AI Magazine Summary
Inforespace - No 18 - 1974
AI-Generated Summary
Title: inforespace Issue: No. 18 Volume: 3rd year Date: 1974 Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux) Country: Belgium Language: French
Magazine Overview
Title: inforespace
Issue: No. 18
Volume: 3rd year
Date: 1974
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French
This issue of "inforespace" is the 18th edition of the 3rd year, published in 1974 by SOBEPS, a Belgian organization dedicated to the study of spatial phenomena. The cover highlights themes of cosmology, space phenomena, and primhistory.
Subscription and Membership Information
The magazine provides detailed information on subscription rates for different formulas (A, B, and C) covering various years (1972, 1973, 1974) and countries (Belgium, France, Other countries). Formula C allows for the acquisition of the complete collection of back issues. Special student rates are extended to holders of the 'Carte J - Passeport des Jeunes'. Payments are to be made via CCP or bank transfer, with specific instructions for France.
A notice announces the availability of new posters to promote SOBEPS and encourages members to renew their subscriptions for 1974, as the current issue marks the end of the subscription period. The importance of timely renewal is stressed to avoid administrative delays. The magazine also mentions the suppression of membership cards to save on costs and paper, a measure taken due to financial difficulties faced by many publications.
Editorial: A Modest but Encouraging Balance Sheet
The editorial, penned by Lucien Clerebaut, reflects on the development of the Unidentified Flying Objects (UFO) problem since the founding of SOBEPS in May 1971. It critiques the ambiguous conclusions of the Condon Committee report from 1969, which stated that "Nothing proves that Flying Saucers exist, and nothing indicates that they constitute a threat to the security of the United States." The editorial highlights the role of journalist Fr. Edwards in challenging the US Air Force's stance.
It delves into the findings regarding the Condon Project, revealing a strategy orchestrated by Dr. Robert Low, the Committee's Administrator. A document titled "Some ideas on the UFO Project" outlined a plan to "win the battle" by conducting the study in a way that would appear objective to the public while convincing the scientific community that there was no reality to the observations. This strategy involved focusing investigations on the observers rather than the phenomena themselves.
David Saunders and Norman Levine, upon discovering this document, initially considered resigning but decided to stay to observe the project's workings. They shared Robert Low's memo with James McDonald, who, in turn, wrote to Condon about his grievances. This led to Saunders and Levine being dismissed from the project for incompetence, with Condon reportedly threatening to ruin them professionally.
The editorial notes a shift in the consideration of UFOs, citing the French Gendarmerie's acknowledgment in 1971 and Jean-Claude Bourret's extensive radio series on France Inter in early 1974. The series, praised for its comprehensive presentation and scientific rigor, led to the publication of a book, "La nouvelle vague des Soucoupes Volantes." The article also mentions a statement by former Minister of Armies, Robert Gallez, supporting a more open-minded approach to the phenomenon.
It discusses the evolving stance of the press, noting a move towards objective reporting of observations and a reduction in sarcastic commentary. The magazine "Sciences et Avenir" is cited for its cautious approach, acknowledging that UFOs were previously considered outside the realm of serious science but that they now affirm it is not "lack of seriousness to deal with it seriously."
The Belgian press is also noted for increased coverage, with SOBEPS contributing to articles in several dailies. Gérard Des Marez, a space columnist for "Le Soir," is commended for his objectivity. Radio coverage included a debate on "Dossiers de l'Actualité" featuring SOBEPS representatives.
The editorial then addresses the challenges faced by UFO research in Europe, including a lack of coordination among groups and researchers, the need for standardized investigation methods, and difficulties in information circulation due to the "myth of secrecy." It criticizes the dispersion of efforts and the undertaking of original work with insufficient resources, leading to repetition and wasted time.
The Unexplained Mechanical Device of Antikythera
This section likely discusses the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient Greek analog computer, possibly linking it to primhistory or ancient technology.
Our Investigations
This section probably details specific UFO cases or investigations conducted by SOBEPS or reported in the magazine.
