Inforespace - No 91 - 1995

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: n° 91
Date: April 1995
Volume: 24th year
Publisher: Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux, asbl (SOBEPS)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This issue of Inforespace, the semi-annual review of the Belgian Society for the Study of Spatial Phenomena (SOBEPS), delves into the current state of ufology, the challenges faced by the organization, and presents several detailed witness accounts of UFO sightings. The cover prominently features the title 'inforespace' and the main headline 'ufologie phénomènes spatiaux'.

Editorial: L' Ufologie va (de nouveau) mal

The editorial, written by Michel Bougard, President of SOBEPS, addresses the organization's concerns about a declining membership and the persistent efforts to discredit ufology and SOBEPS's work. Bougard notes that despite the success of their report on the Belgian UFO wave, membership has not significantly increased. He highlights various 'anti-ufology' offensives that aim to tarnish the reputation of SOBEPS and its volunteer leaders, often by attacking the credibility of collected facts or by creating false equivalences. The editorial contrasts the patient, meticulous work of ufological research with the sensationalism of popular media. Bougard expresses a desire for dialogue and a willingness to explore different research avenues to understand the complex OVNI (UFO) phenomenon. He criticizes the polarized nature of the ufological community, acknowledging that it comprises individuals with their own strengths, weaknesses, and doubts.

The editorial then focuses on three specific attacks against SOBEPS, stemming from the publication of their report on the Belgian UFO wave:

1. The Institut d'Astrophysique de Liège's initial attack: Led by astrophysicist André Lausberg in 1991, this involved a communiqué criticizing the scientific basis of the SOBEPS report. Lausberg and his colleagues, referred to as the "groupe des douze," rejected the possibility of extraterrestrial origins for UFOs.
2. Pierre Magain's critique: In April 1994, astrophysicist Pierre Magain published a communiqué and later an article in the journal Athena, reiterating similar criticisms. Magain suggested natural explanations for sightings, such as the AWACS observation during the Belgian UFO wave, and questioned the evidence presented by SOBEPS. His analysis was supported by seven other astronomers from the Institut d'Astrophysique de Liège.
3. Legal action: A former member of SOBEPS, excluded from the organization, initiated legal proceedings in July 1994 to halt the sale of the second volume of the SOBEPS report. The claim was based on the assertion that the book contained defamatory information about him. While the initial ruling in the Brussels Tribunal de Première Instance dismissed the request, the case is under appeal, and further legal action has been initiated. Bougard expresses dismay at this 'legalistic drift' and the potential for self-censorship due to the threat of costly legal battles.

Bougard also touches upon the 'anthropocentric principle' favored by some astrophysicists, which posits that the universe was specifically designed for human life, thus downplaying the possibility of extraterrestrial origins for UFOs.

The SOBEPS Pin

A section announces the arrival of the SOBEPS pin, described as a high-quality, five-color enamel pin measuring 35 mm, available for purchase to support the organization.

Service Librairie de la SOBEPS

• This section lists several books available for purchase from SOBEPS, including:
• 'DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES AUX OVNI' by Michel Bougard
• 'ACTES DU PREMIER CONGRES EUROPEEN SUR LES PHENOMENES AERIENS ANORMAUX'
• 'MYSTERIEUSES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES' by Fernand Lagarde
• 'BLACK-OUT SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES' by Jimmy Guieu
• 'ET SI LES OVNI N'EXISTAIENT PAS ?' by Michel Monnerie

Prices are listed in Belgian Francs (FB) and French Francs (FF).

Table of Contents

• The table of contents lists the articles in this issue:
• Editorial
• L' Ufologie va (de nouveau) mal.
• Nos enquêtes.
• A l' étranger.
• Area 51 Un exemple de dérive en ufologie.
• Christophe Campiglia (Une interview par Franck Boitte) suite et fin.
• Que reste-t-il de nos OVNI.
• Crop Circles à Lierneux.
• Livre: Contacts Supra-Terrestres: Leurres et Manipulations (Jean Sider).

Article: Area 51 - Un exemple de dérive en ufologie

This article, by Christophe Campiglia, is presented as an interview by Franck Boitte. It discusses the phenomenon of 'Area 51' and how it has become a symbol of government secrecy and conspiracy theories related to UFOs.

