Inforespace - No 12 - 1973

Magazine Overview

Title: inforespace
Issue: 1973, N° 12, 2nd year
Publisher: SOBEPS asbl (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of *inforespace* is dedicated to cosmology, space phenomena, and prehistory. The editorial, written by Lucien Clerebaut, Secretary General, reflects on the past two years of the magazine's activity and the development of SOBEPS since its creation in May 1971. The organization's goals are to conduct in-depth scientific study of UFO phenomena and to systematically inform the public. The editorial thanks researchers who have contributed articles and highlights the success of conferences and public meetings in raising awareness.

It also mentions the development of an 'investigator's guide' and advancements in the study of UFO magnetic detection. The editorial expresses gratitude to members for their support and encourages them to spread awareness about the phenomenon. Subscription renewal is also announced, with efforts made to maintain prices despite rising costs.

Table of Contents

The issue includes an editorial, followed by several articles:

• Historique des Objets Volants Non Identifiés (History of Unidentified Flying Objects): This section details several significant UFO sightings and incidents from the 1950s.
• Le Nombril du Monde (1) (The Navel of the World): This article, by archaeologist Marcel F. Homet, explores ancient cartography and potential evidence of advanced civilizations.
• Peut-on poser correctement le problème des Soucoupes Volantes ? (Can the problem of Flying Saucers be correctly posed?)
• Le dossier photo d'inforespace (The photo file of inforespace)
• Nos enquêtes (Our investigations)
• Une enquête en Belgique (An investigation in Belgium)
• Etudes statistiques portant sur 1 000 témoignages d'observation d'OVNI (Statistical studies on 1,000 UFO observation testimonies)
• L'extraordinaire explosion de 1908 dans la Taïga (7) (The extraordinary explosion of 1908 in the Taiga (7))
• Amérique du Sud, continent de prédilection des OVNI (2) (South America, a favorite continent for UFOs (2))
• Astronomie (Astronomy)
• Nouvelles internationales (International News)

Key Articles and Content

Historique des Objets Volants Non Identifiés

This extensive section recounts several UFO incidents, starting with a radar detection at Orly airport on February 17, 1956, involving an object with extreme speeds. It mentions the publication of Edward J. Ruppelt's "The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects" and other related books. The article quotes Major General Kelly's conclusions from the Blue Book project, stating there was no evidence of enemy forces, extraterrestrial vehicles, advanced technology beyond current understanding, or danger to national security. It then details sightings in Bern, Switzerland (May 26, 1956), and the significant Lakenheath affair in England (August 13-14, 1956), involving multiple objects detected by radar and visually. The incident at Vins-sur-Caramy, France (April 14, 1957), describes a spinning, metallic object that landed and took off, leaving a scorched area. Another case from Cordoba, Argentina (April 1957), describes a disc-shaped object with a being emerging from it. The article also covers a sighting near Grenada, Spain (September 4, 1957), involving luminous rings, and the Ubatuba, Brazil incident (September 10, 1957), where fragments of a flying disc reportedly fell into the sea. A sighting in Grenoble, France (September 16, 1957), describes multiple circular objects. Finally, it mentions an observation in Greenland (October 1957) of an elliptical object and an incident in Schenectady, USA (October 9, 1957), involving a circular object and small beings.

Le Nombril du Monde (1)

This article by archaeologist Marcel F. Homet discusses ancient cartography, focusing on the Piri Reis map. Homet argues that this map, dating back to the 16th century but based on much older sources, accurately depicts the coastlines of South America and Antarctica, which were unknown or inaccurately represented by cartographers of that era. He suggests that the map's precision implies knowledge from civilizations existing between 3000 and 5000 BC, challenging conventional historical timelines and hinting at lost ancient civilizations.

L'énigme des oiseaux mythologiques

This section explores mythological birds across different cultures, including an Irish legend of a bird that burns and ravages, a Mayan god Unach Ru, and the Atabascan/Chippewa myths of a destructive bird called Idi. It draws parallels with the Garuda in Indian mythology and the Phoenix, linking these figures to the concept of a Sun God or Creator. The text also notes the biblical mention of a bird announcing the new earth to Noah, highlighting the duality between material and spiritual realms in religions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO phenomena, ancient mysteries, mythology, and archaeology. The magazine's stance, as articulated in the editorial, is to approach the study of UFOs scientifically and to provide systematic information to the public. There is a clear emphasis on historical documentation and analysis of eyewitness accounts, as well as an interest in exploring ancient knowledge and potential connections to modern phenomena. The publication aims to foster a serious and rigorous investigation into these subjects, encouraging reader participation and support.

