SVL Tijdschrift - Jaargang 5 No 18 - juli-oktober 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: SVLT
Issue: nr. 18
Volume: 5
Date: July/October 1986
Publisher: Studiegroep voor Vreemde Luchtverschijnselen (Study Group for Strange Aerial Phenomena)
Country: Netherlands
Language: Dutch
Price: 180,- BF (for 2 issues, support subscription from 200,- BF)

Editorial

The editorial by Wim Van Utrecht (Antwerpen, October 14, 1986) announces that the journal plans to transition to publishing specialized research reports starting in 1988-89, following two more issues of the main SVLT journal. The next issue will include an overview of available back issues and updates to the observation list from SVLT 5/17. It will also feature attention to the 'mysterious fireballs' that crossed the West-European airspace on September 23rd, requesting eyewitness accounts. The editor emphasizes that these changes do not signify the end of the group's activities.

Contents

• The issue's table of contents includes:
• Editorial
• The Eison-Report: A Critical Commentary
• Incidents in Belgium - III: An overview and synthesis of Belgian CE II reports
• Short Reports: Professor Hynek's passing, "The Man from Mars", Jacques Vallée, Lars Thörn's faked photos.
• Recent Reports

The Eison-Foto: A Critical Commentary

This section, starting on page 3, is presented as a critical commentary on the 'Eison-Foto'. While the full content is not detailed in the provided pages, the cover and table of contents indicate its significance.

Analysis of Abts' Reflection Model

Pages 4 through 13 delve into a detailed mathematical analysis of Abts' reflection model for UFOs. The author critically examines Abts' assumptions and calculations, particularly regarding the shape of the object being an ellipsoid.

Critique of Abts' Assumptions

The article questions why Abts assumes a symmetrical object, suggesting it might stem from the traditional 'flying saucer' shape. It then proceeds to analyze the reflection of sunlight off a hypothetical ellipsoidal object. The author points out that Abts' method of determining reflection points based on the intersection of the sun's direction cylinder and the observer's direction cylinder is incorrect. Instead, reflection must adhere to the law of reflection: the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, and these lie in the same plane.

Mathematical Derivation

The text presents complex mathematical formulas and vector calculations to determine the points on the ellipsoid where reflection would occur. It involves defining vectors for the object's surface normal, the sun's direction, and the observer's direction. The calculations aim to find a point 'ro' on the ellipsoid that satisfies the conditions for reflection and aligns with the observer's line of sight.

Findings on Object Asymmetry

Through these calculations, the author investigates how the object's orientation (specifically, tilting backward by an angle 'β') affects the reflection points. The analysis, illustrated with figures, concludes that reflection occurs only on the right side of the object and not on the left. This finding indicates that the observed asymmetry of the object cannot be explained by Abts' reflection model alone, suggesting that the model does not fully account for the phenomenon.

Other Reports and Mentions

• Incidents in Belgium - III: This section synthesizes Belgian CE II reports.
• Professor Hynek's Passing: The journal notes the death of Professor Hynek.
• Lars Thörn's Faked Photos: The issue mentions that Lars Thörn's photos were faked.

Copyright and Correspondence

The publication states that no part of it may be reproduced without written permission. The opinions of contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or the study group. All correspondence, inquiries, and personal observations should be addressed to the Studiegroep voor Vreemde Luchtverschijnselen in Antwerpen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of photographic evidence (Eison-Foto), the synthesis of UFO sighting reports (Belgium), and the theoretical modeling of UFO phenomena (Abts' reflection model). The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, critical evaluation of evidence, and open discussion of UFO phenomena, while maintaining a distinction between factual reporting and contributors' opinions. The group is committed to continuing its research despite upcoming changes in publication format.

This issue, titled 'SPOORGEVALLEN IN BELGIË - III', is a detailed overview and synthesis of Belgian CE II (Close Encounter of the Second Kind) reports, compiled by Wim Van Utrecht. It covers various UFO sightings and related phenomena reported in Belgium, with a focus on cases from the 1950s through the 1980s. The magazine provides detailed accounts, investigative findings, and critical analyses of each case.

