Inforespace - No 78

Magazine Overview

This issue of Inforespace, titled 'ufologie phénomènes spatiaux', is the 78th semestrial review, published in June 1990, marking the 19th year of publication. It is published by SOBEPS and focuses on UFO phenomena.

Key Articles and Content

Editorial

The editorial discusses the ongoing nature of UFO phenomena and the challenges in presenting a comprehensive overview of recent events. It highlights the continuous influx of new testimonies and the efforts of the SOBEPS secretariat to process this information. The editorial also thanks the Gendarmerie brigades for their collaboration.

"FAISONS LE POINT" (Let's Get to the Point)

This section provides a summary of UFO activity in Belgium during the period following November 1989. It notes that December 11th was particularly active with sightings of red lights detaching from dark structures. The period of December 24-26 was also marked by a high number of observations across Belgium, with similar reports from France. Notable cases include M. Box's filming of a large triangular object in the Liège region and an investigation into a landing incident near Jupille. The phenomenon's activity shifted from eastern Belgium to the Meuse valley, then towards Namur, Charleroi, Mons, and Tournai. More recently, activity has concentrated in the southern Liège region, Walloon Brabant, and the Brussels area. The article mentions organized night vigils with scientists, including M. Léon Brenig, and details an incident on March 30-31, 1990, where gendarmes observed unidentified luminous points, later confirmed by radar stations, prompting the Belgian Air Force to dispatch F-16 fighters. The presence of these unidentified objects was also noted by radar.

"BIERSET: QUATRE JOURS ET QUATRE NUITS D'ATTENTE" (Bierset: Four Days and Four Nights of Waiting)

This article details a significant joint operation between the Belgian Air Force and SOBEPS from April 13-17, 1990. This was a groundbreaking initiative where the military provided logistical support, including an aircraft, to a civilian UFO research group. The operation aimed to study UFO phenomena with scientific rigor. The first night (April 13) was quiet with only four calls. Saturday, April 14, saw numerous calls reporting unusual lights. At 11:30 PM, a triangular craft with white lights and a pulsating red center was observed near Flémalle. This led to the launch of an Air Force aircraft. Despite initial coordination issues, the aircraft took off and was directed towards Waremme, then Perwez. However, no visual contact was made. A later report of an orange halo near Perwez turned out to be a streetlamp. Sunday, April 15, also saw a promising night, but the media attention attracted large crowds to the airport. The aircraft flew for five hours but found no confirmed sightings. A significant observation near Onain led to a lengthy phone call and an attempt to investigate, which ultimately proved fruitless, revealing the phenomenon to be an ordinary streetlamp. The operation concluded on Monday, April 16, with limited results in terms of scientific data, but fostered a strong sense of collaboration and mutual interest between civilians and the military.

"EURUFON European Ufo Network"

This section announces the upcoming launch of EURUFON, a European UFO network. EURUFONEWS, its bulletin, will present UFO news from across Europe. EURUFON also aims to study Abductions and CE 4 (Close Encounters of the Fourth Kind) occurring in Europe.

"FLASH - FLASH - FLASH..."

This brief report mentions sightings of triangular objects in the Nord department (59) in France on May 5, 1990. Previous sightings of these triangles were reported in Valenciennes, Douai, and Maubeuge between April 20 and May 2, suggesting a potential penetration of French airspace.

"LA SOBEPS, SES RAPPORTS AVEC LES AUTORITES ET LA PRESSE" (SOBEPS, Its Reports with Authorities and the Press)

This article highlights SOBEPS's efforts to establish credibility and overcome the 'humorous' connotations often associated with UFO studies. It details SOBEPS's successful establishment of privileged contacts with the press, the Gendarmerie, and the Ministry of National Defense. Following a meeting in December 1989 with Lt. Colonel Rousseau of the Gendarmerie, a procedure was implemented to ensure all UFO observation reports were immediately communicated to SOBEPS. Further communication with Colonel Bruggeman in April led to a more precise directive for districts and brigades to follow a strict procedure for reporting cases. SOBEPS also developed strong relationships with military authorities, including Colonel De Brouwer of the Air Force, who provided insights into the Eupen affair. The collaboration during the April 1990 operation, where the Air Force provided an aircraft, was a significant step. The Ministry of National Defense, through Minister Guy Coëme, pledged support and access to radar information. These efforts have led to SOBEPS being perceived with a degree of respectability, akin to a 'parastatal' organization, though this has not translated into financial subsidies.