This issue of Inforespace, identified as issue number 4, delves into the complex and often controversial subject of flying saucers (UFOs) by examining ancient myths, symbols, and historical accounts from around the globe. The magazine seeks to bridge the gap between ancient narratives and modern UFO phenomena, suggesting that recurring themes across diverse cultures might point to a shared, ancient history involving aerial visitors or advanced technology.

Ancient Echoes: Mythological Accounts of Aerial Phenomena

The article begins by exploring various ancient mythologies that feature descriptions of winged creatures and aerial vehicles. It references the Sumerian 'Nunu' weapon with seven wings, the Iranian and Indian dragon myths, and the Japanese Kappas who reportedly arrived in circular aerial vessels. The text also touches upon the Egyptian Sphinx and the Mayan 'bird-man' symbolism, suggesting these might be echoes of ancient encounters with advanced technology or beings from other worlds.

• Several specific examples are highlighted:
• Sumerian Hymn: An excerpt describes the god Nimurta's 'Nunu' weapon, a seven-winged arm that could destroy entire landscapes, and its association with a bird of prey.
• Antilles Tradition: An ancient belief states that sages could fly using a golden plate and a specific rhythm, interpreted as a primitive understanding of mechanical flight.
• Gobi Desert Mythology: The 'Thrur' is described as a mythical eagle representing warrior strength and fertility, linked to the Sun.
• Egyptian Iconography: The tomb of Userhe depicts a High Priest and a sycamore fig tree with a human-bird creature, identified as a god.
• Peruvian Legend: The Pachacamac legend speaks of a bird nesting on a tree, providing fruit to a woman, a motif also found in Sumerian temples.
• Swedish Folklore: The legend of the 'Bird that laid the World Egg' is mentioned.
• Germanic Legend: The story of Muspelheim and the destruction of the Eddas by giants is recounted.
• Amazonian Tribes: The Wai-Kury Indians claim descent from a bird of prey called Caracara.
• Gorge of Queneto: This site features solar petroglyphs, including a remarkable man-bird image, and standing stones.
• Isle of Campêche: Vestiges of an ancient solar civilization (circa 8000 BC) include a man-bird representation.

The article notes the striking similarities in these ancient accounts, suggesting a common origin or influence that predates known historical civilizations.

The 'Bird-Man' Motif and Solar Deities

A recurring theme across many cultures is the association of birds with deities, particularly solar gods. The 'bird-man' motif is found in Egypt, Peru, and Bolivia (Tiahuanaco), often linked to the sun. The text draws parallels between the Egyptian hieroglyph 'Tep' (primordial, supreme head) and the concept of the sun god Ra, noting the presence of a circle with a dot in Amazonian iconography and at the volcano Tepeu.

The article also discusses the cross-cultural presence of the ankh (crux ansata), a symbol of life, associated with solar deities like Aton in Egypt, Quetzalcoatl in Mexico, and the Inca Huayna Capac. This widespread use suggests a shared ancient civilization or a common source of religious and symbolic ideas.

The Challenge of Studying UFOs: Ambiguity and Interpretation

The second major section of the magazine shifts focus to the contemporary phenomenon of flying saucers (UFOs). It begins by posing the question: "Can we correctly pose the problem of flying saucers?" The author, Prof. Marcel F. Homet, an archaeologist, highlights the inherent difficulties in studying UFOs due to their ambiguous nature. Unlike other phenomena (like the Yeti or Atlantis) where the problem itself is generally agreed upon, the very nature of UFOs is debated – are they physical objects, secret projects, hallucinations, or something else entirely?

Evidences and Fundamental Ambiguities

The article acknowledges the vast number of eyewitness accounts since 1947, which provide evidence for the existence of "flying saucer" phenomena. However, it points out that the ambiguity arises from the contradictory interpretations of these sightings. Witnesses often struggle to describe these objects, resorting to metaphors like "metallic appearance," "luminous cloud," or "armored suit." The language used is often inadequate to capture the unusual nature of the experience.

