Inforespace - No 44 - 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: inforespace
Issue: n° 44
Volume: 8th year
Date: March 1979
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of "inforespace" delves into ufology and space phenomena, featuring a critical examination of the GEPAN (Groupe d'Etude des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés), financial appeals for the magazine's survival, and an in-depth look at significant UFO cases.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Michel Bougard, President of SOBEPS, begins with a thank you to subscribers for renewing their 1979 cotisation and to those who contributed as 'sponsors', specifically mentioning Mme M.H. Stanowski from the Netherlands for a donation of 3,000 Florins. Bougard asserts that "inforespace" is among the top 3 or 4 UFO publications globally in terms of content, presentation, and regularity. He addresses the lack of response to a previous appeal for new members, noting that some subscribers have even withdrawn their support due to economic hardship. He emphasizes that the annual subscription fee is modest, comparable to the daily cost of a cigarette, and urges members to recruit new subscribers. The editorial also tackles the issue of publication delays, explaining that "inforespace" is a volunteer-run publication and that the current issue (n° 44) marks the resolution of a one-month delay. Bougard expresses disappointment that some members do not understand the concept of 'volunteering' and confuse paying a subscription with the right to criticize those who dedicate their time and effort.

The GEPAN: Secrets and Criticisms

The article "Le point sur le GEPAN" (The GEPAN Update) provides an overview of the French official UFO investigation group, GEPAN. Established in March 1977 and operational from May 1977, GEPAN is presented as a scientific body with a permanent staff of two, supported by CNES engineers and technicians, as well as external collaborators. The article details GEPAN's structure, including its rapid intervention group, trace collection group, radar alert group, and expertise group, which handles cases forwarded by the gendarmerie. It also mentions a national file group and a statistical analysis group. A scientific council of eight members, including seven external experts from various scientific fields, was formed to guide GEPAN's work. GEPAN has developed a new classification system for phenomena (Types A, B, C, and D) and is investigating whether Type D phenomena (unexplained UFOs) correspond to real stimuli or hallucinations. Results suggest the stimuli are real and remain unidentified. The article notes that in 1978, GEPAN focused on analyzing older cases, with a significant report of 679 pages in five volumes resulting from this work.

However, the article also highlights significant criticisms and concerns regarding GEPAN. The resignation of its director, Claude Poher, is presented as a pivotal moment. Poher, who had been working on a 12-meter sailboat, cited personal reasons for his departure, intending to embark on a world tour. The article suggests that GEPAN's focus was shifting towards public relations, with plans for a film and a documentary, and that its official role might be primarily to reassure the public, as indicated by CNES President H. Curien, who is skeptical of UFOs. The appointment of Alain Esterlé, with a background in astronautics and applied mathematics, as Poher's successor is noted. The article expresses concern about GEPAN's future, citing potential issues with funding, personnel, and a perceived shift away from genuine scientific research towards a 'demystification' strategy reminiscent of the Condon Report.

"Un naufrage?" (A shipwreck?)

This section offers a highly critical perspective on the GEPAN, stemming from a meeting organized by the group in Toulouse. The author, Jean-François Gille, expresses deep disappointment with the GEPAN's approach, which he characterizes as arrogant and dismissive of private UFO research groups. Gille criticizes GEPAN's reliance on gendarmerie reports as its sole source of information, arguing that this approach would miss significant cases. He points out that GEPAN's permanent staff dedicates only 10% of their work time to UFO studies and that many involved scientists had no prior interest in ufology, mirroring the Condon Committee's methodology. The article suggests that GEPAN's primary function is public relations rather than scientific investigation, evidenced by the choice of guests at the meeting, who were largely from private associations but were treated with a sense of deference. The author concludes that GEPAN appears to be an enterprise aimed at discouraging and demobilizing scientific research into UFOs.

The Steep Rock Lake Case

This section details the 'Steep Rock Lake' case, an anomaly described as highly singular. Occurring on July 2, 1950, it is presented as the first detailed account of a landing by small, mechanized beings, published in the same year. The witnesses, who remained anonymous, reported a vibration in the air followed by a peculiar, seemingly absurd, rotary maneuver by the beings. The report was published in "The Steep Rock Echo," a corporate publication of the Steep Rock Iron Mines, with the editor, B.J. Eyeton, vouching for the credibility of the witnesses, who were described as a company executive and his wife.