"LA SOBEPS au radar de Glons" (SOBEPS at the Glons Radar)

On January 22, 1990, SOBEPS members visited the CRC (Control and Reporting Center) at Glons. They were shown the center's operations, including the detection, identification, and analysis of aerial threats. The visit included explanations of radar systems like the MPR (impulse radar) and AWACS, and the process of tracking and identifying targets. The day concluded with discussions between SOBEPS members and military personnel about technical issues and the performance of radar systems in relation to recent UFO observations.

"FILMS, PHOTOS : QU'EN DIRE?" (Films, Photos: What to Say About Them?)

Patrick Ferryn, SOBEPS's photography expert, discusses the collection of approximately twenty video documents received since December 1989. Most of these are from credible witnesses and are considered genuine attempts to record phenomena. However, Ferryn notes that most films were taken at night with amateur equipment, often without tripods, leading to unstable images and limitations in capturing detail. He mentions that the recorded images sometimes differ from what witnesses saw, attributing this to the limitations of consumer-grade cameras. He highlights a high-quality film made by M. Marcel THONON on December 4, 1989, near Botrange, which could be an aircraft but warrants further study. Other films show unusual phenomena, including what might be Jupiter appearing exceptionally bright, and aircraft in flight. The article also discusses a film by M. and Mme. BURCHATZ near Aubel, showing a bright object with unusual behavior, and a film by M. Stany BOX showing a luminous spot that changes intensity.

"TRIANGLES, ENGINS ET QU'EN EST-IL DE TOUS CES CAS?" (Triangles, Craft, and What About All These Cases?)

This section discusses the prevalence of triangular UFO sightings, noting that while they have been reported globally, the 'Belgian triangles' of 1989-1990 gained particular attention. It mentions that while many cases are dismissed as aircraft or hoaxes, the sheer volume and consistency of reports, especially from sectors with high UFO activity, suggest a need for serious investigation. The article references specific observations from Canada, the UK, and the USA, and notes that the 'Belgian triangles' were not widely reported in the US media.

Service Librairie: Nouveautés (Bookstore Service: New Releases)

• This section reviews two books:
• "Enquête sur les OVNI - Voyage aux frontières de la Science" (Investigation into UFOs - Journey to the Frontiers of Science) by J.P. Petit, a CNRS researcher who critiques the official scientific stance on UFOs and exposes disinformation campaigns.
• "Autres dimensions - Chronique des contacts avec un autre monde" (Other Dimensions - Chronicle of Contacts with Another World) by J. Vallée, who proposes that UFO encounters are not extraterrestrial but rather a form of spiritual system influencing humans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the need for a scientific approach to ufology, aiming to legitimize the field and overcome public skepticism. There is a strong focus on detailed case studies, witness testimonies, and the collection of photographic and video evidence. The collaboration with military and official bodies is presented as a key strategy for gaining credibility and access to resources. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, seeking to present factual information and encourage further investigation, while also acknowledging the challenges and complexities of the subject matter.

Title: Inforespace
Issue Date: November 29, 1989
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Études des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace focuses heavily on the wave of UFO sightings that occurred in Belgium, particularly on November 29, 1989, with a significant emphasis on triangular and boomerang-shaped craft. The magazine highlights that this phenomenon was not confined to Belgium but was observed internationally, suggesting a global event.

