Inforespace - No 69 - 1985

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 69
Date: December 1985
Volume: 14th year
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace, a bi-annual review dedicated to ufology and space phenomena, reflects on the current state of the field, characterized by a decline in public interest and a struggle for organizations like SOBEPS to maintain operations. The magazine outlines subscription options for 1986, details the services offered by SOBEPS, and presents several articles and investigations.

Editorial: The Crisis in Ufology

The editorial, titled "Vaches maigres, vaches grasses" (Lean cows, fat cows), draws parallels between popular proverbs and the cyclical nature of ufology. It laments the current period of stagnation, where observations have become rare, the press no longer covers UFOs, and many collaborators have become disillusioned. This has led to a decrease in membership and financial resources, threatening the survival of ufological groups. The editorial questions whether this is a temporary lull or a fundamental characteristic of the UFO phenomenon. It highlights the critical financial situation of SOBEPS, stating that without renewed subscriptions, its activities and the magazine will cease. The editorial emphasizes that SOBEPS, founded in 1971, has been a significant representative of Belgian ufology internationally and remains a crucial link between witnesses and scientific research, despite dwindling resources.

Membership and Subscriptions for 1986

The magazine provides details on membership fees for 1986, categorized into 'Membre d'Honneur' (Honorary Member), 'Soutien' (Support), and 'Ordinaire' (Ordinary). It specifies the costs in Belgian Francs (FB) and French Francs (FF), along with rates for other countries. The two higher membership tiers include a complimentary book or a complete set of back issues of Inforespace. Only the 'Membre d'Honneur' category includes a membership card. Information is also provided on how to purchase back issues from 1973 to 1984, with the first year (1972) being out of print. Payments are to be made via CCP (Compte de Chèques Postaux) or bank transfer to SOBEPS in Brussels, with specific instructions for France and Canada regarding payment methods.

SOBEPS Services

Secretariat and Library: The SOBEPS premises are open to members every Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM for consulting the documentation and books. Appointments are required for access outside these hours or during July and August, with contact information provided for the Secretary General, M. L. Cerebant.

SOBEPS Slides: A collection of 336 slides covering various aspects of the UFO phenomenon is available. These are organized into 28 series of 12 documents, each accompanied by commentary. Members can order a detailed list of these series.

SOBEPS Bookstore: The magazine reminds readers of available books, including "Des Soucoupes Volantes aux OVNI" by Michel Bougard, a collective work edited by the president, which aims to summarize ufological research. Payment for books is to be made to SOBEPS via CCP or bank transfer.

Articles and Investigations

Observations en Italie (Observations in Italy): This section reports on the increase in UFO sightings in Italy during the summer months, as noted by ufologists from the C.U.N. (Centre Ufologique National). M.E.Russo of C.U.N. Turin states that over 50 reports were collected in Italy between January and July 1985, with some being particularly noteworthy. The article recounts specific incidents: a close encounter with 'two armless beings' near Aviano, mysterious traces in a field near Brescia, a couple being followed by a flying cone-shaped object, and a humanoid figure observed near a disk-shaped object. The article suggests that the high number of reports from the Veneto and Friuli regions is due to the active local ufologists and the different media coverage compared to other areas. It also mentions the Italian Ministry of Defense's reluctance to share military UFO reports.

Nos Enquêtes: Traces et Phénomène Bruyant Non Identifiés (Our Investigations: Traces and Unidentified Noisy Phenomena): This article details an investigation conducted by the magazine into an incident that occurred on the night of February 23-24, 1983, in Villers-le-Bouillet, Belgium. A woman reported hearing an intense, infernal noise and being pushed by a violent wind. The following day, an X-shaped and curved trace was found on the lawn. The investigation involved examining the trace, interviewing witnesses, and collecting botanical samples. The traces were described as flattened grass and brunished, desiccated fir twigs. A report from the Laboratory of Phytopathology at the Catholic University of Louvain suggested that the twig breakage occurred in two stages, possibly due to a strong force followed by wind action, and that a toxic substance was not entirely ruled out but unlikely. The article also mentions other witnesses reporting unusual sounds and a previous incident involving footprints in the snow. Another witness from Maissin reported observing a series of luminous points in the sky.

