Inforespace - No 61 - 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 61
Date: September 1982
Volume: 11th year
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace, a quarterly review dedicated to ufology and space phenomena, delves into the complex world of UFO encounters, contactees, and the astronomical aspects that can sometimes be mistaken for UFOs.

Key Articles and Content

Les contactés et kidnappés sont-ils des collaborateurs involontaires ou des citoyens cosmiques ? (2)

This extensive article explores the experiences of individuals who claim to have been abducted by UFOs or have had contact with extraterrestrial beings. It examines their descriptions of these encounters, often recalled through hypnotic regression, and discusses the psychological impact on the individuals. The article posits a hypothesis that these individuals may be transforming into "Cosmic Citizens," developing a concern for humanity as a whole and a "Cosmic Consciousness." It addresses skepticism from investigators regarding the use of hypnosis and proposes that individuals who publicly share their UFO experiences may find personal growth, drawing a parallel to the movie "Oh, God."

A significant portion of this section is dedicated to a letter from Ann Canary to a woman named Peggy, who is experiencing fear and a sense of being controlled after a UFO encounter. Canary shares her own experiences and offers advice on documenting experiences, maintaining a serene attitude, and seeking personal growth. She suggests that these beings may be multidimensional and are interested in humanity's spiritual development, possibly to prevent self-destruction.

Another example is provided of Ida M. Kannenberg, who describes messages from her "mentor-Ufolk," HWEIG, suggesting that individuals are given opportunities to be of service and to help the planet evolve towards a higher state of consciousness. HWEIG emphasizes the importance of individual contribution and the potential for developing unique capacities.

The article concludes by summarizing research on over 200 individuals who reported UFO-related impressions, with a focus on those who described alien encounters, examinations, and abductions. It reiterates the hypothesis that contactees-OVNI improve their personal lives by making their experiences public and becoming more open about their encounters.

L'OVNI et les trois filles : quand la lune s'en mêle

This section addresses an error in a previous issue (No. 60) concerning the astronomical data for a UFO sighting near Châtelet on July 5-6, 1980. The author, who provided the initial calculations, acknowledges the inaccuracies and thanks Michel Monnerie and Jacques Bonabot for their critical feedback. The article aims to correct these errors and provide a detailed explanation of astronomical calculations related to celestial bodies, specifically the Moon.

It begins by detailing the astronomical parameters of the Moon on the night of the observation, including its rise, transit, and set times, as well as its declination and right ascension. The author then explains the concepts of horizontal and equatorial coordinate systems, defining terms like zenith, nadir, altitude, declination, and right ascension. The core of the article involves applying astronomical formulas to calculate the Moon's position (azimuth and altitude) at the time of the reported sighting.

Michel Monnerie's critique suggests that the reported UFO was likely a misidentification of the Moon, given its position and the terrain. The article presents calculations that support this interpretation, showing the Moon's position in the sky relative to the observers' location and the direction of their travel. The author concludes by acknowledging the plausibility of Monnerie's explanation, which attributes the confusion to the Moon's low altitude and its potential to be obscured by terrain and clouds, combined with the observers' subjective interpretation of events.

Other Sections

• Cotisations: This section details the subscription fees for Inforespace for various years (1973-1982), with different rates for Belgium, France, and other countries, as well as for ordinary members and students. It also lists rates for a "Honneur" membership and provides payment instructions via postal check (CCP) or bank transfer to SOBEPS.
• Service Librairie de la SOBEPS: This section advertises books available for purchase from SOBEPS, including "Des Soucoupes Volantes aux OVNI" by Michel Bougard, "La Chronique des OVNI" by Michel Bougard, "A Identifier et le Cas Adamski" by Jean-Gérard Dohmen, and "Science Fiction et Soucoupes Volantes" by Bertrand Méheust.
• Sommaire: The table of contents lists the articles in this issue, including "Les contactés et kidnappés sont-ils des collaborateurs involontaires ou des citoyens cosmiques (2)" (pages 2-5), "Nos enquêtes" (pages 6-8), "Chronique des OVNI" (pages 10-13), "Avis" (page 14), "Nouvelles internationales" (pages 16-18), "Quelques remarques d'un ufologue « impatient »" (pages 19-23), and "Le dossier photo d'Inforespace" (pages 24-27).
• References: A list of cited works and authors related to UFO research, hypnosis, and astronomy is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, presenting investigations, case studies, and theoretical discussions. There is a clear emphasis on rational analysis and scientific inquiry, as evidenced by the detailed astronomical calculations and the critical examination of evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the subject matter, while maintaining a rigorous approach to research and data interpretation. The publication encourages reader participation and the sharing of information, highlighting the collaborative nature of ufological research. The theme of personal transformation and the search for meaning in the context of UFO encounters is also prominent, particularly in the articles concerning contactees.

