Inforespace - No 42 - 1978

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 42
Volume: 7th year
Date: November 1978
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace, the bimonthly review of SOBEPS, marks the conclusion of its seventh year of publication. The editorial reflects on the past year's activities and looks forward to the future. The magazine is published by SOBEPS, a Belgian non-profit organization dedicated to the rational and objective study of spatial phenomena.

Editorial

The editorial highlights the completion of new, larger offices for SOBEPS, intended to improve documentation and research capabilities. It notes that while invitations to visit the library were extended, few members took advantage of them. A new form of visit will be introduced in January. The editorial emphasizes that the organization's work is not just about having a good location but about producing tangible results. It reviews the progress made in 1978, including the establishment of a comprehensive UFO reference file, with the 9000th entry now stored, and the initiation of research projects on UFO detection. The detection section, led by M. Emile Têcheur, will be the subject of a special issue in early 1979. The "coding" section, managed by MM. Verhoost and Morlet, has processed numerous documents. Scientific collaborators are now undertaking research in various fields such as effects on vegetation and electromagnetic phenomena, stemming from the analysis of the reference file.

A significant development is the statistical analysis of UFO case distributions over time and space, conducted by Luc Van Cangh. The findings are described as astonishing and have led to a last-minute revision of the publication plan, delaying the special issue on these results to allow for further calculations and completion of the work.

The editorial also mentions the expansion of the scientific committee with new competencies, including physicists and astronomers from Belgian universities. This growth aims to coordinate research and follow a rigorous plan, reflecting a professional approach to ufology, moving beyond amateur groups. The goal is to achieve concrete results in addressing the vast number of unanswered questions in the field.

Reference is made to the G.E.P.A.N. group in France, which has produced a five-volume report on UFOs based on the work of approximately eighty researchers. The report's unanimous conclusion is that witnesses observed "a flying machine of unknown nature" in most cases. The editorial contrasts this official European commission's approach with the perceived dismissiveness of the Condon committee.

1978 is characterized as a rich year for ufological research, despite limited coverage in mainstream publications. Two books are highly recommended: Michel Monnerie's "Et si les OVNI n'existaient pas?" and Bertrand Méheust's "Science-fiction et soucoupes volantes." These works are praised for their sincere reflection on the UFO problem, offering a fresh perspective away from sensationalism and unsubstantiated theories.

The editorial concludes by stating that 1978 laid the groundwork for future ufology, and with renewed hope after a period of lassitude in late 1977, the organization looks forward to a promising future. Members are urged to renew their subscriptions for 1979.

New Services and Membership Drive

For 1979, Inforespace plans to offer a new service for selling slides, recognizing the growing importance of audio-visual aids in disseminating information about ufology. An initial set of 336 slides, divided into 28 series, will be available.

A sky observation network has been established through the collaboration of Alex Debienne and Maurice Verhoost, and will work with international networks. Details will be provided in a future issue. The lack of volunteer collaborators currently hinders the development of other planned projects.

The editorial notes that subscription fees have been kept unchanged despite inflation, an effort to maintain affordability for members. These fees are crucial for funding the magazine, studies, and materials. The stagnation in membership numbers over the past three years is a cause for concern, as it threatens the organization's ability to cope with rising costs.

A solution proposed is to double the membership base. Members are encouraged to renew their subscriptions and to convince at least one other person to join SOBEPS, with a target of 3300 members by March 1979.

The editorial thanks members for their past support, which has enabled concrete research results, and requests continued annual support. The team at SOBEPS extends best wishes for 1979, hoping for the realization of members' personal projects and a significant step forward in ufological research.

Articles and Features

Editorial: Discusses the past year's activities, new office space, research progress, upcoming publications, the G.E.P.A.N. report, and recommended books.

OVNI et CIA (2): Examines the ongoing censorship of UFO incident details, citing recent examples from Iran and near US military bases in 1975. It details the Shemiran incident where a UFO caused an F-4 fighter jet to lose control and expel a missile. The report on the US military base incidents was classified until August 1977.