Article: Que reste-t-il de nos OVNI.

This article likely explores the current state of UFO research and the lingering questions surrounding the phenomenon.

Article: Crop Circles à Lierneux

This piece focuses on crop circle formations observed in Lierneux, Belgium.

Book Review: Contacts Supra-Terrestres: Leurres et Manipulations by Jean Sider

This is a review of Jean Sider's book, which likely examines alleged extraterrestrial contact phenomena and potential manipulations.

Article: J'y crois, j'y crois pas! TV Program Critique

Bougard recounts his experience with the TF-1 television program "J'y crois, j'y crois pas!" (I believe it, I don't believe it!) aired on January 13, 1995. He explains that SOBEPS declined an invitation to participate due to the program's imprecise subject matter, debate format, and the perceived superficiality of such discussions. He criticizes the program for reducing complex UFO investigations to a mere spectacle of conflicting opinions and 'clownish' behavior. Specifically, he details how the "Belgian UFO wave" was treated. During the program, astronomer Jean Heidmann feigned exasperation, and a brief report was presented with archival footage. Three Belgian guests were interviewed: Pierre Magain, Jean-Luc Vertongen, and Marc Hallet. Magain suggested that radar echoes during the wave could be explained by meteorological phenomena. Jean-Luc Vertongen, a former investigator for SOBEPS, stated that while many testimonies were collected, the organization's subsequent treatment of the dossier was 'deplorable,' implying that scientists had pursued an extraterrestrial hypothesis, which he opposed. Marc Hallet, identifying himself as an ex-ufologist, declared that UFOs are not machines or extraterrestrial craft, but rather phenomena of a 'diabolical' nature. Bougard expresses disappointment and concern over the superficial and potentially misleading portrayal of ufology on television.

Article: Nos enquêtes (Our Investigations)

This section presents detailed case studies of UFO sightings investigated by SOBEPS:

• Lessines, March 6, 1990: Mme L. reported observing three yellow lights in the sky that moved unusually. The incident was followed by observations of burned buis leaves in her garden, suggesting a possible physical trace. The investigation by Léonce Maetens placed the phenomenon about 18 meters away at an elevation of 12.50 meters.
• Schriek (Anvers), March 24, 1990: A family driving at night observed a strange, silent object with multiple lights. The object hovered near their car, causing the engine to stop and the occupants to feel fatigued. The event lasted approximately two minutes, and the family experienced a time discrepancy upon arriving home.
• Chokier (Flémalle), November 21, 1990: M. A.G., a factory worker, observed a powerful white light scanning a cornfield. He described it as a triangular object with white and red lights, moving at a low altitude without making noise. He noted that the object seemed to be searching for something.
• Engis, January 29, 1991: M. G.M., a security agent, witnessed a bright object with flashing lights and a red gyrophare while on duty in a wooded area. The object moved slowly and silently.
• Ham sur Sambre, February 14, 1994: M. B.C., a technician, observed a luminous object described as a "trapezoid" with powerful white lights that illuminated the ground. The object moved rapidly and silently, appearing to be about 50 meters above the road. He noted the presence of green lights amidst the white ones and that the object's movement did not disturb the surrounding trees or air.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the defense of ufology as a legitimate field of study against scientific and media skepticism, the challenges faced by organizations like SOBEPS in conducting and disseminating their research, and the presentation of detailed, firsthand accounts of UFO sightings. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rigorous investigation and open-minded inquiry, while strongly criticizing what it perceives as biased media portrayals and dismissive scientific attitudes. The magazine champions the importance of witness testimony and the meticulous collection of data, positioning SOBEPS as a dedicated entity striving to understand unexplained aerial phenomena despite significant opposition.

This issue of Mystères et Inexpliqués, dated June 11, 1994, focuses on unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP) observed in Belgium and surrounding regions. The cover headline, 'Des lumières étranges dans le ciel belge' (Strange lights in the Belgian sky), sets the tone for a collection of witness testimonies and investigative reports.

Key Sightings and Investigations

Bois d'Haine, June 11, 1994

Mme L.M., an 82-year-old woman, reported seeing a light, described as the size of an orange, moving in a semi-circular arc. She initially thought it might be 'will-o'-the-wisps' but later observed multiple lights that did not touch each other, moving without sound. Her granddaughter and son were informed, with the son investigating the prairie where the lights were seen.