Other Sections

• Service Librairie: This section lists books available for purchase from SOBEPS, including "Aux Limites de la Réalité" by J. Allen Hynek and Jacques Vallée, "Des Soucoupes Volantes aux OVNI" by Michel Bougard, "La Chronique des OVNI" by Michel Bougard, and "Mystérieux Objets Célestes" by Aimé Michel. Subscription and payment details for SOBEPS are also provided.
• Le Système Saturne (2): This article continues a discussion on the 'Saturn System' and delves into the Steep Rock Lake case, emphasizing its historical significance as the first documented landing of small beings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the challenges faced by ufological research, particularly the tension between official scientific bodies and private researchers. There is a strong undercurrent of criticism towards official organizations like GEPAN, which are perceived as prioritizing public relations and scientific credentials over genuine investigation and collaboration with experienced private groups. The financial struggles of independent publications like "inforespace" are also highlighted, underscoring the dedication of volunteers in the field. The editorial stance is one of advocating for a rational, objective, and open approach to ufology, while expressing concern about efforts that might demobilize or discredit the field. The importance of scientific rigor is acknowledged, but so is the value of contributions from dedicated amateurs and private researchers.

This issue of "Phénomènes Aériens Non Identifiés" (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) delves into complex UFO cases, focusing on the analysis of witness testimonies, the potential technological aspects of observed craft, and the nature of alleged extraterrestrial beings. The magazine explores the challenges of interpreting such phenomena and their implications for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

The Steep Rock Incident

The issue details the Steep Rock incident, where witnesses described a craft resembling two joined saucers on a lake. On its upper platform, they observed several small beings, approximately 1 meter tall, moving in a circle. A ring-shaped object rotated around a central point, operated by a being on a small platform below. The beings wore helmets (one red, others dark blue) and metallic objects on their chests. Their movements were described as automaton-like, making laborious turns to change direction. The witness noted that the central ring, possibly an antenna, stopped rotating when oriented towards a living being. The craft also featured a water pump with two hoses.

The Feignies Incident

Another significant case discussed is the Feignies incident from August 26, 1974. Witnesses observed a black ball, about 8 meters in diameter, surrounded by a luminous crown. This ball split vertically, with the right half moving away. The remaining dark semi-circle revealed two "little cosmonauts" whose heads were covered by helmets, and who wore metallic grey clothing. Their movements were mechanical, like automatons, as they walked in circles. This observation is compared to the Steep Rock incident, noting similarities in the mechanical behavior and rotational movements.

Analysis of 'Saturn Operation' and 'Zootrope' Concepts

The article introduces the concept of a "Saturn operation," characterized by a central pivot, an upper ring, and the movement of "androids" or "humanoids." This structure is observed in various cases, including the Steep Rock and Île Maury incidents. The author also explores the "zootrope" hypothesis, suggesting that some UFO phenomena might be elaborate visual displays designed to test witness reactions, akin to early cinematic devices.

Technological and Behavioral Interpretations

The technological level of the observed phenomena is questioned, with the use of human-powered mechanics and water pumps suggesting a potentially "primitive" yet effective technology. The nature of the "little beings" is debated, with possibilities ranging from mechanized humanoids to androids. The article highlights the difference in behavior between these beings and human pilots, noting their automaton-like movements.

Structural Analysis of UFOs

The structural characteristics of the UFOs are analyzed, with emphasis on the central vertical ring and the horizontal arrangement of other components. This structure is compared across different sightings, suggesting a consistent underlying design.

Critiques of Witness Testimony and Ufology

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the critical analysis of witness testimonies. The author discusses the complexities of human memory, the influence of investigators, and the potential for misinterpretation or fabrication. The article contrasts the "ufologists" who accept most testimonies with "anti-ufologists" who dismiss them, advocating for a more rigorous historical and critical approach to UFO evidence.

The 'Galactic Club' Hypothesis and SETI

The issue touches upon the broader implications for the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI). It discusses the "Galactic Club" hypothesis, which posits that advanced civilizations might form a network and observe emerging ones like Earth. The article contrasts this with the "zoo hypothesis," suggesting that we are being deliberately left alone. The author argues that the absence of direct contact does not necessarily mean the absence of extraterrestrial intelligence, and that surveillance by an IET (Intelligent Extraterrestrial) might be occurring.