L'Absence de Statut Scientifique de l'Ufologie (The Absence of Scientific Status for Ufology): This article (page 13) likely discusses the challenges ufology faces in being recognized as a legitimate scientific discipline, given its reliance on anecdotal evidence and the difficulty in obtaining official data.

Introduction à la Théorie des Contraintes Tectoniques (Introduction to Tectonic Stress Theory): This article (page 16) appears to explore a scientific theory related to geological stresses, possibly in connection with unexplained phenomena.

L'Informatique et l'Ufologue (Informatics and the Ufologist): This article (page 27) likely examines the role of computers and data analysis in ufological research.

La Transmission de Pensée est-elle Possible? (1) (Is Thought Transmission Possible? (1)): This is the first part of an article (page 28) exploring the possibility of telepathy, a topic often associated with unexplained phenomena.

Observations Récentes (Recent Observations): This section (page 34) likely presents a collection of recent UFO sightings or related phenomena.

On a Lu... (We Read...): This section (page 36) is a book review or commentary on other publications related to ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Inforespace are the challenges facing ufology, the importance of rigorous investigation, and the need for continued member support. The editorial stance is one of concern for the future of ufology and a plea for active participation from members to ensure the survival of organizations like SOBEPS. The magazine aims to provide a platform for sharing information, reporting on investigations, and discussing various aspects of unidentified aerial phenomena, while maintaining a rational and scientific approach where possible. The issue underscores the dedication of volunteers and the critical role of financial contributions in sustaining such research efforts.

This issue of "NOS ENQUETES" (Our Investigations) focuses on UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) reports and the scientific standing of ufology. It features detailed accounts of sightings, analysis of potential explanations, and a discussion on the challenges of establishing ufology as a legitimate scientific discipline.

Case 1: Maissin Sightings

The issue begins with a report from Maissin, Belgium, detailing two witness accounts. The first describes a "première boule" (first sphere) that appeared briefly and then was replaced by a single, brighter sphere that moved north before disappearing. The second testimony comes from M. Gillisen, an amateur astronomer near Maissin, who observed two large luminous spheres, comparable in brightness to Capella, which appeared to be the same size as a quarter moon. As the spheres approached each other, he was distracted and could not observe the end of the phenomenon. Analysis of a sketch by M. Lamotte suggests the phenomenon might have occurred over the Jéhonville-Acremont airport, south-east of Maissin, and potentially led towards Redu, a satellite tracking station.

Hypotheses and Analysis

The collected evidence is deemed insufficient for definitive conclusions. One hypothesis suggests the region may have been the site of military aerial exercises, citing a radar plane sighting near Huy and aerial maneuvers near Paliseul-Redu on the same night. However, the article cautions against linking unrelated events. It remains unclear if ground traces are contemporaneous with the sonic phenomenon or if they are linked to damage to a fir tree. The conclusion of a metal and bolt OVNI landing in a garden is also considered speculative. Ultimately, the investigation did not establish the reality of an unusual aerial phenomenon, though a powerful, noisy gust of wind that could have damaged a fir tree is acknowledged, with its origin (natural micro-tornado or artificial source like a helicopter) remaining undetermined. The phenomenon is thus classified as unidentified.

Case 2: Chièvres Sighting (March 14, 1974)

This section details a technical file and observation summary concerning a sighting near Chièvres, Belgium, on March 14, 1974. The primary witness, B.P. (anonymity requested), a topographer, was driving on the road between Ath and Mons when he observed a red, luminous point, larger than a star, moving parallel to the road above Bauffe. The object, estimated to be at 50 degrees elevation, descended after passing Bauffe, appearing to move at the same speed as the witness's car (approximately 80 km/h). As it descended, its shape became clearer: resembling two deep plates joined face-to-face with a red dome underneath. The witness stopped his car and observed the object descend obliquely towards the airfield runway, about 500 meters away. It hovered for about 10 seconds before ascending obliquely towards Chièvres and accelerating to disappear. The object maintained its shape, color, and brightness throughout the observation, with its width estimated to be half the runway's width.

Witness and Investigation Notes

The witness believes he saw a "flying saucer" and is considered credible. The investigation was conducted the following Tuesday. Attempts to obtain information from SHAPE authorities were met with suspicion, though it is suggested that other individuals, including two military personnel, may have also observed the object, with one possibly taking a photograph. A note from J. Bonabot provides runway dimensions, suggesting the object's width was between 10 and 22.5 meters. Two sketches are included: one of the object and another illustrating the geographical situation and phases of the observation.

