Inforespace - No 36 - 1977

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 36
Volume: 6th year
Date: November 1977
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Type: Bimonthly review

Editorial

The editorial for Inforespace No. 36 marks the end of the magazine's sixth year and serves as a review of the past year and a look towards the future. The editor, Michel Bougard, describes 1977 as a year of transition for SOBEPS, characterized by a move to new offices and a significant effort in cataloging nearly 3,000 UFO cases for computer analysis. He notes a scarcity of significant UFO events in 1977, questioning whether this is a period of reflection or a sign of a more serious crisis in ufology. The editorial highlights two key events: the lack of serious UFO research breakthroughs in 1977, citing researchers like Jean-Pierre Petit and Auguste Meessen, and the official creation of GEPAN (Groupe d'Etude des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) within France's CNES, directed by Claude Poher. The editor also mentions the possibility of a new US commission on UFOs, potentially co-directed by Carl Sagan and J. Allen Hynek, which he suggests might lead to interpretative difficulties.

The editorial also touches upon the public's perception of UFOs, referencing a poorly executed television program by Antenne 2 that, in the editor's view, leaned towards sensationalism ('ovnimanie') rather than serious ufology. Looking ahead to 1978, the magazine aims for more regular publication and a refreshed format. However, it raises concerns about financial sustainability, emphasizing that membership fees are crucial for the continued publication of Inforespace and the funding of research. The editor appeals to members for their continued support and loyalty.

Content Highlights

Back Issues and Subscriptions

Page 2 details the subscription costs for past issues of Inforespace from 1972 to 1977, with different rates for ordinary members and students, as well as for Belgium, France, and other countries. It also provides details for paying subscriptions via bank transfer or postal order. A complete collection of Inforespace from 1972 to 1977 (issues 1 to 36) is also available.

"Nos enquêtes" (Our Investigations)

This section features detailed case studies of UFO sightings. The primary investigation in this issue focuses on an observation that occurred on May 5, 1976, in Sivry, Belgium.

#### Incident in Sivry (May 5, 1976)

Witness 1 (Young Woman): She reported being suddenly dazzled by two strong lights moving at a very low altitude (10-15 meters) and at a distance of about 100 meters. The lights appeared to be the rear of two vehicles, moving one behind the other. They moved silently and seemed to separate as they passed her. Her immediate reaction was fear, as the area is deserted. Her brother reported that the TV had been briefly parasited around the same time.

Witness 2 (Farmer, Mr. G.): He observed two rose-red lights, described as similar to two large car headlights, moving at a low altitude. He noted they had a uniform rose-red color, without any other features, and moved silently. He also mentioned seeing two smaller, non-flashing white-yellow lights next to each larger one. He initially thought they might be helicopters but noted the absence of sound and the lack of a tail rotor. He described the objects as having a pointed top and crossbars. He stated they moved at the same speed and altitude, cutting across the road. He did not see them separate. He also mentioned that a farmer he knew had witnessed similar phenomena previously.

Analysis of Sivry Incident: The investigator notes that Witness 1 is a young, outgoing woman working in personnel selection, while Witness 2 is introverted and reserved. The investigator finds the convergence of their testimonies significant, despite their differing personalities. He dismisses the possibility that Witness 1 was mistaken and that Witness 2 fabricated his account based on hers, citing specific details like the white-yellow lights and the separation of trajectories that align with Witness 1's account.

#### Other Observations in the Region

Several other UFO sightings in the region are reported, including:

• April 14, 1974 (Barbençon, Belgium): A dark disk with red and green luminous crowns zig-zagged across the sky.
• September 11, 1974 (Beaumont, Belgium): An orange object moved in a straight line towards the French border, appearing to rotate like a mill.
• September 4, 1975 (Bettignies, France): A brief report from LDLN with no details.
• September 5, 1975 (Goegnies-Chaussée, Belgium): A dark circular object with oval openings emitting blue and orange flashes, rotating slowly.
• September 9, 1975 (Cerfontaine, France): A brief report from LDLN with no details.
• August 28, 1977 (Touvent, France): A dark orange sphere, stationary above trees, then accelerating and moving north-west.