International Sightings of Triangular Craft

The article "TRIANGLES, BOOMERANGS, ENGINS EN "V", AVIONS PLUS QU'INSOLITES, ETC ... TOUS ONT AUSSI VOLE A L'ETRANGER" (Triangles, Boomerangs, V-shaped Craft, More Than Just Unusual Aircraft, etc... All Have Also Flown Abroad) by Michel Bougard, discusses the international nature of these sightings. It notes a shift in ufological mentality towards information exchange. The author reached out to foreign ufological groups and found that similar cases, often sensational, had been reported. While well-known cases like Gulf Breeze and Villas Boas are mentioned, the focus is on the wave of triangular or flying wing-shaped objects observed in the New York region in 1983, which had parallels to the Belgian sightings. Identical observations were reported in Canada, West Germany (RFA), Puerto Rico, the UK, Sweden, France, and particularly in Indiana, USA. The general manifestation process for these waves is similar: occurring after the late 1970s and early 1980s, localized in specific, recurring ufological zones, and lasting longer than typical UFO waves. Landing percentages are low, and objects are generally described as triangular, boomerang-shaped, or ray-like. Witnesses also reported unusual aircraft with normal flight characteristics but abnormal flight and performance. Object sizes varied, with some described as enormous (the size of a football field) and others smaller than 10 meters. Secondary effects on witnesses or the environment were practically non-existent, and most observations were nocturnal.

The article touches upon the 'stealth aircraft' explanation, acknowledging its rationality but finding it insufficient for many cases. The SOBEPS is gathering information from international colleagues and promises a more detailed report later, mentioning recent events in Puerto Rico where US fighter jets were reportedly 'swallowed' by a large triangular object, and ongoing sightings in Muncie, Indiana.

The November 29, 1989 Wave: Detailed Analysis

"QUE S'EST-IL PASSE LE 29 NOVEMBRE 1989?" (What Happened on November 29, 1989?) by Patrick Vidal, delves into the specifics of the Belgian sightings on that date. The author acknowledges that the list of events is not exhaustive and that many cases may not have been reported. The analysis focuses on several key parameters:

• Location: Almost all observations were concentrated in the province of Liège.
• Time: The vast majority of sightings were nocturnal, primarily between 18:00 and 20:00, with few cases after 21:00.
• Structure: Contrary to expectations, most witnesses observed a structure, with triangular shapes being predominant. Some described 'bizarre' or non-conventional aircraft, similar to waves in the USA and UK.
• Altitude: Phenomena generally evolved at very low altitudes.
• Distance: Many witnesses reported being within 100 meters of the object, but no landings or quasi-contacts occurred.
• Size: Descriptions varied, with some calling the objects enormous (like a large airplane) and others describing them as less than 10 meters.
• Sound: While many reported no sound, some described a muffled, buzzing noise, or a sound like a sewing machine. The phenomenon was not always silent.

Additional observations include:

• Shape: The 'triangle' shape was the most frequently reported.
• Speed: The apparent speed was described as very slow, leading to questions about why an aircraft moving that slowly wouldn't stall.

"ESCORTE" PAR DES HELICOPTERES (Escorted by Helicopters)

This section details a specific case observed by M. S.M. near Robertmont, Liège, on the evening of November 29, 1989. Between 19:30 and 20:00, the witness saw a dark triangular structure, illuminated by a bright light, flying slowly and at low altitude towards Robertmont. It was being followed by three helicopters, identified as Bell type with landing skis, which were as dark as the triangle and approximately 150-200 meters behind it. The witness initially thought the formation might land at the former military domain of Robertmont, but the triangle and its 'escort' flew due south in complete silence. The witness later realized the description of the illuminated triangular structure matched what gendarmes had observed. The triangle had white and green lights around its perimeter, with a strong central light occupying most of its structure. The strangeness of this case lies in the juxtaposition of a UFO with conventional aircraft, raising questions about whether it was a diversion or a clue to the mystery.

"TOUT N'A PAS COMMENCE LE 29 NOVEMBRE 1989..." (It All Didn't Start on November 29, 1989...)

