Inforespace - No 52 - 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 52
Volume: 9th Year
Date: July 1980
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace, a bimonthly review dedicated to ufology and spatial phenomena, presents a comprehensive exploration of various aspects of the field. The cover prominently features the title 'inforespace' alongside the main themes of 'ufologie' and 'phénomènes spatiaux'.

Table of Contents

The table of contents on page 3 outlines the key articles:

• Analyse du phénomène des « cheveux d'ange » (2) - Analysis of the 'angel hair' phenomenon (Part 2).
• La morphologie humanoïde : étape importante du développement de la Vie sur une planète ? (12) - Humanoid morphology: an important stage in the development of life on a planet?
• L'enlèvement d'Aveley: une rencontre du 3º type (1) - The Aveley abduction: a 3rd kind encounter (Part 1).
• Etude de différents aspects du phénomène OVNI (1) - Study of different aspects of the UFO phenomenon (Part 1).
• On nous écrit... (28) - Letters to the editor.

Article 1: Analyse du phénomène des « cheveux d'ange » (2)

This extensive article, continuing from a previous issue, delves into the phenomenon of 'angel hair'. The authors begin by acknowledging the difficulty in studying such elusive phenomena and the need for a rational, scientific approach, even when dealing with seemingly extraordinary events.

The Problem Data

The article highlights the remarkable internal consistency of observations, suggesting that 'angel hair' might not be a single substance but rather different types of 'atmospheric pollutions' that an OVNI's 'force field' could gather into filaments.

Early Observations

The study traces the phenomenon back to ancient times, referencing the biblical account of manna as a potential early description. The manna, described as a 'dewy layer' and 'small, granular' substance found on the desert floor, had a taste of honey cakes and was sensitive to heat.

Historical Accounts (Pre-1950s)

The article meticulously documents numerous historical instances of anomalous substance falls, often associated with UFO sightings:

• 1582 (Erfut, Germany): During a storm, a large quantity of a substance resembling human hair fell.
• 1665 (Leipzig, Germany): A fall of 'blue silk filaments' covered fields and clung to people and animals.
• 1686 (Norway and Pomerania): Enormous quantities of a black, leaf-like substance, resembling carbonized paper, were reported. Chemical analyses by Von Grothus and Berzélius yielded differing interpretations, with one suggesting a mineral substance and the other contradicting it due to the absence of nickel.
• 1741 (England): A fall of 'spiderwebs', described as strips about 3 cm wide and 12-15 cm long, covered a large territory.
• 1821 (Pernambouc, Brazil): A substance resembling silk fell, which disintegrated and bore resemblance to silk floss carried by the wind.
• 1832 (Kourianof, Russia): A yellow, resinous substance, described as 'stretching like cotton', fell over a 600 m² area.
• 1839 (Silesia): A fall of 'cotton felt' like sheets was observed.
• 1846: A greyish substance fell, which swelled in water to become gelatinous.
• 1847 (Shangaï): A large quantity of grey-olive 'powder' was observed, which under a microscope appeared to be an aggregate of black and white hairs.
• 1876 (Kentucky, USA): 'Flesh-like' flakes fell, covering the ground and trees.
• 1881 (Milwaukee, USA): A fall of 'spiderwebs' with a strong texture was reported.
• 1883 (Montussan, France): A thick cloud produced 'woolly' packets that burned when ignited.
• 1898 (Montgomery, Alabama): Numerous samples of a substance resembling 'spiderwebs' fell, described as asbestos-like fibers and phosphorescent.

Fatima Events (1917)

The article also references the events at Fatima, Portugal, in 1917, noting the appearance of a 'luminous globe' and a subsequent 'rain of white petals' on September 13th, and the 'dance of the sun' with a silver disc on October 13th, which some interpret as UFO-related phenomena.