This issue of Inforespace, Volume 11, Number 61, published in 1982, is a French-language magazine from Belgium focusing on ufology and related phenomena. The cover headline, "Les petits hommes n'étaient pas verts" (The little men were not green), hints at the debunking of a UFO case. The issue features articles on UFO classification, ancient legends, and a detailed analysis of a staged UFO landing.

The Classification of Cases: A Debate on Dr. Hynek's System

Michel Bougard initiates a discussion on the classification of UFO cases, specifically addressing Jacques Bonabot's interpretation of Dr. Hynek's system. Bonabot suggests that Hynek's classification is only applicable to phenomena that are 'NON IDENTIFIABLE' after investigation and analysis. Bougard challenges this, arguing that Hynek himself did not explicitly state this and that such a strict criterion would eliminate the possibility of using the classification system effectively. He prefers the term 'non identified' (meaning not yet identified) over 'non identifiable'. Bougard emphasizes that ufology deals with probabilities, not certainties, and that cases can evolve with new information. He also discusses the practicalities of 'investigation' and 'analysis' in UFO cases, questioning the standards and methodologies involved. He points out that applying Bonabot's strict 'non identifiable' criterion would mean all 'nocturnal lights' would be classified as such, leading to a loss of valuable information for statistical analysis.

Bougard cites Dr. Hynek's writings, including 'The UFO Report' (MYR) and 'The Hynek UFO Report' (REP), to support his interpretation. Hynek's system is described as empirical, based on reports, and useful for categorizing types of UFO reports without prejudging their origin. Hynek noted that many 'nocturnal lights' are initially misidentifications of planets, satellites, or meteors, and that few initial reports resist examination. Bougard concludes that if Bonabot's definition were applied, the classification system would become largely unusable.

Sources Cited

• The article references several key sources:
• MYR: 'Les Objets Volants Non Identifiés: Mythe ou Réalité?' by Dr. Hynek, Belfond, 1st trimester 1974.
• REP: 'The Hynek Ufo Report', Sphere Books Ldt., 1978.
• 'The Edge of Reality' by Henry Regnery Cy, Chicago, 1975 (with Jacques Vallée).
• 'Laugh, Laugh, Study, Study' published in FSR vol. 27, nr 6, 1982.
• 'The Ufo Handbook' by Allan Hendry, Doubleday-Dolphin, 1979.
• 'Hypothèses et stratégies de recherche' by Pr. Meessen in Infoespace no 24.
• 'L'affaire de Taizé' in Inforespace no 14.
• Chapter 11 of 'Ufo Phenomena and the Behavioral Scientist' edited by Richard F. Haines.

Chronicle of UFOs: Flying Objects and Humanoids in Ancient Chinese Legends

This section, authored by Jacques Scornaux, explores ancient Chinese texts that describe flying objects and beings that bear resemblance to modern UFO reports. It begins by distinguishing between magical flights and those involving vehicles, often drawn by animals or legendary creatures. The focus shifts to accounts of entities that deviate from human appearance, such as 'perfect adepts' or 'immortals' depicted with feathers, and tales of 'fairy women' marrying farmers.

Two particularly striking accounts are detailed:
1. From the 'Book of Mountains and Seas' (dating to at least the 2nd century BCE, early Han period): It describes inhabitants of the land of Tchi-Koung with one arm and three eyes, who could build flying vehicles that followed the wind and traveled great distances using 'flying wheels' that navigated vortexes. They visited during the reign of Emperor Thang.
2. From the 'Record of Investigations into Things' by Tchang Hua (3rd century CE): This text also mentions the people of Tchi-Koung being skilled at building mechanical devices and flying vehicles. A wind brought one such vehicle to Yuchow during Emperor Thang's reign. The vehicle was dismantled by the emperor, and later, a strong west wind returned it to its origin, located 40,000 li beyond the Jade Gate.

Scornaux notes that the information is largely drawn from Joseph Needham's monumental work, 'Science and Civilisation in China,' specifically the chapter on the prehistory of aeronautics. He also references Jules Duhem's work on the history of aeronautics.

Analysis of the Legends and Illustrations

Scornaux critically examines the descriptions. The 'flying wheels' are compared to classic flying saucers, and the mention of wind propulsion is considered a potential rationalization by witnesses. The distance of 40,000 li is noted as problematic for terrestrial travel, suggesting a possible extraterrestrial origin. The text also highlights the gradual fading and simplification of these accounts over time, suggesting a possible erosion of memory or a rationalization of the original event.