#### Additional Observations by Witness 2 (Mr. G.)

• September 1975 (Sivry): Witness 2 observed a dazzling white circular object near trees, gliding and rocking, rotating counter-clockwise. It disappeared after three complete revolutions.
• July 30, 1976 (Sivry): Witness 2 saw a rose-red UFO rotating above trees at a high altitude, followed by a second phenomenon moving towards France.

Appreciation

1. On the Nature of the Alleged Incidents: The investigator focuses on the May 5, 1976, Sivry incident due to having two independent witnesses. He considers the possibility of misidentification but finds it unlikely given the details. He notes that Witness 1's account of the two lights separating and Witness 2's account of the objects moving in a straight line (SSE) are consistent with the general direction. The investigator also mentions that Witness 2's description of the object's shape (cylindrical, pointed top, crossbars) and color (rose-red) is distinct.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed UFO sighting reports, the challenges of ufological research, and the financial and organizational aspects of maintaining a UFO study group like SOBEPS. The editorial stance is one of advocating for a rational, objective, and scientific approach to ufology, while acknowledging the public's interest and the need for clear information. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of member contributions for the survival and progress of the organization and its publication.

This issue of "La recherche d'archives" (The Search for Archives) focuses on the methodology and importance of archival research in the field of ufology. It provides a comprehensive guide for individuals interested in investigating historical UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings.

Why Research Archives?

The article argues that despite existing catalogs and known cases, archival research is essential because many reported cases contain errors, particularly regarding dates. It emphasizes that published cases represent only a fraction of actual observations. Archival research allows for:

• Correction of errors: Identifying and rectifying false information in existing databases.
• Discovery of new cases: Uncovering previously unknown sightings that warrant further investigation.
• Identification of 'waves': Detecting patterns and 'waves' of past sightings that might have gone unnoticed, providing a better understanding of the phenomenon's frequency.
• Historical trend analysis: Studying ancient cases to understand the potential evolution of the phenomenon over time.
• Broader context: Documenting bizarre phenomena, even those not directly related to UFOs, as they might later be found to have connections.

Who Can Research Archives?

Anyone can conduct archival research, as it does not require specialized skills, except for deciphering old manuscripts and chronicles, for which lists can be compiled and passed to experts. Individuals living in large cities with access to extensive archives and those with ample free time are particularly well-positioned.

Where to Search?

In France, publications are subject to legal deposit and are typically held in Departmental Archives or municipal libraries. These institutions also house collections from donations and acquisitions. Smaller municipal libraries may hold local newspapers and general interest books. Newspaper offices themselves often retain complete archives, though photocopying can be more expensive than at libraries. A 1958 directory of French dailies and weeklies from 1944-1956 is mentioned. The same principles apply to Belgium, with the Royal Library in Brussels holding a comprehensive collection.

What to Search For?

The search should encompass:

• Newspapers: National, regional, and local dailies and weeklies. Regional papers may have different local editions.
• Magazines: Publications from various associations and movements, as well as general interest magazines like "Paris Match," especially for regional information. The 'letters to the editor' section can be particularly valuable.
• Books: Ancient history books (including Latin historians), travelogues, city histories, and works by early ufologists, demonologists, or compilers of prodigies.
• Old Chronicles: These are often written in Latin and may be handwritten, but they contain numerous accounts of celestial signs and strange occurrences.

How to Search?

• Systematic Approach: Avoid duplication by coordinating with other researchers. Identify all relevant newspapers and journals for the chosen period and region.
• Thoroughness: Examine all editions, especially local pages. Even if an article has no title or is very small, it should be noted. Continue searching a newspaper even after finding one relevant article, as multiple related articles may appear in the same issue.
• Chronicles: Pay attention to local chronicles, reflections, and recurring columns that consistently address similar topics.
• Organization: Keep meticulous records. Photocopying lists of articles is recommended to avoid losing work. A system for tracking which articles have been found, copied, or photographed is essential.