Inforespace Photo Dossier
This section is dedicated to presenting photographic evidence of UFO sightings, likely featuring authenticated photos and case descriptions.
International News
This section covers global UFO-related events and reports.
South America, a Continent of Preference for UFOs (4)
This article likely continues a series exploring UFO sightings and phenomena specifically in South America.
UFO Chronicle
This section provides a summary or update on recent UFO events and related news.
The Problem of UFOs: Is it Explainable?
This article ponders whether the UFO phenomenon is explainable with current scientific knowledge. It acknowledges the difficulty of the problem, which is unpredictable and not easily subjected to experimentation. The author suggests that the phenomenon might be governed by a superior intelligence. While advocating for continued research using scientific methods, the article emphasizes that a complete resolution is not imminent. It proposes that the most evident aspects of the manifestations might not be the most significant, potentially leading research astray. The article stresses the need for an open mind regarding different hypotheses, including extraterrestrial origin, but cautions against premature theories. It calls for the centralization, analysis, and distribution of information to specialists to advance understanding.
Notes and References
A list of references is provided, citing books and articles related to UFO research, including works by J. Allen Hynek, F. Edwards, James M. McCampbell, and articles from Inforespace and Sciences et Avenir. Specific details about publications, authors, and page numbers are included.
A Good News
This section announces the availability of new posters to promote SOBEPS and encourages members to request them for distribution.
Attention! Renewal of Subscriptions
This section reiterates the call for subscription renewals for 1974, reminding members that subscriptions are on a calendar year basis. It provides the subscription rates again and payment details.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of Inforespace strongly advocates for a rational, objective, and scientific approach to the study of UFO phenomena. It critiques past governmental and scientific dismissals of the subject, particularly the Condon Committee's methodology. The magazine emphasizes the importance of credible evidence, rigorous investigation, and the dissemination of accurate information. It highlights the growing acceptance of the UFO problem within scientific and media circles, while cautioning against sensationalism and pseudoscientific claims, particularly those from 'contactees'. The editorial stance is one of persistent, patient, and collaborative research, aiming to gather sufficient data to eventually understand the phenomenon's nature and origin. The magazine positions itself as a key platform for this endeavor, encouraging reader participation and support.
This issue of "Historique des Objets Volants Non Identifiés" (History of Unidentified Flying Objects) presents a collection of historical UFO sightings from the 1960s, alongside an in-depth exploration of the Anticythère Mechanism, an ancient Greek astronomical device.
UFO Sightings from the 1960s
The magazine details numerous UFO encounters reported across various locations in 1966. These include:
- November 26, 1965: In Totem Town, Minnesota, USA, lights went out for a short period after two objects were observed.
- December 2, 1965: Power outages affected Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico, officially attributed to a malfunctioning regulator.
- December 5, 1965: A similar power outage impacted 40,000 homes in Southwestern Texas, including military bases.
- January 9, 1966: A fireball appeared over Naples, Italy, causing a 40-minute blackout in the region.
- January 11, 1966: In Wanaque, New Jersey, USA, a bright object was seen hovering over a frozen lake, leaving holes in the ice. Later, two sergeants reported the object returned, zigzagging and emitting flashes.
- January 17, 1966: In Cuelvas de Almasor, Spain, a B-52 bomber and its tanker exploded in mid-air after an unidentified object approached them. The incident raised concerns due to the B-52 carrying atomic bombs, which were later recovered.
- January 1966: Reports from Australia mentioned strange craft and "saucer nests" near Tully, Queensland, associated with pressure and heat effects. A banana planter, George Pedley, described a spaceship rising rapidly from a swamp, estimated to be eight meters in diameter and two and a half meters high, moving at high speed.
- February 11, 1966: Two police officers in Skowheghan, Maine, USA, reported an orange object about six meters long that moved at low altitude before disappearing.
- March 17, 1966: In Milan, Michigan, USA, a police officer observed a silent aerial object with multicolored lights approaching his patrol car.
- March 20, 1966: In Dexter, Michigan, USA, a luminous, coral-colored object was seen hovering over a marsh. It descended, then rose again, emitting red light and flashes.