Figure 1, a 12th-century illustration from a Song dynasty edition of the 'Book of Mountains and Seas,' depicts a figure with one arm and three eyes in a chariot with two paddle-like wheels and small wings. Figure 2, from a 1430 encyclopedia, shows a similar flying chariot but with normal-looking occupants and fewer distinct features. Figure 3, from the Ming dynasty, presents another variation.

Scornaux discusses the biological plausibility of a one-armed, three-eyed being, referencing anthropological theories and the existence of the third eye (pineal eye) in some reptiles. He also touches upon the concept of hermaphroditism. The presence of 'flying wheels' in the illustrations is compared to modern UFOs, and the potential for these ancient accounts to represent genuine observations of unknown aerial phenomena is explored.

Jean Giraud had previously suggested that these illustrations, particularly the presence of paddle wheels, provided evidence of ancient Chinese UFO sightings. However, Scornaux points out that paddle wheels were known in China by the 2nd century CE, making their inclusion in a 12th-century illustration less extraordinary. He also notes that the description in the later text is less detailed and the flying vehicle's performance is diminished, suggesting a possible fading of the original account.

Despite the possibility of these being purely imaginative or symbolic representations, Scornaux argues that it is methodologically prudent not to dismiss such accounts outright, especially when they are part of a larger dossier of ancient observations that might suggest recurring patterns.

The Vauvert Incident: A Staged UFO Landing

This lengthy article details a highly publicized event in Vauvert, France, on November 25, 1981, which was initially reported as a UFO landing. The incident involved a metallic object appearing in a vineyard, attracting a large crowd, and prompting a significant security response with military personnel, gendarmes, firefighters, and ambulances.

The object was described as irregular, polyhedron-shaped, about 3 meters high and 2 meters wide, with silver facets, a small dome on top, and two antennas. Initial reports suggested it might be radioactive, but Geiger counter readings showed no dangerous levels. The authorities even cut off potable water in the area.

However, the mystery was solved at 12:30 PM when two individuals emerged from the object, revealing it to be a hoax. They were not extraterrestrials but students from the 1981 graduating class of the Air Force School of Salon-de-Provence. They were wearing short hair and costumes with sequins.

The article explains that the hoax was a tradition for graduating classes, and the UFO theme was chosen for this year. The object was constructed in secret by a metalworking artisan near Vedène. The operation involved 18 military personnel who transported the object to a pre-selected site near Vauvert. The military and gendarmes were aware of the hoax, but the public and press were initially kept in the dark.

Jean-Claude Bourret, on TF1 news, initially reported an unknown object falling, then suggested it might be a satellite, demonstrating how information could be distorted or incomplete. The article suggests that the incident might have been an opportunity for authorities to test the reactions of their units and the public, or even a sociological experiment.

The article criticizes the media's handling of the event, noting that some journalists continued to refer to the object as a UFO even after the hoax was revealed. It also questions whether the GEPAN (Groupe d'Études et d'Informations sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés) was informed, noting their absence from the scene and the challenges of rapid deployment for such incidents.

The author concludes that while the hoax was successful in creating a spectacle, it highlights a societal unpreparedness to deal with genuine UFO phenomena. The incident also suggests that the public's perception of UFOs has evolved, with less panic and more acceptance of the extraterrestrial hypothesis.

Book and Journal Catalog

The final pages of the magazine contain a catalog of books and journals available for purchase from SOBEPS. This includes a wide range of titles on UFOs, mysteries, and ancient civilizations, with prices listed in Belgian Francs (FB). A special offer is made for a collection of 'Flying Saucer Review' magazines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the critical analysis of UFO phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous methodology in UFO research, questioning simplistic interpretations and highlighting the need for evidence-based conclusions. The magazine demonstrates a skeptical yet open-minded approach, seeking to debunk hoaxes while acknowledging the persistent mysteries within the field of ufology. There's a clear interest in historical precedents for UFO sightings, drawing connections between ancient legends and modern reports. The editorial stance appears to favor thorough investigation, critical thinking, and the dissemination of accurate information, even when it involves revealing hoaxes or challenging established interpretations.