1950s Observations

The 1950s saw a clearer association between 'angel hair' falls and UFO sightings:

• 1948 (Ohio, USA): A 'silver sphere' dropped a disintegrating silver substance.
• 1952 (Oloron, France): A long cylinder released fluffy, grey-silver masses, accompanied by spherical objects.
• 1952 (Nîmes, France): A cigar-shaped object emitted a 'mist'.
• 1952 (Gaillac, France): A cylinder-like object with accompanying flying saucers produced white, fibrous masses that disintegrated rapidly.
• 1953 (New Zealand): Filaments that disintegrated quickly upon manipulation were found.
• 1953 (California, USA): A 'blizzard of angel hair' covered a large area.
• 1953 (New Zealand): A bright blue object dropped white filaments resembling spiderwebs.
• 1953 (California, USA): A silver ball produced a white banner-like substance that dissolved.
• 1954 (Portugal): Reports of 'angel hair' falls around 1920 were mentioned.
• 1954 (California, USA): A round object released a white substance resembling lace or spiderwebs.
• 1954 (France): An object surrounded by a disc exploded, leading to a fall of 'angel hair'.
• 1954 (Méral Mayenne, France): A 'flying saucer' emitted a 'luminescent mist' that fell as white, slightly sticky matter.
• 1954 (Vienne, France): A high-altitude object was followed by 'parachute-like' formations falling from the sky.
• 1954 (Marysville, Ohio, USA): A cigar-shaped object released 'soft white tufts' resembling 'angel hair'.

The article emphasizes the rapid sublimation and disappearance of this substance, making analysis difficult. It also notes the fibrous nature and occasional stickiness or gélatinous transformation of the material.

Article 2: La morphologie humanoïde : étape importante du développement de la Vie sur une planète ?

This article (pages 12-13) explores the concept of humanoid morphology as a potential significant stage in the evolution of life on planets. It likely discusses the biological and evolutionary implications of such forms.

Article 3: L'enlèvement d'Aveley: une rencontre du 3º type (1)

This article (page 13) details a specific case of alleged alien abduction, classified as a '3rd kind encounter', focusing on the 'Aveley abduction'.

Article 4: Etude de différents aspects du phénomène OVNI (1)

This article (pages 23-27) presents a study on various facets of the UFO phenomenon, likely covering different types of sightings, characteristics, or theories.

Letters to the Editor

'On nous écrit...' on page 28 features correspondence from readers, indicating an interactive element within the magazine.

SOBEPS Information and Bookstore Service

Pages 2 and 10 provide crucial information about SOBEPS:

• Membership and Subscriptions: Detailed tables on page 2 list subscription costs for 'Inforespace' from 1973 to 1980, broken down by country (Belgium, France, Other Countries) and category (ordinary, student, patron, honorary member). Payment methods via CCP (Belgian postal account) and bank accounts are specified, with a note that no cash-on-delivery shipments are made.
• SOBEPS Mission: The association's mission is clearly stated: to conduct rational and objective observation and study of spatial phenomena, and to disseminate information through its review and conferences. They actively solicit collaboration from readers for information on reported subjects.
• Bookstore Service: Information on page 2 lists available books for purchase through SOBEPS, including "Des Soucoupes Volantes aux OVNI" and "La Chronique des OVNI" by Michel Bougard. Payment details are reiterated.
• Open House: Page 10 announces that SOBEPS premises are open every Saturday from 2 PM to 6 PM for visitors to explore the library, discuss with collaborators, and consult a remarkable slide collection of over 300 documents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the detailed investigation and documentation of anomalous aerial phenomena, with a strong emphasis on historical evidence and physical traces. The 'angel hair' phenomenon serves as a prime example of this approach, linking ancient accounts to modern observations. The editorial stance, as articulated in the SOBEPS mission statement, is one of rational, objective study, encouraging scientific inquiry and reader participation. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between the mysterious and the scientifically understandable, inviting readers to contribute to this ongoing research.

This issue of "L'Observateur" (Volume 17, Issue 1, dated January 1971, though some content references later dates) is primarily dedicated to exploring phenomena related to UFO sightings and potential extraterrestrial encounters. It features detailed accounts of "angel hair" incidents, scientific analysis of the substance, and a theoretical discussion on the possibility of humanoid extraterrestrial life. The magazine appears to be published by GEPA and is in French.