The Absence of Scientific Status for Ufology

This article by Shirley Mc Iver, who holds a doctorate in sociology from the University of York, addresses the scientific community's general disinterest in ufology. Mc Iver argues that the primary issue is not ufology's failure to adhere to scientific methodology, but rather its grounding in popular culture rather than elite scientific circles. This influences its attempts to gain scientific status through several factors:

1. Resources

Financial resources are scarce, relying on ufologists' own funds rather than official bodies. This limits the scope of research. Furthermore, ufologists often conduct research in their free time, balancing it with professional and family life, further reducing research time.

2. Recruitment

The social role of ufologists is ill-defined, with some seeing themselves as scientists, others as social workers, and others as police investigators. There is no uniform training method or clear set of publications for initiation into the field. This leads to diverse viewpoints, with some treating it as a hobby, others as a distraction or religion, and a few seeking scientific study. Most ufologists lack scientific training and are unaware of implicit scientific practices.

3. Knowledge

Ufology lacks a coherent body of knowledge, drawing information from diverse fields, including those bordering on the "cultist" (metaphysics, occultism, new religions). This milieu has expanded significantly since the 1960s and facilitates contact with subjects like astrology and occultism. A social movement around UAP often exhibits suspicion towards science, viewing it as complicit with government in concealing information, partly due to the use of nuclear weapons. This suspicion towards science hinders those attempting scientific research.

4. Information Dissemination

Ufologists have little control over their media image, with UAP reports often treated as curiosities rather than genuine news. This allows marginal figures to gain media access and be presented as representative of ufology. Access to scientific journals is limited, as science tends to associate rejected subjects with magic and occultism, labeling them "pseudo-science."

Mc Iver suggests that for ufology to become more scientific, it must detach itself from the "cultist" social movement, gain control over its media presentation, gain access to scientific journals by linking UAP to existing scientific problems, and define a clear social role for ufologists, ensuring adequate training and limiting recruitment to those treating it as a science.

Introduction to the Theory of Tectonic Strains

This section introduces M. Persinger's "Tectonic Strain Theory" (TST), which proposes that UAP phenomena are a consequence of tectonic stress within the Earth's crust. Persinger, a psychophysiologist from Laurentian University, has published extensively on the effects of electromagnetic fields and geophysical factors on behavior. His theory posits that UAP events are transient, localized manifestations of this tectonic stress. The associated electromagnetic fields can affect the observer's brain, potentially inducing the imagery and themes associated with UAP as portrayed in the media.

Geophysical Correlations

Persinger's research correlates UAP sightings with seismic activity across various regions and time periods. Studies in the USA, Germany, Austria, France, and Italy have shown significant correlations between seismic events (of varying intensities) and the number of UAP reports. For instance, a study of six US regions from 1951-1965 found correlations above 0.70 with seismic events, particularly those of Mercalli intensity 4. Another study indicated that UAP reports tend to increase two to three years after a decrease in geomagnetic activity and one year after an increase in local low-intensity seismic events. The theory suggests that as geophysical stimuli increase, phenomena manifest first as mundane electromagnetic events, then as typical UAP, and finally as more bizarre "poltergeist" reports. Correlations are weaker for reports of strange animals, contact, and abductions.

Further studies examine the influence of various parameters on UAP-seismic correlations, noting that the optimal time window for correlation can be six months, and that the strength of correlation depends on the region's seismic nature and the inclusion of triggering geophysical factors. Correlations are found to be significant for certain types of UAP (e.g., simple lights) but weaker for more unusual types (e.g., landings). The research also indicates that UAP waves can precede increases in seismic activity by several months, with stronger seismic events showing a longer preceding UAP wave.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of anomalous phenomena with scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and analysis, as seen in the detailed reporting of sightings and the critical examination of ufology's scientific standing. There's a clear effort to present both anecdotal evidence and theoretical frameworks, such as Persinger's geophysical hypothesis, while acknowledging the limitations of current data and the challenges in achieving scientific acceptance for the study of UAP.