Dis-moi ce que tu lis... (Tell me what you read...): This section reviews ufological literature. It notes the continued productivity of the field and the tendency for individuals to publish their own viewpoints. The author observes a return to indifference and sarcasm regarding UFOs in the media, contrasting with the more active period of the mid-1970s. The review highlights several books, including "Mystérieuses soucoupes volantes" by Aimé Michel, "Et si les OVNI n'existaient pas?" by Michel Monnerie, and "Science-fiction et soucoupes volantes" by Bertrand Méheust. The article criticizes Pierre Viéroudy's "Ces OVNI qui annoncent le surhomme" for lacking new elements and for its problematic linkage of psi phenomena with UFOs.

Science-fiction et soucoupes volantes - Une approche du livre de Bertrand Méheust: This article provides an in-depth analysis of Bertrand Méheust's book. The author praises the book for its rigor and originality, finding it more compelling than Monnerie's work. Méheust's book is described as exploring the parallels between science fiction imagery and UFO reports, suggesting that much of what is perceived as UFO phenomena might be culturally influenced. The article quotes Méheust on how the panoply of UFO reports reflects culturally situated imagery and discusses the difficulty of accessing relevant literature. It also touches upon the Soviet perspective on UFOs, noting a lack of information and official statements that dismiss UFOs as unscientific fantasies.

Conclusions (from Franck Boitte's article): The author concludes that there is a long history of deformation, dissimulation, ridicule, and underestimation of UFO facts by authorities. This attitude stems from an unacknowledged fear of the implications of UFOs for human supremacy. The potential dangers of UFOs are highlighted, including power outages, engine failures, blinding lights, and even paralysis or death. The author questions why governments would hide such information, citing the common excuse of preventing panic, and argues that a calm, reasoned announcement of alien presence would likely cause only minor disruption among scientists, with the general public remaining indifferent. However, widespread, repeated UFO sightings in a specific area could indeed cause widespread panic. The article references a 1950 briefing where the possibility of contact with beings of different origins was discussed, and how to prepare the public for such a possibility. It laments the lack of progress in this area since then, aside from a few films.

Soviet Union Perspective: The article notes the near-total lack of information from the Soviet Union regarding UFOs. It cites a 1968 Pravda article by E. Mustel and others, which stated that most past American UFO observations had natural explanations and that there was no new evidence to substantiate the existence of flying saucers. They argued that UFOs are not seen by astronomers or scientists studying the atmosphere, nor by air defense services, thus there is no reason to believe rumors of extraterrestrial travel.

Subscription Information

ATTENTION! RENOUVELLEMENT DES COTISATIONS: A notice reminds members that their subscription ends with issue No. 42 and that renewals are by calendar year. The subscription for 1979 provides 6 issues (36-40 pages) plus a special issue. The annual fees are listed for Belgium, France, and other countries, with ordinary and student rates, as well as a support contribution. Payments are to be made to a specific CCP account in Brussels or a bank account. For France and Canada, international postal money orders or bank transfers are required.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Inforespace revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the potential for government secrecy and disinformation, and the critical analysis of ufological literature. The editorial stance is one of rigorous, rational, and objective study, aiming to professionalize the field and move beyond sensationalism. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based research and the importance of accurate documentation, as exemplified by the development of the SOBEPS reference file. The magazine also advocates for open dissemination of information, contrasting its approach with perceived dismissiveness or suppression by authorities. The issue highlights the growing body of ufological literature, encouraging members to engage with serious works that offer new insights into the phenomenon.

This issue of Inforespace, dated 1972, features a significant exploration of Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) phenomena, primarily through the lens of author and researcher Bertrand Méheust. The cover prominently displays a photograph of Méheust, setting the stage for an in-depth analysis that bridges ufology, science fiction, psychology, and mythology.