Bruxelles (Jette), June 18, 1994

Two witnesses, M. K. and Mme I., observed three orange lights moving in a concert, forming an isosceles triangle. They described the lights as 'fireballs' with radiating nuances, moving silently at an estimated altitude of 70-100 meters. The lights disappeared behind buildings.

Rebecq, September 23 & 24, 1994

On September 23, Mme A.D. observed a triangle-shaped object with three large headlights and a smaller central light, moving silently at an altitude of about eleven meters. She described it as being about 1.5 meters in diameter. On September 24, Mme M.H.L. reported seeing three orange lights in a triangle formation, which then transformed into four white lights in a square formation before disappearing. The object was described as having a 'black matte triangle' shape with white lights at the corners and a pulsing red light in the center.

Lanklaar, October 4, 1994

Christophe S., a 14-year-old, observed a large, bright light appearing every thirty seconds, accompanied by four other lights forming a 'boomerang' configuration above the Meuse river. He described the object as grey-blue and moving without sound.

Strombèek-Bever, October 7, 1994

Two witnesses observed an inverted 'V' shape with spread wings and pointed extremities, featuring red and white lights. One witness exclaimed, 'I think I'm seeing a UFO!'

Polleur (Verviers), October 10, 1994

M. T.A. reported seeing an impressive delta-shaped mass with three white headlights and a white light at the rear, moving silently at a low altitude of 100-200 meters. The object was described as approximately fifty meters long.

Lochristie, October 12, 1994

Two students observed a phenomenon described as a 'Christmas tree' with lights and a 'submarine-like' object.

Kain, November 16, 1994

A couple observed a bell-shaped object, grey-blue in color, with a red light in the center and multiple scintillating lights forming a crown around the rear. The object was estimated to be about 4 cm in apparent dimension at arm's length.

Beerse (Turnhout), January 3, 1995

Witnesses observed three orange lights that stabilized and then separated, moving in different directions before reforming into a triangle. The phenomenon was described as 'living things playing'.

Bekkevoort, January 3 & 30, 1995

On January 3, a witness observed an immobile triangle. On January 30, an inhabitant of Bree observed a 'circle' composed of several round lights that zigzagged above the highway exit. The objects were described as soft and not blinding.

Bruxelles (Uccle), January 3 & 4, 1995

On January 3, Mme C. observed a triangle. The following day, she and her daughter observed a saucer-shaped object with three legs, remaining stationary. A 'very sour, powerful, muffled sound' was perceived during the observation.

Plainevaux, January 3, 1995

Four adults observed two lights, described as white-green-red, moving randomly with stationary flight and accelerations.

Bruxelles, January 3, 1995

A witness observed an 'avion' (aircraft) flying very low, which then extinguished its lights and continued towards the city center. The sound was described as a strident 'avion' noise, comparable to a motorcycle without a muffler.

Dion-Givet, January 4, 1995

A couple observed two large points of light, like bright stars, moving randomly. Through binoculars, they appeared as three lights of red, green, and white colors, forming a triangle.

Ophain Bois Seigneur Isaac, January 4, 1995

A witness observed two immobile lights at an altitude of 50-100 meters. One of the objects then moved, flying very low, described as a light grey, smooth, matte apparatus.

Stoumont, January 5, 1995

A family observed a large, bright light that attracted smaller lights. The phenomenon then moved, taking a triangular shape with three matte white lights at the corners and a rectangular structure with small lights at the rear.

Bruxelles (Uccle), January 10, 1995

The witness from January 4th was awakened by a sound and observed a white light that transformed into a flashing gyrophare, persisting for three minutes before disappearing.

International Sightings

France, August 8-9, 1994

Two witnesses observed a simple geometric shape, grey-blue in color, moving silently without lights towards England over the sea. The object's apparent size was five times the diameter of the full moon.

England, December 31, 1986

John and Diana Stoddard observed a white star that zigzagged in the sky, then approached rapidly and stabilized above them. The object, initially discoid, transformed into an isosceles triangle and then moved silently.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the observation of unexplained aerial phenomena, often characterized by unusual lights, shapes, and silent movement. The magazine presents these accounts as factual testimonies, with investigators attempting to rule out conventional explanations like aircraft or atmospheric phenomena. There is a consistent effort to document details such as size, color, altitude, and behavior. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these unexplained events, encouraging readers to share their own experiences and contributing to the ongoing study of UAPs. The inclusion of international sightings suggests a broader perspective on the phenomenon.