The Anticythère Mechanism: An Ancient Astronomical Computer
The issue features a significant article on the Anticythère Mechanism, an artifact discovered in a shipwreck near the Greek island of Antikythera around 1900. Initially believed to be part of a statue, closer examination revealed it to be a complex mechanical device.
- Discovery and Dating: The shipwreck was dated to approximately 65 BC. The mechanism, composed of bronze gears, axes, and mobile hands, was found among amphorae and other artifacts.
- Reconstruction and Function: Dr. Derek J. de Solla Price, a physicist and historian of science, played a crucial role in its study and reconstruction. He described it as an "astronomical clock" or an "analog computer." The mechanism features multiple dials, including one showing zodiac signs and months, and others indicating lunar phases, solar movements, and planetary positions (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn).
- Technological Significance: The device's intricate gear system, with at least twenty gears made of bronze only 2 mm thick, demonstrates a sophisticated level of mechanical engineering for its time. The standardization of its components is particularly noteworthy.
- Dating the Mechanism: Based on the calendar inscriptions and astronomical tables, the mechanism is estimated to have been constructed around 80 BC, or possibly 120 years before or after that date. This dating places it firmly within the Hellenistic period.
- Historical Context: The mechanism challenges conventional views of ancient Greek technological capabilities, suggesting a level of scientific understanding and mechanical ingenuity that was previously underestimated. It is compared to discovering a jet plane in an Egyptian tomb.
UFO Investigations and Government Response
The magazine also touches upon the efforts to investigate UFO phenomena and the U.S. government's response.
- Project Blue Book: The article mentions the U.S. Air Force's Project Blue Book and criticizes its investigative methods. The need for a review of its resources and investigation techniques was highlighted.
- Congressional Hearings: In April 1966, a congressional hearing was held regarding UFOs. While initially private, it became public due to pressure. Senator Gerald Ford submitted a letter, and various documents from civilian and military personnel were presented.
- Key Figures: Witnesses included Secretary of State Harold Brown, Major Hector Quintanilla of the Blue Book Commission, and Dr. Hynek. Quintanilla maintained that UFOs do not exist, while Brown acknowledged that the existence of UFOs could not be rejected.
- Formation of the Condon Commission: Following the hearing, discussions led to the creation of the "Project Colorado," later known as the Condon Commission, based at the University of Colorado. This aimed to establish a civilian scientific body to study the phenomenon.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue underscores a recurring theme of unexplained aerial phenomena and the challenges in their investigation. It highlights the gap between official explanations and witness testimonies, suggesting that some phenomena may be beyond conventional understanding. The detailed analysis of the Anticythère Mechanism points to a potential underestimation of ancient technological capabilities, aligning with the magazine's broader interest in historical mysteries and the unknown. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a critical examination of both official reports and anecdotal evidence, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding in fully explaining certain phenomena.
This issue of "inforespace" focuses on photographic evidence of UFOs and related phenomena, featuring detailed case studies and analyses. The primary articles delve into a Belgian sighting involving a craft and a humanoid, and a significant photographic case from Barra da Tijuca, Brazil.
Belgian Sighting: UFO and Humanoid Encounter
The issue begins with an account from a witness, identified as M. V.M., who reported a close encounter with a UFO and a humanoid. The incident occurred at night, with the witness describing the UFO as ascending vertically, then tilting and descending slowly, emitting sparks and a chuintement sound before accelerating rapidly into the sky. The witness reported no fear or hostility towards the humanoid, and no verbal or telepathic communication was received. The following morning, the witness found no unusual traces on his property. The observation was later investigated by SOBEPS, with interviews conducted with school staff and a gardener yielding no corroborating evidence.
Further details emerge about the witness's background, including his reading habits and participation in religious discussions in his youth. The report notes that the witness had previously read a book by Franck Edwards, which contained descriptions of creatures and UFOs that bore some resemblance to his experience, though the witness claimed to have read it after his observation. The article also references a previous sighting by M. and Mme V.M. in Westende, Belgium, where they observed a flat, rectangular, red object moving over the water with dim 'hublights'.
