SVL Tijdschrift - Jaargang 1 No 02 - april 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: SVLT
Issue: Jaargang 1 Nr 2
Date: April 1982
Publisher: SVL-GESAG Belgium
Type: Quarterly magazine (Driemaandelijks tijdschrift) of the Study Group for Strange Aerial Phenomena (Studiegroep voor Vreemde Luchtverschijnselen), founded under GESAG.

Editorial (Editoriaal)

The editorial, written by Wim Van Utrecht (SVL Directorate) in March 1982, apologizes for the delayed publication of this second issue. The delay was caused by an unexpected event that required the SVL Directorate to withdraw from UFO-related activities for two weeks, also preventing prompt responses to correspondence.

The editorial also addresses the BUFOC proposal by Luc Devineke (mentioned in SVLT 1/1, p.11) regarding a collaboration between UFO organizations to create a general catalog of Belgian UFO sightings starting from January 1, 1980. So far, the most valuable contribution has come from Marc Broux of UFO 21, who has provided SVL with UFO 21 observation reports for inclusion in a future Belgian UFO Center. While most of these reports are explainable, about ten interesting cases warrant further investigation. Notable sightings mentioned include those from Zaventem (Brabant, ?/11/79), Erpe (Oost-Vlaanderen, 1/10/79), Nieuwkerken (Oost-Vlaanderen, 12/12/79), a case involving witnesses in Heverlee (Brabant, 13/12/79) between Namen and Dinant, and Bavegem (Oost-Vlaanderen, 15/8/80).

Members are encouraged to examine the recent sightings listed in each SVLT issue, as their cooperation is crucial for the quality of the organization. Members interested in investigating UFO reports for the SVL research network can request a questionnaire, enclosing a 10,-BF stamp.

Furthermore, the price of the SVLT subscription has been increased by 50,-BF to maintain the magazine's length of 20 to 25 pages. The editorial expresses hope for reader trust and willingness to cooperate to advance UFO research in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Article: Het A.I.H.P.I. - Over het onderzoek van oude waarnemingen (The A.I.H.P.I. - On the research of old sightings)

This article, written by Michel Coste, introduces the newly founded non-profit organization A.I.H.P.I. (Association Pour L'Investigation Historique Des Phenomenes Insolites), established in 1981. The organization aims to conduct historical research into UFO sightings, a field that has been ongoing for years but has led to an accumulation of documents requiring a systematic and academic study method. The author notes that independent researchers have been overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information, necessitating the grouping of motivated individuals with similar interests.

A.I.H.P.I. specializes in the historical aspect of the UFO phenomenon, believing that studying the past can open new doors for understanding the present and future of ufology. Their goal is to reconstruct the UFO phenomenon throughout history, from prehistory to shortly after World War II (December 1946), for study and analysis by individuals from various disciplines. This work also contributes to the advancement of UFO research on an international level.

The organization seeks contact with other international UFO groups to exchange information and research documents, emphasizing that any distribution or use of documents requires written permission from the correspondent who submitted them. A.I.H.P.I. does not intend to interfere with the current research of other cooperating organizations.

Wim Van Utrecht adds a postscript, noting that while A.I.H.P.I. was founded in 1981, its founders were active in collecting old UFO-related documents as early as the 1970s. The French organization now possesses over 500 historical UFO reports that show similarities to modern sightings. Since 1982, they have decided to publicly share this information and are seeking contact with other associations in France and Europe. SVL members with old documents or an interest in UFO history are encouraged to contact SVL, which will forward relevant information to Mr. Coste of A.I.H.P.I.

Article: UFO Congres 1982

This section details the 'UFO Congress 1982: UFOs Today and Tomorrow,' scheduled for April 25th at the Cultureel Centrum Hasselt. The congress features a day-long program with various speakers and activities.

• Program:
• First Program (starting 13:00): Opening of doors, Opening of the UFO Congress 1982 with speakers Hans van Kampen ('UFO-achtige verschijnselen'), Martin Holwerda ('De reconstructie van Trecoross'), and Werner Bruyneel ('UFO's boven België').
• Second Program (starting 18:15): Speakers include Edgar Allen ('De waarheid over UFO's'), the Vereniging UROS ('UFO's waar of waanzin'), and an open debate among participating organizations.

