Inforespace - No 38 - 1978

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 38
Volume: 7th year
Date: March 1978
Publisher: SOBEPS asbl (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Type: Bimonthly review

Editorial

The editorial acknowledges a significant delay in publication, attributing it to various challenges faced by the organization, including illness, printing issues, and a lack of professional journalistic resources. The editorial team emphasizes that they are not professional journalists and are reliant on volunteer efforts. They appeal for greater collaboration from readers, particularly in secretarial tasks, to help overcome these difficulties. The editorial also thanks supporters and donors, mentioning specific contributions from Marie-Henriette Stanowski and Jean-Claude Bourret, and expresses hope for continued support.

Articles and Features

Les premiers résultats de l'opération "codage"

This section presents the initial results of a large-scale data collection and codification project. The operation involves dissecting dozens of magazines and books to extract information on UAP cases, which are then transcribed into a computer-readable format. Currently, approximately 5,200 references have been compiled, representing distinct entries rather than unique cases, with a small percentage of duplicates. The article details the characteristics being coded, providing a breakdown of the number of references associated with each category. These categories include object shapes (discs, spheres, cigars, triangles, etc.), structural details (landing gear, domes, antennas), observer contact, dropped objects (engines, mother ships), movements (sharp turns, acceleration, disappearance, zigzags), and other peculiarities. The system also codes for phenomena like electromagnetic effects (power outages, electronic interference), physical effects (traces on the ground, burns), and effects on humans and animals.

La disparition de Travis Walton (3)

This installment continues the coverage of the Travis Walton case. It details Travis Walton's reaction to the intense media attention following his disappearance, including his frustration with journalists and his refusal to participate in a lie detector test under duress. The article also discusses the involvement of the NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) in investigating the case. NICAP's findings suggest that the media coverage was excessive and potentially hindered a thorough investigation. They also questioned the validity of lie detector tests administered to Walton's co-workers, noting that the results, while deemed satisfactory by the police, were negative on questions directly related to the incident itself. The article mentions that Philip Klass, a known OVNI debunker, also scrutinized the tests, suggesting that Travis himself may have influenced the questions. Furthermore, it is revealed that Travis had undergone another polygraph test with APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization) shortly after his return, which reportedly failed and was subsequently archived by APRO.

Le cas Antonio Villas Boas (1)

This section briefly mentions the Antonio Villas Boas case as one of the cases covered in the magazine.

Le dossier photo d'inforespace

This indicates a photo dossier section within the magazine.

L'ufologie n'est plus ce qu'elle était

This title suggests an article reflecting on the evolution or current state of ufology.

La science anglaise face aux OVNI

This title indicates an article discussing the British scientific community's approach to UFO phenomena.

Nouvelles internationales

This section likely covers international news related to ufology.

Le referendum sur inforespace

This title suggests an article presenting the results or discussion of a reader referendum.

SOBEPS and Publication Information

SOBEPS is described as a non-profit association committed to the rational and objective study of space phenomena. It aims to provide unbiased information through its bimonthly review and conferences. The organization actively solicits information from its readers regarding UFO sightings and related phenomena. The magazine's editorial policy states that signed articles represent the views of their authors and not necessarily those of the publication. Subscription details and payment methods are provided, including bank and postal account numbers for Belgium and instructions for France and Canada.

Back Issues and Availability

The magazine announces that back issues from 1972 to 1977 (issues 1 to 36) are still available for purchase. These older issues contain foundational articles and series, including a history of UFOs, photo dossiers, investigation reports on Belgian cases, studies on the Taiga explosion, UAP propulsion, and various specific cases from around the world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic study and cataloging of UAP phenomena, the investigation of specific well-known cases like Travis Walton, and the challenges faced by ufological organizations in terms of funding and volunteer support. The editorial stance is one of promoting a rational, objective, and scientific approach to ufology, encouraging reader participation and collaboration while acknowledging the difficulties inherent in such research. The magazine aims to provide detailed case analyses and information on the characteristics and effects of reported UAP sightings.

This issue of 'Flying Saucers' (Volume 2, Issue 9, July 1976) focuses on two significant UFO cases: the controversial Travis Walton abduction and the Antônio Villas Boas encounter. The magazine presents detailed accounts, investigative findings, and the ensuing debates within the ufology community.