The Tihange Nuclear Power Plant Case

A separate section details an observation near the Tihange nuclear power plant in Belgium in January 1977. A witness driving at night observed a silent, luminous, rectangular object with a halo, moving at low altitude and speed, comparable to a car. The object's characteristics are described, and it is compared to other similar sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the mechanical and automaton-like behavior of alleged extraterrestrial beings, the structural analysis of UFOs, the critical examination of witness testimonies, and the philosophical and scientific implications for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to rigorously analyze UFO phenomena through a combination of witness accounts, structural analysis, and scientific reasoning, while acknowledging the inherent difficulties and complexities involved.

This issue of L'ÉCHO DES MYSTÈRES, volume 4, issue 39, dated September 1978, focuses on two significant UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings that occurred near the Tihange nuclear power plant in Belgium. The magazine, published by SOBEPS, features detailed investigations into these events, exploring witness accounts, attempting to corroborate them, and discussing potential explanations, including psychological factors.

The January 18, 1978 Observation

The cover story details an observation made on January 18, 1978, by an automobilist. The witness described a curious luminous rectangle, uniformly bright, with a well-defined contour. Its length was about three times its width, and its longitudinal axis was oriented in the direction of travel. The object moved silently and without any visible exhaust or trail. The witness followed the object for several minutes as it moved over the military camp and then veered towards the west, flying over the Tihange nuclear power plant. The object eventually stopped and hovered above the plant's atomic reactor, to the left and above the main chimney. The witness's wife and two children also observed the object for about ten minutes. As it moved away, it appeared rounded, with a halo, resembling a luminous spot.

The September 18, 1977 Observation

A second observation, dated September 18, 1977, involved a witness, M. M.R., who was driving along the Meuse river in the early morning. He noticed an intense luminosity emanating from the direction of the Tihange nuclear power plant. As he approached, he saw an impressive, cigar-shaped object, about seven to eight meters long, hovering next to the high chimney. The object projected a narrow beam of light that illuminated the power plant buildings. It had a matte dark grey metallic color. Three rectangular windows were visible on its dark surface, illuminated from within by white light, with a faint red reflection in the center of each. The light beam's intensity varied, correlating with the brightness of the internal lights. The object remained stationary for about twenty minutes, emitting no sound. Suddenly, the main light extinguished, and the object moved horizontally at high speed towards the Pont d'Ombret, emitting a slight whistling sound. The witness later saw the object again, stationary at a lower elevation, showing only its rear white light source, before it disappeared into the distance.

Investigation and Confirmation Challenges

The investigation, led by M. and Mme F. Bonnecompagnie, W. Breidenbach, and J.-L. Vertongen, faced significant challenges in corroborating these testimonies. For the January 18 sighting, no independent confirmation was found, despite the witness's location offering a good vantage point. For the September 18 sighting, attempts to verify the date led to a complex process of checking flight schedules, as the witness had initially intended to travel to the Canary Islands. It was confirmed that the witness did not travel as planned due to a fear of flying, which he had concealed. This discrepancy, along with other minor inconsistencies in his account, raised questions about his credibility.

Analysis of Witness Credibility and Psychological Factors

The article delves into the complexities of witness testimony and the challenges of UAP investigations. It acknowledges that the witness in the September 18 case had deliberately omitted certain details, particularly his failed travel plans, which could be interpreted as an attempt to save face or compensate for a perceived personal failing. The authors explore the possibility of a hoax or a psychological need to create a compelling narrative, especially in contrast to his travel companion's more straightforward experience.

However, the investigators also highlight the internal consistency of the witness's detailed description, including the precise trajectory and positioning of the object, which would be difficult to fabricate without prior knowledge or extensive planning. They also consider the possibility that the witness felt a personal connection to the phenomenon, as suggested by his quote about the object's light beam being directed at him.

Discussion on Ufology and Scientific Acceptance

The magazine also touches upon broader issues within ufology, including the persistent difficulty in gaining acceptance from the scientific community, particularly physicists. It discusses the tendency for some ufologists to embrace complex explanations like interstellar travel or psychic energies while being hesitant about more straightforward psychological phenomena. The concept of the "intransmissible" nature of UAP knowledge is explored, suggesting that some phenomena might be deliberately elusive, resisting definitive proof.

