanations over extraterrestrial hypotheses, especially when evidence is lacking. The magazine champions rigorous scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and a nuanced understanding of human perception and memory. There is a clear emphasis on debunking sensationalism and promoting a more grounded approach to the study of unusual aerial phenomena. The publication also highlights the importance of official bodies like CNES/GEIPAN in providing a structured and scientific framework for investigating these matters, while also acknowledging the contributions of independent researchers and organizations like SOBEPS.

This issue of Inforespace, identified as issue 112 from December 2005, is published by SOBEPS in Belgium and is written in French. The cover prominently features the headline "VAGUE D'OVNI SUR LA BELGIQUE" (UFO Wave Over Belgium), indicating a significant focus on this topic, with sub-headlines suggesting an "EXCEPTIONAL DOSSIER" and an "UNRESOLVED ENIGMA". The price is listed as 26 €.

Critical Analysis of Ufological Approaches

The issue begins with a critique of J.-M. Abrassart's article on the "Belgian wave," arguing that while the initial part relies on verifiable facts, it quickly devolves into unsubstantiated hypotheses. The author criticizes Abrassart's reductionist approach, comparing it to the "precautionary principle" used dogmatically. The article suggests that such rigid thinking, even among those claiming to be rational, can be influenced by subjective motivations. Abrassart's attempt to explain the Belgian wave as mere sociological contagion, influenced by the status of witnesses (gendarmes) and involved scientists, is deemed intellectually dishonest for ignoring other elements of the dossier. The author also points out Abrassart's selective use of analysis regarding the Petit-Rechain photo, favoring Wim van Utrecht's "demonstration" of a fake while disregarding other analyses that might refute it. This is presented as a methodological flaw, especially for someone claiming scientific rigor.

The critique extends to Abrassart's epistemological stance, particularly his citation of Hume on testimony regarding miracles. The argument that "given the glaring lack of reliability of human testimony, a mass of testimonies cannot be invoked in science as proof of anything" is challenged as a misunderstanding of the history and sociology of science. The article uses the example of meteorites to illustrate how scientific acceptance of phenomena evolves. Initially, accounts of stones falling from the sky were dismissed as superstition. However, after the French Revolution, with the rise of rational thought and a desire to connect with the populace, such phenomena, when unexplained, could be investigated and accepted if they did not contradict natural laws. The article poses the question of whether the current approach to unidentified flying objects (UFOs) mirrors this historical dynamic.

The Meteorite Analogy and Scientific Acceptance

Drawing a parallel between the historical acceptance of meteorites and the current debate around UFOs, the article highlights the role of scientific community acceptance. It notes that in the 18th century, accounts of falling stones were often dismissed due to a lack of a theoretical framework. By the early 19th century, with the development of scientific models, such reports became more readily accepted and verifiable. The author questions if contemporary scientists are facing a similar situation with UFOs. The article points out that in both historical and modern contexts, the perceived incompetence of witnesses (peasants in the past, ordinary people today) is often used as a primary reason to dismiss their testimonies. This is presented as a scandal that has not been sufficiently denounced. The article also touches upon the "politically correct" aspect of UFO research, where scientists risk compromising their reputation by engaging with the subject.

UFO Archipelago: Data Management and Research

Jérôme Beau, a sociologist and software engineer, discusses the challenges of ufological research, particularly concerning data management. He introduces the concept of a "UFO Archipelago," referring to the proliferation of incompatible UFO databases that hinder data exchange and research. Beau proposes the idea of a "meta-base" that would index and describe data from various databases, allowing for more comprehensive analysis without forcing unification. This approach aims to preserve the distinctiveness of each database while enabling cross-referencing and access to information. He argues that information should be shared for the benefit of research and that a meta-base could facilitate this by connecting disparate sources and enabling data to travel across networks.

Seeking Scientific Credibility in Ufology

Gregory Benford, an astrophysicist and science fiction writer, addresses the adversarial relationship between UFO enthusiasts and scientists. He argues that for ufologists to gain credibility, they need to approach research with scientific rigor, potentially by securing funding for serious investigations. Benford suggests that explaining UFOs as extraterrestrial visitors is unlikely to be valid but also not impossible, emphasizing the scientific principle of falsifiability. He notes the lack of scientific interest in UFOs, with the subject largely relegated to popular media like "X-Files." Benford advocates for a more serious, collaborative approach, suggesting that if extraterrestrial visitors are frequent, they likely have bases within the solar system, possibly on the Moon's far side or in Lagrange points. He also mentions Michael Papagiannis's idea of using asteroid belts as potential extraterrestrial bases and the need for infrared detection to find evidence of heat signatures.

Case Studies: Triangular UFOs and the Belgian Wave

The issue presents several case studies. Michel Bougard reports on a triangular UFO sighting in Verviers, Belgium, in September 1990, described as a "flying ray" with white lights and a red rear light, moving slowly and silently. Another case details an observation in the North Sea in July 1998, where two witnesses observed a large, dark triangular object with multiple lights that approached their sailboat at high speed before accelerating and disappearing. The issue also includes reports from Oregon, USA, in August 2003, where witnesses observed a large, dark triangular object with white lights on its base, hovering silently. A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique" (UFO Wave Over Belgium) from 1989-1991, detailing historical events, media coverage, photographic and video evidence, radar data analysis, and the evolution of official and scientific interest. Two books published by SOBEPS on this topic are also presented.

SOBEPS: Mission and Activities

The SOBEPS is described as a non-profit association dedicated to the rational observation and study of unidentified aerial phenomena and related problems. It operates on a volunteer basis, covering investigations and the dissemination of information through its semiannual review, Inforespace, as well as conferences and debates. The organization encourages members to contribute information, collaborate on various tasks (translation, research, secretarial work, coding), and report any unusual aerial phenomena they observe. The issue also provides information on accessing the SOBEPS secretariat and library by appointment and mentions their available slide collections.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Inforespace revolve around the critical examination of ufological research methodologies, the challenges of scientific acceptance of UFO phenomena, and the presentation of detailed case studies. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach to ufology, encouraging collaboration between ufologists and scientists while critiquing overly speculative or reductionist viewpoints. There is a strong emphasis on the historical context of scientific discovery and the evolution of understanding phenomena. The magazine also highlights the importance of organized data management and the potential for new research avenues, particularly concerning the Belgian UFO wave and other significant sightings. The underlying message is a call for a more mature and scientifically grounded approach to the study of UFOs.