The Barra da Tijuca Photographs: A Detailed Investigation
A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the analysis of photographs taken at Barra da Tijuca, Brazil, on May 7, 1952. Two reporters from "O Cruzeiro" magazine, Eduardo Keffel and Joao Martins, were investigating a report of an individual resembling Adolf Hitler when they encountered and photographed a disc-shaped object. The object was described as not luminous, with a blue-grey color, making it difficult to see against the sky. Its altitude was estimated to be around that of a DC-3, but its dimensions were difficult to ascertain. The car of one of the reporters stalled and its headlights turned off while the object was present, restarting only after the object moved away.
The photographs, initially published in "O Cruzeiro," generated considerable attention, leading to investigations by the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). The FAB conducted a thorough study, including recreating the object with a wooden maquette and launching it to obtain similar photographic sequences. Despite extensive analysis, they were unable to replicate the five-shot sequence captured by Keffel and Martins.
FAB's Conclusion and Skepticism
After a period of secrecy, the FAB's investigation concluded that the Barra da Tijuca photographs were authentic. This conclusion was revealed to the public in 1954 and later detailed in a television broadcast. However, the authenticity of the photos was questioned by some, notably Menzel and Boyd, who pointed to an apparent lighting inconsistency in one of the images (photo n° 49). They argued that the object appeared lit from the left, while a palm tree in the background was lit from the right, suggesting a staged event.
The issue presents detailed reconstructions and analyses of the photographs, including diagrams showing the trajectory of the object and the position of the sun. Dr. Olavo T. Fontes of APRO offered an explanation for the lighting discrepancy, suggesting that broken and inclined palm fronds could create the observed shadow effect. Joao Martins also provided his perspective, arguing that the lighting conditions were consistent with the sun's position.
The report criticizes the Condon Report for seemingly ignoring or downplaying the FAB's findings, suggesting that a simple contact with the Brazilian Air Force would have clarified the situation.
Other Details and Recurring Themes
The issue also includes a brief mention of a UFO sighting between Vilvorde and Brussels. The article touches upon the challenges of investigating UFO phenomena, the importance of witness testimony, and the role of photographic evidence. It highlights the meticulous nature of the FAB's investigation and the subsequent debates surrounding the authenticity of the Barra da Tijuca photos.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The editorial stance appears to favor the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, giving credence to well-documented cases and expert analyses. The magazine presents detailed accounts of sightings and investigations, encouraging readers to consider the evidence. Themes of government secrecy, the challenges of photographic analysis, and the potential for misinterpretation or hoaxes are recurrent. The publication aims to provide a platform for detailed reporting on UFO cases, encouraging critical thinking while acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena.
This issue of "Phénomènes Spatiaux" (Volume 4, Issue 39, March 1974) focuses on UFO phenomena, with a particular emphasis on cases from South America, Canada, and Spain. The magazine, published by GEPA, presents detailed investigations, analyses, and witness testimonies.
The Barra da Tijuca Case (Brazil)
The article by Michel Bougard delves into the authenticity of the Barra da Tijuca UFO photographs. It clarifies that while three FAB (Brazilian Air Force) aircraft did not fly over the region at the moment of the sighting, similar aircraft did fly over hours before. The author refutes claims that US experts from the Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC) studied and acquired the original negatives for 800,000 FB, stating that the five original negatives are held by "O Cruzeiro" magazine. It is also confirmed that the witnesses, MM. Keffel and Martins, did not profit from their observation and participated voluntarily in discussions about the case. The article notes that unscrupulous individuals in the USA have sold low-quality reproductions of these photos.
A letter from a doctor in the Rio region, dated 1951 or 1952, corroborates the event. He and his fiancée observed a metallic-looking object in the sky near Barra da Tijuca. They watched it for a few minutes before it moved at high speed and disappeared. The doctor, who wishes to remain anonymous, confirmed that what they saw was real and had been photographed, aligning with the "O Cruzeiro" report.