• Key points regarding the ambiguity include:
• Visibility vs. Intangibility: UFOs are often seen but are usually inaudible and practically intangible.
• Landings vs. Communication: The landing of unknown crews is reported, yet there is a lack of communication or conflict.
• Witness Perception: The perception of witnesses can be distorted by distance, brevity of observation, or poor lighting conditions.
• Metaphorical Language: The lack of a proper name for the unknown object forces witnesses to use figurative language, such as comparing the object's shape to a saucer or its trajectory to a ricochet.

Identifying the Objects: From Individual Sightings to 'Machineries'

The article categorizes UFO phenomena into several types:

1. Signalement des soucoupes volantes (Reporting of Flying Saucers): This refers to the initial descriptions of individual objects, often described metaphorically. The term 'OVNI' (UFO) is presented as a neutral, administrative term, while 'soucoupe volante' (flying saucer) is a witness-driven designation based on perceived shape.

2. Signalement des machineries (Reporting of Machineries): This category addresses sightings where multiple UFOs appear together, forming larger structures or 'convoys.' Examples include formations of 'cigars' and 'saucers' observed in Oloron, Gaillac, Culver City, Manhattan Beach, and the Gulf of Mexico. These sightings suggest complex mechanical systems rather than isolated objects.

3. Chutes et atterrissages d'objets isolés (Falls and Landings of Isolated Objects): This section focuses on cases where UFOs are reported to have crashed or landed. It notes that while landings are relatively rare compared to sightings, they provide more concrete evidence. The article contrasts the proportion of landings with the phenomenon of total annihilation or disappearance of UFOs on the ground, citing examples from Philadelphia (1951) and Linsmeau-Racour (1968) where spheres or 'jellyfish' vanished.

4. Les machineries au sol (Machineries on the Ground): This section details a significant event in Trancas, Argentina (1963), where six saucers landed for over 45 minutes. One large saucer, positioned very close to a witness (Mme Moreno), exhibited a metallic structure with visible rivets and produced a coherent white mist, a coherent light cylinder, and a jet of fire. The mist enveloped the machine for hours after its departure. The fire jet caused a second-degree burn to a young domestic worker.

The Significance of 'Machineries'

The article emphasizes that the appearance of 'machineries' – multiple interconnected objects or complex formations – represents a significant development in UFO phenomena. These complex systems are seen as more than just individual craft; they suggest a larger, integrated mechanical organization. The author notes that the ambiguity of interpreting these objects as either genuine craft or natural phenomena has only increased with these more detailed observations.

Further Observations and Interpretations

• The issue continues by discussing various other sightings, including:
• Nuremberg (1961): A large 'machinery' of pipes and discs was observed, which eventually fell and consumed itself in a large vapor.
• Denmark (1950): A small 'saucer' exploded into sparks.
• France (1953-1954): Reports of explosions of saucers in flight and luminous objects.
• St-Cirgues (1954): A pair of luminous balls connected by a 'rod.'
• Liévin (1954): A 'crescent' object detached a part of itself, landed, and rejoined the main body.
• Royan (1954): A pair of luminous discs connected by a 'trail' that later dislocated, with the discs landing.

These cases, particularly those involving landings and apparent self-destruction or disappearance, are presented as evidence that challenges conventional explanations. The article suggests that the sheer volume and consistency of reports, especially from the 1954 wave in France, lend credibility to the idea of UFOs as real, physical craft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the potential connection between ancient myths and modern UFO sightings, the symbolic language used in both ancient traditions and witness accounts, and the scientific challenges of investigating unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine adopts a stance that is open to the possibility of extraterrestrial or advanced technological origins for UFOs, while also acknowledging the complexities and ambiguities involved in interpreting the available evidence. It encourages further research and a willingness to consider unconventional explanations, drawing parallels between the symbolic language of ancient cultures and the metaphorical descriptions of modern UFO witnesses.

Title: Lumières Dans La Nuit
Issue: 116
Date: February 1972
Language: French
Country: France

Article 1: Trancas and the Plasma Hypothesis

This section delves into the observation in Trancas, which is presented as a turning point in understanding UAP phenomena. It suggests that what appeared as fantastical metamorphoses in the sky revealed itself on the ground as a series of rational combinations between craft, clouds, and light cylinders. The article posits that UAP are capable of producing plasmas (photoplasms, nephéloplasms, and pyroplasms) of various types, which are described as coherent lights, coherent clouds, and 'fires' respectively. These phenomena offer new degrees of identification for UAP.