This article by Patrick Vidal explains that the phenomenon began earlier. The author recounts an initial contact with a 'triangle' in Olne (near Verviers) in early November 1989, where a couple described a 'bizarre', phosphorescent triangular aircraft. At the time, it was dismissed as a possible confusion with a Mirage V fighter jet under specific lighting conditions. After the initial wave, the secretariat of SOBEPS received about forty reports predating November 29, 1989, spanning from April to November 1989. Most of these earlier sightings occurred from mid-October onwards, predominantly in the province of Liège, and mostly at night between 17:30 and 20:00. The observed phenomena were similar to those reported on November 29, including powerful, discreet lights, a red-orange flashing light, and slow-moving triangular objects. Some cases described unusual 'bizarre' aircraft. A detailed account is given of a sighting by M. Vermeersch in Monceau sur Sambre, Hainaut, around midnight between November 20-25, 1989. He observed a huge, immobile object at very low altitude, moving slowly east. The object had metallic armatures and riveted sheet metal sections, with a round shape and red and white lights. The witness felt 'watched'.

Detailed Catalog of Sightings (Pages 6-9)

Pages 6 through 9 present a comprehensive table listing numerous sightings from November 29, 1989, and surrounding dates. The table includes:

• Heure (Time): From 16:00 to 23:30.
• Lieu (Location): Primarily towns and villages in the province of Liège, Belgium, with some entries from Hainaut, Namur, Limburg (NL), and Antwerp.
• Province: Liège, Hainaut, Namur, Limburg (NL), Antwerp, Brabant.
• Structure: Descriptions range from imprecise, metallic, triangular, saucer-shaped, boomerang, cigar, rectangular, oval, to specific configurations of lights.
• Altitude: Estimates vary from very low to several hundred meters, with some 'important' or 'high' altitudes noted.
• Distance: Estimates range from less than 1 km to several kilometers, with some 'close' or 'very close' encounters.
• Taille (Size): Descriptions include 'gros avion' (large aircraft), 'Boeing', 'énorme' (enormous), 'hélicoptère' (helicopter), 'petite' (small), and specific dimensions like 7m x 3m.
• Bruit (Sound): Reported as none, humming, buzzing, 'moteur électr.' (electric motor), 'ronronnement' (rumbling), 'léger bruit de vent' (light wind noise), or 'régulier et sourd' (regular and dull).
• Forme (Shape): Detailed descriptions of various shapes, including triangles with different light configurations, discs, saucers, elongated shapes, and unusual combinations.
• Vitesse (Speed): Ranges from stationary, very slow, slow, moderate, rapid, to extremely fast, with some entries noting 'stationnaire' (stationary) or 'rapide' (rapid).

Notable entries include descriptions of 'gros avion' (large aircraft), 'Boeing' types, and objects described as 'énorme' (enormous) or 'très grande' (very large). Some entries mention specific sounds like 'turbine étouffée' (muffled turbine) or 'machine à coudre' (sewing machine).

Conclusion

Patrick Vidal concludes that the parameters discussed are insufficient to scientifically identify the phenomenon. However, the general concordance of witness testimonies and their high degree of reliability suggest that something real occurred on November 29, 1989. The concentration of sightings in time and geography reinforces this. The article posits that material objects of generally triangular shape and varying dimensions evolved at very low altitudes and extremely slow speeds in eastern Belgium on that evening. The diversity of shapes and relative absence of noise argue against military aircraft. The possibility of multiple 'Stealth' aircraft of different types is considered but deemed difficult to sustain. The events of November 29, 1989, are presented as a significant, media-unpolluted event that should be considered with seriousness and objectivity, serving as a reference point for ufological developments in Belgium.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of triangular and V-shaped UFOs, the international scope of such sightings, and the detailed cataloging of events. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation, presenting witness accounts and data with an analytical approach, while acknowledging the limitations in definitively identifying the phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on the credibility of the witnesses and the unusual nature of the events, particularly the November 29, 1989 wave, which is presented as a unique and significant occurrence in Belgian ufology.

This issue of the magazine focuses on reports of luminous aerial phenomena, primarily from Belgium in November 1989, with additional accounts from Russia. The articles detail witness testimonies, investigator findings, and some scientific analysis of alleged UFO encounters.