How to Obtain Article Texts?

• Avoid Damaging Originals: Do not cut articles from bound volumes. If dealing with loose newspapers, consider the impact on future researchers.
• Photocopying: This is the preferred method, though it can be expensive.
• Purchase: Recent issues may be available for purchase from the newspaper's office.
• Photography: If other methods fail, articles can be photographed using a fine-grain film. It is crucial to include a ruler for scale and to ensure proper exposure, especially in low-light conditions. Attention must be paid to focus and parallax.
• Transcription: As a last resort, articles can be transcribed by hand, though this is time-consuming and may miss photographic elements.

What to Do with the Results?

Once a substantial body of information is gathered, researchers should:

• Exchange Copies: Share photocopies with other researchers.
• Conduct Studies: Analyze the data, create frequency graphs of observations and articles, and identify errors or misinterpretations.
• Map Data: Plot observations on regional maps.
• Classify: Categorize sightings based on specific characteristics.
• Compare: Analyze relationships between old and new cases, and compare personal findings with published accounts.

Specific Case Studies and Analyses

"Angel Hair" Analysis

A section details the analysis of "cheveux d'ange" (angel hair) fibers found after a sighting in Sonora, California, on October 12, 1976. The fibers were analyzed by Dr. David J. Miletich. Initial findings indicated they were composed of carbon and nitrogen, suggesting an organic origin. They were found to be sterile and contained tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, hinting at exposure to nuclear fission or fusion. While the origin remains uncertain, hypotheses include insect secretions. The analysis also noted that these properties (sterility and radioactivity) are unusual and may not be directly related to the observed UFO phenomenon.

Contact with "Unfriendly Robots"

This section recounts an incident involving Lee P. on January 27, 1977, on Highway 329 near Louisville, Kentucky. Lee P. reported seeing a rectangular red object and subsequently experienced an encounter with three non-human entities. Under hypnosis, he described being taken aboard the craft and interacting with beings that did not fit the typical 'cosmic fraternity' humanoid archetype, describing them as more akin to 'robots' or unusual beings.

Canada: Landing on a Roof

An investigation by Marc Leduc and Wido Hoville published in UFO-Québec details an event in Montreal on January 6, 1977. Mme Malbœuf reported seeing a luminous object land on a nearby roof, followed by the appearance of two tall, thin figures dressed in white, wearing helmet-like head coverings. The figures inspected the area before the object departed. The investigation found traces on the roof, including a large icy surface and smaller oval areas, with footprints that were smaller and thinner than normal boots.

International Sightings (Norway, Denmark, Sweden)

Several brief reports of sightings are included:

• Norway (July 1965): Mme E.E. observed a small, bright yellow object resembling a plane with a pilot, hovering near her home.
• Norway (September 1972): A young man saw an object struggling to gain altitude, emitting a whistling sound.
• Denmark (February/March 1973): A driver observed a grey object emerge from a cloud, described as 5-6 meters long with a pilot.
• Sweden (October 1972): Halvard Persson and his mother Ingrid witnessed six mini-planes flying in formation over a lake.

Mini-UFOs and Lilliputian Humanoids

A brief mention of cases involving small UFOs and diminutive humanoid figures is made, indicating that space constraints prevent a detailed analysis in this issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine strongly advocates for rigorous, evidence-based research, particularly through the examination of historical records. It criticizes the uncritical acceptance of claims and emphasizes the need for serious, credible investigations to advance the field of ufology and gain the respect of the scientific community. The editorial stance is one of methodical inquiry, data collection, and careful analysis, while acknowledging the often bizarre and ambiguous nature of UFO phenomena. The importance of meticulous record-keeping and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries through archival work are recurring themes.

