Inforespace - No 85 - 1992

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 85
Date: December 1992
Volume: 21st year
Publisher: Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SOBEPS)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace, a semi-annual review dedicated to ufology, presents a range of articles and updates from the organization. The editorial board emphasizes the importance of rational inquiry and critical thinking in the field of UFO research, while also addressing criticisms and controversies surrounding the discipline and the SOBEPS itself.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Michel Bougard and Lucien Clerebaut, reflects on the 21st year of Inforespace and the transition following a period of intense UFO sightings. It highlights the organization's commitment to rational study and the development of the UFO-File project, a new computerized database. The editorial also addresses ongoing debates about the scientific status of ufology, defending the importance of witness testimony and research rigor against those who demand only "objective measurements." It acknowledges the need for volunteers to help manage the SOBEPS's extensive library and archives.

SOBEPS Information and Services

The magazine provides practical information for its members. The Secretariat and Library are accessible on Saturdays, offering consultation of documentation. Contact details for administrative inquiries and a dedicated line for testimony recording are provided. The issue also promotes the SOBEPS's collection of slides on UFO phenomena, designed to help members create illustrated presentations. Additionally, two guides are offered: the 'Investigator's Guide,' which provides 200 questions for UFO observation analysis, and the 'Observer's Guide,' which covers essential astronomical data for ufologists. Both guides are available for purchase.

Key Articles and Reports

Billet(s) d'humeur(s) (Editorial Musings)

This section engages with recent critiques of ufology, particularly a letter by André Dumoulin published in 'OVNI-Présence.' The author defends the SOBEPS's methodology, arguing that witness testimony, when compared and analyzed, can reveal patterns and similarities, even without 'physical measurements.' The article critiques the reductionist view of scientificity that dismisses phenomena solely due to a lack of quantifiable data, drawing parallels to historical scientific resistance to new ideas. It also addresses the argument that ufologists might favor certain hypotheses for commercial reasons, suggesting this is a way to avoid discussing the substance of the evidence.

Sites Secrets et Soucoupes (Secret Sites and Saucers)

This article, translated from the MUFON UFO JOURNAL, details the investigative journey of Dr. Richard J. Boylan into secret US military-industrial sites suspected of developing advanced aircraft and potentially extraterrestrial technology. The author recounts his travels through Nevada and New Mexico, including visits to areas near Tonopah Test Range, Groom Lake (Area 51), and Papoose Lake (S4). He describes observing unidentified aerial phenomena, including glowing orbs exhibiting advanced flight capabilities, and speculates about their connection to secret government projects and potential extraterrestrial technology.

Triangles en Grande-Bretagne (4) (Triangles in Great Britain)

This report analyzes over 150 UFO observations from South Yorkshire and surrounding areas between September 1987 and May 1988. While many sightings were explained as conventional aircraft or celestial bodies, a residue of unexplained phenomena, particularly triangular and 'V' shaped objects, remained. The article notes the increased media attention and public interest in UFOs during this period, which may have encouraged more people to report their sightings. It identifies specific dates and locations where these phenomena were frequently observed, suggesting a possible connection to advanced aerial technology.

Nouvelles du Proche Espace (News from Near Space)

This section reports on astronomical observations related to potential UFO phenomena. It details two incidents observed from the European Southern Observatory in Chile in January 1992: one involving a luminous object described as a 'V' or triangle, and another involving a brilliant, diffuse object. The article also mentions a sighting of the MIR space station with an accompanying object, later identified as a module detachment. The section highlights the collaboration between amateur astronomers and professional researchers in identifying and analyzing such events.

Projets UFO_FILE

A brief announcement about the upcoming 'UFO_FILE' project, a new computerized database designed to store and analyze UFO reports. The project, led by André Goffard and Marc Valckenaers, aims to categorize phenomena using numerous criteria, allowing for statistical analysis and the retrieval of specific case files based on researchers' hypotheses. The SOBEPS is seeking volunteers to help encode reports into the new system.

Une Affaire Exceptionnelle (An Exceptional Affair)

This short note announces that the SOBEPS will publish a comprehensive dossier in 1993 on the Roswell incident of July 1947, based on original documents received from the United States, suggesting that significant events occurred and were subsequently covered up.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Inforespace strongly emphasizes the importance of a rational, evidence-based approach to ufology, while simultaneously defending the value of witness testimony against overly strict scientific demands for quantifiable data. The magazine champions critical thinking and encourages open-mindedness, even when confronted with phenomena that challenge established beliefs. There is a clear stance against what is perceived as 'pseudo-science' or 'revisionism' that dismisses evidence without thorough investigation. The SOBEPS positions itself as a serious research organization dedicated to understanding UFO phenomena through rigorous investigation and open debate, relying on the dedication of its volunteer members.

This issue of Inforespace, identified as issue number 84, delves into an analysis of UFO reports from the period of 1989-1991, with a particular focus on the UK. The main headline highlights this analytical approach to investigative reports from this specific timeframe.

