Inforespace - No 71 - 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: N° 71
Volume: 15th year
Date: November 1986
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace, the Belgian UFO research association's semiannual review, marks its 15th year of publication. The cover prominently displays the magazine's title and the theme "ufologie phénomènes spatiaux" (ufology spatial phenomena).

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the organization's fifteen years of activity, emphasizing their struggle to keep SOBEPS alive and promote ufological research. It acknowledges that while public interest in UFOs may have waned, this period has allowed researchers to regroup and share findings at various European meetings, with a major European ufology conference planned for Lyon in April 1987. The editorial stresses the importance of a non-ostracizing approach to ufology, embracing physical, socio-psychological, and folkloric hypotheses. Financial difficulties due to a decrease in membership have led to reduced publication frequency and article length, but the situation is presented as reversible if subscriptions increase. The editorial announces the planned publication of issues 72 and 73 for April and November 1987, respectively. It notes a recent resurgence of media interest in UFOs following an unusual observation on September 23rd, which even garnered front-page coverage in the Belgian newspaper "Le Soir." The organization has maintained its tariffs and contributions for the upcoming year, urging members to renew their subscriptions and actively promote SOBEPS and Inforespace. The editorial also highlights the success of a night observation event held from July 19th to 20th, 1986, which saw participation from dozens of members.

Cotisations (Subscriptions)

Details are provided for 1987 subscription rates for different membership levels: Membre d'Honneur (Honorary Member), soutien (support), and ordinaire (ordinary), with prices listed in Belgian Francs (FB) and French Francs (FF) for Belgium, France, and other countries. The Membre d'Honneur category includes a membership card. The first two categories offer a choice of a book from a list published in issue 69 or a complete year of back issues. Payment instructions are given for C.C.P. and bank accounts in Brussels, with specific methods required for France and Canada.

Back Issues

Information is provided on obtaining back issues from 1973 to 1985, with the first year (1972) being out of print. No cash-on-delivery shipments are made.

SOBEPS Association Description

The SOBEPS is described as a non-profit association dedicated to the rational observation and study of unidentified aerial phenomena and related problems. It operates on a volunteer basis, conducting investigations, disseminating information without prejudice, and organizing conferences and debates. The association acknowledges that due to the voluntary nature of its collaborators and their limited free time, the publication schedule of Inforespace may not always be fixed, with potential delays.

Secretariat - Library

The SOBEPS premises are accessible to members every Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM for consulting documentation and books. Appointments are required for access outside these hours, including July and August, by contacting the Secretary General, M. L. Clerebaut.

SOBEPS Slides

A collection of 336 slides dedicated to various aspects of the UFO phenomenon is available. These are organized into 28 series of 12 documents each, with accompanying commentary. Interested parties are invited to request a detailed list of the series and their special conditions.

Articles and Content

Editorial: (Pages 4-5) Discusses the organization's 15th year, financial challenges, the state of ufology, upcoming publications, and a recent media surge due to a September 23rd sighting. It also mentions the 40th anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's sighting in 1987.

• Nouvelles internationales (International News): (Pages 6-8)
• Rencontre Rapprochée dans le New Hampshire (USA) (Close Encounter in New Hampshire, USA): (Page 6) Details an incident on October 15, 1984, where police sergeant Jack Zeller investigated a report of strange lights. He observed a number of pulsating lights, which then descended and moved erratically, passing directly over his police car. He described the object as cream or dull metallic white, approximately 10-15 feet wide and 45-50 feet long, with a humming sound.
• Deux autres observations dans le ciel des USA (Two other observations in the US sky): (Pages 7-8)
• Première observation (First observation): (Page 7) A first officer on a Western Airlines Boeing 737 observed a red light emerge from clouds near Salt Lake City, Utah, in late 1984. The light descended vertically and then disappeared near the mountains. The observation lasted about 10 seconds.
• Seconde observation (Second observation): (Page 7-8) On July 4, 1985, near San José, California, a couple observed an object hovering low on the horizon. It then ascended vertically at a steep angle, reversed course, descended, and performed a horizontal zig-zag movement before disappearing. The object was described as black, disk-shaped, with angular extremities and no apparent lights.

L'OVNI DU 23.09.86 (The UFO of 23.09.86): (Page 8) This section reports on the widespread impact of a UFO sighting on September 23, 1986, which was observed between 7:25 AM and 7:40 AM across Paris, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The object was described as a bright point or a trail of flames with brilliant stars. The event caused significant media attention in Belgium, with the SOBEPS Secretary General, L. Clerebaut, being interviewed by "Le Soir" and other media outlets. The article notes the perfect concordance in the timing and descriptions from various witnesses.