Bertrand Méheust's Analysis of UFOs and Science Fiction

The central theme of the issue revolves around Méheust's thesis that the imagery and narratives surrounding UFO sightings are deeply intertwined with, and often derived from, science fiction literature. He posits that the human mind, when confronted with the unknown, draws upon existing cultural frameworks, particularly those popularized by SF authors.

The Evolution of the Extraterrestrial in Science Fiction

Méheust meticulously traces the historical development of the 'extraterrestrial' concept in science fiction. He notes an initial phase where authors imagined aliens in their own image, reflecting a lack of understanding of cosmic diversity. This was followed by a period, notably influenced by H.G. Wells' 'The War of the Worlds' (1896), where monstrous and non-humanoid forms became prevalent. Later, particularly in the 1930s, SF authors returned to more human-like alien forms, albeit with variations. Méheust identifies two main archetypes that emerged: the small-statured, large-headed individual, and the tall, idealized, long-haired being.

The 'Copyright' of UFO Motifs

A key argument Méheust makes is that the 'copyright' for many UFO-related motifs—such as phantom craft, luminous phenomena, and the appearance of humanoids—was claimed by science fiction writers decades before these phenomena were widely reported by witnesses. He cites examples like Jules Verne's 'Robur the Conqueror' (1897) as an early parallel to reported UFO sightings.

The 'Elusiveness' and 'Ostentation' of UFOs

Méheust introduces the concepts of 'elusiveness' and 'ostentation' to describe the behavior of UFOs. He argues that UFOs exhibit a remarkable ability to appear and disappear, to be present yet intangible, a characteristic he finds fundamentally non-human. This 'elusiveness' is not random but seems to be a deliberate strategy to maintain the mystery and avoid definitive proof, thus preserving the phenomenon itself.

Psychological and Cultural Influences

The issue delves into the psychological dimensions of UFO experiences. Méheust suggests that UFO sightings are not merely objective events but are interpreted through the lens of the observer's consciousness, cultural background, and psychological predispositions. He draws parallels with Carl Jung's theories on archetypes and the collective unconscious, proposing that UFO phenomena tap into deep-seated symbolic patterns within the human psyche. The 'blind spot' or 'tache aveugle' in human consciousness is presented as a barrier to understanding, preventing a purely rational interpretation of these events.

The 'Mythico-Physical' Nature of UFOs

Bertrand Méheust proposes a 'mythico-physical' hypothesis for UFOs, suggesting they are not simply physical objects or psychological projections but a phenomenon that integrates both aspects. He argues that the UFO phenomenon reproduces the evolution of popular myths conveyed by science fiction, indicating a deep connection between human imagination and reported sightings.

Critique of Conventional Ufology and Scientific Approaches

Méheust critiques traditional ufology for often taking the extraterrestrial hypothesis at face value without sufficient critical examination. He also points out the limitations of purely scientific approaches that attempt to eliminate the observer's influence, arguing that in the case of UFOs, the observer and the phenomenon are intrinsically linked, akin to quantum mechanics principles.

Specific Case Studies and Examples

The article references various examples and authors, including Lovecraft, S. Weinbaum, Stapledon, and the case of Kelly, to illustrate the evolution of alien forms in SF and the symbolic nature of UFO reports. The discussion also touches upon the idea that UFOs might modulate gravitational forces, as suggested by some observations and the work of James McCampbell.

Jan Heering's Response to Pr. Meessen

A section of the magazine features a response from Jan Heering to points raised by Pr. Meessen. Heering discusses the apparent lack of high forces in UFO displacements, suggesting it might relate to a variable inertia mass or advanced engineering. He also examines the hypothesis of 'solid light' being composed of protons, noting potential inconsistencies with observational data, such as variations in beam coloration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the profound connection between UFO phenomena and science fiction, the psychological and symbolic interpretation of sightings, and the unique characteristics of UFOs, particularly their 'elusiveness.' The editorial stance, as presented through Méheust's extensive analysis, leans towards a more nuanced understanding of UFOs, moving beyond simplistic extraterrestrial explanations to explore their deep roots in human consciousness, culture, and imagination. The magazine emphasizes the need for rigorous, yet open-minded, investigation, acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for future discoveries.