This issue of Inforespace magazine, dated May 1989, is dedicated to "AREA 51: An example of drift in ufology." It explores the mysteries surrounding the highly classified US military base, its alleged connection to UFO phenomena, and the broader implications for the study of the unexplained.

Area 51: A Hub of Technological and Ufological Activity

The article "Area 51: An example of drift in ufology" details the history and significance of the Groom Lake complex, known as Area 51. Constructed in 1955, it has been a site for numerous secret projects, including nuclear experiments, the development of advanced aircraft like the Stealth Fighter, U-2, and SR-71, and special commando training. The base, also referred to by various code names such as Dreamland and The Ranch, is heavily protected and reportedly expanding. The author personally verified aspects of this in July 1993, noting the potential for new aircraft prototypes like the Northrop TR-3A Black Manta or the legendary Aurora to be tested there.

The "Snowbird" Program and Soviet Aircraft

A preliminary note discusses Bill Moore's 1983 revelation about the "Snowbird" program, which began in 1962. The objective was to test-fly a "recovered alien aircraft." The author finds it significant that a photograph from 1978 shows a Soviet-made MiG-21 parked in front of hangars at Groom Lake, suggesting that "foreign aircraft" might simply refer to adversary technology rather than extraterrestrial craft. This aligns with the Cold War context, where nations sought to understand enemy capabilities.

Historical Context of UFO Sightings in the Region

UFO stories in the Area 51 region date back to the 1950s. One account suggests a flying saucer was kept at Nellis Range as early as 1953, with attempts to test it in flight between 1953 and 1955. A member of the Atomic Energy Commission reportedly witnessed a craft in the 1960s causing radio disruptions. Another story involves a lawyer from Las Vegas who allegedly witnessed a UFO landing near Area 51 in the 1970s, only to be discreetly asked by security forces to forget the incident. Some sources also claim that material recovered from Roswell was stored at Groom Lake. The article emphasizes that these witnesses wished to remain anonymous.

Robert Lazar's Revelations

The section "Revelations" focuses on Robert Lazar, who claimed to have been recruited for a secret US government project from late 1988 to early 1989. Working on advanced propulsion systems at Sector S-4 (Papoose Lake), near Groom Lake, Lazar stated he saw nine flying saucers in hangars and glimpsed one in flight. He also claims to have read documents on extraterrestrial technology and human-alien contact, and to have examined a saucer and its propulsion system, which he described as being based on element 115, a super-heavy element not found on Earth. Lazar's appearance in May 1989 on a Las Vegas TV news bulletin and subsequent national broadcasts brought Area 51 into widespread public attention in the US.

Glenn Campbell is quoted as finding Lazar an "interesting but difficult to pin down" individual. The article notes that the southern Nevada region has since attracted much attention from curious individuals and "investigators," leading to numerous unexplained observations and contributing to the creation of the Area 51 myth.

Evolution of the Myth

The article touches upon the night of March 16-17, 1993, referencing Glenn Campbell's guide which addresses frequent questions. Regarding the possibility of alien abduction, Campbell quotes Lazar stating that while the saucers might be of extraterrestrial origin, they are currently operated by humans, and Lazar's story doesn't suggest significant extraterrestrial activity beyond that.

On July 12, 1993, while heading towards Groom Lake Road, Glenn Campbell pointed out a location where an "abduction" reportedly occurred, with a report to be published by MUFON in August.

Case Studies and Personal Accounts

William Hamilton's Encounter

The text recounts the adventures of William Hamilton and his friend Pamela. On the evening of July 11, Hamilton stopped his car near Highway 375. Around 8:36 PM, they spotted a light about 10 degrees to their left, and shortly after, another light near the ground towards Groom Lake. By 8:50 PM, the first light appeared as a "bus-sized object" that transformed into two rapidly intensifying blue-white luminous globes. These globes then resembled the headlights of a car approaching from the west along Route 375. The car passed them with a hum, and they saw its taillights receding towards Coyote Summit. At 9:15 PM, they noted the time and felt they had experienced "missing time."