Case 1: Jalhay/Stembert, Belgium (November 29, 1989)

A young woman driving at night observed a luminous object flying low over the trees near Jalhay. She described it as having the shape of three large vertical window panes, emitting a bright, yellowish-white light. The object moved in zig-zag patterns at a distance of about 1 km. She observed it for about ten minutes and did not hear any noise. The object was estimated to be 2x5 meters in size. No secondary effects were reported.

Case 2: Herve/Fléron, Belgium (November 29, 1989)

Raymond Strasters and his friend Bruno were driving on the highway when they spotted three powerful lights ahead. As they approached, they realized it was a large, dark triangular object moving slowly. The object was described as a dark grey, almost black mass, with powerful lights at each angle illuminating the ground. The witnesses compared the lights to halogen projectors. Bruno Pirlet noted metallic reflections on the central part of the triangle. The object was estimated to be about 15-20 meters in size and flew at a very low altitude, possibly around 40 meters. They did not hear any noise, but noted that the truck's engine might have masked any sound. The object moved in the opposite direction of the highway and disappeared from view as they passed.

Case 3: Eupen, Belgium (November 29, 1989)

Around 5:30 PM, a couple in Eupen observed a luminous object moving in the sky. The object was described as triangular with two powerful headlights in front and one at the rear. It was moving slowly and at an estimated altitude of 150 meters or less. The object appeared to be descending, as if preparing to land. The witness initially thought it was a helicopter but quickly realized it was something else due to its silence and unusual characteristics. The object had a flat, rounded-tip triangular shape. Its upper part was dome-shaped with several rectangular, vertical windows. The color was described as orange. The front lights illuminated the ground brightly. The observation lasted between 45 and 60 seconds.

Case 4: Loncin, Belgium (November 25, 1989)

Around 7:10 PM, a family driving on the highway near Loncin observed a flat, rectangular object with white-yellowish lights. The object was flying very low, estimated at about 40 meters, and was about 15 meters long and 7 meters wide. It moved in a straight line from northwest to southeast. The witnesses, including Mme Schmitz, were certain it was not an airplane. The object was observed for about 30 seconds.

Case 5: Liège, Belgium (November 29, 1989)

Near the Fragnée and Guillemins districts of Liège, a witness observed a silent, flat triangular object with white and red lights. The object was approximately 15-20 meters in length and flew at an altitude of 30-50 meters, moving slowly, comparable to a pedestrian's speed. The underside of the object had longitudinal stripes. The upper part was dome-shaped and dark, while the underside was grey-anthracite. The observation lasted 30-40 seconds.

Russian Reports

The magazine also includes several reports from Russia, detailing various UFO phenomena and alleged encounters:

• Rostov to Tallin Flight (January 30, 1985): The crew of a passenger plane reported an UFO sighting, later attributed by some to atmospheric effects.
• Pletrozawodsk Incident (February 1985): A train's speed inexplicably increased, and a luminous ball was observed. This event consumed 300 liters of fuel without explanation.
• Dalniegorsk Sighting (January 26, 1986): Inhabitants reported a silent red ball flying from the northwest.
• Charovsk Encounters (April 24 and May 26, 1989): Witnesses reported seeing luminous objects, one described as a fiery ball followed by a silver object with humanoid occupants, and another incident where a car engine stopped near a strange, mushroom-shaped or crab-like object.
• Scientific Analysis of Alleged Crash Debris: The article mentions the examination of material from a supposed UFO crash site near Dalniegorsk. Analysis revealed unusual elemental compositions and properties, suggesting advanced technology beyond current capabilities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the observation of luminous aerial objects, often triangular or rectangular, flying at low altitudes and exhibiting unusual behavior. The reports emphasize witness testimonies and the lack of conventional explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into these phenomena, presenting detailed accounts and some preliminary scientific analysis, while also acknowledging the growing interest in ufology, particularly in the context of the Soviet Union's openness during the Perestroika era.