"Angel Hair" Phenomenon

The issue extensively documents numerous occurrences of "angel hair," a peculiar substance described as white, fibrous, and resembling cotton wool, cotton candy, or spider webs. These events are often linked to UFO sightings.

Early Incidents (1950s)

The magazine details several early reports:

• October 26, 1954, Prato, Italy: Two flying saucers reportedly released "transparent threads."
• October 27, 1954, Florence, Italy: A football match was interrupted by thousands of spectators observing "brilliant points" in the sky that emitted "white smoke" which fell as a "white cotton wool" or "cotton candy"-like substance. An engineering student, A. Jacopozzi, observed the objects as "hat-shaped" and evolving in pairs. The substance was collected and analyzed by Professor Giovanni Canneri at the University of Florence. He found the fibers to be remarkably resistant to traction and torsion. Spectrographic analysis indicated a composition of boron, silicon, calcium, and magnesium. The origin of this product remained unexplained.
• September 1, 1955, Edmore, Michigan, USA: "Angel hair" fell slowly from the sky in tufts, some as large as a "large plateau."
• October 2, 1955, Urichsville, Ohio, USA: "Silver spider webs" filled the air after two disk-shaped objects disappeared.
• October 28, 1955, Whisett, North Carolina, USA: Over a hundred students witnessed "steel ball bearing" objects and falling "angel hair." An instructor described the substance as similar to "sugar filaments" or fine threads used for Christmas decoration, appearing in bands 5 to 8 cm long.

Later Incidents (1960s-1970s)

The phenomenon continued to be reported:

• August 10, 1956, Melbourne, Australia: Millions of spider web-like filaments floated through the suburbs, clinging to electrical wires, cars, and clothing. Scientific analysis concluded it was not wool, cotton, feathers, or synthetic fibers.
• October 12, 1962, Montreal, Canada: White, very fine filaments were found hanging everywhere on a docked ship. They were described as surprisingly strong and elastic, disappearing within minutes when held.
• November 7, 1965, Auch, Revel, Toulouse, France: A fall of "angel hair" was analyzed by M. H. Mauras, who reported that the filaments disappeared when approached by a flame, were attracted by static electricity, and under microscopic examination, appeared to be composed of many parallel threads.
• October 12, 1966, Jonesboro, Tennessee, USA: Several people observed UFOs dropping "sheets" that divided into filaments resembling spider webs. The substance was sticky, caused skin irritation, and animals avoided it.
• September 18, 1968, Ste Anne, Canada: Three disk-shaped UFOs expelled a white, "fluffy" substance that formed an arc. Some of the substance rolled down the sides of the objects and fell to the ground. The substance was analyzed and found to be cellulosic, with uniform fiber diameter (5 microns), and possibly rayon fibers coated with gum.
• October 22, 1973, Sudbury, Massachusetts, USA: A large amount of spider web-like material was observed falling from the sky, covering an area of 500 meters. The material was semi-transparent white, diminished in diameter, and dissipated over time.
• October 6, 1976, Valensole, France: A "rain" of bright, spider web-like filaments was observed falling from the sky. One witness reported seeing a cigar-shaped UFO shortly after.
• October 12, 1976, England: A special case investigated by the Center for UFO Studies involved two tufts of filaments found in a field. Analysis revealed they were produced by spiders.

The Aveley Abduction: A Third Type Encounter

This section details a significant case that occurred in Aveley, Essex, England, in the autumn of 1974, but only came to light in August 1977.

The Incident

On Sunday, October 27, 1974, the Avis family (John, Elaine, and their three children: Kevin, Karen, and Stuart) were driving home from visiting Elaine's parents. Around 21:50, while driving on Hacton Lane, they encountered a dense, green fog that covered the road for about 800 meters. The radio crackled and smoked, and the car's headlights went out. The family experienced a sensation of intense cold and a complete loss of memory for approximately three hours. After the fog dissipated, the car was found to be about 800 meters further down the road. The car experienced mechanical problems afterward, including a broken crankshaft and clutch, leading to its disposal.

