Inforespace - No 84 - 1992

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 84
Volume: 21st year
Date: August 1992
Publisher: Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SOBEPS)
Type: Semestrial review

This issue of Inforespace, published by the Belgian Society for the Study of Spatial Phenomena (SOBEPS), delves into the realm of ufology, presenting a collection of witness testimonies, investigative reports, and theoretical discussions. The magazine aims to provide a rational and scientific approach to understanding unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP).

Editorial: The Scientific Frontier of Ufology

The editorial, penned by Michel Bougard, President of SOBEPS, reflects on the recent broadcast of a TV program about UFOs and the ongoing debate surrounding the scientific validity of ufology. Bougard addresses the historical tendency of established scientific disciplines to guard their territories and resist new ideas, drawing parallels with the Copernican revolution. He criticizes the dismissive and ironic attitude of some media figures towards UFO research, exemplified by 'M. Météo' (Jules Metz), and contrasts this with the growing interest from a segment of the scientific community. The editorial emphasizes the importance of open-minded investigation and the courage to explore the unknown, even in the face of skepticism and ridicule, likening it to searching for a lost key in the dark where the light is.

Key Articles and Reports

21 Janvier 1992: Dernier "raid" sur la Belgique ? (January 21, 1992: Last "Raid" on Belgium?)

This extensive report details a series of UFO sightings that occurred on January 21, 1992, primarily in the northeastern province of Liège, Belgium. The phenomena observed were often described as enigmatic triangles. The article meticulously recounts several witness testimonies, including that of Mme Ginette H.-S. from Dison, who described lights in the sky that formed a triangle. Another detailed account comes from Mme S. in Moresnet, who observed an intense luminous mass that later appeared as two white-yellowish 'headlights' and filmed it with a camcorder. The report tracks the movement of these objects, noting their trajectory towards the Montzen train station and subsequent observations by gendarmes. The article also mentions a separate sighting in Athus, in the southern part of Luxembourg province, involving a large, dark triangular object with three white lights.

Rencontres du 5e type (5th Kind Encounters)

This section introduces Dr. Steven M. Greer and his concept of '5th Kind Encounters' (RR5), promoted by the CSETI (Center for the Study of ExtraTerrestrial Intelligence). Greer advocates for a more relational and humanistic approach to ufology, moving beyond purely physical evidence to explore interactions between humans and potential extraterrestrial intelligences. RR5 categorizes encounters where a communicative link is established between the witness and the object, with subdivisions for intentional interactions (1st degree) and accidental ones (2nd degree). The article notes that this approach, while potentially controversial, aims to broaden the scope of UFO research.

Retour au 29 novembre 1989 (Return to November 29, 1989)

This article revisits several daytime UFO sightings from November 29, 1989, which predated the main wave of sightings in the Eupen region. These reports are highlighted for their diurnal nature and the 'exotic' characteristics of the objects, which differed from the later triangular platform sightings. The testimonies include:

• Case 1 (Walhorn): A Belgian army major observed a large, dark, metallic object resembling a 'great plaque' or triangle, flying slowly at high altitude.
• Case 2 (Jalhay): M. Georges L. reported a slow-moving, dark, oval-shaped object with no visible propulsion, flying very low.
• Case 3 (La Louvière): A similar oval structure was reported.
• Case 5 (Mazy): M. Alain E. observed a stationary, trapezoidal object with large front lights and a bluish glow underneath.
• Case 6 (Limbourg): M. Léon F. and his wife reported a large, dark, triangular object with rounded corners and three white lights, flying silently.
• Case 7 (Beyne-Heusay): M. Jean B. observed a dark object with indeterminate contours and a powerful front light, featuring visible 'portholes'.
• Case 8 (Dilsen-Limbourg): A witness reported a dark, diamond-shaped object with numerous lights.
• Case 9 (Dolhain): M. Jacques C. described a large, voluminous object, resembling a 'carrier', flying low with internal lights.
• Case 10 (Jalhay): A child reported a dark, flat, equilateral triangle with three strong lights and a cylindrical base.
• Case 11 (Sart Tilman): Witnesses observed a large, flat object with three lights and a central blinking orange light.
• Case 12 (Remouchamps): M. André R., a radiologist and private pilot, observed a stationary, triangular object and a second, faster-moving object.

The commentary section notes the difficulty in drawing definitive conclusions but highlights the similarities in shape and behavior across several cases, suggesting a potential connection between the Mazy and Limbourg sightings, and the Beyne-Heusay and Dolhain reports. The article emphasizes that these early, pre-media cases are valuable for their 'virgin' nature, free from contamination by prior public awareness.