The Travis Walton Case: Controversy and Investigation

The article begins by detailing the Travis Walton case, highlighting the polygraph test administered to Walton and the subsequent analysis by Dr. R. Leo Sprinkle. Jim Lorenzen, director of APRO, proposed the test, with financial backing from the 'National Enquirer'. However, the results were reportedly disappointing, leading the newspaper to suppress the story. Lorenzen found himself in a difficult position, unable to retract the story.

Philip Klass emerged as a strong critic, suggesting the abduction was a fabrication by Travis Walton to break a contract with Michael Rogers. Klass alleged that Walton had a history of drug use and legal issues, and that the entire event was a staged incident. He pointed to a clause in US contract law that allowed for contract termination under unacceptable security risks, suggesting Walton used the 'abduction' as a pretext to avoid fulfilling his contractual obligations related to clearing forest land.

Klass concluded that Walton would never recant his story due to the legal repercussions he would face if the case were proven false. The sheriff of the region was reportedly seeking proof of fraud to hold Walton liable for the search costs.

APRO, particularly Jim and Coral Lorenzen, responded to Klass's assertions, though their counter-arguments were considered less impactful. They argued that Klass's position was biased due to his long-standing anti-UFO stance and that his analysis of the Walton case was inconsistent. APRO also expressed disappointment at not receiving a copy of Klass's report, which had been widely distributed to the press.

The issue of the initial negative polygraph test result was addressed by the Lorenzens, who cited three psychiatrists who deemed the test invalid due to the conditions and the witness's state of mind. One psychiatrist, Dr. Jean Rosenbaum, reportedly believed in Walton's sincerity and stated he had not used drugs, though he qualified his opinion.

Further points raised against the Walton case included the lack of physical evidence at the incident site, inconclusive tests on the loggers, and Sheriff Gillespie's doubts. The GSW (Ground Saucer Watch) concluded the case was fraudulent, citing that Walton's companions did not see him abducted, the family was aware of the phenomenon, and Duane Walton predicted his brother's return, stating UFOs were not hostile. The GSW also noted that the Walton family declined scientific assistance, refusing to meet with Allen Hynek, and that they 'monetized' their story with the 'National Enquirer', implying the truth was compromised from the start.

The article also touches upon the role of other individuals involved and the counter-investigation by Ray Fowler, who contested NICAP's findings. Fowler suggested that NICAP's report was based on rumors and press clippings rather than a thorough investigation.

The Antônio Villas Boas Case: An Early Close Encounter

The magazine then shifts to the case of Antônio Villas Boas, detailing an alleged physical encounter with extraterrestrials on October 16, 1957, near Sao Francisco de Sales, Brazil. This case is distinguished by its detailed description of the interaction.

Antônio Villas Boas, a young farmer, claimed he was forced aboard a flying craft by presumed extraterrestrial beings. Inside, he encountered a seductive female creature whose intentions were unambiguous. Despite initial tension, he eventually yielded.

The case was initially known under the pseudonym 'Adhémar' and was later detailed in APRO's publication 'The great Flying Saucer Hoax' and its revised edition 'Flying Saucers: The Startling Evidence of the Invasion from Outer Space'. The S.B.E.D.V. also published accounts in its bulletins.

In 1967, APRO published Dr. Olavo Fontes's full report in 'Flying Saucers Occupants', with contributions from ufologist Joao Martin. The S.B.E.D.V. also pursued the case, facing difficulties in identifying the witness and his location.

Dr. Fontes's report, based on an interview with Villas Boas on February 22, 1958, provides a detailed account. Villas Boas, then 23, described his life as a farmer and the events of the night of October 5, 1957. He reported seeing a strange silver light in the stable, which later entered the room and then disappeared.

On October 14, 1957, while working with his brother, he observed a strong, stationary, round, reddish-light object hovering at about 100 meters altitude. The object moved erratically as he approached, repeating its movements until he gave up.

On October 15, 1957, at 1:00 AM, Villas Boas saw a red point in the sky that rapidly grew larger and descended towards him. The object, described as egg-shaped with metallic spurs and a red headlight, landed near his tractor. He attempted to flee but his tractor stalled. He was then approached by three beings who forcibly took him aboard the craft.

Inside the craft, he described a metallic interior with fluorescent lighting. He was moved through several rooms, including a large, oval-shaped hall with a central column. He observed furniture made of a metallic, white substance. The beings, described as speaking in animal-like sounds, eventually removed his clothes and applied a clear, oily liquid to his body.