Key Articles and Content

Analysis of UFO Reports from 1989-1991 (Part 2)

The central article, "ANALYSE DES RAPPORTS D'ENQUETES DE LA PERIODE 89-91 (2e partie)", meticulously examines a significant number of UFO sightings. The author begins by detailing the methodology, which involved classifying 409 reports based on Hynek's expanded criteria. A key observation is the predominantly nocturnal nature of these sightings and the rarity of radar-confirmed events.

The analysis notes an increase in close encounters (RR2) and landings (RR3) compared to older foreign samples, though these remain rare in France. The author attributes this to more rigorous investigation methods and a desire to exclude dubious or sensational claims. The article categorizes reports by the formal appearance of the objects as described by witnesses, suggesting that perspective effects, brief sightings, or poor observation conditions might explain some of the reported shapes like diamonds or squares.

A recurring theme is the prevalence of triangular objects, described as equilateral triangles approximately 15-20 meters in size, with three white-yellow headlights at the vertices and a smaller central light, often red, resembling a rotating beacon. The author dismisses the hypothesis of the F-117A stealth aircraft due to the object's straight base.

Interestingly, a structural resemblance is noted between these UFOs and contemporary aeronautical avant-garde concepts, as well as older phenomena like the 'American sirens' allegedly mimicked by Belgian UFOs in 1974. The article also draws parallels with Scandinavian post-war observations, V2 rocket tests, airship sightings from 1897, and the Roswell crash.

The article touches upon the auditory aspect, noting that while most objects are silent, some emit a low hum or the sound of an electric motor, described as a 'buzzing' or 'like a swarm of bees'. This is contrasted with the noise expected from conventional aircraft or helicopters.

A significant correlation is drawn between the observation hotspots of this wave and those of the 1972 wave. The elusive nature of the phenomenon, particularly its 'sound and light' aspects, is discussed, suggesting it might be a phenomenological necessity rather than a deliberate display.

Detailed Case Studies and Tables

The issue presents a detailed breakdown of UFO sightings, including:

• Tableau 5: A list of 37 UFO reports from Belgium, spanning from November 1989 to March 1991. Each entry includes the location, date, time, object type (coded), witness details, altitude, and reference numbers. Shapes described include oval, hexagonal, cigar-shaped, triangular, and boomerang.
• Tableau 6: A chronology of close encounters with secondary object emissions, detailing 9 cases from November 1989 to May 1990. These often involve a main object ejecting smaller luminous spheres.
• Tableau 8: A list of 13 UFO reports from France, dated November to December 1989, focusing on close encounters and detailed descriptions of object characteristics, including lights, sounds, and movements.

The 'Vulcan Silencieux' and the Ashbourne Event

The article highlights the 'Vulcan Silencieux' (Silent Vulcan), a term used to describe a large, metallic, triangular object observed in the UK. Speculation about its origin includes exercises involving F-19 'Stealth' aircraft, though the sightings predate the known operational period of such aircraft.

A specific event in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, on November 15, 1986, is recounted. A witness, Arthur Doxey, observed a silent object with six red lights, which he found incompatible with conventional aircraft lights, speculating it might be a Goodyear blimp used for radar calibration.

'F-19 - Stealth - The Answer?'

This section explores the possibility that the 'Vulcan Silencieux' sightings could be related to the secret Lockheed F-19 Stealth aircraft. The article notes that while the F-19 was rumored to be operational since 1977, no official photographs were released. The article discusses the aircraft's potential operational bases in the UK (Mildenhall and Alconbury) and its stealth features, including radar-absorbing material and a shape designed to minimize detection. The author questions the logic of flying such aircraft openly over populated areas.

Book Reviews

• "Out There: The government's secret quest for extraterrestrials" by Howard Blum: This book is reviewed as a journalist's account of the US government's secret investigation into UFOs, initiated in 1987. The reviewer notes the author's professional background and the extensive research involved, but finds the book's core revelation about the 'UFO Working Group' to be the main 'scoop'. The review also touches upon the controversial 'Majestic-12' documents.
• "The UFO Report 1992" by Timothy Good: This annual report is described as a compilation of UFO cases, aimed at a general audience. It covers topics like crop circles, official UK UFO reports from the 1950s, Chinese UFO sightings, and Soviet UFO research. The review highlights the book's extensive index and its attempt to provide a broad overview of the field.
• "The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence" by Edward Ashpole: This book is presented as a comprehensive overview of ETI research. It lists key organizations involved in SETI and discusses the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation, including a speculative depiction of an evolved dinosaur-like creature. The reviewer finds the book's main value in its summary of ETI research and its listing of relevant associations.