L'Hypothèse Gaïa (The Gaia Hypothesis)

This article introduces the Gaia Hypothesis, a theory gaining traction in ecological and New Age circles. Proposed by James Lovelock, it posits that the Earth functions as a single, self-regulating biological system. The hypothesis draws parallels between Earth's environmental stability (e.g., atmospheric composition, temperature, ocean salinity) and the homeostatic mechanisms of living organisms. The article suggests that this perspective offers an interesting framework for understanding UFO phenomena, implying that UAPs might be related to Earth's own biological processes or consciousness.

SOBEPS Services and Information

The magazine also provides practical information about SOBEPS, including:

• Contact Information: Address, phone numbers, and fax for the organization.
• Secretariat and Library: Details on accessing SOBEPS facilities and documentation.
• Diapositive Collection: Information about a collection of slides on UAP phenomena available for members.
• Investigator's and Observer's Guides: Descriptions of two guides offered by SOBEPS, one for UFO investigation and the other for astronomical knowledge relevant to ufology. These guides are available for purchase.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the detailed investigation of UFO sightings, particularly the Belgian UFO wave, and the ongoing effort to establish ufology as a legitimate field of scientific inquiry. The editorial stance, as articulated by Michel Bougard, champions a rational, evidence-based approach while encouraging an open mind and a willingness to explore unconventional ideas, such as the Gaia Hypothesis. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of rigorous investigation, the value of witness testimony, and the need to overcome skepticism and preconceived notions to advance the understanding of UAP. The magazine promotes a holistic and humanistic perspective, advocating for a balanced approach that combines scientific rigor with a broader understanding of consciousness and interaction.

This issue of "Inforespace" (Issue 81) delves into a comprehensive analysis of UFO reports from the period 1989-1991, presented as the first part of a larger study. The magazine explores the intersection of ufology with biological systems theory, particularly through the lens of James Lovelock's Gaia Hypothesis. It also critically examines investigative methodologies and the classification of UFO sightings.

The Gaia Hypothesis and Systems Theory

The article begins by introducing James Lovelock's concept of the Earth as a living, self-regulating organism, analogous to human biological systems. Lovelock's work, initially met with skepticism, proposed that Earth's chemistry, physics, and climate are maintained in a state conducive to life through a complex, interconnected system. This concept of "homoeostasis" is likened to human bodily functions like temperature regulation and blood pressure.

Lovelock developed a 19-point framework to identify the characteristics of a living system, initially for NASA's search for extraterrestrial life. These points describe functions such as ingestion, distribution, conversion, production, storage, excretion, movement, support, input reception, internal reception, communication channels, decoding, association, memory, decision-making, encoding, external transmission, reproduction, and boundary maintenance. The article illustrates how these functions can be applied to individual organisms, cells, and even societal structures like companies or nations.

The concept is further extended to the 'social body,' suggesting that communities, organized countries, or even political parties can be viewed through this biological systems lens. The article poses the philosophical question of whether the 'social body' is 'alive' and conscious, and whether humanity itself is part of a larger, more extensive biological system.

UFO Phenomena Through the Gaia Lens

The Gaia Hypothesis offers a unique perspective on UFO phenomena, suggesting that they might not be extraterrestrial but rather manifestations of Earth's self-regulatory mechanisms responding to destabilizing human activities, such as pollution. This idea was notably discussed by Jacky Morael, spokesperson for Ecolo, on Radio Une. The hypothesis posits that as humans alter the environment, the Earth system acts to restore equilibrium, and UFOs could be part of this corrective action.

The article acknowledges that this perspective challenges the traditional extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET), as it implies that UFOs are terrestrial in origin, serving a regulatory function. However, it also considers that 'extraterrestrials' could encompass beings from the future or other dimensions, potentially linked to Earth's own evolutionary processes or acting as guardians of its homeostasis.

Analysis of UFO Reports (1989-1991)

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a detailed analysis of UFO reports collected between 1989 and 1991, primarily from the SOBEPS database. The author, Jacques Antoine, meticulously examines 409 cases, categorizing them based on various criteria:

• Type of Observation: The majority of cases (54%) are attributed to mundane astronomical phenomena, with a smaller percentage linked to aircraft.
• Formal Appearance: The analysis classifies observed shapes, with triangles being the most prevalent (60.6%), followed by ovals/spheres (20.9%). The article discusses the difficulty in definitively classifying shapes due to witness perception and potential misinterpretations.
• Information Level: Cases are assessed based on the quality and detail of information provided.
• Secondary Object Emission: Reports involving objects emitting secondary lights or effects are noted.
• Histograms and Chronologies: The study includes statistical breakdowns and timelines of sightings.
• Top Cases: A selection of the most compelling cases awaiting resolution is highlighted.