He then witnessed the beings drawing his blood using a tube and a cup. After this procedure, he was left alone for about half an hour before being returned to the ground. He noted the craft had a revolving cupola and three metallic supports.

Figure 1 provides a sketch of the object based on Villas Boas's description, showing a revolving cupola, orange and green lights, and a 'plank' shape. Figure 2 offers sketches of the crew member, detailing a suit with a small opening for the eyes, tubes connecting to the ears, and a girdle with a red light. Figure 3 illustrates an inscription on a door inside the craft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue highlights the challenges and controversies inherent in UFO investigations. The articles showcase the differing methodologies and conclusions of various organizations and individuals, such as APRO, NICAP, and independent researchers like Philip Klass and Ray Fowler. The magazine seems to present these cases with a degree of detail and analysis, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also acknowledging the passionate and sometimes contentious nature of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting documented cases and the debates surrounding them, without necessarily taking a definitive side, but rather exploring the complexities of the phenomena and the investigations.

This issue of "Le dossier photo d'inforespace" focuses on a UFO sighting in Zagreb, Yugoslavia, on November 23, 1967, featuring photographic evidence and witness accounts. It also delves into a critical analysis of scientific publications concerning the Tunguska event and the broader state of ufology.

Zagreb UFO Sighting, November 23, 1967

The central piece details the observation of three luminous objects in the sky over Zagreb by Zoran Farcich, a student at the Higher School of Tresnjevka. Farcich, along with fellow student Darko Fejzagich and members of the astronomical department of the Croatian Society of Natural Sciences, observed the phenomenon. Two objects appeared stationary, while a third was in motion, emitting a bluish light. The event was captured on film using an Agfa film with a two-minute exposure. The witnesses struggled to provide a conventional explanation, noting that the objects' luminosity and simultaneous presence ruled out satellites. The article includes a bibliography of related publications and references.

Analysis of 'New Scientist' and 'Nature' Articles

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to critiquing recent articles in 'New Scientist' and 'Nature' concerning the Tunguska event of 1908. The author argues that these publications, particularly an article by Vera Rich in 'Nature', exhibit intellectual dishonesty by selectively presenting evidence to support a comet hypothesis while ignoring or downplaying contradictory findings. The magazine highlights the work of Soviet physicist A.V. Zolotov, who proposed a nuclear explosion of a cosmic vessel, citing anomalous radioactivity and unusual silicate particles found at the site. The author criticizes the British journals for dismissing Zolotov's research and for their biased approach, which they liken to 'intoxication of public opinion'. The article contrasts the alleged hostility of English science towards UFO phenomena with the more open, albeit sometimes controversial, approach seen in some Soviet scientific circles.

The State of Ufology

The magazine reflects on the current state of ufology, describing it as characterized by 'proliferation and overbidding' in books, conferences, and theories. It notes the anarchic nature of the field, with numerous attempts at organization that have largely failed. A key reason cited for these failures is the inherent difficulty in achieving consensus and collaboration among diverse specialists (physicists, sociologists, psychologists, statisticians). The article expresses a pessimistic outlook, suggesting that positive developments will be rare.

The establishment of GEPAN (Group for the Study of Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena) is mentioned as a serious, officially supported initiative involving CNES. However, the author cautions against expecting miracles, citing the Condon Committee as a precedent and highlighting two potential pitfalls for GEPAN: insufficient funding and the challenge of fostering interdisciplinary communication.

Critique of Skeptics and the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET)

The magazine also addresses the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET), acknowledging its scientific compatibility with astrophysics and exobiology. It criticizes the dismissive attitude of some ufologists towards HET, suggesting it stems from an unconscious rejection or a desire to avoid the implications of a potentially mundane universe. The author defends HET against detractors who label proponents as 'adorers' or 'dreamers', arguing that HET can stand independently of UFO sightings. The article also critiques the tendency of some to equate 'cultism' with a need to believe at any cost, lamenting the influence of paranormal literature that undermines critical thinking.