This issue of OVNI focuses on significant UFO and humanoid encounters, presenting detailed accounts and analyses. The primary articles cover the 1975 Travis Walton abduction case and a series of extensive observations in Papua New Guinea.

The Facts: Travis Walton Abduction

The issue begins by recounting the events of November 5, 1975, in the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona. A group of seven loggers, including Michael Rogers (the team leader), were working near Heber. As they were finishing their contract, they encountered a luminous, circular object hovering about five to six meters above the ground. The object was approximately 4.50 meters in diameter and 2.5 meters high, emitting a white-yellowish light. Travis Walton, aged 22, approached the object despite his companions' warnings. A beam of greenish-white light struck Walton, rendering him unconscious and causing him to disappear. His companions, initially fleeing in panic, later returned to find no trace of Walton or the object. They then alerted the authorities.

The subsequent search involved the sheriff's department and a large group of volunteers, including a helicopter. When conventional methods yielded no results, ufologist Bill Spaulding was contacted. Spaulding inspected the site for radiation and then controversially alerted the media, leading to intense public attention.

Documented Cases: Small Humanoids and UFOs

The magazine then presents several documented cases of encounters with small beings and UFOs:

• Colombia, August 10, 1973: Four students in Ibague observed four small beings, about 20 cm tall, dressed in white with grey bonnets, examining mud near a stream. The beings disappeared into the air upon the students' approach, and small footprints were reportedly photographed.
• Renève, France, April 20, 1945: A priest encountered a small man, estimated to be 15 to 17 cm tall, with grey hair and beard, wearing a dark red suit. The being's body was described as a miniature human, and it disappeared into thick bushes.

These cases are noted as being detailed in the GEPA review.

The Travis Walton Disappearance: Further Details

The article delves deeper into the Travis Walton case, mentioning that the initial report was based on information from "UFOLOGEN" and other publications. It highlights the commonality of abductions and extraterrestrial encounters, noting that while often associated with risk-takers, "extraterrestrial visitors" can be less considerate. The experience of Betty and Barney Hill in 1961 is mentioned as a precedent, followed by the cases of Charlie Hickson and Calvin Parker in 1973, and then Travis Walton in 1975.

The article discusses the skepticism surrounding the case, particularly from Philip Klass, and emphasizes the need to examine the details of the event. It notes that ufologists took charge of the investigation, and the article aims to present the unfolding events.

The Boianai Sightings, Papua New Guinea

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the observations in Papua New Guinea, particularly around Boianai, based on a study by Reverend Norman E.G. Cruttwell. The article focuses on the "Boianai affair" involving Reverend William Gill.

Reverend Cruttwell states that while he has not personally seen a "flying saucer," his proximity to the region and personal acquaintance with most witnesses allowed him to conduct thorough interviews and compile a comprehensive report. He emphasizes the honesty and intelligence of the witnesses and the importance of these accounts for understanding the "great mystery of flying saucers."

Cruttwell notes that out of 79 reports, the majority (60) were concentrated in the Cape Vogel Peninsula and Goodenough Bay area. He highlights Boianai as a key observation point. The area is described as geologically active, with volcanic lines and mountains composed of dark igneous rocks.

June 26, 1959: The Boianai Events

Detailed notes from June 26, 1959, record multiple UFO sightings:

• 18:45: A bright white light was observed.
• 18:50: Stephen and Eric Langford confirmed the light was not a star.
• 18:52: The object approached, appearing orange or dark yellow.
• 18:55: Figures were seen on the object, described as "three men" who were incandescent and appeared to be working.
• 19:00-19:12: Multiple objects were observed, some emitting blue light from a projector. Figures reappeared.
• 21:30: A "Mother Ship" returned, moving over the sea, displaying colors of white, red, and blue.
• 22:00-22:30: Objects were seen balancing and moving between clouds.
• 22:50: The sky became overcast, and no UFOs were visible.
• 23:04: A strong explosion was heard.

Reverend Gill's letter to Reverend Durie describes the events as "manipulated by beings of an indeterminate genre," calling the experience breathtaking.