Other Sections

• Commentaries: This section offers reflections on the nature of UFO evidence, the challenges of ufological research, and the divergence of opinions among researchers and skeptics.
• Histogram of Investigated Cases: A graph illustrates the number of UFO cases investigated per month from February 1989 to April 1991, showing a peak in late 1989 and early 1990.
• Chronology of Close Encounters: A detailed list of close encounter cases, including location, date, time, object type, witness details, and other relevant information.
• Avis à la population: A notice offering back issues of "Inforespace".
• Avis pour les passionnés: Information on the proceedings of the MUFON International Congress 1992.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the analysis of UFO reports, particularly focusing on silent, often triangular or V-shaped objects, and the investigation into their potential origins, including military exercises and experimental aircraft. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, aiming to separate credible evidence from speculation. There is a clear emphasis on detailed reporting and analysis of witness testimonies, often cross-referenced with other sightings and historical data. The magazine seems to advocate for a scientific approach to ufology, while acknowledging the inherent difficulties and the often-elusive nature of the phenomenon. The publication also appears to be a platform for disseminating information to a broader audience interested in UFOs, as evidenced by the book reviews and the accessibility of the content.

This issue of Phénomèna (Issue 342, dated November 1988, published by Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes) delves into the complex world of UFO phenomena, presenting a comprehensive catalog and analysis of numerous sightings and close encounters. The magazine adopts a rigorous, data-driven approach, aiming to objectively study these events without pre-conceived notions about their origin.

Detailed Case Studies

The core of the issue is a detailed listing and description of 63 specific UFO incidents, primarily from Belgium, occurring between late 1989 and mid-1991. Each case is meticulously documented with:

• Date and Time: Precise or approximate timing of the observation.
• Location: Specific town or region where the sighting occurred.
• Witness Profile: Occupation and sometimes age of the witness(es) (e.g., engineer, housewife, student, police officer).
• Altitude Estimate: Approximate height above ground level.
• Object Description: Detailed accounts of the object's shape, color, size, luminosity, and any sounds it emitted.
• Behavior: How the object moved, its speed, any reactions to the environment or witnesses.

Examples of these detailed reports include:

• Piétrain (891211): An object resembling an airplane fuselage with red and white lights, emitting a rumble and then yellow flames.
• Jupille-sur-Meuse (891212): A dark, elongated object with blinking lights and rear fins, observed hovering over a fir tree.
• Herstal (891213): A dark shape with three red lights, appearing to rotate and change direction.
• Kain (891222): A circular, dark grey-blue object with multi-colored lights, exhibiting a rocking motion.
• Moinet (891222): A silent, dark triangular object with white and red lights hovering over a stable.
• Herdesem (900115): A bright light followed by white lamps forming a triangle and a red side light, with a dome on the ventral face.
• Templeuve (900119): A multicolored object that appeared to be crashing, with distinct yellow and red luminous masses.
• Werbemont (900129): A bright white light, followed by a dark triangular shape flying majestically.
• Auvelais (900204): An object with green, white, and red lights emitting a sound like an electric coffee grinder.
• Saive (900207): A granular object moving at 10 km/h with stops and oscillations, featuring three matte white lights.

Analytical Framework

Phénomèna introduces a unique analytical framework, moving beyond simple cataloging. The magazine proposes a method to quantify the 'informative value' of each case by creating a grid of 63 characteristics. Each characteristic is assigned a value of 1 if present or 0 if absent in a given report. This allows for statistical analysis and comparison across different sightings. The article "Commentaires" by Frank Boitte elaborates on this, discussing parameters like trajectory, movement, appearance, and behavior. It highlights that while many reports share common features, the ultimate origin remains elusive.

Key Incidents and Analysis

Frank Boitte's "Hit-parade personnel des 10 meilleurs cas de la vague" section identifies the ten most significant incidents, emphasizing those that are spectacular, difficult to explain conventionally, and often corroborated. The series of observations by Eupen gendarmes on November 29, 1989, is ranked number one due to its duration, spectacular nature, and the credible status of the witnesses.

The magazine also poses critical questions regarding the spatial and temporal distribution of sightings, particularly the concentration around Liège and Namur, and the lack of reports along the Meuse river. It questions how these objects behave when not observed and whether they are material objects or something else entirely.

Methodological Considerations

The authors stress that their approach is not to force observations into pre-existing hypotheses (like extraterrestrial origins) but to let the data speak for itself. They acknowledge the limitations of witness testimony and external factors like weather, but argue that these do not fundamentally alter the reported phenomena. The study aims to quantify observations rather than interpret their ultimate nature.

Socio-Psychological Context

The issue touches upon the socio-psychological aspects of UFO belief, suggesting that the desire for a 'clear and tidy world' might lead some to embrace paranormal explanations. It also explores the idea that the UFO phenomenon might be linked to societal changes and expectations, drawing parallels with historical events and cultural influences.

Conclusion

The study concludes that while the collected data confirms the existence of unknown aerial phenomena with impressive technical capabilities, it does not provide definitive answers about their origin. The authors express a sense of frustration at the slow progress in understanding these phenomena, suggesting that they might represent aspects of reality beyond current human comprehension. The magazine encourages readers to consider broader imaginative frameworks beyond conventional 'extraterrestrial' explanations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the meticulous documentation of UFO sightings, the application of scientific and statistical methods to analyze witness reports, and a critical examination of conventional explanations. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, emphasizing objectivity, data collection, and a willingness to question existing paradigms. There is a clear commitment to presenting UFO phenomena as a subject worthy of serious investigation, while acknowledging the profound mysteries that remain.