Post-Incident Developments

Following the incident, the family experienced significant changes:

• Personality Modification: John suffered from an inexplicable nervous depression and quit his job. He later found employment working with mentally handicapped individuals and became more confident. Elaine also became more confident and returned to school. Kevin, who had been behind in learning to read, suddenly improved significantly.
• Dietary Changes: The family stopped consuming meat and could no longer tolerate it.
• Other Events: Several strange occurrences were reported at their home and on the road.

The family eventually contacted a local UFO study group, and the case was investigated by Barry King and the author.

Humanoid Morphology: An Important Step in Life's Development on a Planet?

This article, by Pascal Deboodt, discusses a communication from Professor B.L. Umminger, published in IUR (June 1978), concerning the "humanoid" aspect of entities observed in close encounters of the third kind (RR3).

Umminger's Concepts

Umminger proposes three concepts to explain the potential humanoid appearance of extraterrestrial entities:

1. Convergent Evolution: Different species, originating from distinct ancestors, can develop similar morphologies due to adapting to similar environmental pressures or niches. Examples include whales and fish adapting to aquatic life.
2. Ecological Equivalence: Species occupying identical ecological niches in different geographical locations can develop similar morphologies. This is illustrated by the development of hind limbs in North American rabbits and guinea pigs living in similar prairie environments.
3. Cultural Evolution: This concept addresses the idea that advanced technology might negate the need for further morphological evolution. As humans increasingly shape their environment rather than adapting to it, future technological development might occur "extra-somatically."

Umminger applies these concepts to the universe, suggesting that if Earth-like planets exist and have developed life, they could be considered equivalent ecological niches. Therefore, intelligent, mobile life forms on these planets, even with different evolutionary origins, might develop similar forms and functions, potentially resembling humans.

Conclusion

Umminger concludes that if intelligent extraterrestrial life exists and his concepts are applicable universally, it is not absurd to consider that "Ufonauts" could be morphologically similar to humans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, unexplained phenomena like "angel hair," and the possibility of extraterrestrial encounters. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting detailed case studies and scientific analyses while also delving into theoretical explanations for these phenomena, such as the biological and evolutionary perspectives on humanoid extraterrestrial life. The publication aims to document and investigate these events, often referencing scientific institutions and researchers.

This issue of "Lumières Dans La Nuit" (LDLN), a French publication focused on ufology, delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, personal experiences, and scientific investigations. The issue includes a detailed account of a family's unusual encounters, a critique of a previous article, and a discussion on the scientific approach to understanding UFOs.

John and Elaine's Experiences

The magazine begins by detailing the lifestyle changes and concerns of John and Elaine. They have adopted a healthier diet, avoiding artificial ingredients, and are deeply concerned about environmental issues. They have also reduced their alcohol consumption and John has quit smoking. They express a belief that doctors are over-solicited and prefer to avoid medication, using only salt pills for tissue regeneration. John's personality has also reportedly become stronger and more persuasive.

Following an initial encounter, John and Elaine report being persistently followed by three cars: a red sports car, a blue Jaguar, and a white Ford Executive, all with tinted windows and British license plates. They suspected these were police vehicles, and this surveillance reportedly ceased in the summer of 1975.

Further incidents include a night in 1975 when they were alerted by loud arguments from two men in a parked car across the street. A police officer, who arrived after they called, questioned them and left. They also describe a series of strange events within their home over three years, including misplaced objects and a back door that repeatedly opened violently. They experienced a lavender scent and a sweet, nauseating odor in the house on separate occasions. A persistent humming sound, described as similar to an airplane, was heard outside their home, intensifying and passing overhead before stopping abruptly. In the living room, a clicking sound, likened to crackling, was heard. They also recount a "code morse" being perceived within their bedroom on three occasions, with Elaine recalling parts of it but finding no meaning. In December 1977, a portable radio reportedly levitated 6 cm in their living room, and later that evening, the doorknob to the hall began to turn as if someone were trying to open the door.

Other reported events include the disappearance of their cat for several weeks, during which it would hiss at invisible things. Their telephone would ring with no one on the line, sometimes accompanied by clicking sounds. A child named Kevin reported seeing a clown-like figure in his bedroom.