• Les anneaux de Ruppelt (The Ruppelt Rings): (Pages 9-10)
• AVANT-PROPOS (Foreword): (Page 9) Introduces an article by J.K. Thomas, focusing on a model of pulsed electromagnetic propulsion for UFOs, and suggests it offers a novel approach to understanding UFO mechanisms, particularly effects on vegetation.
• (Effets de champs magnétiques de basse fréquence) (Effects of low-frequency magnetic fields): (Pages 9-10) This section analyzes cases of Close Encounters of the Second Kind (RR2), which involve physical interactions between UFOs and their environment. It categorizes RR2 effects into electromagnetic interference, physical traces, and physiological effects. The article focuses on a classic case involving a Chief Scout in Florida on August 19, 1952. The scout and three others observed lights descend into bushes. The scout investigated alone and encountered a circular craft with a turret that emitted a red "fireball," causing him to lose consciousness. Subsequent investigation by Captain E.J. Ruppelt of the USAF's Project Blue Book revealed that the scout had minor burns, and his hat showed burn marks. Laboratory analysis of soil and vegetation samples indicated that roots were carbonized at high temperatures, suggesting an electromagnetic origin rather than simple physical traces.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed accounts of UFO/UAP sightings from the 1980s, with a focus on witness testimony and physical descriptions of objects. The magazine emphasizes a rational and scientific approach to ufology, as evidenced by the analysis of electromagnetic effects and the study of physical traces. The editorial stance is one of perseverance and dedication to the field, despite financial challenges and fluctuating public interest. There is a clear effort to engage members and encourage their active participation in research and promotion. The organization aims to be a credible source of information, distinguishing itself from sensationalism and maintaining a non-ostracizing perspective on the phenomenon.

This issue of the MUFON UFO Journal, dated September 1984 (Issue No. 197), delves into the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly focusing on electromagnetic effects and the burgeoning role of computers in ufology. The primary articles explore the theory of induction heating as a potential explanation for ground scarring and carbonization observed in some UFO landing cases, and examine how computers are being integrated into ufological research.

Induction Heating and Ground Effects

The issue presents a detailed analysis of how a hovering UFO might cause ground heating and carbonization. The investigation begins with the case of a 'Chef Scout' in Florida who reported an object that heated the ground from below, carbonizing grass roots without directly burning the grass. Initial explanations considered temperature increases or marsh gases, but these were dismissed. The article proposes induction heating as a plausible mechanism.

The Physics of Induction Heating

The theory hinges on the principle that an alternating magnetic field can induce electrical currents (and thus heat) in a conductor. The analysis models a UFO as a source of a uniform magnetic field within a specific radius, which is null outside. The ground, particularly moist soil, is treated as the conductor. Mathematical models are developed to calculate the induced voltage, resistance, power dissipation, and ultimately, the heat generated within the soil.

Key parameters explored include the magnetic field strength (B), frequency (f), the radius of the affected area, and the resistivity of the soil. The calculations suggest that a sufficiently strong magnetic field, even at low frequencies, could generate enough heat to cause carbonization of roots and dehydration of the soil. The article details how temperature profiles are calculated, showing an initial rapid rise, a plateau during water vaporization, and then a further rise as the soil dries out, followed by a decrease with distance.

Dipole Magnetic Field Model

While the initial analysis uses a simplified uniform field model, the article also discusses the application of a more realistic dipole magnetic field model. This involves more complex calculations, with the author having developed a program called RUHEAT for a pocket calculator to handle these computations. This model considers the field generated by a current circulating within a metallic ring, similar to a disk magnet or the Earth itself.

The analysis suggests that the observed circular patterns of ground damage, often referred to as 'crop circles' or scorched rings, are consistent with the symmetrical nature of a dipole magnetic field. The size and characteristics of these rings could potentially provide information about the UFO's magnetic field.

Case Study: The Florida 'Chef Scout' Incident

The theory of induction heating is applied to the Florida 'Chef Scout' case. The calculations indicate that the observed effects, such as the sensation of heat, oppressive humidity, and carbonized roots, are consistent with the proposed mechanism. The theory also explains why the witness might have avoided serious burns, suggesting that the surface area of the human body is not large enough to experience a significant temperature rise under these conditions.

