Inforespace - No 30 - 1976

Magazine Overview

Inforespace, issue number 30, is a bi-monthly review from November 1976, marking its 5th year of publication. It is the official organ of SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux), based in Brussels, Belgium. The magazine aims to provide objective information and stay at the forefront of ufological research.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the magazine's journey over five years, acknowledging the challenges of meeting deadlines and receiving articles, but also celebrating the success of publishing another issue. The editor highlights two areas for improvement: the lack of a 'readers' letters' section and the delay in addressing the problem of UFO detection. The editorial announces plans for a series of articles on electromagnetism and UFO detectors.

Looking ahead to the next year, the editorial announces positive developments. The English version of the magazine, SOBEPS-News, has received extraordinary international acclaim, introducing SOBEPS to a wider audience. The magazine plans to increase its English translation efforts to promote the society globally. A more delicate matter discussed is the increase in subscription fees, attributed to rising postal costs. For Belgian subscribers, the increase is a modest 25 FB, while for French subscribers, it's a more significant jump from 52 to 62 FF. The editorial justifies these increases by detailing the actual cost of mailing each issue abroad.

To compensate for the increased fees, subscribers will receive an additional special issue in the coming year, dedicated to UFO testimonies. This special issue will include an article on the legal aspects of UFO testimony by Michel Carrouges, a study on human perception, and statistical analyses of UFO witnesses and their experiences. Future issues will aim to closely follow UFOological news, with a 'Study and Research' section planned to cover recent studies and analyses, including a new analysis of sound.

Articles and Content

L'étrange triangle des Bermudes (4)

This article begins by stating that an aircraft is never truly alone, referencing a 1955 OACI brochure. It details the highly organized and interconnected nature of modern air travel, managed by the Organisation de l'Aviation Civile Internationale (OACI), with its headquarters in Montreal. The OACI's regulations and standards cover all aspects of aeronautical activity, including pilot licensing, air traffic rules, meteorological codes, and technical operations. The article notes the importance of Annex 13 of the OACI, which deals with aircraft accident investigations, particularly relevant to the Bermuda Triangle region.

The author expresses surprise that no investigations into the Bermuda Triangle mystery have cited OACI information. Since 1951, the OACI has published twenty accident reports, each analyzing forty to sixty accidents of various types. A recurring cause for unexplained disappearances is the lack of wreckage or occupants, leaving the cause undetermined. The article points out that out of 39 aviation cases analyzed, only 8 relate to civil aviation, while 18 concern private aviation and 14 involve American military aviation. The OACI does not investigate military or charter aircraft.

The article then discusses the official position of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in November 1975. The FAA, while not citing specific authors, implicitly addresses Charles Berlitz's work on mysterious phenomena. The FAA acknowledges serious problems in the Bermuda Triangle area, attributing them to pilot inexperience over the sea and inadequate equipment, rather than supernatural forces. The article mentions a specific case of a Piper Apache aircraft that made an emergency landing in Denmark in 1964 due to an oil leak, noting that this was not a mysterious disappearance.

The author then delves into the history of the Bermuda Triangle, noting its fascination due to the multitude of mysteries it presents, including those of the sea, air, underwater world, Atlantis, and UFOs. The article aims to analyze cases, sometimes finding solutions, other times lacking precise information.

The DC-3 Disappearance (Maracaibo to Kingston)

The article revisits a previous report from June 1950 concerning the disappearance of a DC-3 aircraft flying from Maracaibo to Kingston. The aircraft, belonging to the 'New Tribes Mission,' vanished with all occupants. The author cites Richard Winer's account and then presents the official Civil Aeronautic Board report from April 1951. The report details the flight plan, radio communications, and the last known position of the aircraft. The flight was proceeding satisfactorily until a final, incomplete distress signal was received before the aircraft disappeared. The investigation could not determine the cause.

The Douglas C-124 Globemaster Disappearance

The article then addresses the disappearance of a US Globemaster in March 1950, en route to Ireland. It corrects common misconceptions, stating the flight was from Limestone, Maine, to Mildenhall, England, with a refueling stop in Gander, Newfoundland, on March 22, 1951. The last radio message placed the aircraft 800 miles southwest of Ireland. The aircraft was expected at 6 AM but never arrived. The US aircraft carrier Coral Sea reportedly found debris at sea, and a fuel tank was recovered. The investigation could not determine if sabotage was involved.