Investigative Methodology and Data Quality

Antoine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigative methods and data quality. He notes that out of 440 reports examined, 31 were eliminated due to conventional explanations. The author expresses skepticism towards press reports, citing differing objectives between journalists and ufologists, and stresses the need for careful, non-sensationalist research. He also defines strict criteria for 'close encounters,' requiring proximity and detailed witness descriptions of the object's structure and appearance.

Classification of Observations

The article employs Hynek's classification system, supplemented by categories for nocturnal discs (DN) and close encounters of the fourth kind (RR4). The analysis of the 1989-1991 Belgian wave is compared with data from Canada (1989) and the USA (1975-1976). Key findings include:

• Nocturnal Prevalence: The vast majority of UFO sightings occur at night (91.7%), suggesting a deliberate choice for camouflage.
• Increased Close Encounters: The data suggests a potential increase in close encounters, possibly indicating a more open interaction with the phenomenon.
• Rarity of Radar Cases: Only one radar case (RV) is noted, linked to the 'F-16 night' incident.
• Absence of Higher-Order Close Encounters: There is a notable lack of close encounters of type 2 or higher in the analyzed Belgian and Canadian data, with a few exceptions.

Specific Case Analyses and Critiques

The issue includes detailed examinations of specific cases, such as the Petit Rechain photo, which is discussed in the context of potential manipulation and the difficulty of definitive interpretation. The author also critiques the use of 'Stealth' aircraft as an explanation for triangular UFOs, pointing out discrepancies with witness accounts, such as the ability of these craft to hover.

Antoine also addresses common misidentifications, including planets (like Venus), aircraft, and even atmospheric phenomena. He recounts a personal anecdote of mistaking a landing aircraft for a UFO, highlighting the potential for self-deception and the importance of critical evaluation.

Broader Implications and Philosophical Questions

The article touches upon the philosophical implications of the Gaia Hypothesis and UFO phenomena. It explores the idea of 'future resonance,' where current UFO sightings might be glimpses of future technologies projected into the past. Another hypothesis discussed is 'auto-initiation,' suggesting that the universe itself, through an increasing 'psychism' or informational content, generates these phenomena as a means of universal communication and equilibrium.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interconnectedness of life, the potential for a unified theory encompassing biology, sociology, and ufology, and the critical need for rigorous, objective investigation in the field of UFO research. The editorial stance emphasizes a scientific, analytical approach, while remaining open to unconventional hypotheses like the Gaia Hypothesis, provided they are supported by evidence and logical reasoning. The magazine advocates for a deeper understanding of the phenomenon by moving beyond simplistic explanations and embracing complex, multi-disciplinary perspectives. The author's dedication to detailed analysis and his critique of less rigorous approaches underscore a commitment to advancing the scientific study of UFOs.

This issue of "Phénomèna" magazine, identified as Volume 1, Issue 1, with a raw date referencing "AIX-EN-PROVENCE – Cédex 1" and a likely publication year of 1988, focuses on UFO phenomena. The cover headline proclaims "A new review not to be missed," and it is presented as a publication from SOBEPS, with contact information for SOS OVNI and the Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes.

New from Abroad

Ballet Nocturne au Costa-Rica

This section reports on a two-hour sighting of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) over San José, Costa Rica, on April 3, 1992. The event coincided with a series of power outages across the country. Dozens of witnesses, including police officers, reported seeing objects emitting strong lights, one described as a large flying reflector. The phenomenon caused vehicle engines and radios to stop working. The report attributes this information to AFP (April 4, 1992).

Encore un! (Another one!)

This article details a UFO sighting near Sydney, Australia, on April 28, 1992. Residents of Toukley and Wyong reported a large, glowing, round object with bright red and white lights. Police contacted a nearby Australian Air Force base, which stated no aircraft were in the air at the time, except for a helicopter 20 kilometers offshore. This report is also attributed to AFP (April 28, 1992).

Triangles in Great Britain (3)

This section presents a series of witness testimonies from the Barnsley region of the United Kingdom, primarily from April and May 1988, detailing encounters with unusual aerial objects.

Broomhill, Barnsley (Approx. 9:45 PM, May 14, 1988)

Mme Linda Sage reported an encounter on Broomhill Lane with her daughter, Catherine. Initially mistaking the object for an airplane, they soon realized it was not. The object approached, emitted a low humming sound, and then seemed to focus bright white spotlights on them. Mme Sage described the object as having a "funny shape, something like..." (indicating an elongated form, like a torpedo) and noted that red lights appeared as it turned. She stated the object seemed to make a circular movement, as if it had seen them. The encounter lasted for several minutes, and her daughter was frightened. Mme Sage emphasized the unusual quietness during the sighting and the lack of other vehicles on the road.