The article then discusses how the 'plasma' hypothesis has evolved. Initially, some researchers proposed that UAP might be natural, erratic atmospheric phenomena like plasmas. However, the observation in Trancas is argued to have reversed this, suggesting that it is the UAP themselves that artificially produce these plasmas. The author notes the ambiguity of the term 'plasma' and how it has been used to describe a fourth state of matter, including hypothetical ionized gas lenses in the atmosphere.

It is argued that the error in previous hypotheses lay in viewing the relationship between UAP craft and plasma as a dualistic contradiction. Instead, the article proposes that plasmas are artificial products directed by the flying saucers. The testimony of Mme Moreno is cited as empirical evidence supporting the idea that plasmas are produced by UAP.

The discussion references Philip J. Klass and Professor James Mc Donald, who, while defending the existence of UAP as craft, acknowledge the mention of plasma-like lights in credible reports. The article highlights the difficulty in precisely defining these phenomena due to their ambiguous nature and the diverse interpretations they elicit.

Article 2: The Trancas Observation and its Implications

This part of the article continues the discussion on the Trancas observation, emphasizing how it distinguishes between the UAP craft and the plasmas they produce. It criticizes the previous approach of viewing UAP as solely natural plasma phenomena, arguing that the Trancas case demonstrates that plasmas are artificially produced and directed by the craft. This observation is seen as a dialectical reversal, where natural phenomena are reinterpreted as artificial products of UAP.

The article touches upon the idea that the existence of these advanced craft and plasma technology presupposes a highly developed cybernetic, photonic, and plasma industrialization. It suggests that the technological gap between current human capabilities and that of the UAP might not be as vast as initially perceived, especially considering advancements in fields like atomic energy and lasers.

Article 3: "Lumières Dans La Nuit" Dossier: Photo of Urca, Brazil, April 1970

This section presents a photographic case from Urca, Brazil, in April 1970. Eduardo Stukert, a professional photographer, captured images that revealed luminous trails on the water. The article details the photographic equipment used (Exacta camera, Kodak Plus Pan film) and the conditions under which the photos were taken. The trails are described as appearing on the Cara do Cao hill, and their displacement between two photographs is calculated to be approximately 425 meters, suggesting rapid movement.

The article emphasizes the authenticity of these photographs, noting that faking such images would require sophisticated laboratory techniques. It also highlights the presence of an irregular luminosity between the central traces in one of the photos, potentially indicating a structure connecting the objects. The information was provided by the Brazilian Society for the Study of Flying Saucers (SBEDV).

Article 4: July 1972: Supplementary Information

This article revisits a previous report on a 'mini-wave' of UAP sightings in Belgium during July 1972. It presents a case from Jemeppe-sur-Sambre, where a witness, M. Legrand, reported seeing about a dozen whitish, imprecise objects resembling paper leaves hovering and moving in a specific direction. The objects were described as forming a formation of two whitish, flocculent objects and a third dark red triangular object.

A collaborator, M. W. Wynant, offers a plausible explanation: these objects might have been foam flakes from the cooling towers of Solvay factories located to the southeast of the observation site. The foam, formed on the water in the cooling towers, fragments into irregular masses and can be projected into the atmosphere by air currents. If the wind was oriented north-northwest, these masses could have been carried to the observation site, approximately 1.3 km away.

The article notes that these foam masses are irregular, can reach a meter in length, and can disappear suddenly. The description provided by M. Legrand is considered to closely match these characteristics. The triangular red object is hypothesized to be a foam flake stained with rust or another substance, or simply observed from a particular angle. This explanation is presented as plausible and consistent with the observed details, though it is acknowledged as a hypothesis concerning only this specific case.

Article 5: An Investigation in Belgium

This section details an investigation conducted by Jean-Marie Bigorne into a UAP observation that occurred on July 28, 1968, in Macquenoise, Belgium. The witness, Mlle Simonette Gilain, a young woman of about 18 at the time, reported seeing a bizarre whistling sound followed by a strong reddish glow. She then observed an unusual, luminous, disc-shaped object with a pronounced dome, moving slowly above the rooftops.