The issue concludes with a note from Michel Bougard, highlighting the originality and controversial nature of Méheust's work, predicting it will generate significant debate. It also includes a notice about the availability of past issues of Inforespace.

This issue of 'Dossier Ufaux' is primarily dedicated to the analysis and debunking of a famous UFO photograph taken in Brighton Township, Pennsylvania, on August 8, 1965. It also delves into broader discussions about UFO theories and the nature of ufological research.

The Brighton Township Case: Lucci Photographs

The issue begins by recounting the events of August 8, 1965, when brothers James (17) and John Lucci were setting up a camera to photograph the moon in Brighton Township, Pennsylvania. Around 11:30 PM, they observed a bright, round object appear above the trees. James, with his eye to the viewfinder of his Yashika 635 camera, managed to take two quick shots before the object ascended and disappeared. The article details the camera's specifications and the limited time they had to capture the images.

Witness Testimony

Writer John G. Fuller interviewed the Lucci brothers. John described the object as a "big white light, brighter than the moon," which appeared gradually and then stopped in the sky before maneuvering and flying off. He noted the absence of any sound. James confirmed seeing the object through the viewfinder and described it as "round, exactly like in the photo." He also mentioned the object seemed to have a light that wasn't reflective, but its own light, though he couldn't determine if it was internal or external. The object's surface was indistinct due to mist. While John felt "nettemement plus bouleversé" (distinctly more shaken), James felt "plus content qu'effrayé" (more content than scared).

Photographic Analysis and Debunking

The article then presents the work of W.K. Hartmann, an assistant at the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, who analyzed the Lucci photographs. Contrary to earlier assessments by the 'Beaver County Times' photographers who found the images difficult to fake, Hartmann proposed a simple montage technique. He suggested the photos depicted a "plate turned upside down" held by a finger, with a small handle. The 'luminous trail' beneath the object in the photos was explained as an arm, with the first photo showing the arm in shadow and the second showing it illuminated. Hartmann's schematic reconstruction clearly illustrates how the photos could have been faked, showing the thumb, finger joints, and wrist. He concluded that the negatives did not appear to be the result of a montage or photographic trickery, but rather a carefully staged scene.

Corroborating and Dismissing Accounts

Journalist Tom Schley investigated the region and found that a lieutenant at the Pittsburgh military air base confirmed an unidentified object was observed on the same night. Bill Weitzel of NICAP also conducted an investigation, finding that neighbors of the Lucci brothers, Mr. and Mrs. de Turca, observed a large, stationary disc-shaped object with rapidly rotating red lights hovering over a nearby house for about half an hour.

Despite these corroborating accounts, the article emphasizes Hartmann's conclusion that the Lucci photos were likely faked. It notes that Fuller's investigation focused on witness accounts, and NICAP did not publish its delegate's report. The article suggests the Lucci brothers may have fabricated the photos, possibly influenced by the widespread media attention on UFOs that summer.

UFO Theories and Debates

The issue then shifts to a broader discussion of UFO theories, particularly in response to Michel Monnerie's book, "Et si les OVNI n'existaient pas?" (What if UFOs Didn't Exist?).

The Socio-Psychological Hypothesis

Jacques Scornaux analyzes Monnerie's book, which proposes a socio-psychological explanation for the UFO phenomenon, suggesting that many sightings are rooted in psychological and sociological factors rather than physical, extraterrestrial craft. Scornaux acknowledges the simplicity and scientific appeal of this hypothesis but notes its lack of experimental references. He emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology, distinguishing between theories, hypotheses, and systems, and highlighting the need for empirical verification.