Title: Inforespace
Issue: 59
Volume: 2
Date: October 1983
Publisher: Inforespace
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0752-5721
Price: 25 FF

Main Cover Story: "Quelques remarques d'un ufologue " impatient ""

This article, written by Thierry Pinvidic, addresses the growing discouragement within the ufological community. Pinvidic critiques the arguments of Pierre Guerin, who suggested that scientific institutions reject UFOs due to their lack of integration into existing conceptual frameworks and a psychological resistance to the 'miraculous.' Pinvidic agrees that these are valid reasons but argues they are insufficient to explain the institutional rejection. He proposes two major reasons for this rejection: the way the UFO dossier is presented to scientists and the inherent biases in how ufologists approach the subject, often starting with the hypothesis of extraterrestrial visitation (HET) without sufficient justification.

Pinvidic criticizes the tendency to frame UFOs within existing scientific paradigms, suggesting that a more open approach is needed. He contrasts the 'pre-paradigmatic' or 'a-paradigmatic' state of ufology with the historical progression of science, where new phenomena have eventually been integrated. He argues that skeptics have an easy time dismissing UFOs as 'pathological science,' but this categorization is premature without an established paradigm.

He emphasizes the importance of presenting UFO cases as requests for information rather than as supplier of unasked-for data. This involves rigorous self-criticism and a willingness to test existing scientific models before proposing new ones. Pinvidic uses the analogy of a tailor and a client to illustrate how ufologists should approach scientists, presenting cases as problems to be solved by experts, rather than definitive proof of extraterrestrial visitation.

The 'UFO Syndrome' and Psychopathology

Pinvidic discusses the concept of a 'UFO syndrome' proposed by some psychiatrists, noting that while some UFO cases may indeed involve psychopathology, this does not invalidate the phenomenon itself. He criticizes the Soviet psychiatric practice of labeling dissidents as mentally ill, drawing a parallel to how UFO witnesses might be pathologized to dismiss their experiences. He argues that the existence of 'UFO delusions' does not disprove the existence of UFOs, just as 'Napoleonic delusions' do not disprove Napoleon's existence.

He highlights that any social phenomenon, including UFOs, can become the subject of delusions. Psychiatrists, he contends, often resort to concepts like 'collective hallucination' or 'folie à deux' to explain UFO experiences, but these explanations are often applied selectively or inappropriately.

Approaching Science and the Falkville Case

Pinvidic suggests a strategy for ufologists to engage with science by acting as clients seeking expert analysis. He proposes presenting specific cases to psychiatrists, for example, and posing questions that highlight inexplicable details, forcing a more thorough examination. He also points out that scientific disciplines like sociology and psychology offer 'off-the-shelf' models that could be tested to explain UFO phenomena, such as social influence, rumors, and cultural factors.

He argues that science benefits from exploring new phenomena, even if they are initially considered 'pathological' or unconventional. The study of UFOs, he suggests, could lead to advancements in social sciences, methodology, and even our understanding of the universe, akin to how alchemy contributed to scientific progress.

The Falkville Photo Analysis

This section, co-authored by Pascal Deboodt, focuses on the analysis of the Falkville UFO photos. It presents three texts: the original analysis by William Spaulding of the Ground Saucer Watch (GSW), a response from Major Von Keviczky, and remarks by Henry Durrant.

Spaulding's Analysis: Spaulding's GSW analysis, using IBM computer techniques, concluded that the creature photographed by police officer Jeffrey Greenhaw in Falkville, Alabama, was likely a hoax. The analysis focused on the suit, identifying it as a firefighter's suit made of fire-retardant materials with an aluminum coating. It also noted details like the suit's construction, the use of a flash, and estimated the creature's height and proximity to the camera.

ICUFON and DUIST Response: The ICUFON (USA) and DUIST (West Germany) experts, who had studied the Falkville incident and related military activities, strongly contested Spaulding's findings. They argued that Spaulding's methods were superficial and that his conclusions were based on assumptions rather than solid evidence. They pointed out flaws in his interpretation of photographic details, such as the nature of reflections and the shape of aluminum pieces, suggesting they were more consistent with a curved suit than flat metal.

Henry Durrant's Remarks: Durrant further criticized Spaulding's analysis, highlighting its biased language and lack of objective evidence. He questioned the use of terms like 'creature' and 'image' instead of 'photograph' and 'representation,' and argued that Spaulding's conclusions were gratuitous. Durrant also pointed out that Spaulding's analysis of pixel distortion was flawed and that a simple magnifying glass could reveal more than his computer analysis.