Later that night, at 1:46 AM, Hamilton awoke from a dream about a tall grey being examining him. Pamela also woke up. The witnesses were convinced they had experienced an episode of "missing time."

Hamilton's Hypnotic Regression and Pamela's Experience

Upon returning to Las Vegas, Hamilton underwent hypnosis by John Lear to recall more details. Pamela took notes during the hour-long session. Under hypnosis, Hamilton remembered meeting a tall (1.8m), grey being inside a craft. This being identified itself as Quaylar and communicated information telepathically. Upon exiting the craft, Hamilton saw the headlights of a "phantom car." Pamela, after listening to Hamilton's interrogation by John Lear, also underwent hypnosis. She recalled being paralyzed with a small grey being nearby and being taken into a white van with an antenna, where two men in black examined her.

Analysis of the Tikaboo Valley Incident

Hamilton's conclusion is that these events in Tikaboo Valley have nothing to do with saucer tests at S-4, suggesting something "foreign" in the area is interested in observing the sky around Area 51.

William Hamilton is the author of "Cosmic Top Secret," a book that explores the idea of a union with the Greys, secret underground bases (Dulce), and animal mutilations. His account of the March 16th incident includes elements of missing time and men in black (M.I.B.), common in ufological narratives.

Hamilton is also the "director of investigations" for MUFON in Los Angeles.

European Cases: UMMO and San José de Valderas

The article contrasts the American focus on Area 51 with European cases, mentioning the UMMO affair, which resurfaced in 1991 with elements similar to those from 1968. The author suggests "UMMO" might be a deliberate obfuscation, akin to "smoke without fire."

A corrected example is presented: the case of San José de Valderas. The author clarifies that there is no San José de Valdeiras near Madrid, but a San José de Valderas where, on June 1, 1967, an unidentified object was observed. Photographs were published, but later analysis by Claude Poher, confirmed by William Spaulding, suggested they were faked. Despite this, the case remains known, with the photographs still being published.

Sociological and Psychological Perspectives on UFO Phenomena

Christophe Campiglia's Interview

This section features an interview with sociologist Christophe Campiglia, discussing his views on UFO phenomena. He addresses the classification of UFO experiences as "irrational" and the potential for them to be interpreted through a sociological lens.

Question 1: The Nature of Irrationality and UFOs

Campiglia argues that UFO phenomena are categorized as "irrational" not because they lack reality, but because they surpass current scientific understanding. He believes that as science advances, what is considered irrational today may become commonplace tomorrow, citing the example of modern aviation compared to a century ago.

Question 2: The Symbolic Nature of Irrational Phenomena

Responding to a point about the symbolic nature of irrational phenomena, Campiglia clarifies his thesis. He distinguishes between the *form* of irrational phenomena, which may adapt to the dominant culture of an era (e.g., religious demons in the past, flying saucers today), and the *content* of the anxieties they represent (e.g., fear of death in the past, environmental concerns today). He sees these as distinct, not inversions of symbolic value.

Question 3: The Origin of Irrational Events

Campiglia finds the question of whether irrational events originate from external intelligence or the human subconscious difficult to answer definitively. He leans towards an external origin, possibly a control system guiding humanity, but acknowledges this is speculative. He also considers the possibility of accidental external influence or, alternatively, that the origin lies within the human subconscious, though he is not a specialist in psychology.

Question 4: Societal Attitudes Towards UFOs

Campiglia describes a "tripolar model" (official circles, scientific circles, the public) that collectively denies the significance of UFO phenomena. He suggests that breaking this "vicious circle" might require a strategic approach, potentially involving pressure on "decision-makers" to acknowledge the need for research.

Question 5: The "Sectarian" Nature of Ufological Associations

Campiglia acknowledges using the term "sect" somewhat loosely to describe ufological associations, recognizing that their leaders sometimes refuse dialogue. He plans to further explore the distinction between "belief-opinion" and "belief-faith" in his future research, aiming to understand the contribution of social sciences to ufology.

André Canizares' Commentary

André Canizares offers his perspective, emphasizing the need for rigorous methodology in ufology. He criticizes certain authors like Guieu and Strieber as not being "valid ufologists," preferring the work of American researchers like Hynek and Klass, and French authors like Scornaux and Sider, for their personal, well-documented, verified, and original research.