Scornaux argues that while Monnerie's approach is valuable for its critical stance and its attempt to "depollute" the public's understanding of UFOs, it might be overly skeptical. He concedes that while imagination plays a role, some UFO characteristics suggest an external influence beyond pure psychology. He believes Monnerie's thesis, though useful, has shortcomings and requires further refinement.

Reactions to Monnerie's Book

The article anticipates various reactions to Monnerie's book, from those who will embrace it to those who will dismiss it. It suggests that some will feel disillusioned, while others might find relief in the idea that the UFO mystery is not as profound as believed. The authors express sympathy for those who dare to challenge established beliefs, even if they exaggerate, comparing them to figures who speak truth to power.

Monnerie is defended against accusations of discouragement or acting out of fear. The article states that he has never worked more intensely on ufology since formulating his hypothesis and that his intention was to reach the general public, not just ufologists, hence the book format.

The authors also consider the reactions from traditional UFO adversaries, predicting they will seize upon Monnerie's work to dismiss the phenomenon entirely. However, they also note Monnerie's openness to the possibility of unknown physical phenomena and parapsychological actions, suggesting his work is not purely dismissive.

The Role of Ufologists

Scornaux concludes that if the physical nature of UFOs is to be rejected, it should be done by ufologists themselves, who possess the necessary knowledge and experience, rather than by rationalist critics. He stresses the importance of an open and serene debate, free from invectives, to find the truth about UFOs.

Conference Announcement

The issue concludes with an announcement for a conference in Brussels by the SOBEPS, titled "OVNI: mythe ou réalité?" (UFO: Myth or Reality?), presented by Michel Bougard.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO evidence, particularly photographic evidence, and the debate between different UFO hypotheses. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, valuing scientific methodology and open debate, while acknowledging the complexity and enduring mystery of the UFO phenomenon. There is a clear emphasis on scrutinizing claims and distinguishing between evidence, interpretation, and speculation. The article champions the idea that even if the extraterrestrial hypothesis is disproven, the study of the human perception and societal impact of UFOs remains a significant field of research.

This issue of "Phénomènes" (Issue 159, Volume 13, 1980) delves into the complexities of UFO phenomena, critically examining psychological and behaviorist models while presenting detailed case studies. The magazine challenges conventional explanations and explores symbolic interpretations, featuring contributions from various researchers and analysts.

Critique of Psychological and Behaviorist Models in Ufology

The issue opens with a critique of psychological and behaviorist approaches to ufology, particularly targeting the work of M. Monnerie and Jacques Scornaux. The author argues that the socio-psychological model, by focusing on confirmation bias (the 'Oedipus Effect'), fails to be scientifically refutable. Karl Popper's concept of falsification is invoked to demonstrate the model's weakness. The text contrasts the behaviorist S.R. (Stimulus-Response) model with the intricate reality of the human brain, deeming it an oversimplification. The author points out that while behaviorism ignores subjective consciousness, M. Monnerie's model, though seemingly behaviorist, is a 'dissident' version. The article asserts that the psycho-neurophysiology contradicts the reduction of human behavior to S.R. units. Furthermore, it is argued that the extraterrestrial myth is not a mere content of the collective unconscious, citing J.J. Walter's extensive research on myths which found UFOs irreducible to mythology or the human psyche. The issue also critiques Jung's concept of the Collective Unconscious and Archetypes as unscientific and rooted in a phylogenetic utopia. The lack of UFO-related symptomatology in psychiatric and psychotherapeutic contexts is presented as strong evidence against psychological explanations for UFO experiences. Several studies and expert opinions, including those of Berthold Schwarz and Henry Davidson, are cited to support the claim that UFO visions are not caused by psychological disorders.