UFO Encounters of the Family

The magazine notes that the family's encounter in October 1974 was not their first. John has had four other UFO experiences, including a Type II Close Encounter. The first sighting occurred 12-13 years prior, when John and Elaine were engaged and observed a flattened, star-like object moving erratically over the sea. In 1968, John was a passenger in a car on the M1 motorway when a blue-white light appeared, causing the car in front to brake and stall. The car John was in then collided with the car in front. The light disappeared, and police reported similar incidents in the region.

Another observation took place on Aveley Road, where John saw a large cylindrical object following a clear-sky airliner. The object was twice the size of the plane, silver in color, and moved with the plane before departing. In October 1977, the family observed a large bluish light, like a star, moving in the same direction as their car on the A12 road. The light remained visible for about 60-70 km until they reached Colchester. During this time, the object changed speed and altitude, appearing directly overhead, and the car's radio and lights malfunctioned.

Scientific Approach to UFO Phenomena

An article titled "Etude de différents aspects du Phénomène OVNI (1)" by Andrew Collins, translated by Jean-Paul Petit, discusses the challenges in ufological research. It critiques the tendency to create numerous hypotheses to explain UFOs, leading to confusion and hindering progress. The author emphasizes the need for a systematic approach, classifying phenomena and gathering detailed observational data. The article defines "OVNI" (UFO) as any strange object observed in the atmosphere or on the ground, "Phénomène OVNI" as strange manifestations related to UFOs, and "Ufonautes or humanoids" as the entities occupying UFOs.

The author argues against the idea that UFO phenomena are inherently incomprehensible, suggesting that our current understanding might be limited. The article draws parallels with historical scientific developments, like the classification of substances in alchemy, to illustrate the need for careful categorization. It highlights that not all UFO manifestations may stem from a single cause.

Several research examples are presented: Claude Poher's statistical analysis suggesting UFOs are a real, unknown phenomenon; Maurice de San's model of atmospheric electromagnetic propulsion for the Tunguska event; James McCampbell's observation of powerful high-frequency electromagnetic radiation from UFOs; and research by Jean-Pierre Petit and Maurice Viton on magnetohydrodynamic propulsion, suggesting a vehicle design resembling two opposing saucers.

The article stresses that these are models to be refined or rejected, and that laboratory experiments could be conducted to test some hypotheses. It acknowledges that UFO phenomena are not entirely unknown or incomprehensible, but may involve forces we are aware of but cannot yet manipulate at such intensities.

Robert J. Stevens contributes a section titled "Causes des effets physiques et physiologiques directs," presenting a table categorizing direct physical and physiological effects of UFOs, distinguishing between effects at a distance and at close contact. The table lists various types of radiation, electromagnetic fields, and particle emissions as potential causes.

"On nous écrit..." Section

This section features a letter from Fernand Lagarde, a ufologist, critiquing an article by Michel Monnerie. Lagarde points out several inaccuracies in Monnerie's account of a UFO observation in North Sudan, particularly regarding the date of the event (April 1957, not autumn 1967 or September 1977), the location details (Tessalit), and the description of the object. Lagarde disputes Monnerie's interpretation of sketches and his attempt to fit the observation to a specific thesis, accusing him of distorting facts and texts to mislead the reader.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around personal UFO encounters, the challenges of UFO research, and the scientific investigation of these phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages rigorous investigation, critical analysis of evidence, and the development of scientific models to understand UFOs, while acknowledging the complexity and potential for misinterpretation. There is an emphasis on detailed observation and the systematic classification of different types of UFO events. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, urging readers to contribute information and participate in the ongoing investigation of UFO phenomena.

This document is a scanned page from a French-language magazine focused on ufology and related phenomena. It primarily consists of a detailed list of book reviews and summaries, with a strong emphasis on French and Belgian publications. The cover headline highlights 'A IDENTIFIER ET LE CAS ADAMSKI' by Jean-Gérard Dohmen, described as the first Belgian work in French on the UFO phenomenon.

