Inforespace - No 80

Magazine Overview

Title: inforespace
Issue: n° 80
Date: April 1991
Volume: 20th year
Type: Semestrial review

This issue of *inforespace* delves into ufology and spatial phenomena, featuring a detailed report on a daytime sighting in Pont-de-Loup, Belgium, and an extensive discussion on the potential connection between Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) and advanced stealth aircraft.

"Toupie" Verticale dans le Ciel du Petit Matin (Vertical "Top" in the Early Morning Sky)

This section details a fascinating sighting by Mr. Romano T. and his wife, Mme Silvana C., on April 22, 1990, around 8:25 AM in Pont-de-Loup, Belgium. The object was described as a triangular mass with rounded corners, metallic grey in color, moving vertically with its point downwards. It rotated counter-clockwise and emitted lights that produced an effect similar to an arc-en-ciel, with a dominance of red-orange. The witnesses reported that the object moved towards Châtelet. Mr. T. initially noticed birds and animals reacting strangely before spotting the object. He described it as having lamps that blinked rhythmically ('tac, tac') and a square-like shape, possibly made of wood, that was visible when illuminated by the sun. He estimated the altitude to be between 600 and 700 meters. His wife described it as heart-shaped with three headlights, and noted its rotation and movement. She also mentioned that the object was flying too low to be a satellite but too high to be a kite. The event occurred in daylight, with fog rolling in shortly after the observation. The witnesses confirmed there was no noise, smoke, or smell, and the object's contours were sharp. The object's rotation lasted about nine seconds, and its dimensions were estimated at 40 cm high, 30 cm wide, and 20 cm thick. The article notes that this testimony is consistent with other sightings published in *inforespace*, referencing cases in Basècles, Profondeville, and Brussels.

Observation à Grimbergen le 23 Novembre 1989 (Observation in Grimbergen on November 23, 1989)

This section presents a letter from Mr. Didier D. R., describing an observation made with his wife on November 23, 1989, around 10:30 PM in Grimbergen, Belgium. They observed a significant luminous source in movement, described as a luminous mass composed of 6 to 8 'spots' that alternately illuminated and extinguished in a fraction of a second. These spots described a circular movement of about 6 to 8 meters in diameter, with a rotation speed of one to two seconds per turn. The central axis was barely luminous or reflected the spots' light. His wife perceived it as a single spot with jerky circular movement. The phenomenon remained stationary except for this circular movement and was located behind a cloud mass. The cloud itself was described as natural in appearance but unnaturally low and with sharp contours, extending from a chimney to a vacant lot and stopping about 20-30 meters away. The rest of the sky was clear. The witnesses decided to open their window, noting the complete silence. After about ten minutes, they felt an urge to go to bed and fell asleep immediately. They awoke at 3:15 AM to find the phenomenon gone. The witness expressed feelings of anxiety and regret for not having acted further, such as taking a photo or contacting authorities. He speculated that the observation might have been facilitated by being directly beneath the object. He also noted that the glare from a nearby streetlamp did not bother him during the observation, suggesting the object's own light intensity might have affected it.

Avions Furtifs Contre AWACS (Stealth Aircraft vs. AWACS)

This extensive article discusses the possibility that some UAP sightings, particularly those exhibiting characteristics of stealth and advanced technology, might be secret military aircraft rather than extraterrestrial craft. The author critiques the popular monthly "Science & Vie" for promoting the idea that the Belgian "triangle" sightings were merely F-117A stealth fighters. The article examines reports from October 18, 1990, in the Namur region, where a large flying object was observed, initially suspected to be an AWACS (Airborne Warning And Control System) aircraft. However, some witnesses insisted it was not an AWACS, citing discrepancies in its behavior and appearance. The author also references recordings from an answering machine that suggested certain declarations did not match an AWACS observation. A local conference attendee claimed to have pursued an object by car for several kilometers, only to find an AWACS in flight at Gosselies, with no confusion possible with the earlier object.

The article then delves into the characteristics of AWACS aircraft, described as modified Boeing 707s with a distinctive radome, serving as airborne radar platforms. It highlights their crucial role in air defense by providing early detection and control.