The object appeared to rotate rapidly on its axis while moving forward, oscillating from side to side. Mlle Gilain described it as being very close, approximately 1.5 to 2 meters away at its closest point. The object's movement was described as descending from a roof, passing close to a TV antenna, and then bifurcating towards the corner of a house, moving along the wall towards the communal house. The whistling sound intensified as the object approached her window.

She could not provide further details about the object's shape beyond the dome and a slight bulge underneath. She did not observe any antennas, hatches, or openings. The observation lasted an estimated 10 to 20 seconds, and the object maintained a consistent red luminosity throughout.

Her initial thought was that it was a flying saucer, despite never having seen a depiction of one. She perceived the movement as deliberate and controlled. Her parents were not entirely convinced, with her father dismissing the idea of flying saucers. The article also notes that the owner of the house opposite had to replace his television set shortly after the incident, as it frequently malfunctioned, possibly due to the UAP's proximity.

The article provides geographical and environmental details about Macquenoise, noting its location on silurian schists, its mineral springs, and its proximity to the Oise river and a high-voltage power line. It also mentions the presence of Roman camp vestiges in the vicinity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UAP, particularly the role of plasma in their manifestation and explanation. The magazine seems to favor a scientific and investigative approach, seeking to provide plausible explanations for sightings while also acknowledging the unexplained aspects. There is a clear editorial stance that UAP are real phenomena, and the focus is on understanding their characteristics and origins, whether natural or artificial. The magazine encourages critical analysis and emphasizes the importance of detailed witness testimony and physical evidence, such as photographs, in advancing the study of UAP. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to move beyond simplistic explanations and explore complex hypotheses like the artificial production of plasma by UAP.

This issue of "Etude et Recherche" (Volume 8, Issue 29, dated 1968) features a comprehensive statistical study of 1,000 UFO sightings conducted by Claude Poher, a French engineer and commander at the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales. The magazine's cover headline highlights this study, which aims to analyze the credibility and characteristics of UFO observations.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Sightings

Claude Poher's study is based on a meticulously compiled file of 1,000 UFO sightings, which was refined to 825 cases after eliminating identified phenomena and duplicates. The goal was to conduct statistical analyses of unidentified object observations. The selection of information from a large number of randomly chosen sources is presented as a guarantee of representativeness. Of the 825 cases, 220 originated from France, indicating a significant portion of the data came from this country.

Credibility and Strangeness Indices

The study introduces an objective method for classifying testimonies using two indices: credibility and strangeness. The credibility index, ranging from 0 to 5, is based on the witnesses (number, age, profession) and the observation method (naked eye, binoculars, photo, radar, telescope). The index is described as severe, making a credibility score of 5 highly improbable. The strangeness index is determined as follows:

• 0: Impossible to classify due to lack of information.
• 1: Object moving in a straight line.
• 2: Small object with an "abnormal" trajectory.
• 3: Object moving erratically; quasi-landing or landing (without trace); sudden disappearances.
• 4: Landings with traces.
• 5: Landings and disembarkation of characters.

Poher notes that only 16 out of 825 testimonies achieved both a credibility of 3 and a strangeness of 5.

Summary of Results

The analysis reveals that most observations (two-thirds of cases) involved at least two witnesses, with over half having more than two. Witness identities were known in about three-quarters of cases, predominantly adults aged 21-59. Official investigations seemed to have occurred in about a quarter of the cases. All social and professional categories were represented among witnesses, including scientists (4% astronomers, 12% engineers/doctors) and pilots (12%).

Meteorological conditions favored clear skies and good visibility (60% of observations). The duration of observation was typically a few minutes, with brief observations being rare. Distances of observation were generally several kilometers, but 25% were within 20-150 meters, and 10% within 20 meters. Object shapes were predominantly round (22.5%), discoidal (31%), elongated cylindrical (14%), or ovoid (11%). Dimensions were estimated in 26% of cases, often around one meter or tens of meters, though larger objects were also reported.

Object colors were known in over two-thirds of cases: red-orange (32%) or changing (15%) at night, and white (15%) or metallic (16%) during the day. Objects generally appeared luminous at night and reflective in sunlight. "Lights" (headlights, beams) were observed in a quarter of cases. Object speeds varied from stationary to over 2,500 km/h, with many exhibiting both stationary and rapid movements, often starting with brutal acceleration. Trajectories were described as complex, including stops, turns, and arabesques. About 16% of objects performed landings or quasi-landings.