Book Reviews and Summaries

The majority of the content is dedicated to presenting and summarizing various books on UFOs and extraterrestrial subjects. Each entry includes the title, author(s), publisher, a brief description of the content, and the price in Belgian Francs (FB).

Key books and their themes include:

• 'A IDENTIFIER ET LE CAS ADAMSKI' by Jean-Gérard Dohmen: Focuses on UFO observations in Belgium.
• 'MYSTERIEUX OBJETS CELESTES' by Aimé Michel: A re-edition discussing the 1954 French saucer wave.
• 'LA NOUVELLE VAGUE DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES' and 'LE NOUVEAU DEFI DES OVNI' by Jean-Claude Bourret: These works compile French television show content, interviews, Gendarmerie files, and research by figures like Jean-Pierre Petit on UFO propulsion.
• 'OVNI, L'ARMEE PARLE' by Jean-Claude Bourret: Reveals secret service files and reports from the French Army and Gendarmerie.
• 'MYSTERIEUSES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES' by Fernand Lagarde: Presents collective reflections from researchers like Aimé Michel and Jacques Vallée.
• 'ET SI LES OVNI N'EXISTAIENT PAS ?' by Michel Monnerie: Argues that misidentifications are common and proposes socio-psychological explanations for UFOs.
• 'LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES VIENNENT D'UN AUTRE MONDE' and 'BLACK-OUT SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES' by Jimmy Guieu: Described as French ufology classics.
• 'PREMIERES ENQUETES SUR LES HUMANOIDES EXTRATERRESTRES' by Henry Durrant: Documents and analyzes close encounters with extraterrestrials.
• 'SOUCOUPES VOLANTES, 20 ANS D'ENQUETES' and 'FACE AUX EXTRATERRESTRES' by Charles Garreau: Reviews serious research on UFOs in France and includes a dossier of landing testimonies.
• 'DES SIGNES DANS LE CIEL' by Paul Misraki: Explores the relationship between UFOs and religious phenomena.
• 'CHRONIQUES DES APPARITIONS EXTRATERRESTRES' and 'LE COLLEGE INVISIBLE' by Jacques Vallée: Vallée shares his views on ufology, including a catalogue of landing cases and connections to parapsychological phenomena.
• 'LE DOSSIER DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES', 'CEUX VENUS D'AILLEURS', and 'OVNI DIMENSION AUTRE' by Jacques Lob and Robert Gigi: A comprehensive study presented as comic books.
• 'LES OBJETS VOLANTS NON IDENTIFIES: MYTHE OU REALITE ?' and 'AUX LIMITES DE LA REALITE' by Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Jacques Vallée: Hynek explains the importance of serious UFO study, and he and Vallée discuss UFO nature, cases, and research avenues.
• 'LES OVNI EN U.R.S.S. ET DANS LES PAYS DE L'EST' by Julien Weverbergh and Ion Hobana: A dossier on UFO observations from Eastern Bloc countries.
• 'ALERTE GENERALE OVNI' by Leonard Stringfield: Presents evidence for the reality of UFOs and the discovery of humanoids aboard recovered UFOs.
• 'LE LIVRE DES DAMNES' by Charles Fort: A compilation of unexplained phenomena.

Advertisements and Subscriptions

The second page contains advertisements for optical instruments (telescopes, microscopes, etc.) from PIERRE SLOTTE in Brussels. It also promotes the review 'KADATH', which focuses on archaeological enigmas, and provides subscription details for Belgium and abroad. Additionally, there is an advertisement for A. RENIER, a real estate expert in Brussels.

Another section promotes 'Le guide de l'enquêteur' (The Investigator's Guide), an ouvrage offering nearly 200 questions for UFO sighting witnesses, techniques for estimating altitude and dimensions, analyzing ground traces, and writing reports. It also includes astronomical data and is available for purchase through SOBEPS.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to have a strong focus on documenting and analyzing UFO sightings, extraterrestrial encounters, and related phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of serious inquiry, presenting research from various perspectives, including scientific, socio-psychological, and historical accounts. There is a clear effort to compile and disseminate information on UFOs, particularly from French and Belgian sources, and to provide resources for researchers and enthusiasts in the field.