Further incidents are presented, including one on November 12, 1990, near Herstal, where a witness, familiar with aviation, observed an AWACS at low altitude. This AWACS was then approached by a larger, brighter point of light that changed direction and disappeared, leading the witness to speculate it was observing the AWACS. Another sighting on November 22, 1990, near Charleroi, involved a large, silent, triangular object with rounded sides, described as a "giant manta ray," which was followed by an AWACS. A fourth coincidence was reported by Eurufon, mentioning an OVNI sighting on February 20, 1990, near Flémalle-Grande, after which an AWACS and two F-16 fighters took off.

The author posits four possible hypotheses for these coincidences: 1) AWACS are searching for UAP; 2) UAP are searching for AWACS; 3) AWACS are tracking UAP for security or identification; or 4) UAP are observing AWACS due to their unique electromagnetic signatures. A more speculative hypothesis suggests UAP might be tracking AWACS to test their reliability or to simulate attacks, possibly involving advanced stealth aircraft.

The article then extensively discusses stealth technology, particularly the F-117A and B-2 bombers. It explains the principles of stealth, including radar-absorbent materials, specialized shaping to deflect radar waves, and electronic countermeasures. The author notes that while "absolute undetectability" doesn't exist, stealth technology aims to make aircraft difficult to detect. The article concludes by stating that Belgian UAP are not simply F-117A American aircraft, but their behavior shares similarities with stealth technology, such as triangular shapes, powerful headlights, and silent, rapid flight. However, the UAP also exhibit characteristics that seem to defy known aerodynamic principles and suggest a technology beyond current human capabilities, leading to two main possibilities: secret, revolutionary aircraft, or non-human technology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed analysis of specific UAP sightings, the investigation into potential correlations between UAP and advanced military aircraft (specifically AWACS and stealth fighters), and the exploration of technological explanations for UAP phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, critically examining witness testimonies and considering both conventional and unconventional explanations, while maintaining a distinction between known technology and potentially unknown or non-human origins. The magazine emphasizes the need for rigorous analysis and cautions against premature conclusions, particularly those that dismiss UAP as solely conventional aircraft.

This issue of OVNI magazine, dated 1991, focuses on a significant wave of UFO sightings that occurred in Belgium, particularly during December 1989. The publication delves into detailed accounts from witnesses, investigative efforts by organizations like SOBEPS, and explores various hypotheses attempting to explain these phenomena.

Analysis of UFO Phenomena

The magazine begins by discussing the logical inconveniences of maintaining secrecy around UFO phenomena, suggesting that societal shifts towards pacifism and economic factors might influence the approach to such matters. It highlights how technological advancements and the interconnectedness of research can inadvertently spread information about sensitive projects.

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to analyzing specific observations, particularly those from the "Belgian wave" of UFOs. The article "LE 11 DECEMBRE 1989: UNE SOIREE DE RECONNAISSANCE SYSTEMATIQUE ?" details a systematic investigation of events on December 11, 1989. It notes that the majority of sightings occurred in the Sambre and Meuse valley, with a particular concentration between La Louvière and Namur. The report breaks down 26 testimonies, categorizing them by time and location, and presents a table and map illustrating these events.

Several individual cases are described in detail:

• Esneux (Liège): On December 11, 1989, a witness named Mme L. observed a luminous object described as a large, dark grey, triangular shape with rounded edges, emitting powerful white and red lights. The object exhibited impossible flight characteristics.
• Tilff (Liège): On the same evening, a young witness, Nadia E.Y., observed a large grey triangle with rounded corners, featuring green and red lights, moving at low altitude.
• Trooz (Liège): The Luigi P. family reported observing a powerful, stationary white light, later joined by another light. The object was described as having a large, powerful front light, two less powerful side lights, and a red rear light, moving with a rapid, silent trajectory.
• La Louvière (Hainaut): M. Michel G. reported seeing luminous points forming a triangle with a red point in the center and another at the rear. The object moved moderately with slight accelerations and decelerations, emitting a faint high-pitched noise.
• Morlanwelz (Hainaut): Witnesses Robert V. and Mic B. observed four luminous points moving laterally, part of a majestic grey structure.
• Seneffe (Hainaut): M. and Mme Willy D. witnessed two dazzling white headlights from a stationary object, with indistinct rectangular zones and a mass with indeterminate contours.
• Jemeppe-sur-Sambre (Hainaut): M. Jean-Claude S. observed a luminous mass, described as much larger than an AWACS, with three lights and reddish trails. It moved slowly before accelerating rapidly northwards.
• Jumet (Hainaut): Two witnesses reported observations of luminous objects.