Notably, the silence of the objects' flight (60%) was a striking characteristic for witnesses. Some reported diverse sounds like humming and whistling. Animals reacted to UFO presence in 4% of cases. No correlation was found with known astronomical phenomena.

The 1908 Tunguska Event and Atmospheric Interactions

Pages 6-8 delve into the "extraordinary explosion of 1908 in the Taiga." Poher proposes that the luminosity of the bolide, despite its relatively low speed (around 1,000 m/s) and high altitude (minimum 30 km), was not due to friction or air compression. Instead, he hypothesizes a phenomenon analogous to Earth's interaction with the solar wind. The bolide, possessing a magnetic field, would have encountered the rarefied upper atmosphere. Charged particles (electrons and ions) from the solar wind, or ionized air molecules, would be accelerated by the bolide's magnetic field, leading to ionization by collision and generating luminosity. This process is compared to how Earth's magnetosphere deflects the solar wind. The article discusses the role of electrons and positive ions, their relative masses, and how their interaction with the magnetic field and air molecules could create an ionized plasma that is then carried along by the bolide's magnetic field, forming a "tail" similar to Earth's magnetotail.

Figures illustrate the Earth's magnetic field interacting with the solar wind and the proposed mechanism for the bolide's luminosity. The article cites Brian J.O. Brien and L.J. Cahill Jr. regarding the behavior of charged particles in magnetic fields and the magnetosphere, suggesting that the energy transfer from solar wind protons to electrons could explain the observed phenomena. The angle of the bolide's trajectory relative to the magnetic field is also considered important.

Case Study: Brazil, 1967

Pages 10-11 present a case from Crixas, Goias, Brazil, on August 13, 1967. Inacio de Souza, a farm administrator, reported seeing a bowl-shaped object about 35 meters in diameter with three unknown beings. He fired a rifle at one of the beings, which then emitted a green light that struck him, causing him to fall. The beings returned to the object, which departed vertically with a loud buzzing sound. The farm owner, M. A.S.M., investigated and found no traces of blood, but Inacio insisted he had killed a man. Inacio described the beings as naked, while his wife thought they wore tight, yellow-colored garments. M. A.S.M. noted Inacio suffered nausea and trembling afterward.

Conclusions and Editorial Stance

Poher concludes that despite the inherent criticisms of observation reports (lack of perfect credibility, impersonal measurements), a significant proportion of strange and credible UFO testimonies persist. He asserts that the phenomenon appears to be real and defies current explanations. He argues against dismissing UFOs due to collective psychosis, scientific skepticism, or career risks. Poher encourages readers to conduct their own research by interviewing witnesses, reviewing official reports, and studying the phenomenon independently. He states that this process radically changed his own judgment of UFOs. He emphasizes that the study's results, based on thousands of testimonies, provide scientific respectability and can be independently verified. He suggests that the accumulation of data has not significantly advanced the understanding of the phenomenon, implying a need for new approaches.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena through statistical analysis, case studies, and scientific inquiry. The editorial stance, as articulated by Claude Poher, is one of open-minded investigation, urging readers to approach the subject with scientific rigor and a willingness to consider evidence that challenges conventional understanding. There is a strong emphasis on the reality of the phenomenon and the need for objective study, moving beyond ridicule and dismissal. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery of UFOs and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries in understanding them, possibly linked to fundamental physics and atmospheric or extraterrestrial interactions.

Title: Phénomènes Spatiaux
Issue: 19
Volume: 2
Date: March 1969
Publisher: G.E.P.A.
Country: France
Original Language: French

The Case of Inacio de Souza

The issue leads with a detailed account of the case of Inacio de Souza, a farmer who experienced a mysterious illness after an encounter with a light beam. A doctor in Goiâna, Brazil, diagnosed a circular burn of 15 cm on his left shoulder and initially attributed his other symptoms to eating 'bad herbs.' However, after Inacio's wife revealed more, the doctor inquired about 'OANI' (Unidentified Aerial Objects). Inacio denied any prior knowledge or sightings.

Further medical examination revealed Inacio was suffering from leukemia, with only 60 days to live. The doctor noted that Inacio suggested keeping the incident secret to avoid panic and protect his reputation. Inacio's condition worsened, marked by yellowish-white spots on his skin, severe pain, and significant weight loss. He died on October 11, 1967, requesting his belongings be burned.