June 27, 1959: Gestures and Communication

On June 27, witnesses observed a large UFO in the same position as the previous night. Figures, described as human-like, appeared on the object's deck. Reverend Gill and others waved at the figures, who reciprocated the gestures. The UFO then appeared to understand and moved in response to signals, even approaching the observers before moving away.

June 28, 1959: Further Observations

More UFOs were observed on the third night. The article notes that two other UFOs remained high and immobile, while smaller ones were also seen. The blue light from the object reappeared. The beings and the machine were completely silent.

Analysis of the Boianai Sightings

The article explores potential indices regarding the nature and intentions of the UFOs. It highlights:

• Concentration in a small zone: Suggests a possible system or purpose behind the appearances.
• Proximity in time: Allows for examination of timing patterns.
• Witness credibility: The witnesses knew each other and the investigator, lending credibility to their accounts.
• Exclusion of modern factors: The lack of advanced civilization in the area minimizes confusion.

The concentration of sightings in the Cape Vogel Peninsula and surrounding areas is noted, with Boianai being a primary location. The geological context of the region, characterized by volcanic activity, is also discussed.

Temporal and Typological Patterns

The article examines the temporal distribution of sightings, noting peaks in activity in June, July, and August 1959, with a smaller peak in October/November 1958. It also observes a tendency for more observations to occur at the end of the month. The types of UFOs observed evolved over time, from "star" or "Tilley lamp" points of light in 1958 to more defined, apparently inhabited craft in mid-1959, and later large spheres.

The timing of observations is predominantly during twilight (18h-19h) and at night, suggesting a desire for discretion or better study conditions. The Boianai sightings, all beginning at twilight, are presented as authentic due to the visibility of the craft and figures against the sky.

Conclusion and Further Research

The article concludes by posing questions about the nature and intentions of the UFOs, acknowledging that despite the detailed observations and investigations, the mystery remains unsolved. The concentration of sightings in a geologically active region is presented as a potential area for further research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents UFO sightings and alleged extraterrestrial encounters as phenomena worthy of serious investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the subject, providing detailed accounts from witnesses and researchers, while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for rigorous analysis. The focus on specific cases like Travis Walton and the extensive reporting on the Boianai events underscore a commitment to exploring the unexplained. The recurring theme is the persistent presence of unidentified aerial phenomena and the possibility of intelligent, non-human activity influencing or observing Earth.

This issue of Inforespace, dated January 1978, focuses on historical UFO sightings, specifically the 'airship' wave that occurred in the United States in the spring of 1897. The main article, "Chronique des OVNI: Navires de l'espace ou dirigeables impossibles? (1)", details numerous observations, particularly in Ohio, and explores the complexities of witness testimony, potential hoaxes, and the scientific interpretation of these events.

The 1897 Airship Wave in Ohio

The article begins by referencing the 1897 'dirigible' sightings across the US and notes the growing interest from researchers in these historical UFO cases. It highlights a specific article by George M. Eberhart in the journal PURSUIT that documented observations in Ohio. The magazine then presents several key incidents from Ohio:

• April 14, 1897, Casstown, Ohio: James McKenzie reported seeing a large, white object fall from a 'gigantic bird' that flew overhead. He was unable to find any trace of it later.
• April 15, 1897, Dunkirk, Ohio: Two adolescents witnessed an object changing color from red to green and yellow before disappearing into a cloud.
• April 15, 1897, Casstown, Ohio: Several train workers observed an airship close to the ground, described as wagon-sized with wings and engines, emitting red and yellow-green lights.
• April 16, 1897, Sandusky, Ohio: E. T. Kenan described an object as a 12-meter long trough with windmill-like wings, displaying purple, yellow, and green lights.
• April 16, 1897, Akron, Ohio: Citizens reported seeing lights moving below clouds, attached to a large, balloon-like object.
• April 16, 1897, Marion, Ohio: Astronomer H. R. Bolander observed a cigar-shaped object emitting a bright light.
• April 18, 1897, Cutler, Ohio: An immense flying ship with wings and a projector was seen moving rapidly and emitting a motor-like sound.
• April 20, 1897, Massillon, Ohio: Over 15 observations were reported, including a message left by passengers of an airship.
• April 16, 1897, Logan, Ohio: Several young men pursued a large, dark, boat-like object moving slowly over the town.