Electromagnetic Effect in Spain
Jacques Scornaux reports on a study of an electromagnetic effect observed by Javier Bosque, a student in Logroño, Spain, on the night of June 21-22, 1972. Bosque reported an ovoid, luminous object, about 30 cm in diameter, entering his room. During the object's presence, his transistor radio, even though off, emitted high-pitched whistles. Bosque recorded the sounds, and the analysis was conducted by two experts, M. B. (a physicist) and M. Maeto Navaridas (an electronics technician).
The initial hypothesis of a hoax was dismissed upon deeper analysis. The recorded sounds exhibited complex amplitude and frequency modulations. M. B.'s analysis, using oscilloscopes, revealed distinct plateaus lasting about a second, suggesting a programmed emission. M. Navaridas's analysis highlighted frequency stability in the first part of the recording (around 1046 Hz) and later variations, including a jump to 4150 Hz. He also noted rapid amplitude variations. Both experts found the recording's characteristics difficult to replicate through manual falsification. M. B. suggested that the object might have been an acoustic emitter, possibly a pulsating sphere, but noted that such emissions would typically cause damage. He proposed alternative theories, such as a luminous envelope or a surface vibrating separately from the air.
Further analysis by M. B. suggested a correlation between frequencies and the object's behavior, with lower frequencies (600-1000 Hz) possibly related to altitude changes and 4000 Hz to horizontal movements. The object was described as luminescent, metallic, and having a vibrating surface.
Javier Bosque's medical examination revealed no physical or psychological ailments, and a graphological analysis showed no pathological signs.
Canada: Humanoid or Hallucinatory Animals?
This section details an observation in Joliette, Quebec, on November 22, 1973. Mme J.P. reported seeing a "thing" about 1.20 m tall with a round head, bright eyes, and no discernible nose or mouth. The being was described as beautiful and seemed to attract her. The incident occurred around 2 AM. The witness's husband found nothing unusual, except their dog seemed frightened. The following night, the family cat behaved strangely.
Nearby, police and a priest reported seeing UFOs near a quarry. The article questions whether the dog and cat also "dreamt awake."
The Giant of Virginia
This case, from May 1971, involves two separate but related observations near Fredericksburg, Virginia. In the first incident, a young man camping with his dog felt he was being watched. He then saw a brilliant object above a pond. The object moved towards him, landed gently, and extended "crutches." A "gigantic" and "luminous" being emerged, holding a "brilliant box." The being approached the man and his dog before returning to the object, which then departed after about 10 minutes. The witness was found in shock by his companions.
Two nights later, two sisters driving at night experienced their car's engine stalling and lights going out as a "gigantic white brilliant object in the shape of a disc" hovered above their car. After about 5 minutes, they managed to restart the car and drive away, with the object following them. Two brothers witnessed the object following the car. The UFO then hovered over the house before drifting away.
A third report from April 1971, from a prisoner, describes seeing flashes of light and a rectangular, immobile object about 150-200 feet above him. The object followed him for about 10 miles before disappearing vertically, giving the impression of imploding.
The Vosges UFO Film: A Wasted Effort
This section discusses a sensational UFO film reportedly shot in Thillot, Vosges, France, during the filming of an ORTF television program. The film showed a brilliant ball descending, hesitating, becoming elliptical, and then rapidly departing. However, an expert analysis revealed that the object's rapid movement should have caused motion blur, which was absent. This led to the conclusion that the film was either a reflection or a deliberate hoax, possibly intended as an April Fool's joke. The article criticizes the initial widespread media coverage of the film, noting that the subsequent debunking received far less attention, potentially harming the credibility of UFO research.
South America, Continent of Choice for UFOs (4)
This section, authored by Jacques Scornaux, focuses on UFO activity in South America, particularly Brazil. It highlights the significant number of UFO events occurring in vast Brazilian states. The article praises the diligent work of Brazilian ufologists from the SBEDV (Brazilian Society for Ufological Studies), who meticulously investigate cases, often traveling hundreds of kilometers. The focus is on the Pirassununga region, which experienced a significant UFO wave in 1968-69.