Conclusions

The article concludes that while the September 18, 1977, testimony is not entirely convincing (not 100% certain), it is not entirely dismissed either. The investigation was thorough, but no independent confirmation was found. The authors emphasize the complexity of UAP cases, the importance of witness psychology, and the limitations of verification when dealing with single-witness accounts. They suggest that while simpler explanations should always be considered first, some cases remain resistant to easy refutation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue reflects a recurring theme in ufological literature: the meticulous investigation of UAP sightings, the challenges of corroboration, and the critical examination of witness testimony. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism combined with a commitment to thorough investigation. The magazine aims to present detailed case studies, analyze them critically, and engage with both the potential reality of UAP and the psychological and social factors that influence their reporting and interpretation. The emphasis is on rigorous inquiry, even when faced with inconclusive results or questionable witness accounts.

This issue, titled "Phénomènes astronomiques importants en 1979 (2)", focuses on astronomical events and UFO sightings throughout the year 1979. It serves as a guide for enthusiasts, detailing planetary visibility, meteor showers, and lunar phases, while also reporting on significant UFO phenomena.

Astronomical Phenomena Guide

The magazine provides a comprehensive monthly breakdown of astronomical events. For each month from April to December, it lists visible planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus), their magnitudes, and their positions relative to the Earth (D/T) and the Moon (C/L). It also details the phases of the Moon and notable meteor showers, such as the Aquarides, Perseids, Giacobinides, Orionides, Piscides, and Taurides. The text explains astronomical concepts like magnitude, declination, and light-years, and provides details on celestial objects like stars (e.g., Vega, Sirius, Capella, Altaïr) and constellations (e.g., Ursa Major, Lion, Gemini, Orion).

• Specific astronomical events highlighted include:
• April: Mercury as a morning star, Venus as a morning star, Jupiter and Saturn's positions, and the Lyrid meteor shower.
• May: Saturn's rings becoming less visible, Jupiter and Saturn's positions, and the Eta Aquarid meteor shower.
• June: Venus as a morning star, Mars becoming observable, Jupiter and Saturn's positions, and the Delta Aquarid meteor shower.
• July: Mars and Jupiter's positions, Saturn's decreasing visibility, and the Capricornid meteor shower.
• August: Mercury as a morning star, Venus's conjunction with the Sun, Mars's position, and the Perseid meteor shower.
• September: Mars and Jupiter's positions, and the Piscid and Taurid meteor showers.
• October: Mercury as an evening star, Mars and Jupiter's positions, and the Orionid meteor shower.
• November: Venus as an evening star, Mars and Jupiter's positions, and the Giacobinid meteor shower.
• December: All visible planets observable in the morning or evening, Mars and Jupiter's conjunction, Saturn's visibility, and the occultation of Aldebaran by the Moon.

The issue also discusses the Sun's activity cycle, predicting increased sunspots, auroras, telecommunication disruptions, and magnetic storms for 1979-1980. It mentions the potential reentry of the Skylab satellite and the observation of Soviet Saliout stations and the upcoming American space shuttle.

UFO Sightings and Analysis

Beyond astronomy, the magazine delves into UFO phenomena. It begins by discussing the elusive nature of UFOs, quoting ufologist Bertrand Méheust who suggests that UFOs provide enough evidence to be convincing but deliberately avoid definitive proof. The article explores various hypotheses for UFO behavior, such as avoiding cultural shock or guiding human evolution.

Italian UFO Wave

• A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a reported UFO 'flap' in Italy, occurring simultaneously in multiple locations from Sicily to Liguria. Ufologists interpret this as a mass operation. Specific sightings include:
• Two lights observed at high speed moving north-south.
• Rolando Santarelli and Armando Di Caprio, Alitalia employees, reported seeing two intense pink lights moving at an altitude of about 400 meters, which then disappeared, leaving a smoke-like cloud.
• Numerous other sightings are mentioned across Italy, with descriptions ranging from a half-moon shape to round objects and lights resembling those of a car.

Eufemio Del Buono, a ufologist with thirty years of experience, considers this wave a sign of an important upcoming event.

The article also presents a scientific explanation proposed by organizations observing flying objects, suggesting that the Italian sightings might be reflections from the 'Pegasus I' satellite, which re-entered Earth's atmosphere in September 1978. However, the text notes that the unusual behavior of animals during these events might contradict this explanation.