However, the article notes that investigator J. Allen Hynek (via Ruppelt's report) ultimately classified this case as a mystification, despite the physical evidence of carbonized roots, due to perceived inconsistencies in the witness's personal history. This highlights the challenges in UFO investigations where physical evidence must be weighed against witness credibility.

Computers and Ufology

The second major theme of the issue is the increasing integration of computers into ufological research. Ufologist Maurizio Verga's work is highlighted, emphasizing a 'humanistic vision' rather than grand, often unfulfilled, projects.

Applications of Computers in Ufology

Verga's research outlines several key areas where computers are proving invaluable:

• Data Management: Storing and organizing UFO sighting reports, including dimensions, apparent distance, and elevation angles.
• Ephemeris Checks: Precisely calculating celestial body positions to rule out misidentifications of planets or stars as UFOs.
• Database Creation: Establishing common databases accessible by various computer types to facilitate rapid data exchange and consultation.
• Statistical Analysis: Analyzing large datasets of UFO cases to identify patterns and trends.
• Information Dissemination: Creating low-cost journals or bulletins using word processing software and developing online 'bulletin boards' for information sharing.
• Bibliography Management: Compiling and cross-referencing specific bibliographies related to UFO research.

Catalogues and Projects

The article mentions various UFO case catalogues and projects, including:

• UFOCAT: A well-known catalogue.
• Country-Specific Catalogues: Projects focusing on cases from Denmark, Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium, Tasmania, the UK, and Italy.
• "Bécassine": A project by Denys Breysse for managing international Close Encounters of the Third Kind cases.
• ARGENCAT: A project focused on Argentine cases with statistical analysis.
• COMPITACAT and ITACAT: Italian case catalogues.

Verga regrets that many individual researchers' works remain obscure. The article also points to "The Computer UFO Newsletter" published by CUFON as a resource for those interested in this field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for a scientific approach to ufology, utilizing physics principles like electromagnetic induction to explain observed phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous analysis, mathematical modeling, and the use of technology, such as computers, to advance the field. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, seeking rational explanations for UFO reports while acknowledging the complexity and occasional ambiguity of the evidence. The journal aims to bridge the gap between anecdotal reports and scientific understanding, encouraging detailed documentation and analysis of cases. The inclusion of technical details and mathematical formulas underscores a commitment to a data-driven and evidence-based approach to ufology.

This issue of 'DOSSIER PHOTO' focuses on a UFO sighting in Cracoe, England, on March 16, 1981, and delves into the complex topic of telepathy.

Cracoe UFO Sighting, March 16, 1981

The article details a significant UFO event that occurred in the North Yorkshire region of England during the winter of 1981. Specifically, on March 16, 1981, a police officer in Cracoe witnessed and photographed a luminous phenomenon. The area, characterized by pine forests and marshes, is near Skipton and is known for its limestone geology and former mining activity.

The main feature is a large rocky hill, approximately 1500 meters long and 500 meters high on average. The west face is wooded, and old mining sites with abundant rock blocks are present, making the area dangerous and difficult to access.

Prior to the main event, on March 12, 1981, around 7:00 PM, several residents of Cracoe reported seeing unusual luminous formations. Police arrived at 7:10 PM and observed 'a barrage of white fluorescent lights coming from the base of the hill.' The police report simply stated that no explanation could be given.

Four days later, on March 16, around 10:55 AM, a police officer was looking out his window when he noticed a brilliant light on the summit of the rocks. He alerted a colleague, and after two minutes of observation, they distinguished three intense, stationary luminous spots aligned a few meters below the summit. Other witnesses soon joined them.

Photographs were taken (one is reproduced as Figure C). At approximately 11:50 AM, the lights began to pulse, and the luminous formation suddenly disappeared. A few seconds later, two Royal Air Force (RAF) aircraft flew at low altitude over the region.

A police officer's testimony is quoted: "On Monday, March 16, 1981, I was in the kitchen of my house when I saw three bright lights on the rocks. I observed them through binoculars but without seeing them clearly, like looking directly into car headlights. The lights were aligned, two smaller glows surrounding a larger one. I saw a shape behind the lights, but I cannot specify its contour. Around 11:30 AM, two RAF jets flew over the region. I note that there is no water on these rocks to cause such a reflection, nor any metallic deposits. Around 11:55 AM, the lights diminished in intensity before disappearing completely."

The photographic equipment used was a COSINA CSL SLR with Ektachrome 64 (Kodak) film and a CHINON 135 mm f/2.8 lens. The weather conditions were partially to totally overcast with a cloud ceiling at 750 meters and little wind.