He also discusses Kenneth Ring, a controversial figure associated with transpersonal psychology and Near-Death Experiences (NDEs). Canizares notes that Ring's work, along with that of others like Jacques Vallée, Raymond Moody, and Stanislav Grof, falls under the umbrella of transpersonal psychology, which explores states of consciousness beyond the ego.

Canizares expresses skepticism about attempts to link UFO experiences directly with NDEs, suggesting that while there might be commonalities, the core elements differ significantly. He highlights that UFO phenomena often involve technologically advanced vehicles with remarkable control over light and electromagnetism, which is distinct from the subjective experiences of NDEs.

Analysis of UFO Phenomena and Related Concepts

The "Irrational" vs. the "Unreal"

In response to a question from Jacques Antoine, Campiglia distinguishes between "unreal" events (non-existent, imaginary) and "irrational" events (lacking logic within the current societal framework). He maintains that UFO experiences are real but classified as irrational.

The Initiatory Potential of Irrational Events

Campiglia suggests that irrational events can have an initiatory or awakening effect, challenging existing paradigms and offering glimpses of future possibilities. He uses the example of the UFO phenomenon itself, which forces us to reconsider our understanding of reality.

The Nature of UFOs: A Sociological Perspective

Campiglia views the UFO phenomenon through a sociological lens, considering it as a complex issue with multiple interpretations. He acknowledges the difficulty in definitively answering questions about the origin and nature of UFOs.

The "Drift" of Ufology

Claude Thomas, in his article "What Remains of Our UFOs?", reflects on the state of ufology, particularly in light of the "Belgian Wave" of sightings. He notes the accumulation of evidence over fifty years has not led to definitive answers. Thomas criticizes sensationalism in media coverage and some specialized literature, finding certain books disappointing in their analysis.

He contrasts the Belgian approach, which he describes as grounded and pragmatic, with a more speculative or sensationalist approach found elsewhere. Thomas suggests that the "Belgian UFO" is a concrete material object whose origins remain a mystery. He questions whether the "all-sociopsychological" approach can explain this phenomenon.

Thomas also critiques the "new ufologists" for attempting to fit all cases into a pre-defined framework, such as the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), which he believes can lead to "unreasonableness."

The "ET Connection" and NDEs

Thomas reviews "E.T. Connection - The Extraterrestrials Are Among Us," by T. Good, which he finds biased towards the ETH. He also discusses Kenneth Ring's "Project Omega - Experiences of the Third Type (NDE)," which attempts to draw parallels between UFO abduction experiences and NDEs. Thomas finds this comparison premature and potentially misleading, emphasizing the technological aspects of UFOs which differ from the subjective nature of NDEs.

The Problem of Missing Time and Contactees

Thomas notes that contactee messages from the 1950s onwards, while often addressing nuclear issues and global dangers, generally lacked focus on environmental pollution until later. He points out the age difference between the peak of contactee phenomena and the rise of environmental awareness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Inforespace strongly engages with the concept of "ufology" as a field of study, highlighting its complexities, controversies, and the challenges of maintaining rigor. The magazine presents a critical perspective on sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, while also acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding UFO phenomena. There's a clear emphasis on sociological and psychological interpretations, alongside a cautious approach to the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis. The editorial stance appears to favor well-documented research and critical analysis over speculative theories, while recognizing the enduring public fascination with the unknown.

This issue of the magazine, identified by page number 58, focuses on the phenomenon of crop circles and UFOs, featuring a personal account of a sighting in Lierneux, Belgium, and reviews of relevant books and organizations.

Crop Circles à Lierneux...

The main article on pages 58-59 details a personal experience of the witness, André Counotte, on July 24, 1994, near Lierneux, Belgium. While walking with his dog, he heard a whistling sound from high-tension power lines, followed by a loud crashing noise. Investigating, he discovered two circular areas of flattened ferns, each about 10 meters in diameter, separated by a meter-wide strip of intact ferns. The ferns within the circles were flattened to a height of about 10 cm and directed outwards. Counotte initially attributed the event to a mini-tornado but later considered the possibility of an accident involving a glider due to the whistling sound. He returned to the site but found nothing abnormal.