Participating Organizations: U.S.M.Z. (Netherlands), S.V.L. (Belgium), O.B.O.S. (Belgium), UFO-INFO (Belgium), CURIOS (Belgium), P.S.I. (Belgium), U.R.O.S., and UFO 21 (Belgium).

Each participating organization will have an information stand open from 13:00 to 22:00, providing information about their activities and displaying magazines, books, photos, and research materials.

Admission: 200,-BF per program. A 50,-BF discount is available for members of participating organizations. Reservations can be made with Mr. Marc Broux at Koning Albertstraat 40, 3500 Hasselt.

Results of the congress will be published in SVLT 1/3.

Article: Psychische verschijnselen en UFO's (Psychic phenomena and UFOs)

This article by Hilary Evans presents a portion of his presentation at the second 'London International UFO-Congress,' organized by BUFORA. The original title was 'UFO's AND PSYCHIC PHENOMENA. Is there a connection?'. Adrian Leigh from London provided the recording for SVL.

Hilary Evans, author of 'UFO's. The Greatest Mystery' and a contributor to various UFO groups like MUFON, discusses the connection between UFO sightings and psychic phenomena. He notes that after 35 years of UFO research, hundreds, possibly thousands, of cases describe encounters with strange beings of various forms and sizes. He highlights the 'bedroom visitor' category and shares a personal experience investigating such a case involving Cynthia Appleton in 1957, who claimed telepathic contact with a being from another world.

Evans draws parallels between UFO encounter narratives and historical accounts of apparitions, acknowledging that the nature of ghosts and spirits remains unknown. He emphasizes the importance for ufologists to understand what psychic researchers have discovered about phenomena like hallucinations versus apparitions and how to question witnesses effectively.

He points out that manifestations of strange beings are often accompanied by other phenomena, with UFO sightings being part of a larger spectrum of events observed by witnesses and their acquaintances. Many UFO reports include mysterious sounds, lights, and inexplicable movements of ordinary objects. Evans argues that it is counterproductive to study only a part of the problem and ignore the rest.

He suggests that UFO researchers should be familiar with phenomena like poltergeists, as these often accompany UFO sightings and share commonalities. While psychic researchers may not have definitive answers for such manifestations, they have gained significant insights into how poltergeists operate, which is valuable for UFO researchers.

Evans also discusses the case of Gaynor Sunderland, investigated by Jenny Randles. The witness claimed to have an out-of-body experience while her mother saw her in a deep sleep, suggesting a possible link to 'uittreding' (astral projection).

Psychological aspects are prevalent in many UFO encounters, with witnesses often reporting paralysis. Evans clarifies that this is not true paralysis but a state where the individual is unable to move, possibly due to their own will, suggesting a psychological rather than physical cause and a state of altered consciousness.

He further notes that UFO incidents are often attuned to the witness's personal situation, citing the Betty Andreasson case as an example of a religiously tinged experience that addressed her spiritual needs. He compares this to mystical phenomena reported throughout history.

Evans concludes that a definitive separation between UFOs and psychic phenomena is impossible. He mentions a recent case where a witness contacted the Society for Psychical Research about a strange figure in their garden, asking if it was an alien or a ghost, illustrating the overlap between ufological and psychic research.

The article touches upon hypnosis as a controversial subject in UFO research, with skepticism regarding its use as a working tool. Evans argues that information obtained through hypnosis, whether factual or fantasy, can be valuable, similar to how psychoanalysts delve into patients' dreams. He suggests that rejecting such information simply because it's not 'certain fact' would be short-sighted.

He also references a report from Russia describing the use of 'feelers' (personen die bekwaam zijn om biologische velden te voelen) in UFO investigations, noting this method is considered normal among ufologists in Moscow. Evans finds this significant and suggests that Russians may have a more open approach to such methods.

In summary, Evans emphasizes the varied and meaningful nature of the psychic connection with UFOs and highlights how ufologists can benefit from the study of psychic research. He concludes that while both fields are still seeking answers, they are becoming better at defining the questions.

References: The article lists references for BUFORA, MUFON, Jenny Randles' work, Charles Bowen's 'Flying Saucer Review', Betty Andreasson's case, the Society for Psychical Research, and FSR (Flying Saucer Review).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, historical research, and the intersection of UFO phenomena with psychological and psychic experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging member participation in research and the collection of data. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation, as evidenced by the introduction of A.I.H.P.I. and the discussion of various research methodologies. The magazine also serves as a platform for announcing and reporting on UFO-related events, such as the 'UFO Congress 1982'.