Hypotheses and Interpretations

The magazine explores the "Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis" (HET) and proposes a "neo-HET" model. This model suggests the existence of intelligent, non-human entities interacting with humanity via UFOs, without defining their origin (extraterrestrial, future, other dimensions, etc.). It acknowledges that the technology and motives of such entities might be beyond human comprehension.

Alternative explanations are also considered, including the work of Jacques Vallée, who observed invariants in folklore and close encounters, suggesting possible interference between human and intelligent, possibly terrestrial, beings. Sociopsychological models are also mentioned, attributing phenomena to mental aspects like errors, aberrations, or fantasies.

The article "Une intelligence extra-humaine" posits that if such an intelligence exists, its means and objectives would be beyond human understanding. It considers various possibilities for the origin and nature of these intelligences, including those from distant star systems, the future, or even non-corporeal forms.

Object Characteristics and Behavior

Across the various reports, common characteristics of the observed objects include luminous lights (white, red, green, blue-orange), varied shapes (triangular, square, bell-shaped, disc), and behaviors such as hovering, slow movement, rapid acceleration, and silent flight. Some reports mention specific details like powerful headlights, pulsating lights, and even electromagnetic effects, such as a watch malfunctioning.

Methodological Considerations

The magazine emphasizes the importance of systematic data collection and analysis, as undertaken by SOBEPS. It notes the challenges in identifying objects due to potential camouflage or deliberate imprecision by the entities involved. The article also touches upon the psychological impact on witnesses, noting that while some experienced fear, others were primarily amazed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting of UFO sightings, the exploration of various hypotheses (scientific, psychological, and speculative), and the emphasis on witness testimonies and investigative rigor. The magazine adopts a stance of open inquiry, presenting different viewpoints and data without definitively concluding on the nature of the phenomena. It highlights the complexity and persistent mystery surrounding UFOs, suggesting that current human understanding may be insufficient to fully grasp the implications of these observations. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into anomalous aerial phenomena, acknowledging the possibility of non-human intelligence while remaining grounded in reported evidence and scientific inquiry.

This issue of "L'ÉCHO DU MYSTÈRE" (Volume 1, Issue 11, dated December 1989) is dedicated to an extensive report on UFO/UAP sightings, titled "OVNI : 26 observations en 48 heures !". The magazine focuses on a concentrated period of reported aerial phenomena in Belgium, detailing numerous witness accounts and the findings of investigators.

Detailed Sightings and Investigations

The issue meticulously documents 26 distinct observations that occurred primarily on December 11, 1989, and the preceding 48 hours. The reports span across several Belgian provinces, including Namur, Liège, and Hainaut.

Namur Province Sightings:

• Jumet (Hainaut): The issue begins with reports from Jumet, where witnesses described a disc-shaped object, approximately 10 meters in diameter, with flashing lights and a central fixed light. One witness, Karine F. (15 years old), observed an immobile object about 50 meters above the ground, described as round with lights and a central ball.
• Ernage (Namur): A particularly detailed account comes from Lieutenant-Colonel André A., a member of the Belgian Land Force. He and his wife observed a series of three to four white lights moving in a general north-south direction, followed by a red "gyrophare" (beacon). The object later returned, exhibiting a maneuver described as a "majestic, slow, tight 180° turn." The witness emphasized the object's silence and the lack of reflection from the moon.
• Daussox (Namur): A witness, Michel D., described seeing a large, flamboyant red object resembling a "manta ray" moving slowly and majestically without any visible lights or sound. The object changed direction three times, suggesting a reconnaissance mission.
• Mazy-Suarlée (Namur): Multiple witnesses in this region reported seeing three white lights and one red light. Later, the object was described as a "triangle" with three white lights and a red light in the center, performing a 180° turn. Another witness compared its size to two football fields.
• Spy (Namur): Philippe R. observed points of light forming a triangle, with a red-orange light and a weak white light directed towards the ground. He ruled out conventional aircraft based on his experience as an IT technician at Zaventem airport.
• Forville (Namur): Jean-Benoît G. reported seeing three bright lights projecting beams onto the ground, followed by a dark, imposing mass with a domed top, comparable to a "mushroom cap."
• Emines (Namur): Monsieur and Madame D. observed a luminous elliptical shape with a central yellow light, a red light, and two white lights, estimated to be 20 meters long and 3 meters thick. The object moved at high speed along the highway.

Liège Province Sightings:

• Blegny-Trembleur (Liège): Bernard S. and his family observed a strong luminosity formed by several points of light. Using binoculars, they distinguished three white lights in a triangle formation with a blinking red light in the center and horizontal white beams. The object was estimated to be 200-250 meters high.
• Xhendremael (Liège): Anne-Marie P. observed a dark, imposing mass with a domed top and several white lights emitting beams towards the ground. The object moved slowly in an arc before ascending rapidly and disappearing.
• Barrage de la Gileppe (Liège): Pierre R. and his sons observed a luminous phenomenon stationary at an altitude of 1000 meters, described as "very large" and "very bright."
• Jupille-sur-Meuse (Liège): An observation occurred shortly after 02:00 AM, detailed in a separate article within the issue.
• Remouchamps (Liège): Frans W., a former sworn agent, observed an object moving in jerks.

Other Belgian Provinces:

• Bastogne (Luxembourg): A witness observed a truncated cone shape with red lights at the base and yellow lights inside, which pivoted several times.
• Wasmul (Hainaut): Stéphane N. reported seeing three lights forming a triangle and a red light in the center, with other blinking lights. The object was described as dark with a dome.

International Sightings:

• Banholt (Netherlands): Humphrey B. and his wife observed a luminous ball that moved slowly and silently, later described as a "luminous ball" appearing spherical and pulsating white on film, though they had seen it as orange. They also noted a second luminous phenomenon.

Object Characteristics and Witness Reactions

The issue compiles descriptions of various object characteristics, including shapes (triangular, round, disc, dome, cigar-shaped, elliptical), colors (red, white, yellow, orange, grey), estimated sizes (ranging from 5m to 50m, with some comparisons to football fields or AWACS aircraft), and behaviors (hovering, slow or rapid movement, changing direction, pivoting, silent operation, pulsating lights). Many witnesses expressed fear, apprehension, or a sense of being observed, and several explicitly ruled out conventional aircraft like AWACS, ULM, or helicopters due to the observed phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance is that of a serious investigation into unexplained aerial phenomena. The detailed accounts, investigator notes, and attempts to rule out conventional explanations suggest a belief in the reality of these sightings and the need for further study. The recurring themes include the silence of the objects, their unusual flight patterns, the presence of distinct lights, and the emotional impact on witnesses. The editorial team presents these cases as evidence that "we may not be alone in the Universe," as quoted from one witness's reflection. The magazine aims to document these events thoroughly, providing a platform for witnesses and encouraging scientific analysis, as seen with the film submitted by the Banholt witnesses.

This issue of INFORESPACE, Volume 8, Issue 80, dated December 1989, is dedicated to the "Month of UFOs" in Belgium. The cover prominently features a stylized UFO illustration and the headline "DECEMBRE 1989 : LE MOIS DES OVNI". The magazine is published by SOBEPS and has an ISSN of 0777-0607.

December 1989: A Month of Intense UFO Activity

The issue details a significant surge in UFO sightings across Belgium, particularly concentrated on December 11th and 12th, 1989. The magazine presents numerous witness testimonies, often accompanied by investigative reports from SOBEPS.