Case n° 99: The British York Disappearance

This section details the disappearance of a British York aircraft with 33 people on board on February 2, 1953, while flying from Stansted, England, to Jamaica via Gander, Newfoundland. The aircraft transmitted POMAR reports and then a distress signal (SOS) before going silent. The article cites the OACI circular 39-AN/34 for the investigation report. The report indicates the pilot was experiencing difficulties, but the exact cause remains undetermined. The article notes the crew had been on duty for over 19 hours, but this fatigue alone was not considered sufficient to explain the emergency and distress calls. The possibility of an engine fire was considered but could not be verified due to the lack of wreckage.

Case of Flight 19

This section focuses on the disappearance of five TBM-Avengers patrol aircraft on December 5, 1945, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This event is considered significant as it is believed to have popularized the term 'Bermuda Triangle.' The article relies on the Navy Board of Inquiry report. The flight plan involved specific headings and distances. The instructor pilot, Charles Carroll Taylor, was a reserve lieutenant. The aircraft were on a training flight, with most of the 14 crew members being trainees. Radio communications indicated the flight leader was disoriented and believed they were lost. A pilot, Robert F. Cox, on a routine flight, overheard the transmissions. The last contact with Flight 19 was at 17:59, with a final call at 19:04. The article notes that the cause of the disappearance remains undetermined, but the event has generated considerable literature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the need for factual, verifiable information and critical analysis, contrasting it with sensationalist accounts. There is a clear effort to debunk myths and correct misinterpretations, particularly concerning aviation mysteries and UFO sightings. The editorial stance is one of rigorous investigation and a commitment to providing objective reporting, even when dealing with unexplained phenomena. The magazine also highlights the international nature of ufology and aviation, with a focus on both European and North American cases. The importance of official reports and scientific data is frequently stressed, alongside a critical examination of their limitations and potential biases. The magazine aims to educate its readers and foster a deeper understanding of complex phenomena.

This issue of Inforespace, identified as Volume 17, Issue 24, published in September 1975, focuses on UFO phenomena, scientific investigations, and the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. The magazine presents a blend of case studies, theoretical discussions, and conference reports.

Flight 19 and Bermuda Triangle Incidents

The issue opens with a detailed account of the disappearance of Flight 19, a U.S. Navy squadron that vanished over the Bermuda Triangle. The narrative highlights discrepancies in witness reports and official accounts, particularly regarding the timing of communications and the use of radio frequencies. It also recounts a 1945 incident where a Martin Mariner aircraft reportedly exploded in the sky over the Bermuda Triangle, adding to the region's mysterious reputation.

Scientific Investigations and UFO Propulsion

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to scientific perspectives on UFOs. Pierre Guérin discusses the nature of evidence in ufology, distinguishing between anecdotal and scientific proof and challenging the rationalist dismissal of UFO reports. He argues that scientific skepticism should not preclude investigation.

Jean-Pierre Petit, a physicist, presents his research on UFO propulsion, focusing on magnetohydrodynamics. He describes the challenging conditions under which his experiments were conducted, often in makeshift laboratory settings, and highlights the potential of his work to explain UFO movement. His research is lauded for its innovative approach to understanding advanced propulsion systems.

Auguste Meessen, a professor of theoretical physics, further explores UFO propulsion, particularly magnetohydrodynamics. He discusses how plasmas and magnetic fields could be harnessed for propulsion and analyzes specific UFO sighting reports, such as the 1966 Australian case involving deflected car headlights. Meessen emphasizes the need for quantitative analysis and suggests that phenomena like the Faraday effect might be relevant.

Patrick Aimedieu, a researcher at CNRS, offers a more critical perspective, questioning the current scientific method's ability to fully explain UFO phenomena due to the complexity of observation and the lack of experimental verification. He suggests that current hypotheses are speculative because experimentation is impossible.

Extraterrestrial Contact

Astronomer Pierre Kohler discusses the historical and contemporary efforts to establish contact with extraterrestrial civilizations. He reviews early proposals by Flammarion and Cros, the work of Frank Drake in the 1960s, and current methods such as sending messages via space probes (Pioneer X) and transmitting signals to distant stars (Arecibo radio telescope). Kohler expresses a degree of pessimism regarding the likelihood of successful communication due to cosmic distances and background noise.