This issue of the magazine, identified by its cover headline "LA TRANSMISSION DE PENSEE EST-ELLE POSSIBLE ? (1)" and the presence of an article on "L'INFORMATIQUE ET L'UFOLOGUE : une initiative originale," explores complex theories linking geophysics, electromagnetism, and UFO phenomena, alongside the emerging field of computer applications in ufology.

The Tectonic Strain Theory (TCT) and UFOs

The core of the issue delves into the Tectonic Strain Theory (TCT) developed by Persinger. This theory posits a strong correlation between seismic activity and UFO sightings. According to Persinger, UFO observations tend to precede low-intensity seismic events by several months, indicating an accumulation of tectonic stress. The theory suggests that these stresses can generate electromagnetic phenomena, termed "EM columns" or "electric field columns," which may manifest as UFOs. The strength of this correlation is estimated to account for 50 to 80% of UFO manifestations. Persinger's model is further enhanced by considering geophysical factors like geomagnetic activity and solar storms, which can act as triggers when tectonic stress is sufficiently high.

Individual UFO Events and the TCT Model

Persinger's model is presented as an explanation for a significant portion (40-85%) of UFO cases, acknowledging that others may be due to misidentifications or psychological issues. The theory proposes that UFOs are manifestations of tectonic stress in the form of electromagnetic fields. These "EM columns" are described as localized, transient, and highly energetic phenomena, potentially involving concentrated field lines. While the exact process is speculative, analogies are drawn to ball lightning and earthquake lights, though Persinger distinguishes his "UFOs" from the latter. Experimental results from B.T. Brady et al. are cited as supporting evidence, showing electromagnetic fields and luminosity generated during the rupture of compressed quartz rock.

Characteristics of Proposed UFO Manifestations

According to Persinger's model, these EM phenomena exhibit specific characteristics:

• Location: Preferential concentration in areas with maximum field potential, such as hilltops, riverbeds, faults, and near electrical installations.
• Shape: Predominantly spherical or ellipsoidal, with possibilities for more complex forms, including scission or antennae-like details, depending on the EM field geometry.
• Color: Described as luminosity, with particular zones referred to as "portholes" or "rotating lights," and exhibiting pulsation.
• Movement: Ranging from immobility to regular trajectories influenced by topography or physical features, and complex movements reflecting variations in the stress field.
• Ground Effects: Potential for metallic deposits or "scories" on the ground, and alteration of the site.
• Electromagnetic Effects: Intense EM fields can disrupt radar, radio, and TV signals, affect lighting systems, vehicles, and compasses.
• Effects on Living Matter: The EM field can also impact living organisms.

Several specific UFO observations are mentioned as fitting within this framework, including the Kolmarden wave in Sweden, sightings in Gold Hill (North Carolina), Toppenish (Washington), Morris County (New Jersey) in 1976, and the alleged "abduction" of T. Walton in Heber in 1975. Other cases cited include those from Hessdalen and Arendal in Norway, Warminster, and St Brides Bay in Wales.

Effects on Human Witnesses

The issue details how the EM field from these proposed "EM columns" can affect human witnesses, both psychologically and physiologically.

Psychological Effects

Indirect effects are linked to the witness's interpretation of the phenomenon, influenced by cultural associations (e.g., extraterrestrial spacecraft, religious manifestations). These can lead to emotional amplification, fear, and anthropomorphic interpretations of movements and lights. "Superstitious conditioning" can occur when perceived coincidences reinforce the witness's beliefs.

Physiological Effects

Direct physiological effects depend on factors like distance to the phenomenon, energy density, and field stability. These can include:

• Electrical Field Effects: Tingling, piloerection, hair standing on end, chest oppression, strange odors (ozone), intense fear due to low-frequency field stimulation, paralysis, and reduced muscle tone.
• Brain Effects: Stimulation of the temporal lobe, particularly the amygdala and hippocampus, can induce vivid imagery (perceived as objective reality), dream-like states, and epileptic-like sensations (strangeness, auditory hallucinations, body floating, altered perception). This can lead to disorientation, time distortion, or even unconsciousness, with subsequent confabulation filling the gaps, often correlated with the witness's beliefs.
• Delayed Effects: Ionizing radiation (especially UV) can cause erythema, edema, eye problems, nausea, sleep disturbances, appetite loss, and general malaise.
• Proximity Effects: Close proximity to an EM column could potentially lead to electrocution or tissue carbonization, though this is considered rare, possibly due to difficulties in post-mortem identification.