The Yorkshire UFO Society (YUFOS) investigated the case, finding a zone where trees were damaged, broken at the top, or burned, but experts could not establish a clear link between these traces and the UFO observation, though the coincidence was noted as troubling.

Experts analyzed the slides, with the Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) directed by William H. Spaulding noting three areas of greater density that appeared as rounded 'objects.' Enlargements revealed irregular, non-symmetrical contours. The analysis found no evidence of tampering and suggested the phenomenon was at a distance. A computer analysis to reveal the 3D structure showed no particular relief, suggesting reflected light rather than self-illumination.

The GSW concluded that the computer data conflicted with witness accounts. They found no evidence of an 'object' hovering between witnesses and the hill, and the irregular silhouettes did not suggest an extraterrestrial craft. They proposed explanations like chalk formations or reflections on a wet surface, but noted the landscape observation did not strongly support these. Residual snow was also considered.

Ufologist Klaus Webner estimated the distance to be around 1200 meters, giving the largest luminous point a diameter of about 80 cm. He found no movement of the lights or evidence of a physical support, suggesting they might be mountain lamps. He stated the photographic material was insufficient for a definitive identification.

The photos are described as being of mediocre quality, and such 'daylight lights' are difficult to categorize as UFOs, with many missing pieces of information preventing a firm conclusion.

Telepathy: Is it Possible? (Part 2)

This section explores various experiments and theories related to telepathy, the transmission of thought over distances.

Extraordinary Experiences

The article highlights five extraordinary cases of telepathic messages transmitted between Earth and distant locations, including aircraft, submarines, and spacecraft.

1. Harold Sherman and Sir Hubert Wilkins (1937): Sherman, president of the Association for Parapsychological Research, conducted telepathic experiments with aviator Sir Hubert Wilkins from the North Pole. These were scientifically controlled by Gardner Murphy of Harvard. Sherman successfully received telepathic messages in New York.

2. The 'Bios' Experiment (1959): This experiment involved a laboratory in the USA and a submerged nuclear submarine. A 'mysterious passenger' on the USS Nautilus transmitted combinations of five symbols (cross, star, circle, square, three wavy lines) daily to a student at Duke University, who attempted to identify them using a Zener card apparatus. The results were analyzed for their statistical significance.

3. Mercury 9 Mission (May 1963): During the final Mercury mission, Commander Gordon Cooper Jr. reportedly communicated telepathically with NASA's Houston base. Prior to this, Professor Willy Ley had speculated about American astronauts encountering extraterrestrial astronauts. Cooper also reported seeing a luminous, greenish disc with a red band approaching the capsule, which was tracked by Perth radar and observed by many.

4. A.D. Cornell's Experiment (June 1964): A British researcher, A.D. Cornell, conducted a telepathic link between a transmitter on an airplane (London-Glasgow route) and a receiver on the ground.

5. Apollo 14 Mission (February 1971): Astronaut Edgar J. Mitchell, during the Apollo 14 mission, transmitted telepathic messages to four selected receivers on Earth. Mitchell conducted four telepathic transmission sessions, using Zener cards with symbols chosen randomly. The results were analyzed by Professor Rhine and Dr. Osis, achieving a 37.5% success rate against a probability of 20%.

Quantitative Results of Telepathy Experiments

A table presents the results of various telepathy experiments conducted between 1913 and 1972 across different countries (Great Britain, USA, France/USA, USSR, Bulgaria). The experiments involved different experimenters and years, with varying numbers of attempts and successes. The average success rate across these experiments was 51%, significantly higher than the 20% predicted by probability calculations.

Telepathy and National Defense

The article questions why telepathy is not more integrated into national defense and telecommunications, suggesting that superpowers reserve a special place for parapsychology in their military budgets. Dr. E.B. Konecci of NASA confirmed that extra-sensory perception could have significant strategic uses. Examples include the Czechoslovakian Kafka's ability to locate enemy positions during WWII and the Rand Corporation's 1957 report on the difficulty of communicating with submarines, suggesting new methods were needed. The US Atomic Energy Commission also reportedly considered using clairvoyants to predict Russian bombing targets.

Predisposition to Telepathy?

This section explores whether certain individuals are predisposed to telepathy. It discusses the difficulty of explaining such phenomena and the potential for an 'atrophy of sensitivity.' The article references the geophysicist Cisneros, who suggested that sensitive subjects tend to be extroverted, have low adaptation to reality, and high sensitivity to external stimuli.