The Antônio Villas Boas Case: Symbolic Aspect

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Antônio Villas Boas" case, exploring its symbolic dimensions beyond a purely material or extraterrestrial interpretation. The author suggests that the enigma of UFOs may require looking beyond material explanations to a different reality, perhaps translated through the witness's filters. The case is presented as potentially offering evidence for the extraterrestrial hypothesis, with the vehicle described as technologically advanced. However, the analysis shifts to a symbolic interpretation, noting that the case's informative value is limited if viewed solely materially. The witness's celibacy at the time of the event, his subsequent marriage, and the lack of further unusual phenomena are highlighted. The investigation into the events preceding the alleged abduction reveals prior observations of the UFO, suggesting a premeditated aspect. The context of a rural party is explored as a potential social gathering aimed at finding a partner for Antônio, with the UFO sighting occurring when he retired for the night. The narrative then delves into the symbolic elements of the encounter, including the description of a unique table and a bar-like setting within the craft. The encounter with a woman described as having blonde hair is interpreted through the lens of Nordic archetypes and classical attraction. The rite of 'anointing' with a slightly oily substance is discussed, linking it to ancient religious traditions and symbolism of fertility, purification, and union, suggesting a connection to 'divine spheres' and the 'union of sexes'. The author notes the recurrence of sexual connotations in many UFO abduction narratives.

International News: Swedish Humanoid Sightings

The issue also reports on two international UFO cases from Sweden.

Three Humanoids Sighted in Sweden (October 1977)

Kurt Nilsson reported an encounter near a TV/radio transmission station in Hemliden, Sweden, on October 18, 1977. While testing his shortwave radio, he observed a pale blue, dome-shaped object approximately 2 meters in diameter. Three humanoids, about one meter tall and greyish, were seen standing near the object. The encounter was accompanied by severe radio interference. When Nilsson activated his car's headlights, the object and figures disappeared, only to reappear later in the road. The humanoids were described as wearing 'space suits' with white boots and helmets resembling those of astronauts. The report notes that Nilsson is considered a reliable witness, corroborated by local police. The incident also involved a discrepancy in time, with Nilsson's watch showing 20:30 while the house clock indicated 20:50, suggesting a possible time distortion.

Giant UFO Landing in 1969

Kjell Näslund, the director of the same transmission station, reported a similar experience on March 12, 1969. He witnessed a giant UFO hovering near a slope while small humanoids entered the station. Näslund described the event as terrifying and unforgettable, noting significant TV interference that evening. The case was previously published in UFO-INFORMATION no. 6, 1972. The report details the alarm system activating, the air being clear and cold, and the presence of an aurora borealis. Näslund contacted the station's responsible personnel in Sundsvall to report the disturbances.

Investigation of Traces and Witness Reliability

Investigator Reinhold Carleby visited the landing site in Sweden and reported finding unusual traces. A birch tree showed a distinct mark about 2.80 meters from the ground, suggesting the object hovered at that height. Mousse samples were collected, with one type originating from the landing site and another from across the road where the humanoids were encountered. The report also details various footprints found, including those of journalists, M. and Mme Nilsson, and the 'small humanoids' themselves, described as having short, wide, rounded feet with a cross on the heel. The dimensions of the humanoid's heel print were noted as 4x4 cm. The size of the object was estimated at 5 to 5.5 meters in diameter. The possibility of six humanoids working in two teams is raised, based on the rapid movement observed. Nilsson concluded that the object was an 'assiette' (saucer) with a dome, emitting a diffuse blue light. The report emphasizes the reliability of Kurt Nilsson, who is known to be honest and credible.