Objections and Criticisms of the TCT

The article also addresses criticisms of Persinger's TCT.

Scientific Validity and Data Reliability

Rutkowski is cited as pointing out the lack of a valid physical model to explain EM column formation. A significant criticism is that Persinger's sources often mix cases of varying reliability, with many being reducible to conventional misinterpretations. The use of a large database like UFOCAT is acknowledged, but concerns are raised about filtering out "noise" when the noise level itself is high and indistinguishable from other data. Furthermore, Persinger's method of varying statistical functions to find the best correlations is questioned, especially given the heterogeneous and unreliable nature of ufological data, raising the possibility of "artifacts" – apparent correlations that are not causally linked. This concern is amplified by the fact that optimal analysis functions can vary by region, suggesting that geological differences might influence results rather than a universal phenomenon.

Lack of Causal Analysis

A key missing element is a causal analysis of the supposed effects. While some researchers confirm the possibility of misleading results, it does not definitively prove Persinger's findings are artifacts.

Specific Criticisms

Some correlations presented by Persinger are deemed less robust than claimed, with examples of his results for European countries not predicting a 1954 peak. The theory is also criticized for relying on qualitative descriptions rather than quantitative data for UFO characteristics and effects.

Alternative Explanations

Persinger himself acknowledges that temporal lobe structures are sensitive to various non-geophysical stimuli (fatigue, social isolation, stress, etc.), suggesting that many reported experiences might stem from these factors rather than direct EM stimulation. He is developing a parallel model for religious/mystical and paranormal experiences triggered by transient, localized electrical micro-crises in the temporal lobe, termed "Temporal Lobe Transients" (TLTs). While these manifestations differ somewhat from those attributed to EM columns, they overlap significantly, raising questions about the necessity of a geophysical stimulus.

Conclusion

The author concludes that while Persinger's TCT is a remarkable scientific effort to study a "cursed phenomenon" within orthodox science, it may be insufficient for the majority of UFO observations. These are often attributed to misinterpretations, psychological issues, or banal descriptions onto which witnesses project themes based on their knowledge of UFO lore. The remaining cases, potentially involving TLTs or limited geophysical phenomena, are considered by the author to be insufficient to constitute the core of the UFO phenomenon.

Computer Applications in Ufology

The issue also introduces "The Computer UFO Newsletter" (C.U.N.), a new bimonthly publication from the Centro Ufologico Nazionale. This review focuses on the application of micro-computing to ufology, addressing the crucial issue of information transmission and processing. The C.U.N. aims to improve the accuracy and speed of data handling through the use of diskettes for micro-computers. The newsletter features articles on methodologies for computer-based UFO case analysis, information on the ITACAT catalog of Italian UFO sightings, and offers software for processing UFO data. It also provides a list of ufologists who own micro-computers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly UFOs, through interdisciplinary approaches that bridge geophysics, physics, and psychology. There is a clear emphasis on empirical evidence and theoretical modeling, even when dealing with controversial subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the exploration of "paranormal research" and the application of scientific methods to phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The introduction of computer technology into ufology signifies a move towards more systematic data management and analysis within the field.

This issue of Inforespace, a French publication focused on ufology and related phenomena, delves deeply into the subject of telepathy, exploring its scientific basis, historical research, and documented cases. The magazine also includes sections on recent UFO observations and a comprehensive list of books on ufology.

Telepathy: A Scientific Inquiry

The issue begins by posing the question of whether telepathy is truly possible and what phenomena it encompasses. It highlights that while extraterrestrial life and communication are subjects of international study, telepathy remains a fascinating and often misunderstood aspect of human consciousness.

The article emphasizes that telepathic phenomena are not related to occultism, magic, or superstition, but rather to extrasensory perception. It explains that telepathy involves both the transmission (emission) and reception of thoughts or mental impressions, analogous to radio and television.

Defining Telepathy

Telepathy is defined as the direct mental transmission or communication, provoked or spontaneous, and the perception of mental activity or psychic events without the use of conventional sensory channels. The influence of distance is noted as having no bearing on this form of communication.