This issue of the magazine, titled "Grobbendonk (Ant.)", dated December 6, 1976, and identified as Volume 2, Part 2, focuses on UFO sightings, particularly those showing interest in automobiles. The cover headline proclaims "Similar UFOs Show Interest in Automobiles". The publication is in Dutch and originates from Belgium.

The Grobbendonk Case (December 6, 1976)

The main article details a UFO sighting that occurred on December 6, 1976, involving two witnesses, A.V. and M.C., driving near Grobbendonk. The report, published in the second part of a series, covers the witnesses' accounts, the location of the sighting, and a letter they sent to SOBEPS (a UFO research organization) on December 14, 1976. The investigation, conducted by the author (Wim Van Utrecht), took place on November 15, 1981, five years after the event. The witnesses were interviewed separately, and their recollections were later compared. A key finding was that their memories had evolved; they now recalled only one beam of light instead of multiple, and the blue light was no longer remembered. They also recalled a sudden increase in traffic after the UFO departed, a phenomenon noted as typical of UFO sightings.

The sighting occurred around 22:15-22:30 as they drove over the Albertkanaal bridge. They noticed two bright white lights, which were part of a single object, descending towards their car. M.C. urged her husband to stop the car. The object, described as disc-shaped, hovered and then swerved left, making a half-turn before disappearing southeast, following a parabolic path. The underside was described as two half-spheres joined, with two strong light beams projecting forward. The witnesses also noted smaller white and red lights on the sides, which they compared to flashing lights used in shop window displays. The total observation lasted about 30 seconds. Precise data on size, distance, and speed were difficult to ascertain.

Comparison with Other Cases

The report highlights the remarkable similarities between the Grobbendonk sighting and other UFO reports from both domestic and international sources. A significant pattern observed is that these UFOs were often sighted near highways. Two similar cases are presented:

1. Market Rasen and Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, England (July 3, 1978): Three witnesses reported being followed for 50 minutes by an unusual flying object with two large white lights at the front and smaller red, orange, and green lights on the sides. The object was oval-shaped with an indentation between the white lights. It emitted no sound and gradually disappeared from view.
2. Moreton, Merseyside, England (May 15, 1980): Around 00:40, a young teacher saw a bright light low to the ground, which turned out to be a large black object resembling two stuck grenades. It had two white light beams projecting forward, close to the ground. The witness also noted two purplish-red flames on either side of the UFO.

The article includes sketches of the objects described in these cases and the Grobbendonk sighting.

Conclusion on Grobbendonk Case

The author concludes that while the Grobbendonk case is not particularly spectacular on its own, its similarity to other reported sightings is noteworthy. The possibility of misidentification with aircraft is acknowledged, but the unique characteristics of the reported objects, such as their shape and flight behavior, make this hypothesis difficult to fully accept. The SVL evaluation of the case is "INTERESSANT".

The Nevele Case (September 28, 1981)

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred in Nevele, Belgium, on September 28, 1981, involving five children (E.T., A.T., H.T., B.D., F.D., aged 6 to 11). The report was compiled by Luc Devine, a SOBEPS investigator, and is presented as a follow-up to a promise made in a previous issue. The sighting took place between 19:00 and 19:30 during twilight. The children were playing in the IJsbeerlaan when they heard an unusual sound, described as a softer jet engine sound. They saw a disc-shaped object, with only the underside visible initially. The underside had red, green, and white flashing lights around the edge, and a yellow light in the center. The object was pale grey and metallic. It made a shallow turn away from the children, revealing its upper side, which had no lights. It then disappeared over the horizon. Shortly after, two more identical UFOs appeared, flying faster and exhibiting a complex zigzag movement while maintaining their formation. The total observation time for the first object was about five minutes, while the subsequent two were seen for a shorter duration due to their speed.

Investigation and Analysis of Nevele Case

The report includes a detailed breakdown of the Nevele sighting, including witness ages, location description, and environmental conditions (clear sky, moderate wind, around 15°C). The credibility and strangeness ratings were 2 and 3 respectively (on a scale of unknown). The classification was "DD Daylight Disc" according to HYNEK.

Possible confusion with aircraft was ruled out by the radar center at Semmerzake, as there was no military air traffic in the area at that time. However, radar data is destroyed after three months, so no specific blips could be confirmed. The radar is also blind to objects below 700 meters. The flight direction of the objects (290° West to 100° East) aligns with a major air route (UG 1), but the shape and flight behavior of the first object, and the complex movements of the subsequent ones, suggest it was not a conventional aircraft.