Mexico UFO Incident: May 1975

A detailed case study describes an encounter involving pilot Carlos Antonio de Los Santos Montiel, who reported being followed and manipulated by three unidentified objects over Mexico. The incident involved the objects lifting his Piper Aztec aircraft and interfering with its controls. Radar data from the Mexico City control tower corroborated the presence of anomalous echoes, though official explanations initially focused on the pilot's physiological state (hypoglycemia and hypoxia). The investigation also considered the possibility of advanced technology, such as ECM systems, being involved in radar anomalies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFO sightings, the scientific pursuit of understanding UFO propulsion, and the ongoing quest for extraterrestrial contact. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages rigorous scientific inquiry into these phenomena, even when faced with skepticism or unconventional evidence. It highlights the work of researchers who are pushing the boundaries of conventional science and encourages a more open-minded approach to unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial tone seems to favor detailed case studies and theoretical discussions, aiming to inform and stimulate debate within the ufology community.

This issue, titled "L'aventure cosmique de l'humanité (5)" and dated January 7, 1974, delves into humanity's ongoing quest to understand cosmic phenomena, focusing on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) and the investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

Project Ozma and Early Radio Astronomy

The article begins by recounting early attempts to detect extraterrestrial signals. Nikola Tesla's 1899 observation of regular radio signals and Marconi's 1921 reception of unknown pulses are mentioned as precursors. The main focus then shifts to Project Ozma, initiated in 1960 at Green Bank by radio-astronomer Frank Drake. This project aimed to intercept intentional signals from Epsilon Eridani and Tau Ceti, two nearby stars. The equipment used included a 28-meter radio telescope and a specialized shortwave reception set. Despite 200 hours of observation in the third quarter of 1960, the project yielded no results. Dr. Otto Struve, then director of Green Bank, humorously suggested returning in a hundred years, reflecting the lack of immediate findings. The project faced criticism from astronomer I. Schkovskii, who argued that the listening time was too short and that the probability of finding intelligent life within 300 light-years was statistically near zero, suggesting a greater likelihood beyond 1000 light-years. However, other scientists like F. Biraud and J.C. Ribes pointed out that low probability should not deter exploration.

Soviet Research and Other Projects

The issue highlights Soviet contributions to radio astronomy, including the ongoing development of the "Eurasian network" at the Crimean Observatory, which would comprise a thousand receivers forming a 600-meter circumference. In 1968, the Gorky University used a 15-meter antenna to search for signals from 12 nearby G-type stars. The Eurasian network took over in 1972, expanding the search across the universe. N.S. Kardashev also initiated a listening program. On the American side, Zuckerman and Parlem at NRAO were listening to 600 nearby G-type stars on a frequency of 1420 MHz.

The Arecibo Message

A significant event discussed is the Arecibo message, sent in November 1974 under the direction of Drake and Sagan. This message, transmitted towards the globular cluster Messier 13, will take 24,000 years to reach its destination. It was encoded using a binary grid to convey information about our solar system, human biology, and DNA.

Project Cyclopes

Following the perceived failure of Ozma, Project Cyclopes emerged in 1969 with a different approach: listening for signals from other civilizations rather than expecting intentional transmissions. This ambitious project proposed a massive array of 1500 radio antennas, covering 100 km², to detect weaker signals over greater distances. A central computer would analyze these signals for signs of intelligent life through repetition and regularity. The project's direction was assigned to Dr. Bernard M. Olivier, with an estimated cost of $6.10 million spread over fifteen years.

Duncan Lunan and Epsilon Boötis

The issue details a surprising communication by Duncan Lunan, a Scottish university student, to the British Interplanetary Society on March 29, 1973. Lunan claimed that an automated space capsule from the constellation Boötes had been orbiting Earth for 13,000 years. His conclusion was based on an analysis of delayed radio echoes recorded in 1927 and 1928 from the Dutch shortwave station PCJJ. He interpreted these echoes, particularly those with delays of 3 and 15 seconds, as originating from a probe positioned halfway between Earth and the Moon. Lunan's analysis of a graph of these echoes, plotting delay against arrival order, suggested a representation of the Boötes constellation. He identified a specific echo's position as corresponding to Epsilon Boötis, which he proposed as the home star of the probe's creators. He also noted an anomaly with Arcturus's position, suggesting it was characterized by significant movement relative to the solar system.

UFO Sighting in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey

A photo dossier presents a series of five photographs taken by amateur astronomer Didier Basset on January 7, 1974, in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, France. Basset reported observing six luminous, yellow-orange objects, brighter than Venus, that appeared to be discs. Their movement was slow, and at times, the brightness of individual objects would decrease or disappear. The observation lasted about fifteen minutes. The article notes that Basset's report was published in the journal "Ciel et Espace." The issue also mentions that a similar observation was made three weeks later in the Yvelines region.