The article notes that these sightings often coincided with hoaxes and fantasies, as exemplified by a newspaper advertisement for a store featuring a drawing of a cigar-shaped object. It also mentions the case of Eleanor A. Woodruff, who claimed her 'flying ship' was en route to Cuba, leading to her being institutionalized.

Analysis of Observations and Witness Credibility

The magazine discusses the challenges in distinguishing genuine sightings from hoaxes and psychological phenomena. It addresses the argument that witnesses might be mistaken due to intoxication, hallucination, or exaggeration. The article defends the credibility of many witnesses, citing their sincerity and the corroborative nature of their independent reports. It highlights that many witnesses were sober, mentally sound, and had no prior preconceptions about UFOs.

A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the detailed observations recorded in a table, spanning from August 1953 to November 1959, primarily from Papua New Guinea (Port Moresby, Dogura, Menapi, Boianai, Baniara, etc.). This table lists dates, times, locations, types of objects (cylinders, disks, spheres, lights), and the witnesses. The witnesses include various professionals like directors, vicars, missionaries, teachers, engineers, doctors, and local inhabitants.

Object Characteristics and Propulsion

The article speculates on the nature and functioning of these objects. It suggests that many appear to be machines, some solid, others more gaseous or luminous. Their ability to hover, change speed and direction instantaneously, and perform complex maneuvers implies a propulsion system that defies conventional understanding of gravity and aerodynamics. The theory proposed by Lieutenant Plantier, involving a specific type of electric field and air ionization, is mentioned as a potential explanation for the observed phenomena, including the luminous effects and the absence of sound.

Historical and Prehistoric Connections

Another section discusses a letter from Michel Picard and Jean Consolin, which compares a UFO sighting to prehistoric parietal art found in the Cougnac cave in Lot, France. This comparison suggests that humans have observed and depicted aerial phenomena for millennia, challenging purely religious or sexual interpretations of such ancient art.

Correspondence and Data Corrections

The issue includes correspondence from P. Micoud of Lyon, France, who provides corrections to dates for space missions (Ranger VII, VIII, IX, Luna IX, Apollo XI) published in a previous article. He also supplies statistics on satellite launches and objects in orbit as of December 31, 1975.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are historical UFO sightings, the challenges of witness testimony, the scientific investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, and the potential for misinterpretation or hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging careful examination of evidence, acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding, and promoting prudence in ufological research. The magazine emphasizes that ufology is a complex field where excessive rationalization or credulity can both be detrimental.

This document is a promotional listing for books available through the "SERVICE LIBRAIRIE DE LA SOBEPS" (SOBEPS Bookstore Service), a Belgian organization. It details several titles related to UFOs and unexplained phenomena, providing descriptions, authors, publishers, and prices in Belgian Francs (FB).

Available Books

The following books are offered for sale:

• Des Soucoupes Volantes aux OVNI by Michel Bougard (SOBEPS Edition): A collective work aiming to review the state of ufological research.
• A Identifier et le Cas Adamski by Jean-Gérard Dohmen (Travox Edition): Described as the first Belgian book in French on the OVNI phenomenon, including accounts of observations in Belgium.
• La Nouvelle Vague des Soucoupes Volantes by Jean-Claude Bourret (France-Empire Edition): Compiles excerpts from a radio show and interviews related to a wave of flying saucer sightings.
• Le Nouveau Défi des OVNI by Jean-Claude Bourret (France-Empire Edition): Features files from the French Gendarmerie, unpublished investigations, and recent opinions from French researchers, particularly Jean-Pierre Petit's work on UFO magnetohydrodynamic propulsion.
• Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes by Fernand Lagarde and the group "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Albatros Edition): A collective work presenting reflections on the subject and suggesting research avenues for an in-depth study of the phenomenon.
• Les Soucoupes Volantes Viennent d'un Autre Monde and Black-Out sur les Soucoupes Volantes by Jimmy Guieu (Omnium Littéraire Edition): Two "classics" of French ufology.