Comparing UFO case distribution maps from 1957-58 and 1968-69, Dr. W. Buhler, president of SBEDV, observed a shift. While earlier cases were spread across five geophysical zones and concentrated in coastal areas, the 1968-69 cases were predominantly located in the southern part of Brazil. This suggests a reduction in UFO activity in other regions and a concentration in the south. The article posits that beyond localized phenomena, a larger region, possibly several Brazilian states, has been experiencing a progressive contact operation with the population, managed by the intelligence governing UFOs, since 1957.
Public Meeting
A public meeting is announced for Saturday, December 7th, in Brussels, at 3 PM, concerning the Glozel affair. A conference, "Glozel, 50 Years Later," will be presented by MM. P. Ferryn and J. Gossart, featuring numerous documents. The meeting will discuss whether the tablets found at Glozel prove European origin and challenge currently accepted origins, also touching upon a scandal related to freedom of expression.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue consistently emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation and verification of UFO reports, criticizing sensationalism and hoaxes. There is a clear stance against the ridicule of UFO phenomena and a call for objective reporting. The magazine champions the work of dedicated ufologists and researchers who strive to uncover the truth, even when facing significant challenges. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, aiming to present factual accounts and analyses while acknowledging the complexities and controversies surrounding UFOs. The recurring theme is the persistent nature of UFO sightings and the ongoing efforts to understand their origins and implications.
Title: Inforespace
Issue: 17
Volume: 4
Date: February 1974
Publisher: SOBEPS (Belgian organization for the study of UFO phenomena)
Country: Belgium
Language: French
Price: 40 Belgian Francs
This issue of Inforespace, a publication dedicated to UFO phenomena, features several key articles and reports. The cover story, "Le Brésil en ébullition" (Brazil in an Uproar), highlights significant UFO activity in Brazil, while another major section delves into the "Papyrus Tulli," an ancient Egyptian text potentially describing a UFO sighting.
UFO Waves in Brazil
The magazine details extensive UFO activity in Brazil, particularly focusing on the southern states like São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul. During a wave in February 1969, a significant number of observations were recorded, with 11 out of 18 cases originating from the southern region, including three from the vicinity of Pirassununga. The article notes an increase in absolute and relative numbers of landings, occupant manifestations, and communication attempts with witnesses.
A comparative table shows characteristics of UFO waves from 1957-58 and 1968-69, indicating more sightings, landings, and occupant interactions in the latter period. The 1968-69 wave also saw a unique phenomenon: the teleportation or transport of automobiles or people by UFOs, with three cases reported.
The Pirassununga Encounters
Several specific incidents in Pirassununga are detailed:
- November 19, 1968: Four law students (Jaime, Luiz, Walter, and Osmar) driving near Pirassununga encountered a light that turned out to be a UFO. They experienced a rapid approach and then a slow descent of the object. After a brief period of paralysis, they observed the UFO describe rapid movements. They attempted to communicate with the object, which responded with signals. The students later saw three more figures on the side of the road, described as tall, human-like, wearing light blue jumpsuits and helmets.
- February 1969 Wave: Three incidents occurred in Pirassununga during this period, involving UFOs landing and occupants emerging. Two of these cases involved direct confrontation with the occupants.
- November 1968: Four students had an experience that is part of the Pirassununga dossier.
- February 20, 1969: José Antônio Fioco, administrator of the "Bela Aliança" farm, witnessed a UFO landing approximately 8 km from Pirassununga. He observed an object about 5 meters high and 4 meters wide, with three large legs. Three occupants, approximately 1.60 meters tall, emerged from the craft. They wore one-piece suits with buttons and aluminum-like shoes. One occupant used a luminous beam to illuminate a chicken coop, while another used a camera-like device, and a third monitored the surroundings.
Fioco's attempts to alert his family were unsuccessful as the UFO departed quickly. About a month later, he witnessed another landing in a cotton field, observed by about fifteen people. Footprints of large shoes, 5 cm wide, were found. A month after that, Fioco observed a similar phenomenon where the object landed in a canal, leaving a circular area where reeds were burnt or uprooted.