Conclusions

Michel Picard concludes the analysis by reiterating that the socio-psychological model fails the test of falsification. He argues that UFO phenomena do not represent a new psychological phenomenon but rather a particular state of consciousness. The model is described as behaviorist, incapable of explaining human behavior, especially in ufology. Picard suggests that the apparent irreducibility of the phenomenon requires a case-by-case approach. He emphasizes the need to accept our ignorance and the limitations of our rationalism when facing such complex issues. The article also touches upon the symbolic recurrence of sexual connotations in abduction narratives and the potential for serious research into non-material aspects of UFO phenomena, alongside the study of 'hardware' aspects. The author expresses conviction in the witness's sincerity, suggesting that the symbolic elements might stem from an external reality rather than the witness's knowledge of esoteric traditions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for a critical and scientific approach to ufology, emphasizing rigorous methodology and the principle of falsification. It challenges purely psychological or sociological explanations, arguing for the need to consider the phenomenon's potential material reality while also exploring symbolic and perhaps even non-material dimensions. The editorial stance appears to favor empirical evidence and logical deduction, while acknowledging the limitations of current understanding and the importance of intellectual honesty in confronting the unknown. There is a clear skepticism towards simplistic explanations and a call for deeper, more comprehensive research.

Title: UFO Information
Issue: 1/1978
Publisher: SOBEPS
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of UFO Information delves into a remarkable encounter experienced by Kjell Näslund in Sweden, alongside critical commentary on sensationalized ufology reports and a listing of available books on the subject.

An Incredible Encounter in Sweden

The main article recounts the experience of Kjell Näslund, who, on a particular afternoon, felt an urge to go outside. Around 18:30, he observed an enormous object, estimated to be 150 meters in diameter, in a hollow near his station, partially obscured by trees. The object emitted a grey-blue light from a tunnel-like opening, while the rest of it had a misty grey luminescence. Inside this tunnel, Näslund perceived about a dozen entities he described as 'clouds without solid contours, box-shaped, and floating.' He estimated their height at 130-135 centimeters and their width at 30-40 centimeters.

The tunnel appeared like a 3D photograph, offering no view beyond its entrance. At the tunnel's opening, Näslund saw three to four 'box-men' floating. He initially intended to call the police but found himself temporarily paralyzed, unable to move. He felt compelled to stay and guard the door for them. He reported that 7 to 8 creatures floated into the transmission station, passing within 20 centimeters of him. He attempted to touch them but was immobilized by an unknown force. He had a strange impression that the box-shaped creatures were trying to protect themselves and that he should remain calm, as they were not dangerous.

The box-creatures moved slowly, at the speed of a walking human, without legs or arms, and made no movements. Näslund detected no abnormal odors. He estimated the object's height to be between five and six meters, with its lower part hidden in the hollow. The object's contours were as indistinct as those of the creatures. A trembling light emanated from the object, described as similar to heat haze in the atmosphere. A low murmur, like a ship's bridge signal, was the only sound heard.

Näslund felt so overwhelmed that he could not act independently, feeling guided by the creatures. They remained for approximately five to ten minutes. Before the object disappeared, the tunnel closed as the creatures were drawn back in. The object then departed northward towards Vännäs.

Following the object's departure, Näslund's paralysis subsided, and he entered the station to call policeman Hans Häggblad, who took the report seriously.

Näslund also called the Sundsvall transmitter station, where his story was met with laughter. He insisted he was sober and in full possession of his faculties. He could offer no explanation for what he saw.

Subsequent investigation revealed no unusual traces in the frozen snow around the object's location, despite its hovering parallel to the slope of the terrain. The altitude difference was 15 meters, with a steep incline. The only physical trace of this 1969 landing was a fir tree that had been topped, being larger than the surrounding trees.

The article is credited to Carl-Anton Mattson and Thorvald Berthelsen, translated by Jean-Paul Petit, and sourced from UFO Information n° 1/1978.

Sensationalism in Ufology: The Portuguese Alien Case

This section, written by Michel Bougard, critically examines a sensationalized report about a living extraterrestrial allegedly found in Portugal. The story claimed an alien with ten tentacles, each one centimeter in section, was discovered 18 years prior by a professor during a UFO observation in southern Portugal. The creature was reportedly found by examining cottony filaments collected after the passage of unknown objects.