This issue of "OVNI présence" (Issue 342, Volume 1, dated VEVEY 1, likely September 1989) focuses on a series of UFO sightings and encounters, predominantly from the Soviet Union (Russia and Ukraine) during 1989. The magazine, published by the Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes, presents detailed witness testimonies and investigative findings.

Key Incidents and Reports

The Voronej Incident (September 1989)

The issue dedicates significant attention to the Voronej case, which had generated confusion. It asserts that events of "extraordinary" nature occurred, moving beyond mere speculation. Initial reports were contradictory, but subsequent investigations, particularly by Lev Aksyonov and Boris Zverev, detailed in "MOSCOW NEWS n°43, 1989," have clarified aspects. Notably, measurements on-site revealed a real increase in radioactivity, with gamma radiation levels significantly higher than background levels. Expert Vladimir Cherkizov photographed the traces left on the ground. The investigation involved scientists, including Professor Stanislav Kadmensky, who oversaw the analysis of soil samples. Witness testimonies consistently described an elliptical object landing, from which a tall, headless being with large shoulders emerged. The beings were sometimes described as transparent or gaseous. The issue also touches on the socio-psychological impact, including a priest blessing the site and a response from the diocese labeling the phenomenon as "SATAN."

Other Soviet Sightings

• April 24, 1989 (HAROWSK, Russia): A resident reported seeing a golden object that transformed into a triangular shape with luminous beings.
• April 24, 1989 (CHAROWSK, Russia): Schoolgirl Olga Kozlova and her sister observed a rocket-shaped object with an orange light trail that executed a sharp 100-degree turn.
• June 4, 1989 (KIEV, Ukraine): Mmes. Viera Prokofievna and Alexandra Stiepanova encountered three individuals in silver suits with pale faces and blond-red hair, who claimed to be from another planet. The beings showed them their barrel-shaped, silver spaceship with a rotating antenna.
• June 4, 1989 (Podgorcy, Ukraine): A bright object was seen, and beings in silver suits were observed inside.
• June 6, 1989 (KONANCEWO, Russia): Children witnessed a yellowish star approach, become a large ball, and then split into two. A headless humanoid with long arms appeared, and the object vanished.
• June 26, 1989 (LESOZAVODSK, Russia): A creature described as mushroom-like or crab-like, emitting bizarre sounds, was seen. It left a silvery trace that disappeared. Witnesses reported a sensation of heat and an aura around the creature.
• August 16, 1989 (PERM region, Russia): Two brilliant, unusual bodies were observed hovering at 200-300 meters altitude. One descended and disappeared.

International Sightings

• November 25, 1989 (PAPA, Hungary): Meteorologists and military personnel sighted four orange, round objects, 50-100 meters in diameter. One object reportedly traversed Hungarian airspace at 4200 km/h.
• July 14, 1983 (SOSNOVKA, Central Asia): A strong red glow and explosions were reported. Military units discovered a zone with debris and calcined remains. A metallic capsule, about 1.5 meters in size, was found containing a lethargic being.

Investigations and Organizations

The magazine highlights the work of organizations like SOBEPS and the MUFON UFO JOURNAL. It mentions the involvement of the KOMSOLSKAYA PRAVDA and NOVOSTI Press Agency in reporting these events. The article also references the "IL GIORNALE DEI MISTERI" magazine for the Sosnovka case.

Object Characteristics and Witness Experiences

Reported objects varied in shape (disc, spherical, egg-shaped, barrel-shaped, elliptical) and color (white, red, yellow-green, orange, silver). Behaviors included hovering, sudden turns, emitting light and sound, and moving in short bounds. Witnesses often reported a sense of fear, heaviness, or paralysis after encounters. Physical traces, such as long marks in the grass and silvery residue, were documented.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently presents witness testimonies as factual accounts of unusual aerial phenomena and potential extraterrestrial encounters. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of these events, encouraging readers to share their own experiences. There's an emphasis on the growing volume of data and the need for collaboration and financial support for research. The magazine aims to provide an "alternative ufological perspective."