Key Sightings and Locations:

• Liège Region: Several reports from the Liège area describe luminous phenomena and objects of various shapes. One witness in Liège reported a "huge mass" moving in jerky movements, while another described a luminous object with a strange shape and multiple lights.
• Jupille-sur-Meuse: A particularly detailed account comes from M. I.F., an engineer, who observed a large, dark, egg-shaped object hovering over a road in the early hours of December 11th. The object was described as having a dark window-like area and emitting lights. The witness also reported a strange, intermittent noise. Later, a vertical column of light was observed. The investigation noted the presence of three circular areas with shorter grass in the vicinity, suggesting possible landing traces, though this was debated.
• Pietrain (Brabant Wallon): Claude C.P. reported seeing a large, black, cigar-shaped object with red and white lights, which later appeared as a yellow circle with undulating orange lines. The object was described as making a continuous, assuarding rumble.
• Sambreville (Namur): On December 12th, a witness saw a large light composed of several white points under a cloudy sky, resembling stadium lights, which disappeared into the clouds.
• Other Locations: The issue also mentions sightings in locations such as Esneux, Tilff, La Louvière, Gembloux, Floreffe, Forville, Jemeppe-sur-Sambre, and areas in the Hainaut and Namur provinces.

Object Characteristics and Behavior:

• Witnesses described objects with diverse characteristics:
• Shape: Cigar-shaped, egg-shaped, triangular platforms.
• Color: Black, dark grey, with red and white lights, yellow circles, and blue and red lights.
• Size: Estimated up to 20 meters.
• Behavior: Hovering, moving in arcs, rapid acceleration, silent operation, emitting beams of light, and sometimes accompanied by strange noises or vibrations.
• Speed: Some objects were observed moving at high speeds, with estimates reaching 400 km/h.
• Altitude: Objects were reported at altitudes up to 1000 meters, as well as low altitude.
• Physical Traces: In the Jupille case, three circular areas with shorter grass were noted.
• Electromagnetic Effects: One report suggested possible interference with public lighting.

Investigations and Media Coverage:

The SOBEPS team, including Annie EYCKMANS and Michel BOUGARD, conducted numerous investigations into these sightings. The magazine highlights that the media, including national and international press, as well as several television stations (RTL-Liège, RTBF-Liège), covered these events, granting them significant attention.

Witness Reactions and Secondary Effects:

Witnesses often expressed a mix of awe and concern. M. I.F. from Jupille, despite his initial observation, seemed to become less interested in the UFO phenomenon afterward, possibly due to the reactions he received. He reported no direct negative physical effects from the sighting itself, but noted that several streetlights in his neighborhood later malfunctioned.

Corroborating Testimonies:

Several testimonies from neighbors and family members of primary witnesses helped corroborate certain aspects of the sightings, such as unusual noises or lights, even if they did not directly observe the main object. For instance, Martine R. and Mme J.L. reported hearing strange noises during the night of the Jupille sighting.

Banholt Case (Netherlands):

The issue also includes a brief mention of a case in Banholt, Netherlands, involving observations on December 12th, 1989, with analysis of photographic and video evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and diversity of UFO sightings, the detailed nature of witness testimonies, the challenges of investigation, and the role of media in reporting such phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into these events, presenting the evidence and witness accounts without immediate dismissal, while acknowledging the difficulties in definitively proving or disproving the nature of the observed phenomena. The magazine emphasizes the consistency and coherence found across multiple testimonies, suggesting that these are not mere misinterpretations but potentially represent genuine, unexplained aerial events.

This issue of INFORESPACE, identified as issue number 79 and dated November 1990, focuses on UFO investigations in Belgium, particularly highlighting the analysis of the Banholt film and the evolving collaboration between the private research group SOBEPS and official military and police bodies. The magazine delves into specific cases, witness testimonies, and official responses, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the UFO phenomenon in the region.