Specific Cases and References

The issue revisits the Kenneth Arnold and Mantell sightings, attributing Arnold's observation to a temperature inversion and Mantell's to a weather balloon, while questioning the scientific rigor of these explanations. The case of the Hill couple is re-examined, with the author suggesting that their account of alien abduction was embellished over time and that Betty Hill may have mistaken Jupiter for a UFO. The article also touches upon the work of Philip Klass, a prominent UFO skeptic, and criticizes his methods of case dismissal. The limitations of statistical arguments, such as the 'frequency objection' to HET, are also discussed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine maintains a critical and analytical stance towards both UFO phenomena and the scientific establishment's response to them. It champions a rational, objective study of UFOs while exposing what it perceives as intellectual dishonesty and bias in mainstream scientific publications and skeptical circles. The editorial stance favors a rigorous, evidence-based approach, questioning conventional explanations when they appear to ignore or distort data, particularly in cases like the Tunguska event. There is a clear emphasis on the need for open-mindedness in scientific inquiry, even when dealing with unconventional hypotheses, and a critique of reductionist approaches that prematurely dismiss possibilities.

This issue of Inforespace, number 33, published in 1978, is a French-language magazine focused on ufology. It features a comprehensive reader referendum, international UFO case reports, and critical analysis of scientific and pseudoscientific approaches to the phenomenon.

Critical Analysis of Ufological Research and Debate

The issue opens with a critique of how certain scientific publications and individuals, like those associated with the "methodology of Menzel-Klass-Condon," dismiss or explain away UFO evidence. The author, Jacques Scornaux, argues that this approach is intellectually dishonest and fails to address all observed facts. He contrasts this with the open-minded approach of ufologists who are willing to consider all evidence and revise their conclusions if presented with credible counter-arguments. Scornaux criticizes the tendency to attribute UFO sightings to psychological factors like imagination or mass hysteria without rigorous study, questioning why sociology and psychology departments haven't extensively researched the societal impact of the UFO "rumor."

He highlights the case of David Michael Jacobs, whose doctoral thesis on the UFO controversy in America led him to become a ufologist, suggesting that in-depth study of the phenomenon often leads to conviction of its reality.

International UFO Sightings

Arlington, Virginia, USA

Francine Van Curen, a pilot and air traffic controller, reported an observation on March 11, 1977. From her 9th-floor apartment, she witnessed a silent, luminous object resembling a long arrow with a wide, blunt tip, moving from south to north at an estimated altitude of 2000 feet. The object had visible segments and bright red bands. She estimated its length to be around 100 feet. No aircraft lights or sounds were detected, and she ruled out conventional aircraft.

Belœil, Canada

On July 24, 1977, three young people and their uncle observed an object described as a "flying fir tree" moving silently across the sky. Later, a second object, a disc, was seen. The "fir tree" object was pale grey, appeared transparent and blurry, and was estimated to be between 1800 and 2500 meters in altitude. It emitted no light or vapor trails. The disc-shaped object was seen at a 50° elevation and appeared half the size of the full moon, moving vertically on its edge.

G.E.P.A.N. Scientific Council Recommendations

The Scientific Council of G.E.P.A.N. (a French UFO research group) provided recommendations for improving their operations. They emphasized the need for faster data collection and reporting to the Gendarmerie, and suggested refining selection and statistical treatment procedures. They also recommended exploring the formation of a multidisciplinary intervention team. The council acknowledged that statistical methods alone are insufficient for drawing conclusions but are indispensable tools. They stressed the importance of developing precise methodologies for case studies and investigations. Ultimately, they recommended the continuation of G.E.P.A.N.'s activities within C.N.E.S. to coordinate national data collection and analysis, urging that sufficient resources be allocated and that vigilance be maintained regarding the diffusion and publication of findings.

Reader Referendum: "Le referendum sur Inforespace"

This extensive section presents the results of a reader survey conducted by Inforespace. It covers various aspects of the readership and their engagement with the magazine and the UFO phenomenon:

• Age and Demographics: The readership is predominantly male (over 90%), with the largest age group being 20-40 years old. The proportion of students has slightly decreased, while cadres and university-educated individuals have increased.
• Professions: Cadres, university professionals, and employees/independents form the largest professional groups.
• Diplomas: A significant portion of readers hold secondary or higher education diplomas, with a notable increase in those with non-university higher education and university degrees between 1974 and 1977.
• Interest in UFOs: The interest in UFOs spans several decades, with a substantial number of readers becoming interested between 1961 and 1974, and a smaller but present group showing interest from 1975 onwards.
• Subscriptions: Most readers subscribe to Inforespace exclusively (68.4%), with a smaller percentage subscribing to other UFO-related magazines.
• Cited Reviews: "Lumières Dans La Nuit" and "GEPA" are among the most frequently cited related publications.
• UFO Observations: 26.6% of respondents reported having observed a UFO, with 44.1% of those reporting it to an organization and 53.8% keeping it to themselves.
• Hypotheses on UFO Origin: The most common hypothesis is "extraterrestrial" (49.0% in 1974, 41.7% in 1977), followed by "parallel universe" (25.1% in 1974, 24.2% in 1977). "Terrestrial origin" and "unknown natural phenomena" are also cited.
• Preferred Articles: "Dossier photo" and "nos enquêtes" (our investigations) were consistently preferred in 1974. In 1977, "études et recherche" (studies and research) and "nos enquêtes" became the most preferred categories.
• Least Preferred Articles: "Historique" (historical articles) and "primhistoire" (prehistory) were the least preferred in 1974. In 1977, "courrier des lecteurs" (letters to the editor) and "primhistoire" were least preferred.
• Favorite Articles: Specific articles like "les boules de l'Aveyron" and "les pièces du puzzle" were highly rated, while "l'affaire UMMO" and "le triangle des Bermudes" were also popular.
• Topics to See More Of: Readers requested more articles on astronomy, astronautics, exobiology, psychological aspects of testimony, objective critiques of ufological literature, and detection/magnetic phenomena.
• Topics to See Less Of: "Primhistoire" and "chronique des OVNI" were the least desired topics.
• Desired Modifications: Suggestions included making Inforespace a monthly publication with more pages, improving binding, providing scientific supplements, and increasing collaboration with scientists.

Service Librairie SOBEPS

This section lists books available for purchase from SOBEPS, including titles like "DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES AUX OVNI," "LA CHRONIQUE DES OVNI," and works by authors such as Michel Bougard, Jean-Claude Bourret, Jacques Vallée, and Dr. J. Allen Hynek. Prices are listed in Belgian Francs (FB).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of ufological research, the importance of objective scientific inquiry, and the presentation of eyewitness accounts. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of treating the UFO phenomenon seriously, advocating for rigorous investigation, and challenging dismissive attitudes from mainstream science. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious ufological study, encouraging open-mindedness while demanding scientific integrity. The referendum results underscore the readership's engagement with these themes, indicating a strong interest in detailed case studies, research findings, and a desire for the field to be treated with greater scientific respect.

This document is a page from a publication, likely a magazine or a promotional flyer, featuring advertisements for various services and publications. The primary focus is on the magazine "KADATH", described as a publication dedicated to "true enigmas of archaeology". It is stated to appear 5 times a year, with each issue containing 44 richly illustrated pages.

Advertisements and Services

Real Estate Services

The real estate agency "A. RENIER EXPERT CONSEIL IMMOBILIER" is advertised, offering expertise and property valuations. Their services include "Expertises - Etats des lieux". They are located at 54, avenue Paul Janson, 1070 Bruxelles, with telephone numbers 02-522 63 09 and 522 04 09.

KADATH Magazine

The magazine "KADATH" is presented as the basis for the anthology "Chroniques des civilisations disparues" (Chronicles of Lost Civilizations), published by Robert Laffont. Subscription details are provided: within Belgium, it costs FB 500, payable to "Prim'Edit" sprl via CCP 000-0979.148-30 or bank account 210-0909.368-45. For international subscribers, the cost is FB 550, payable via international postal money order. The editorial address for KADATH is Boulevard Saint-Michel, 6 - boite 9, 1150 Bruxelles, with a contact telephone number of 02-734.82.91.

Britt's Bookshop

"BRITT'S BOOKSHOP" is advertised as "The nicest bookshop in Brussels!". It offers English books from around the world and specifically caters to those interested in "UFO books and other enigma subjects". The bookshop is located at rue du Marché au Charbon, 39, 1000 Brussels, and can be reached by telephone at 02-512 87 54.

Other Listings

Below the bookshop advertisement, a list of items is presented: "JUMELLES, SPOTTING-SCOPES, TELESCOPES, LUNETTES ASTRONOMIQUES, MICROSCOPES, REPARATIONS, ETC.". This suggests a potential offering of optical equipment, astronomical instruments, microscopes, and repair services, possibly related to the bookshop or another entity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The content highlights a strong interest in archaeology, historical enigmas, and potentially UFO phenomena, as indicated by the magazine "KADATH" and the specialization of "BRITT'S BOOKSHOP". The presence of real estate advertising suggests this page might be from a broader publication or a composite flyer where diverse interests are represented. The editorial stance, inferred from the featured content, leans towards subjects of mystery, history, and the unexplained.