UFO Propulsion Theories

The final sections explore theoretical aspects of UFO propulsion. One article discusses a theory of magnetohydrodynamic propulsion for UFOs, developed by physicists Jean-Pierre Petit and Maurice Viton. This theory suggests that flying machines could be propelled by interacting with the surrounding fluid using electromagnetic principles, drawing parallels to how aircraft and rockets function. Another section touches upon controlled fusion as a potential energy source, discussing the challenges of achieving the necessary high temperatures and densities, and mentioning approaches like magnetic bottles (Tokamaks) and inertial confinement fusion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of scientific inquiry, technological advancement, and the persistent mystery of UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting scientific theories and observational reports without outright dismissal, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of some claims. The recurring theme is humanity's cosmic journey and the ongoing search for answers beyond our planet.

This issue of L'ÉCHO DES SAVOIRS, dated November 1983, delves into speculative and advanced concepts in energy generation and propulsion, primarily focusing on fusion energy and magnetohydrodynamics (MHD).

Fusion MHO: A New Path to Energy?

The magazine introduces the MHO fusion process, presented as a variant of inertial confinement fusion. This concept involves a 'Diabolo' shaped chamber, approximately one meter in diameter and twenty centimeters thick, filled with a deuterium-tritium mixture under sub-atmospheric pressure. The chamber is lined with alternating mirrors and electrodes, and encircled by a solenoid creating a strong axial magnetic field. A central electrode and the crown electrodes are connected to a high-voltage capacitor. When a high voltage is applied, electrons are accelerated towards the central anode, but their trajectory is curved into a spiral by the strong transverse magnetic field, a phenomenon known as the Hall effect. Collisions with gas atoms impede electron progress, but the process is designed to create a highly compressed and hot plasma, potentially leading to fusion. The article references calculations suggesting that confinement times could be as short as 10^-5 seconds, enabling fusion reactions. The potential energy output is estimated at 1,000 megawatts.

MHD Aerodynes: Vehicles of the Future?

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to exploring the concept of MHD aerodynes, vehicles that utilize magnetohydrodynamics for flight. The underlying principle is the generation of Lorentz forces by passing electric currents through a plasma within a magnetic field. These forces can be harnessed for sustentation and propulsion.

Cylindrical Aerodynes

The article first discusses a cylindrical MHD model, where a solenoid creates a dipolar magnetic field. Electrodes on the cylinder's surface are used to create electric currents. The Hall effect influences the current lines, leading to radial and centrifugal Lorentz forces that can pump air, similar to a helicopter but potentially more efficient and silent. The authors, including Maurice Viton, suggest that these forces could enable flight even in a vacuum by expelling gas.

Spherical Aerodynes

Building on the cylindrical concept, a spherical aerodyne is proposed. This design also uses electrodes and a magnetic field to generate Lorentz forces for propulsion and sustentation. The article suggests that by manipulating the distribution of currents and magnetic fields, the system can be adapted to various configurations.

Disc-Shaped (Saucer) Aerodynes

For high-performance applications, particularly those requiring very strong magnetic fields (up to a million gauss), disc-shaped or lenticular aerodynes are presented. These designs are intended to manage the pervasive Hall effect that distorts current sheets in simpler configurations. The proposed design involves multiple solenoids with opposing current directions to create a magnetic field that is minimal at the center and maximal at the periphery, aiding confinement.

Aerodyne Operation and Effects

The article details how these MHD aerodynes might operate. The generation of a plasma around the vehicle is expected to create a visible, colored aura. Potential effects on the environment include induction heating of the ground and physiological effects from high-frequency radiation, such as auditory hallucinations or neurological disturbances. The concept of 'silent flight' is emphasized, achieved by controlling the airflow and preventing shock waves.

Challenges and Theoretical Considerations

The authors acknowledge the theoretical nature of these concepts, noting that many aspects require further experimental verification. They discuss the challenges of producing the necessary strong magnetic fields and managing the high energies involved. The article also touches upon the potential for MHD systems to create powerful electrical currents, with estimated peak voltages of millions of volts and currents of millions of amperes.