Professor Bender of Freiburg University described sensitives as having unstable temperaments, changing moods, and reacting excessively to frustrations. Castellan noted that successful subjects are often emotional, illogical, and intuitive, with children and women performing better than men. Professor Urban observed that mentally ill patients sometimes performed better on Rhine tests after narco-analysis or shock treatment.

Philosopher Bergson believed telepathy was a common, unnoticed phenomenon, especially among intimates. The transmission of thought is often observed during serious crises, illness, or danger, and is more frequent between twins, close friends, family members, and sometimes between doctors and patients.

Dr. Duane demonstrated that alpha waves from one twin's EEG could induce a similar pattern in the other twin, regardless of distance. It was also noted that blind individuals are particularly adept at telepathically perceiving movements, colors, and tactile impressions.

The psychological state of the subject is crucial for telepathy. Castellan suggested that a weakened conscious state, such as hypnotic trance, narco-analysis, sleep, illness, or the use of various drugs (including alcohol, coffee, opium, and barbiturates), can be conducive to telepathic success.

Hypotheses on the Mechanism of Telepathy

The article lists numerous hypotheses attempting to explain how telepathy occurs:

• Electrical Transmission: The idea that thought could be transmitted immediately by electricity, similar to Morse's telegraph.
• 'Radio-Biological Flux': Proposed by Professor Betcherev in 1916.
• Vibrations: Professor Richet suggested vibrations acting on human intelligences without sensory input.
• Visual Transmission: A. Maurois proposed the transmission of images rather than words.
• Information Distortion: Professor Price suggested that thoughts and emotions are distorted when passing the threshold of consciousness.
• Unique Principle: Spencer Brown proposed a unique and different principle.
• Electromagnetic Waves and Ultrasound: Soviet psychologists and Dr. Kogan suggested long waves.
• Mental Material Particles ('Mindons'): Similar to neutrinos, as proposed by Firsoff.
• Psychic Transport: Dr. Ing. Patrovsky suggested a purely psychic mode of transport.
• Radiation: Norbert Wiener proposed a radiation phenomenon.
• Psycho-Physiological Transfer: Dr. Konecci (NASA) proposed this.
• Brain Correctors: Professor Wassiliev suggested analogous correctors in the brain.
• Infra-Atomic Action: Costa de Beauregard proposed this.
• Undiscovered Phenomenon: Bergier suggested a new phenomenon, stating telepathy is not a radiation.
• Matter Disappearance/Creation: Kervran proposed the conversion of electrons to neutrinos and vice versa.

Despite these hypotheses, parapsychologists are largely unable to provide a definitive explanation for extra-sensory perception and telepathy. Astrophysicist Hubert Reeves emphasized the need for new methodologies when facing new phenomena.

Conclusions

The article concludes by quoting various experts, including philosopher Bergson, PP Russo (UNESCO), Professors Tocquet and Wassiliev, the Grand Rabbi of Paris Meyer Jais, Professor H.H. Price, and astronomer A.C. Clarke. The consensus is that one should not deny the possibility of these phenomena, as proving impossibility is difficult. The validity of such facts should remain open, even if they challenge current scientific principles. The possibility of a new form of energy or an unknown factor inherent in a higher form of matter is raised, with its discovery potentially being as significant as that of nuclear energy. The study of the paranormal is seen as a way to better understand religious phenomena, suggesting that what appears supernatural might simply be unexplained natural occurrences. The conclusion is that all observed phenomena should be considered normal.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for the scientific investigation of paranormal phenomena, particularly telepathy and UFOs. It presents evidence from experiments and anecdotal accounts to argue for the reality of these occurrences, challenging conventional scientific skepticism. The editorial stance is open-minded and encourages further research, suggesting that these phenomena may eventually be integrated into our understanding of reality and the universe. The connection between telepathy and UFO implications ('clipéologie') is also explored, with speculation about extraterrestrial observation and influence.

This issue of OVNI PRESENCE, identified as number 29, focuses on the death of J. Allen Hynek and critically examines the activities and scientific approach of the French organization GEPAN. It also reports on a large-scale UFO observation event in Belgium and discusses ongoing theoretical research into advanced propulsion systems.