Conclusion of the Falkville Section: The article concludes that while Spaulding's analysis presented a strong challenge to the authenticity of the Falkville photos, the counter-arguments from ICUFON and DUIST are also substantial. The case is deemed to be still under provisional consideration, emphasizing the need for continued investigation and an open mind.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently advocates for a rigorous, scientific approach to ufology, while simultaneously challenging the dismissive attitudes of mainstream science and skepticism. There is a strong emphasis on critical analysis of evidence, whether photographic, testimonial, or scientific. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging ufologists to engage with scientific institutions constructively and to avoid premature conclusions. The articles highlight the difficulties in bridging the gap between ufological findings and scientific acceptance, suggesting that a change in methodology and presentation is crucial. The magazine also seems to be a platform for detailed case studies and analyses, such as the Falkville incident, where different perspectives and expert opinions are presented for the reader's consideration.

This issue of UFO Phenomena, published by Editecs Pub. House, is an international annual review devoted to the scientific study of UFO phenomena. The original language of the content is French, and it features a variety of books and publications related to ufology and related subjects. The cover prominently displays an advertisement for P. SLOTTE, a precision optics shop in Brussels, Belgium, showcasing telescopes and other optical instruments.

Book Reviews and Features

The magazine extensively reviews numerous books on UFOs and related topics. A significant portion is dedicated to the "great French wave of 1954" as explored in Aimé Michel's work, described as a capital and essential read for understanding this period. Several books by Jean-Claude Bourret are also featured, including "La Nouvelle Vague des Soucoupes Volantes," which compiles excerpts from a France-Inter radio emission, and "Le Nouveau Défi des OVNI," presenting Gendarmerie Française files and insights from French researchers like Jean-Pierre Petit on magnetohydrodynamic propulsion. Bourret's "OVNI, L'Armée Parle" is highlighted for revealing secret files from intelligence services and military reports.

Other reviewed works include Fernand Lagarde's "Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes," a collective effort with researchers like Aimé Michel and Jacques Vallée. Thierry Pinvidic's "Le Nœud Gordien ou La Fantastique Histoire des OVNI" examines French military and US governmental perspectives, NASA's studies of astronaut observations, and the UN's stance on UFOs, along with eight hypotheses. Michel Monnerie's "Et Si Les OVNI N'Existaient Pas?" offers a socio-psychological explanation for UFO sightings, suggesting misperceptions are common.

Further reviews cover Jimmy Guieu's "Les Soucoupes Volantes Viennent d'un Autre Monde" and "Black-Out Sur Les Soucoupes Volantes." Charles Garreau's "Soucoupes Volantes, 20 Ans D'Enquêtes" provides a summary of his research experience, while "Face Aux Extraterrestres" (with Raymond Lavier) includes 200 testimonials of landings in France. Paul Misraki's "Des Signes Dans Le Ciel" explores the relationship between UFOs and religious phenomena. Jacques Vallée's "Chroniques Des Apparitions Extraterrestres" offers his personal views and a catalog of 900 landing cases, and "Le Collège Invisible" attempts to link UFOs with parapsychological phenomena.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek's "Les Objets Volants Non Identifiés: Mythe Ou Réalité?" is presented as an explanation of serious UFO study, revealing documents and his research concepts. Hynek also co-authored "Aux Limites de la Réalité" with Jacques Vallée, discussing UFO nature, cases, and research avenues. Julien Weverbergh and Ion Hobana's "Les OVNI en U.R.S.S. et Dans Les Pays de l'Est" is noted as the first French-language dossier on Eastern Bloc UFO observations. Leonard Stringfield's "Alerte Générale OVNI," prefaced by Major D.E. Keyhoe, is described as a compilation of evidence for UFO reality, particularly concerning the discovery of humanoid beings from recovered UFOs.

Finally, Charles Fort's "Le Livre Des Damnés" is recognized as an early compilation of curious space phenomena and unexplained facts.

'Kadath' Magazine

The issue also promotes "Kadath," a magazine that serves as the basis for the anthology "Chroniques des civilisations disparues." It is published four times a year, featuring 52 illustrated pages dedicated to archaeological enigmas. Subscription details for Belgium and international addresses in Brussels are provided.

Editorial and Publication Information

The publication is identified as "FIRST ACADEMIC JOURNAL UFO PHENOMENA," an international annual review devoted to the scientific study of UFO phenomena, with ISSN 0391 - 111X. The Editor in Chief is R. Farabone, and the Managing Editor is F. Izzo. The publisher is Editecs Pub. House, located in Bologna, Italy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are overwhelmingly focused on UFO sightings, extraterrestrial phenomena, and the scientific and investigative approaches to understanding them. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into these phenomena, presenting a wide range of research, theories, and documented cases from various international sources, with a particular emphasis on French contributions to the field. The inclusion of reviews for books exploring archaeological enigmas suggests a broader interest in unexplained mysteries.