Spanish UFO Observation

• The issue details an observation made on May 13, 1978, in Villaverde del Rio, Seville, Spain, by a group of five researchers. They observed:
• A reddish, circular object moving in a zig-zag pattern.
• A second reddish object moving at high speed.
• Two elongated objects moving west-east, one of which was described in detail. This object was cylindrical, with three distinct domes (red, white-yellow, and blue) each surrounded by a halo. The rest of the structure appeared grayish and metallic. A turbine-like feature was observed at its base.

The observation lasted between 4 and 5 minutes, and the objects disappeared without sound. The researchers used binoculars and took infrared photos.

Ufological Reflections

The commentary section, written by Antonio Moya Cerpa, emphasizes the difference between casual witnesses and dedicated researchers, highlighting the serious interest in the UFO problem. He suggests that while some aspects of the 'unknown' might be debunked, the core mystery of UFOs remains, justifying continued ufological research.

Book Reviews

The latter part of the magazine includes a list of books related to UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena, with titles, authors, publishers, and prices. These cover a wide range of topics, from new UFO waves and French investigations to historical accounts, extraterrestrial humanoid encounters, and analyses of UFOs in relation to religious phenomena and parapsychology. Notable authors featured include Jean-Claude Bourret, Fernand Lagarde, Jimmy Guieu, Henry Durrant, Charles Garreau, Paul Misraki, Jacques Vallée, Patrice Gaston, Jacques Lob, Robert Gigi, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, Frank Edwards, Major Donald E. Keyhoe, Claude McDuff, Julien Weverbergh, Ion Hobana, and Charles Fort.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of astronomy and the unexplained, particularly UFO phenomena. It adopts a serious, investigative tone, presenting both scientific data and anecdotal evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the complexity and mystery of UFOs while encouraging rigorous study. The publication aims to inform readers about both celestial events and the ongoing debate surrounding unidentified flying objects, suggesting that the study of UFOs enriches human knowledge across various scientific disciplines.

Title: INFORESPACE
Issue: 42
Volume: 7
Date: 1973-1978 (identified as '1973 A 78')
Publisher: Prim'Edit sprl
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of INFORESPACE, identified as volume 7, issue 42, primarily serves as an announcement that back issues from 1973 to 1978 are available for new members. The cover prominently features an advertisement for optical instruments from PIERRE SLOTTE in Brussels, including binoculars, spotting scopes, astronomical telescopes, and microscopes, along with repair services. Another advertisement is for A. RENIER, a real estate expert in Brussels, offering expertise, inventory of condition, sales, and rentals.

The main content of the page details the availability of past INFORESPACE issues, specifically numbers 7 through 42. The magazine is described as being published 5 times a year, with 44 richly illustrated pages dedicated to the "true enigmas of archaeology." Subscription information for "Kadath," a magazine that served as the basis for the anthology "Chronicles of Lost Civilizations" published by Robert Laffont, is also provided. The subscription cost is FB 500 in Belgium, with bank transfer details for "Prim'Edit" sprl, and FB 550 for international subscribers via postal mandate.

The announcement regarding back issues emphasizes that these older numbers contain numerous articles covering Belgian UFO cases and exceptional series from Brazil. Specific examples of articles mentioned include:

• "Our Investigations": detailing a car stopped by a UFO in Aische-en-Refail, a humanoid sighting ten meters away in Vilvorde, and a mysterious object observed by multiple witnesses between Jodoigne and Verviers.
• "Study and Research": featuring a study on the famous 1908 explosion in the Taiga, research on UFO propulsion and space travel, and a critical study of "orthoteny" theory.
• It also highlights the first works of SOBEPS on detection.
• "Photo Dossier": including Belgian cases and exceptional series from Brazil.
• Complete files on little-known observations, such as UFOs in Papua New Guinea and the Villas Boas affair.

Additionally, two special issues are mentioned: one entirely dedicated to witnesses and testimony in ufology, and another focused on the witness and testimony in ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of INFORESPACE revolve around ufology, unexplained phenomena, and archaeological mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of these subjects, presenting case studies, research findings, and critical analyses. The emphasis on providing access to past issues suggests a commitment to building a comprehensive archive of information on these topics for its readership. The magazine aims to explore "true enigmas" and present detailed accounts, including witness testimonies and photographic evidence, as indicated by the "Dossier Photo" and "Nos Enquêtes" sections.