The Banholt Film: A Detailed Analysis

The article "BANHOLT: LE FILM" examines the video recording made on December 11, 1989, in Banholt, Netherlands. The sequence, captured around 8:30 PM, shows an unidentified luminous object. The analysis, conducted with professional video equipment, allowed for frame-by-frame inspection and slow-motion playback. The object initially appeared as a single light, varying in intensity. Later, it transformed into three distinct points of light, some with a faint reddish hue, before merging back into a single point that diminished in brightness. Despite the detailed analysis, the conclusion suggested that the object's behavior was not incompatible with that of a conventional aircraft, though the witnesses' accounts differed.

Collaboration with Official Bodies: SOBEPS and the "Officials"

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the relationship between SOBEPS and Belgian authorities. The article "LA SOBEPS ET LES 'OFFICIELS'" details how SOBEPS, a private UFO research group, managed to gain credibility and collaborate with the Gendarmerie and the Ministry of National Defence. This collaboration began in late 1989 amidst a wave of UFO sightings. The Gendarmerie was instructed to report all UFO observations to SOBEPS, and the Ministry of Defence, represented by Minister Guy Coëme, eventually agreed to provide information and support for SOBEPS's research.

Key milestones in this collaboration included a press conference on December 18, 1989, where officials, including Lieutenant-Colonel De Brouwer, stated that the observed phenomena could not be attributed to Belgian or foreign military aircraft or the AWACS. The Ministry of Defence officially acknowledged the investigation of UFOs and authorized the sharing of information with SOBEPS. This led to joint operations, including observation weekends with military support and access to radar data, such as the F-16 radar recording from the night of March 30-31, 1990.

Specific Case Studies

The Basècles Observation: The article "L'OVNI DE BASECLES : UN COMPLEMENT D'INFORMATION" provides further details on an observation made on December 21, 1989, in Basècles, Belgium. Two main witnesses, M. Sauvages and M. André, provided precise data that allowed for triangulation. The object was estimated to be 375 meters away, with an altitude between 43 and 57 meters. The width of the object at its base was estimated at 50 meters, and its height at 55 meters. The object displayed three white lights, each approximately 16 meters in diameter. The witnesses remained consistent in their accounts, showing the event had a profound impact on them.

The March 30-31, 1990 Incident: This event involved multiple gendarmes observing luminous phenomena near Ramillies-Jodoigne. Radar at Glons detected unusual echoes, prompting the dispatch of two F-16 fighter jets. While the pilots initially reported no visual contact, subsequent analysis suggested a possible connection between radar signals and an unidentified target. This incident, along with a video recording by M. Marcel Alfarano of a triangular object, further spurred the collaboration between SOBEPS and the military.

Parliamentary Debate and Official Statements

The issue includes a transcript of a parliamentary question posed by Deputy M. Daems to Minister Guy Coëme regarding the handling of UFO investigations. Daems questioned the resources allocated and the military's involvement, suggesting it was a misuse of funds. Minister Coëme responded by detailing the steps taken by the Air Force, emphasizing that the investigations were conducted to clarify the phenomena and not due to security threats. He confirmed the collaboration with SOBEPS and the provision of limited information, stressing that the research was scientific and aimed at understanding the phenomenon.

Operational Details and Future Plans

The magazine outlines the practical aspects of the collaboration, including the organization of observation weekends using military aircraft and equipment like night vision devices and thermal cameras. It details the protocols for confirming visual sightings and coordinating with radar centers. The article also mentions the ongoing efforts to analyze radar data and the potential for further scientific research, including the use of helicopters and infrared cameras.

Service Librairie and Call for Collaboration

Towards the end of the issue, a "SERVICE LIBRAIRIE" section lists available books on UFOs, offering them at special prices. Additionally, a "APPEL A LA COLLABORATION" section appeals for volunteers to assist SOBEPS with their growing workload, requesting contact information and offering opportunities for individuals to become more involved in UFO research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed analysis of specific UFO sightings, the increasing transparency and collaboration between civilian researchers and official military/police bodies in Belgium, and the scientific approach to investigating unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism, acknowledging the reality of unexplained sightings while emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific investigation and official cooperation. There's a clear effort to legitimize UFO research by showcasing its engagement with governmental institutions and its commitment to factual analysis.