Estimates of the object's size varied, with one witness estimating it as twice the size of a Piper Tomahawk (approximately 7.40 meters), suggesting a total length of around 15 meters. The duration of the sighting was also uncertain, with one witness stating it lasted "5 minutes".

Secondary Effects and Conclusion

There were unverified reports of TV interference along the flight path of the objects. The investigation concluded that while the flight direction could be consistent with an aircraft, the shape and complex maneuvers of the objects made a conventional aircraft explanation unlikely. The SVL evaluation for the Nevele case is "INTERESSANT".

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the comparative analysis of UFO sightings, highlighting recurring patterns in object descriptions, witness circumstances (especially proximity to highways and vehicles), and flight behavior across different geographical locations and time periods. The magazine appears to take a serious, investigative approach to UFO phenomena, presenting detailed witness accounts, investigative findings, and expert analysis. While acknowledging the possibility of misidentification, the publication leans towards the view that some reported phenomena are unusual and warrant further study, as indicated by the "INTERESSANT" evaluations for both featured cases.

Title: SVLT
Issue: 9
Issue Date: March 17, 1982
Publisher: SVL (Belgian UFO research organization)
Country: Belgium
Language: Dutch

Personal Impression of a UFO Case

The issue begins with a detailed account of a personal investigation by an SVL researcher into a UFO sighting that occurred on February 3, 1982. The investigator found the witnesses, who were children, to be credible, noting that they seemed unlikely to invent such a story. The open discussion of details among the witnesses, even when they disagreed, strengthened the credibility of their accounts. The children's hesitation when describing the UFO's peculiar zigzag route was particularly noted, as this unusual flight pattern is often reported in UFO literature but would likely be unknown to children.

When the investigator attempted to sketch the object based on the children's descriptions, they were initially not satisfied. Eventually, a peculiar boat shape emerged. The investigator included a reconstruction drawing of the object, detailing its components: a 'KOEPEL' (dome), 'GEEL LICHT' (yellow light), 'GEEL LICHT OP STAAF' (yellow light on a stick), and 'RODE, GROENE EN WITTE LAMPJES' (red, green, and white lights) on the underside.

The investigator emphasizes that the children's accounts are more detailed and credible than typical science fiction narratives they might have encountered. This case is described as the most credible and interesting observation the investigator has examined to date.

Assessment and Conclusion

The investigator dismisses the possibility of the objects being aircraft, citing specific factors against this explanation. The conclusion is that three metallic objects with unconventional shapes and lighting were observed by five witnesses.

Final Conclusion: Unknown.

Afterword - W. Van Utrecht

W. Van Utrecht comments that this is one of the most interesting UFO sightings reported in Belgium since 1980. He notes a similarity to a report from Westerlo (Antwerp province), which will be published in the next issue. While not doubting the reliability of the young witnesses, Van Utrecht points out a striking similarity between the UFOs' unusual movements and the observers themselves. He suggests that the interaction between the two last objects and the first one resembled a game, similar to how the children were playing that evening.

He acknowledges that this similarity might be coincidental, but also notes that such parallels between UFO manifestations and the interests of the witnesses are often observed. He concludes that while he doesn't understand the connection between UFOs and witnesses, it is worth considering during local investigations.

Mysterious Cloud

This section reports on the discovery by researchers at the Mauna Loa observatory in Hawaii of a giant cloud circling the Earth at high altitudes (16-19 kilometers). The cloud has been observed for several weeks without a clear explanation for its origin. It is not visible to the naked eye and has a length of three kilometers. The size suggests it is not the result of a surface or underground nuclear explosion.

The most probable explanation is a previously unregistered volcanic eruption in the Pacific Ocean. Researchers have been unable to pinpoint such recent volcanic activity. According to Robert Decker, the scientific head of the observatory, the eruption might have occurred in the Aleutian Islands, an area prone to earthquakes, where a volcanic eruption could have been mistakenly registered as a seismic event by the global seismographic network. Nasa researcher Len McMaster points out that volcanic eruptions did occur in Zaire and New Guinea in January. A U-2 aircraft is scheduled to study the cloud.

This report is attributed to "DE NIEUWE GAZET" dated March 17, 1982.