TV Interference
José Antônio Fioco also reported experiencing TV reception interference on several occasions. Images on Canal 4 (São Paulo) were sometimes replaced by static or unusual visual patterns, described as "women with bizarre clothes descending to their feet and a sort of collar around their faces, as well as helmeted men, all of small stature." The beings communicated in a strange, Hungarian-like language. His wife, Sebastina, was frightened by these occurrences.
The Papyrus Tulli: An Ancient Egyptian Account
This section presents a translation and analysis of the "Papyrus Tulli," a fragment of a manuscript from the era of Thutmose III (1504-1450 BC). The document, discovered by Alberto Tulli, former director of the Egyptology section at the Vatican Museum, describes a curious observation.
According to the text, during the third month of winter, at the sixth hour of the day, scribes of the House of Life witnessed a "circle of fire" in the sky. It had no head, and its breath had an unpleasant odor. Its body was the length of a baguette (or cane, approximately 52.3 meters) and its width was similar. It made no sound. The scribes were terrified and reported it to Pharaoh. The event was examined and recorded in the House of Life.
The text further describes these "circles of fire" becoming more numerous and brighter than the sun, moving in the sky. The army and Pharaoh observed them. Following this, "fish and birds fell from the heavens." The phenomenon is described as a marvel unknown since the foundation of the country.
The Condon Report (1) reportedly considered this document a fake, based on similarities to the "vision of Ezekiel." It also questioned the expertise of the translator, Prince Boris de Rachewiltz, and the initial discoverer, Professor Tulli.
Chronology of UFO Events in Pirassununga
The issue provides a chronological list of UFO events related to Pirassununga:
1. November 19, 1968: Attempted contact between a group of ufonauts and four students.
2. February 6, 1969: Contact of Tiago Machado.
3. February 12, 1969: Contact of Luiz Flozino de Oliveira.
4. February 20, 1969: Observation by José Antônio Fioco.
Calls for Collaboration and Resources
"The Investigator's Guide"
SOBEPS promotes "Le guide de l'enquêteur" (The Investigator's Guide), a practical manual for UFO investigation. It contains nearly 200 questions for witnesses, techniques for estimating altitude and dimensions, analyzing ground traces, assessing credibility, and includes astronomical data and a perpetual calendar. It is available for 85 Belgian Francs.
Becoming a SOBEPS Investigator
The organization invites individuals who are passionate about UFOs and enjoy human contact to become volunteer investigators. This involves dedicating leisure time to interviewing witnesses and submitting reports promptly.
UFO Observation Coding System
SOBEPS has developed a coding system for UFO observations using Rapid-Tri punched cards, detailed in Inforespace No. 14. They emphasize the need for a large number of cases to be processed for a clearer understanding of the phenomenon and request the help of collaborators, especially those with knowledge of English.
Typists Needed
SOBEPS is also seeking volunteer typists in Brussels to help with the preparation of Inforespace, requiring access to a typewriter.
Advertisements
The issue includes advertisements for:
- Librairie des sciences: Offering scientific and professional technical works, subscriptions to Belgian and foreign journals, and publications from the OECD, specializing in UFO phenomena and prehistory.
- Ets Pendville & Cie: Providing reproduction of plans, offset printing, duplicator copies, addressing, stencil printing, office supplies, student theses, typing, printing, and binding services.
- VIKING (Atelier et Magasin d'instruments optiques): Selling binoculars, spotting scopes, telescopes, astronomical telescopes, microscopes, and offering repair services.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of Inforespace strongly focuses on the UFO phenomenon, presenting detailed case studies from Brazil and exploring the possibility of ancient UFO encounters through the analysis of historical texts like the Papyrus Tulli. The publication actively seeks to engage its readership, encouraging them to participate in UFO research as investigators and contributors. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and theories without definitive conclusions, inviting readers to form their own judgments. The emphasis on detailed reporting, witness accounts, and the pursuit of scientific understanding is evident throughout the articles.