David Clarke, an investigator from IUN, interviewed Mme Sage. She confirmed hearing a faint humming sound and seeing lights. She described the object's movement as a turn and a return towards them, with spotlights directed at them. She also mentioned that the red lights appeared as the object turned, suggesting a complete half-turn. The object's shape was described as elongated, like a torpedo.

Darfield, Barnsley (Approx. 10:00 PM, April 20, 1988)

This account is corroborated by a letter published in the Barnsley Chronicle on May 6, 1988, from an anonymous "lady from Darfield." She reported seeing a silent object in the sky while walking with a friend. The object was described as large, with white, green, and red lights, and was observed for two to three minutes. The witness expressed curiosity about what it could be and whether the Ministry of Defence was using unknown technology.

Stainborough, Barnsley (Approx. 10:00 PM, April 20, 1988)

M. Nick Burton (pseudonym) reported seeing a very bright light in the sky while with a colleague near Tomyroyd Wood. The light appeared to be moving north above Barnsley. His colleague observed it through binoculars, describing a bright yellow-orange light but no discernible shape. The object reportedly stopped abruptly, performed a 90° maneuver, and vanished. Burton, experienced in observing aircraft and celestial objects, was certain it was not a conventional airplane.

Barugh, Barnsley (Approx. 10:00 PM, April 20, 1988)

A letter signed "a lady from Barugh" published on May 6, 1988, describes seeing a UFO around 10 PM near Kersforth Hall. The object was described as having appreciable dimensions, with two white lights at the ends and a flashing white light in the middle. It moved away silently as the witness drove away. The witness requested anonymity.

Elsecar, Barnsley (Approx. 10:00 PM, April 20, 1988)

M. David Gibson, interviewed by Dave Kelly of IUN, reported seeing a strange object in the sky around 10 PM while driving towards Elsecar. He described it as box-shaped with large green, red, and white lights that remained illuminated. The object was enormous, absolutely immobile, and completely silent. He initially thought it might be a type of aircraft but was struck by its silence and stillness. He observed the object for about 40 minutes (from 10 PM to 10:40 PM) as it moved from south to west before disappearing. His wife also witnessed the object.

Monk Bretton, Barnsley (Approx. 8:03 PM, April 20, 1988)

Harry Reynolds, an apprentice turner from Cudworth, reported an observation made with several colleagues while leaving work at Redfearn Glass. Around 10 PM, they saw an object that was difficult to describe. It was located about 300 meters from the factory entrance. Reynolds initially thought it was an airplane due to its low altitude. The object had alternating red, green, and white lights, and two large "yellow" spotlights directed downwards. He could not discern a solid body but felt it was oblong, narrower at one end. The lights were arranged in rows, resembling streetlights. The most striking aspect was the complete silence. The object then moved in a straight line with propulsion movements, like a dragonfly, and disappeared rapidly. Other colleagues who left the factory later also reported seeing it, agreeing it was not an airplane or helicopter.

Jessop's Observation (April 23, 1988)

M. Eric Jessop, an engineer from Dodworth, reported an observation made on April 23, 1988, between 8:45 PM and 9:30 PM. He saw a UFO moving in a west-southwest direction, joined by two other objects in a 45° angular formation. The objects displayed lights of various colors (red, green, orange, pink, blue, violet, and primarily blue) that circulated around the perimeter in a manner similar to bulldozer tracks. The objects' bodies were described as "grey-white skin" with "veins." They moved from an altitude of 45° to 15° before disappearing suddenly.

Biggs' Observation (April 26, 1988)

M. John Biggs, a local building control supervisor, reported seeing a V-shaped object or a triangular object moving rapidly from the Pennistone region towards Worsborough. He initially thought it was a bomber on a night training mission but noted the absence of visible wings. The lights underneath were fixed and arranged in a "V" formation. The observation lasted about 30 seconds, with the object passing between cloud formations at an estimated altitude of 75 to 150 meters. He described its movement as extremely rapid.

Conclusions, Correlations, and Hypotheses

This section indicates that conclusions, correlations, and hypotheses regarding these observations will be presented in the next issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena, primarily UFO sightings, with a focus on witness testimony and detailed descriptions of objects and their behavior. The magazine appears to adopt an investigative stance, presenting accounts from various individuals and encouraging further research. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, presenting evidence and witness accounts without immediate dismissal, while also acknowledging the need for rational explanations and further investigation. The inclusion of book sales from SOBEPS suggests a connection to a broader ufological community and a desire to inform readers about existing research and literature.