Historical Context: The 1897 Aerial Ship Wave

Page 2 features an article titled "La chronique des OVNI" (The Chronicle of UFOs) by Michel Bougard. It recounts a significant wave of sightings of "aerial ships" or "dirigibles" that occurred in the United States, particularly in Ohio, during April and May of 1897. The article details several specific incidents:

• Late April 1897: Reports of "flying ships" continued throughout the last week of April.
• April 29, 1897 (around 9 PM): An inhabitant of Munroe Falls, Ohio, reported seeing one.
• April 29, 1897 (an hour later): A police officer in Cincinnati, John Ringer, witnessed a "chaplet of lights" moving southwest. He described a brighter light at the front like a projector, followed by smaller lights like stars, moving rapidly. Several other people witnessed this.
• May 2, 1897: A police officer in Kenton, Ohio, observed a "cigar-shaped dirigible" with a red projector at the front.
• May 4, 1897: Dozens of Cincinnati residents saw a curious red ovoïde object zigzagging in the sky. One witness, Dr. Louis Domhoff, made a drawing showing light beams emanating from the object's center and extremities.
• May 8, 1897: Sightings were reported again in the region.
• May 11, 1897: The last report concerning an aerial ship over Ohio is dated this day, with an observation in Sandusky around 10:00 AM.

The article emphasizes the incredible quantity of testimonies during this 1897 wave, noting that thousands of others across Texas and the Great Lakes also observed dozens of aerial ships from March to mid-May. The author states that the interpretation of this wave will be discussed in the second part of the article.

Book Review: 'La Chronique des OVNI'

A review section highlights Michel Bougard's book, "La Chronique des OVNI" (published by Jean-Pierre Delarge, Paris). It is described as a "capital" work that demonstrates the Earth's sky was previously flown over by UFO flotillas. The review notes that the book examines how crowds reacted to unexplained celestial phenomena, positioning it as a starting point for socio-psychological studies of UFO perception. The book is praised for its 230 figures and 39 illustrations, filling a gap in existing literature.

Ordering Information

Details are provided for ordering the books. Payments should be made to the SOBEPS C.C.P. account (000-316209-86) or bank account (210-0222255-80) in Brussels. For France and Canada, only international postal money orders or bank transfers are accepted; checks should not be sent. The price for "Le guide de l'enquêteur" is listed as 460 FB.

Advertisements

Page 3 contains advertisements for:

• BRITT'S BOOKSHOP: A Brussels-based bookshop offering English books from around the world, including UFO books and other enigmatic subjects.
• « KADATH »: A review that served as the basis for the anthology "Chroniques des civilisations disparues." It is published five times a year, focusing on archaeological enigmas. Subscription details for Belgium and abroad are provided.
• ATELIER ET MAGASIN D'INSTRUMENTS OPTIQUES PIERRE SLOTTE: A shop selling optical instruments like binoculars, spotting scopes, telescopes, and microscopes, also offering repairs.
• Le guide de l'enquêteur: Promoted as an essential guide for investigators, it contains nearly 200 questions for UFO witnesses, techniques for estimating altitude and dimensions, methods for describing trajectories, analyzing ground traces, and writing reports. It also includes astronomical data.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the promotion and sale of books related to UFOs and unexplained aerial phenomena, with a particular focus on historical cases and French ufological literature. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, presenting it not as a modern myth but as a "quasiment quotidienne" (almost daily) reality throughout history. The inclusion of historical accounts like the 1897 wave and the review of Michel Bougard's work suggest an effort to legitimize and document the field of ufology.