The information was disseminated by Joaquim Fernandes at a "ufology" congress in Porto and was widely reported by Belgian and international French-speaking press. Bougard notes that the sensational aspect of the story contributed to its widespread publication.

SOBEPS received numerous inquiries from readers asking for their opinion and precise information. Bougard expresses skepticism, calling the report "absurdities." He states that no additional details were received from Mr. Fernandes, but notes that Fernandes was prepared to sell photographs of the "spider" for approximately $1000 USD to "encourage scientific interest." Bougard views this as a questionable practice.

The article identifies several common tropes and misinterpretations in the report, such as the description of a one-centimeter section creature being photographed with a microscope. It also points out the use of a "professor" for scientific credibility, followed by a conclusion that "Soviet researchers" made similar discoveries, implying an "experimental" confirmation.

Bougard asserts that ufology is filled with eccentrics and unscrupulous individuals, as well as naive people eager to believe anything. He suggests Mr. Fernandes likely falls into the latter category. He concludes by regretting that the press continues to publish such information, which discredits serious ufological research. He contrasts the ease with which sensational stories are published with the difficulty of getting serious research information accepted by journalists, noting that serious work is less exciting than tales of little green men or ten-tentacled spiders.

SOBEPS Bookstore Service

The final section lists books available for purchase through SOBEPS, providing titles, authors, brief descriptions, and prices in Belgian Francs (FB). The list includes a variety of works on UFOs and related phenomena, such as:

• *DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES AUX OVNI* by Michel Bougard
• *LA CHRONIQUE DES OVNI* by Michel Bougard
• *A IDENTIFIER ET LE CAS ADAMSKI* by Jean-Gerard Dohmen
• *LA NOUVELLE VAGUE DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES* by Jean-Claude Bourret
• *LE NOUVEAU DEFI DES OVNI* by Jean-Claude Bourret
• *MYSTERIEUSES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES* by Fernand Lagarde
• *LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES VIENNENT D'UN AUTRE MONDE* and *BLACK-OUT SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES* by Jimmy Guieu
• *LE LIVRE NOIR DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES* by Henry Durrant
• *PREMIERES ENQUETES SUR LES HUMANOIDES EXTRATERRESTRES* by Henry Durrant
• *SOUCOUPES VOLANTES, 20 ANS D'ENQUETES* by Charles Garreau
• *FACE AUX EXTRATERRESTRES* by Charles Garreau and Raymond Lavier
• *DES SIGNES DANS LE CIEL* by Paul Misraki
• *CHRONIQUES DES APPARITIONS EXTRATERRESTRES* by Jacques Vallée
• *LE COLLEGE INVISIBLE* by Jacques Vallée
• *DISPARITIONS MYSTERIEUSES* by Patrice Gaston
• *LE DOSSIER DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES, CEUX VENUS D'AILLEURS* and *OVNI DIMENSION AUTRE* by Jacques Lob and Robert Gigi
• *LES OBJETS VOLANTS NON IDENTIFIES: MYTHE OU REALITE ?* by Dr. J. Allen Hynek
• *LES ETRANGERS DE L'ESPACE* by Major Donald E. Keyhoe
• *LES OVNI EN U.R.S.S. ET DANS LES PAYS DE L'EST* by Julien Weverbergh and Ion Hobana
• *LE LIVRE DES DAMNES* by Charles Fort

Payment can be made via CCP or bank transfer to SOBEPS in Brussels. International postal money orders are accepted for foreign orders.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are detailed UFO/UAP sightings and encounters, the critical analysis of sensationalized and unsubstantiated claims within ufology, and the promotion of serious UFO research. The editorial stance, particularly evident in Michel Bougard's article, is one of skepticism towards sensationalism and a strong advocacy for rigorous, evidence-based investigation into UFO phenomena, while lamenting the media's tendency to prioritize 'unusual' stories over factual reporting. The magazine also serves as a resource for enthusiasts by listing available literature on the subject.