The 'Commentaries' section suggests that Inacio's health declined after receiving a green light beam, presenting symptoms characteristic of exposure to a high dose of ionizing radiation. The article posits that the burn on his skin was similar to a radiation burn. Symptoms like nausea, skin hemorrhages, blisters, tingling, numbness, tremors, and muscle dysrhythmia are discussed as potential effects of radiation exposure. The possibility of radioactive leukemia is raised, either from repeated low doses or a single high dose. A doctor suggested Inacio's symptoms might align more with acute radiation syndrome with medullary aplasia, though a definitive conclusion would require his medical records.

UFO Sightings and Encounters

Humanoids in Canada

Mlle Esther Clappison and her brother Bill reported an incident on June 7, 1971, in Rosedale, Alberta, Canada. While observing a light approaching their house, they saw a rectangular, illuminated object descend near a crossroads. The object's interior was visible, emitting a white light that illuminated the road. Three humanoid figures, appearing to be less than 1.50m tall, were observed. One figure seemed to be operating a control panel. The witness's dog became agitated, preventing her from investigating further. When she returned outside, the object and figures were gone. The next day, a burnt, narrow, rectangular trace was found in the grass, measuring 6 meters long. Four months later, the imprint was still visible.

UFO Escorting a Car in Canada

An incident occurred in September 1972 near Beauséjour, Manitoba, Canada. Inspector William McFarlan of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, his wife, and three children were driving at night when a luminous, oblong object, described as the size and shape of an oval dining table (1.20 to 1.50m long and about 30cm thick), approached their car at an altitude of about 10 meters. Despite the inspector's attempts to evade it by accelerating and decelerating, the object maintained its position above the car. It continued to follow the car to his mother-in-law's house, hovering above the vehicle and then above the house. The children saw it hovering 3 meters above the roof. The object emitted a faint white light and appeared solid, with no sharp edges. After about five minutes, it moved slowly westward, rotating, and disappeared behind trees. The escort covered 12 km.

Another vehicle escort incident occurred in Alberta, Canada, on May 26, 1972. Joe Anderson, Andy Dufrene, and Bob Ashmead, driving a truck, observed a large object with 'exhaust pipes' above the trees. This object followed them for 80 km, moving from left to right and then back left. It then split into several segments that performed varied evolutions before rejoining into a single object. No sound accompanied these movements. A report was sent to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Astronomy News

A Brilliant Comet for the End of the Year

The issue includes a brief report on Comet Kohoutek (1973 f), which was expected to become visible to the naked eye by the end of the year. It was predicted to be observable in the morning sky until the end of the year and would approach perihelion on December 28th. Its magnitude was estimated to reach +2 by late November, potentially becoming as bright as M-4 to M-10, allowing it to be seen in daylight under certain conditions.

Reader Survey: Inforespace

A survey conducted by Inforespace, a publication likely related to the magazine's publisher (SOBEPS), received 470 responses. Key findings include:

• Age: The majority of respondents (52.6%) were between 20 and 40 years old.
• Profession: Employees and technicians formed the largest group (39.1%), followed by students (27.9%).
• Interest in Prehistory/Archaeology: A very high percentage (93.4%) expressed interest.
• UFO Origin Hypothesis: The dominant belief was in extraterrestrial origins (59.6%), followed by parallel universes (21.4%).
• Satisfaction with Inforespace: 75.5% were 'very content,' and 24.3% were 'moderately content,' with only 0.2% 'discontent.'
• Perceived Level of Inforespace: 86.6% found the scientific level satisfactory.
• Preferred Rubrics: 'Our investigations' (25.3%) and 'Studies and research' (22.7%) were the most popular.
• Least Preferred Rubrics: 'Catalogue of Belgian observations' (42.1%) and 'Astronomy' (15.3%) were least favored.

The editorial notes that while the results are encouraging, the magazine aims for continuous improvement and welcomes suggestions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on UFO sightings, alleged encounters with extraterrestrial beings (humanoids), and mysterious medical cases potentially linked to radiation or unknown forces. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting witness testimonies and scientific analysis, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation and avoiding sensationalism. The inclusion of a reader survey indicates an effort to engage the audience and tailor content to their interests, which heavily lean towards extraterrestrial hypotheses for UFOs.