Beyond Current Technology: Tachyons and Space Travel

Expanding on theoretical physics, the issue explores the concept of Tachyons – hypothetical particles that travel faster than light – and their potential connection to an 'inverted' mirror space where time flows backward. The idea of creating 'black holes' in a laboratory setting is also discussed, drawing parallels with Einstein's theory of relativity and the concept of spacetime as a deformable membrane. The possibility of using MHD technology for interstellar travel is raised, suggesting that vehicles might 'jump' between spaces or utilize phenomena like wormholes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores cutting-edge, often speculative, scientific and technological concepts, particularly in the fields of energy and propulsion. There is a clear interest in alternative physics and engineering solutions, with a focus on magnetohydrodynamics and fusion energy. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting theoretical models and potential applications, while acknowledging the significant experimental and theoretical hurdles that remain. The use of detailed diagrams and explanations suggests an aim to educate readers on complex scientific principles, even when they venture into the realm of science fiction.

This issue of 'Nos enquêtes' from September 1974, published by SOBEPS, focuses on a remarkable series of ten UFO/UAP observations that occurred on the evening of September 10, 1974, across various locations in Belgium. The magazine provides detailed accounts from witnesses, including descriptions of the objects, their trajectories, and the circumstances of the sightings.

Excerpt from Jean-Pierre Petit

The issue includes an excerpt from Jean-Pierre Petit, discussing the rapid advancements in technology, particularly in fusion energy and lasers, and musing on the future of space exploration and humanity's potential to travel to other worlds with a sense of love.

SOBEPS Recruitment

A call for volunteers is made by the SOBEPS secretariat, seeking help with tasks such as typing, mail preparation, and filing, to support their work.

The September 10, 1974 Observations: Ten Sightings in One Evening

The main article details ten distinct observations from the night of September 10, 1974. The report notes that this date was particularly significant, with multiple sightings reported across Belgium. The article emphasizes the diligent work of the SOBEPS investigation network in gathering and verifying these accounts.

Background and Previous Sightings

The article briefly recalls previous waves of sightings in Belgium during the first half of 1974, including events near Nivelles, La Louvière, Namur, Charleroi, and the Brussels suburbs. The delay in publishing the September 10th accounts is attributed to the need for further investigation and verification of new information.

The Night of September 10, 1974

The report details each observation chronologically and geographically:

1. Wanfercée-Baulet (near Charleroi): Two young boys observed a biconvex, metallic disc-shaped object with orange lights and white headlights moving slowly at low altitude. The object exhibited unusual maneuvers, including tilting and accelerating.
2. Jodoigne: Six witnesses, including a family, observed a dark, round object with two bright forward headlights moving at the speed of a touring plane. A luminous dome was also noted on top of the object.
3. Liège: The Spelte family observed a luminous point that moved towards them. It was described as a discoidal object with two main headlights and weaker rear lights.
4. Grivegnée: M. and Mme Malbrouck witnessed a bright luminous point that approached their location, described as having three non-blinking points of light in a triangle, with one being white and very bright.
5. Tilleur: Two boys observed a luminous source that moved towards their house, described as a bright object with a white headlight.
6. Embourg: M. and Mme Fréçon observed a dark object with a bright white headlight that illuminated horizontally. They also noted two green and two red lights.
7. Seraing: M. Schutz observed a very bright point that moved towards him. Described as having white, dense beams of light, it appeared to have a triangular shape and metallic aspect.
8. Verviers: M. Crahait and five others observed a bright luminous point that grew in size. The object was described as a flat circular mass with series of faint lights and two main headlights.
9. Boussu: M. Hayt observed a stationary, luminous cone of light, comparable in size to the full moon, with a truncated top.
10. Baudour: M. Decroly observed a large, brilliant ball, comparable in size and color to the moon, which ascended rapidly in a curved trajectory.

Analysis of Trajectories and Characteristics

The report notes a striking pattern in the trajectories of the observed objects on September 10th, with most pointing eastward. It also highlights the unusual circumstance that many objects passed almost directly overhead the observers' positions, facilitating precise orientation readings. The article compares the descriptions from different locations, noting similarities and differences, and discusses the challenges in definitively identifying all phenomena.

Potential Identification of Jupiter

The report suggests that some of the bright luminous points observed, particularly the one seen in Baudour, could be the planet Jupiter, which was visible at the time. The article also mentions other, less detailed, sightings from the same period.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO/UAP phenomena, presenting detailed case studies based on witness testimonies and investigations. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, aiming to document and analyze sightings without immediate dismissal. The publication emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and data collection, as demonstrated by the extensive network of researchers and the detailed reporting of each observation. The recurring theme is the presence of unexplained aerial objects in Belgian skies, with a particular focus on the events of September 1974 as a significant period of activity.