A diagram on page 59 illustrates the crop circle formation, showing the dimensions of the discs, the intact separation strip, the surrounding bushes, and the high-tension power lines.

Book Review: 'Contacts Supra-Terrestres : Leurres et Manipulations' by Jean Sider

Pages 60-63 review Jean Sider's book, which is presented as a continuation of his research into UFOs. The review highlights Sider's previous works, including 'Ultra Top Secret' and 'L'airship de 1897'. The book reportedly delves into new revelations about the Roswell and Magdalena crashes, suggesting government deception. Sider proposes three hypotheses for UFO phenomena: secret human technology, advanced extraterrestrial deception, or a secret agreement between humans and extraterrestrials. The review notes Sider's critical stance towards other researchers, whom he labels as 'unconscious allies' of a higher-scale manipulation, sowing confusion and disseminating incomplete notions.

Sider also criticizes 'pseudo-researchers' and 'socio-psychologists', calling them 'pretentious salon speakers' potentially manipulated by a 'super-human intelligence'. The review mentions Sider's analysis of the French UFO wave of November 5, 1990, which coincided with the atmospheric re-entry of a Soviet rocket. The book also covers 'telepathic exchanges' with references to cases like AFFA, J. Higgins, C. Appelton, and others.

The review discusses Sider's critique of 'fake skeptics' and 'obsessed saucer-watchers', whom he describes as paranoid and psychopathic. He also targets 'servile CNES officials' and Belgian 'socio-psychos' for their perceived arrogance in explaining UFO phenomena.

Sider's book also includes an appendix on 'Relativistic Voyage and Paradox of Langevin in the Middle Ages', based on a text by the German historian Godefroy de Viterbe, concerning Breton navigators in the 12th century. The review concludes that Sider's work is passionate and offers insights into lesser-known aspects of American ufology, though it notes his subjective approach and personal biases.

SOBEPS Publications

Pages 64-65 provide information about publications from SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Étude des Phénomènes Spatiaux), an association dedicated to the rational study of unidentified aerial phenomena. They announce two major books on the Belgian UFO wave:

1. 'Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 1. Un Dossier Exceptionnel': This book covers the UFO wave from autumn 1989 to summer 1991, including a preface by Jean-Pierre Petit, a day-by-day history of events, media coverage, analysis of radar data with the Air Force and Gendarmerie, and personal conclusions.
2. 'Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 2. Une Enigme Non Résolue': This report, published in 1994, presents new challenges to the political and scientific world, detailing observations, the Petit-Rechain photograph analysis, diurnal cases, scientific reactions, and prospective research methodologies.

These two volumes are offered together for 1,500 Belgian Francs (275 FF). The issue also mentions the closure of SOBEPS's offices from May 21 to June 11, 1995.

SOBEPS Activities and Resources

Page 66 describes SOBEPS as a non-profit organization focused on the observation and rational study of UFOs, relying on volunteer work for its activities, including investigations and the dissemination of information through its review 'Inforespace'. They solicit collaboration from members for research, translation, writing, and secretarial work. They also request prompt notification of any unusual aerial phenomena observed.

The Secretariat and Library are accessible to members on Saturdays from 2 PM to 6 PM, by appointment. Administrative inquiries can be made at 02/525.04.04 on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 2 PM and 6 PM, with fax available at 02/520.73.93. The number 02/524.28.48 is reserved for testimonies, and a 24-hour answering service is available.

SOBEPS offers a collection of 360 slides on various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, divided into 30 series of 12 documents. Two complementary series focus on the Belgian wave, comprising 24 slides for 750 FB. They also offer guides: 'Le guide de l'enquêteur' (The Investigator's Guide) with 200 questions for observations, and 'Le guide de l'observateur' (The Observer's Guide) covering astronomical data and potential confusions. These guides can be purchased separately for 250 FB each (60 FF) or 350 FB for foreign members.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon, presenting personal accounts, book reviews, and information from ufological organizations. There is a clear interest in detailed case studies, such as the Lierneux crop circle, and critical analysis of theories and researchers in the field. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and the dissemination of information, as exemplified by the detailed coverage of SOBEPS's work and publications. The magazine also touches upon themes of potential deception, government secrecy, and the subjective nature of interpreting evidence within ufology.