La Mort de Hynek

The issue begins with an obituary for J. Allen Hynek, who passed away on April 27th, 1986. It notes the coincidence of his birth year (1910) and death year (1986) with the appearances of Halley's Comet. Hynek's career is summarized, including his role as an astronomy consultant for the U.S. Air Force from 1948 to 1968, his public presentation of UFO testimonies in 1968, and his coining of the term "close encounters of the third kind." The article also mentions his founding of the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS) in 1973, which was later renamed the "Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies." His passing is lamented as a significant loss to the field of ufology.

L'Imposture (The Imposture)

This section, authored by Jean-Pierre Petit, launches a strong critique of GEPAN, the French organization for the study of UFOs, established in 1977. The author argues that the OVNI phenomenon is losing media interest, with publishers deeming it "no longer a seller." He contrasts two prevailing currents in ufology: those focusing on human sciences and those exploring parapsychological interpretations. Petit, stating he is competent in neither, abstains from commenting on these. He recalls GEPAN's creation in 1977 as a "great hope" but notes its subsequent decline in activity and output, leading to uncertainty about its current status.

Petit recounts the motivations behind GEPAN's creation, stemming from Claude Poher's 1976 proposal for an official UFO study service, with the argument of potential "scientific-technical spin-offs." After Poher's departure, the organization was led by Esterle. Petit details his own involvement, having secured funding for research, but states that GEPAN's production became rare. He describes his attempt to secure funding from CNES after his initial credit ran out, which was met with difficulty. CNES hired Bernard Zappoli, a physicist, and a contract was signed with CERT for research on MHD turbulence annihilation, based on Petit's earlier work. However, Petit was excluded from the contract, citing he was not part of CNES.

Petit criticizes the GEPAN's handling of an MHD experiment aimed at creating an ionized medium using microwaves. He states the experiment was a "fiasco" due to the ignorance of the GEPAN personnel regarding ionized medium creation. He also discusses the Trans-en-Provence case, where Michel Bounias of INRA found inexplicable trauma in alfalfa samples. Petit notes that GEPAN allegedly mishandled subsequent research, providing samples to a Toulouse lab where analysis was reportedly flawed. He suggests this was done deliberately.

Further criticism is leveled at GEPAN's refusal to allow Petit and Bounias to present their research to the scientific council, citing administrative reasons and a desire to avoid scrutiny. Petit concludes that GEPAN has been an "imposture" since its creation, serving to stifle research rather than advance it. He believes the military and scientific communities consider the UFO issue "classified" and that GEPAN plays a role in suppressing information.

Research on Supersonic MHD Flight

This section details theoretical and experimental research into MHD (Magnetohydrodynamics) propulsion for supersonic flight. Jean-Pierre Petit and Bertrand Lebrun worked on developing theoretical models for MHD flight without shockwaves. Their research, based on numerical simulations, suggests that MHD propulsion could be more energetically efficient for supersonic flight, even at low altitudes, overcoming the heat barrier. They propose that discoid-shaped vehicles would be optimal for this technology.

The research was accepted by the scientific community and presented at international conferences. A contract was signed with the MRT (Ministry of Research and Technology) to equip a supersonic wind tunnel for experimental validation. The initial experiments are planned for argon gas at high temperatures, with potential for further studies on other gases. Petit notes that he was excluded from the DRET's involvement in this contract, attributing it to his previous public disclosure of GEPAN's shortcomings.

La Nuit d'Observation (The Night of Observation)

This article reports on a sky observation event organized by the French ufological association SOBEPS on the night of July 19-20, 1986. Over twenty groups participated across Belgium. While no UFOs were officially reported, observers noted various aerial phenomena, including shooting stars, satellites, and aircraft. The event aimed to gather testimonies of unusual aerial phenomena.

Service Librairie de la SOBEPS

This section lists various books available for purchase from SOBEPS, covering a range of ufological topics, including works by Michel Bougard, Jean-Gérard Dohmen, Aimé Michel, Jean-Claude Bourret, Fernand Lagarde, Jimmy Guieu, Michel Monnerie, Charles Garreau, Raymond Lavier, Paul Misraki, Jacques Vallée, and J. Allen Hynek.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of official UFO research organizations, particularly GEPAN, and the pursuit of scientific understanding of the phenomenon. There is a strong emphasis on theoretical and experimental research into advanced propulsion systems, such as MHD, as a potential explanation for UFOs. The issue also highlights the importance of independent research and the challenges faced by researchers in gaining acceptance and funding. The editorial stance is clearly critical of bureaucratic and potentially obstructive approaches to UFO research, advocating for a more open and scientifically rigorous methodology. The death of J. Allen Hynek serves as a poignant reminder of the pioneers in the field and the ongoing quest for answers.