Recent Reports

This section provides a compilation of recent UFO sightings reported to SVL, inviting interested individuals to investigate them further. The SVL address is provided: Oever 28, 2000 Antwerp.

• Bay of Biscay (France) - early September 1981 (between 24:00 and 01:00): A 28-year-old sailor, W.T., observed two bright white lights hovering motionlessly to the left of his sailboat. The lights, described as similar to car headlights but blinking irregularly like Morse code, were part of a single object. The object was about 50 degrees above the horizon. When W.T. signaled with a flashlight, the UFO disappeared with a flash, moving diagonally upwards from left to right, away from the French coast. The sighting lasted about 5-10 minutes. SVL Evaluation: Insufficient. The report notes a lack of factual data for a definitive conclusion, but suggests a weather balloon as a possible explanation, though the lights used by such balloons are unknown.

• Near the Black Forest (West Germany) - September 1, 1981 (around 15:00): Ms. C.D., while in a car, saw a zeppelin-shaped object about 10 meters long. The object was grayish and emitted a strange sound. Approximately thirty other people also witnessed it. SVL and OBOS Evaluation: Zeppelin.

• Ghent (East Flanders) - November 25, 1981 (around 23:00): Mr. G.D.P. observed a large white dot flashing across a clear, starry sky. The sighting lasted only 1-2 seconds. The object moved at extreme speed from Northeast to Southwest, disappearing like a switched-off flashlight. The witness continued to look in the direction of disappearance for several minutes without result. SVL Evaluation: Meteor. This is considered a possible explanation, though not fully ruled out by the witness.

• Diksmuide (West Flanders) - January 12, 1982 (around 19:00): Witness R.K. reported seeing an object resembling a disc with two large lights at the front. The object flew past at high speed and vanished instantly. Another witness from Vladslo reportedly saw the same thing. SVL Evaluation: Insufficient. The report suggests it could be the landing lights of an aircraft, but the disc shape and high speed make this questionable. More details are needed, and a local investigation is recommended.

• Geel (Antwerp) - January 14, 1982 (between 19:45 and 20:00): Mr. J.B., a science and geography teacher, observed a bright yellow light point about 45 degrees above the horizon. After about 30 seconds, the light became brighter, turned into a streak, and then appeared as two lights. Later, the lights grew larger and moved towards the witness. A second observer joined Mr. J.B. The lights were compared to car headlights but spaced further apart, part of the same object that moved slowly, first zig-zagging, then linearly. The UFO flew over the witnesses and disappeared in a Southwest direction. It had two red lights underneath. A soft engine hum, similar to a small aircraft, was heard. SVL Evaluation: Aircraft. The report notes that aircraft sometimes make zig-zag movements for better coordination during landing, and that landing lights can be visible from up to 100 km away. The engine sound also fits this explanation.

• Antwerp (Antwerp) - February 3 or 4, 1982 (around 18:10): While waiting for a bus, Ms. L.M. saw a bright white dot disappear vertically behind some houses. There was no visible light trail. SVL Evaluation: Satellite. The description matches the re-entry of a Russian satellite near the Belgian-Dutch border.

Snippets from Newspapers

The SVL requests members to send in newspaper clippings (or copies) about UFO events, both domestic and international, to help them stay informed. Articles about Belgian UFO sightings will be summarized and published in SVLT. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for individuals living near reported UFO sightings to investigate them locally. The publication expresses hope for reader cooperation.

CE III in Belgium!

During a SOBEPS meeting on March 27, 1982, Mr. Jean-Luc Vertongen, responsible for the SOBEPS research network, discussed several UFO reports investigated by the group in recent months. One particularly interesting Belgian case involves a witness from Riemst (Limburg, near Maastricht) who claimed to have had a dialogue with the crew of a landed UFO. The publication expresses hope to publish a more detailed account of this significant sighting, which occurred on May 13, 1980, in SVLT soon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena, presenting detailed accounts from witnesses and researchers. There is a clear emphasis on the credibility of witness testimony, particularly in the case involving children, where the investigator's personal impression is highlighted. The publication also engages with scientific explanations, evaluating possibilities like aircraft, meteors, weather balloons, and satellites, but often concludes with 'unknown' when evidence is insufficient or points to anomalous phenomena. The inclusion of a 'Mysterious Cloud' report suggests a broader interest in unexplained atmospheric events. The editorial stance encourages reader participation and investigation, aiming to build a comprehensive database of UFO-related information in Belgium.