Historical Research and Experiments

The magazine details numerous studies and experiments conducted throughout the 20th century to investigate telepathy. These include:

• Early 20th Century: Work by Gilbert Murray, who reported significant success rates in telepathic transmission, and H.H. Price, who theorized that many daily thoughts and emotions might originate telepathically.
• Mid-20th Century: The pioneering statistical research at Duke University by psychologists like McDougall, Rhine, and Schmidt, using Zener cards to test extrasensory perception. These experiments, conducted over decades, demonstrated results far beyond chance.
• Later Experiments: The text mentions experiments by Wassiliev in the USSR, achieving high success rates in mental order transmission and telepathic awakenings. It also references studies in Great Britain, the USA, Japan, and other countries, involving transmissions over vast distances.
• Specific Cases: The issue cites examples such as the Piccard brothers experiencing a telepathic event, experiments by de Cressac showing a high coincidence rate in card guessing, and Dr. Soal's extensive work with Zener cards that revealed precognitive results.
• Modern Techniques: The use of instruments like the plethysmograph by Douglas Deen and Czechoslovakian physiologist Figar to detect telepathic reactions through physiological tracings is discussed.

Key Figures in Telepathy Research

Several prominent figures are mentioned for their contributions to telepathy research, including:

• Jules Romains: A French author who advocated for the study of the extraordinary.
• Camille Flammarion: An astronomer whose quote emphasizes the relativity of absolute principles.
• Psychologists and Psychiatrists: Gilbert Murray, H.H. Price, H.J. Eysenck, Robert Tocquet, Carl Jung, Sigmund Freud, and Arnold Toynbee are cited for their involvement or commentary on psychic phenomena.
• Researchers: Dr. Soal, Wassiliev, Wolf Messing, Dr. Motoyama, Douglas Deen, Dr. Barry, Figar, and Dr. Lozanov are highlighted for their experimental work.

Recent UFO Observations

The issue includes a section on recent UFO sightings:

• Belgium: An article from "Vers l'avenir" discusses a UFO sighting near Grand-Mainil, initially explained as an electrical arc, and another sighting by an automobilist near Waret-La-Chaussée involving diamond-shaped luminous objects.
• France: A report from "Le Figaro" details observations of a luminous "cigar" by gendarmes in Ploërmel and similar phenomena witnessed by four individuals in La Trinité-Porhoët.

Book Reviews and Recommendations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reviewing and recommending books on ufology. Titles cover a wide range of topics, including the history of UFOs, specific cases like Adamski's, the relationship between UFOs and religion, and the personal views of researchers like Jacques Vallée.

Notable books reviewed include:

• "La Chronique des OVNI" by Michel Bougard
• "A Identifier et le Cas Adamski" by Jean-Gérard Dohmen
• "Science Fiction et Soucoupes Volantes" by Bertrand Méheust
• "Mystérieux Objets Célestes" by Aimé Michel
• "La Nouvelle Vague des Soucoupes Volantes" by Jean-Claude Bourret
• "Le Nouveau Défi des OVNI" by Jean-Claude Bourret
• "Mystérieuses Soucoupes Volantes" by Fernand Lagarde
• "OVNI, L'Armée Parle" by Jean-Claude Bourret
• "Les Soucoupes Volantes Viennent d'un Autre Monde" and "Black-out sur les Soucoupes Volantes" by Jimmy Guieu
• "Et si les OVNI n'existaient pas?" by Michel Monnerie
• "Soucoupes Volantes, 20 ans d'enquêtes" by Charles Garreau
• "Face aux Extraterrestres" by Charles Garreau and Raymond Lavier
• "Des Signes dans le Ciel" by Paul Misraki
• "Chronique des Apparitions Extraterrestres" and "Le Collège Invisible" by Jacques Vallée
• "Les Objets Volants Non Identifiés: Mythe ou Réalité?" and "Aux Limites de la Réalité" by J. Allen Hynek and Jacques Vallée
• "Le Livre des Damnés" by Charles Fort

Advertisements for tires and optical equipment are also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are telepathy, UFO phenomena, and the scientific investigation of these subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the exploration of extraordinary claims through rigorous research and statistical analysis, while distinguishing these pursuits from occultism and superstition. The magazine aims to inform its readers about ongoing research, historical cases, and the latest developments in ufology and parapsychology.