Case Studies and Investigations

Conclusions and References (Page 1)

The issue begins with a section on 'Conclusions' regarding a specific case (likely the 'Eison' case, though not explicitly named here). An analysis of a photograph suggested a large, symmetrical object approximately 20 meters in diameter and 5 meters high, with apparent asymmetry attributed to sunlight reflection. However, the author, Ronny Blomme (dated 17/5/86), dismisses these findings as unsustainable, citing calculation errors and the inadequacy of the reflection model. The only reason this case is deemed noteworthy is its proximity in time and place to a second case, the 'Saas-Fee' photo by R. de Koe. A reference is provided for a report titled 'Een vreemd vliegend voorwerp boven Eison' by Guido Abts.

The page also continues a report from page 22, discussing campers who encountered two 'UFOs' which were actually two aircraft. It acknowledges that this explanation might not be entirely satisfactory and that the estimations of Jacques MEAN might be more reliable than those of Dhr. ZEEVAERT. Private investigator Marc HALLET planned to visit Jacques YERNA in 1986-87. The case is described as the first Belgian trace case to undergo investigation, despite the disappearance of the traces a week after the sighting and two days before the investigators' arrival. The 'SVL EVALUATIE' (evaluation) is 'KAMPERENDE JONGEREN (INTERESSANT)' (Camping Youth - Interesting).

Tourinne-la-Chaussée, 1954 (Page 2)

This case, reported in 1954, involved two witnesses observing light rays for 10 seconds. The phenomenon was classified as 'unidentified CE II' in the SOBEPS dossiers, with no further details known about its nature.

Sint-Truiden, August 1957 (Page 2-3)

In May 1986, Dhr. Filip REKOMS reported an experience from about twenty years prior. A witness, Mevr. E.V.G., described seeing a bright light column, described as a large, circular pillar of light, covering a large part of the forest and the factory area. The next day, the factory burned down. Dhr. REKOMS investigated the site and noted that the trees leaned in one direction and that the grass was reduced compared to the surroundings. The witness's memory of the timing was vague, with her initially stating the factory burned down the day after the sighting, and later saying 'a few days' later. Dhr. REKOMS questioned whether the light phenomenon was caused by the fire, or vice versa, but concluded that the fire was the more likely cause. The report mentions that the factory was located about 200-300 meters from the observation point and that an investigation into the fire suggested arson during a burglary. The physical traces (leaning trees and reduced grass) were deemed 'irrelevant' by SVL.

Lokeren, October 31, 1958 (Page 3-4)

This case involved a 'fireball' that passed through a house, causing damage and injury to residents. The event was preceded by a blinding light and was observed simultaneously in Erembodegem. Similar lights were reported in France and England around the same time. Jacques BONABOT classified this as a 'ball lightning' event, but provided no information on the weather conditions. The SVL evaluation is 'NATUURLIJKE OORZAAK (BOLBLIKSEM)' (Natural Cause - Ball Lightning).

Rosières, September 1965 (Page 4)

A single witness reported seeing light rays of a yellow color. The case was classified as 'unidentified CE II' with no further details available.

Linsmeau, Racour, March 1968 (Page 4)

One witness reported a white and transparent phenomenon for 15 minutes. It was classified as 'unidentified CE II' with no further details available.

Jupille-sur-Meuse, 1968 (Page 4)

Two witnesses reported a circular white object for 15 seconds. It was classified as 'unidentified CE II' with no further details available.

Hollogne-aux-Pierres, October 9, 1969 (Page 4-9)

This is a detailed account of an encounter by 16-year-old Jacques YERNA. While riding his horse, he observed four red flashing lights, followed by a second, smaller object. He described a disc-shaped silhouette with lights. His horse became agitated. Later, a car with extinguished lights and a man standing in the field were observed. Yerna reported arriving at the stable very frightened. The case was investigated by LAET (Laboratoires d'Analyse et d'Expérimentation Technique). On October 11, Yerna, accompanied by Jacques MEAN and Pierre ZEEVAERT, visited the site and found four rectangular flattened areas within a beet field, measuring between 1x0.3m and 2x0.75m, forming a square of 6-8 meters. They also noted broken branches and uprooted plants. Investigations revealed a magnetic deviation of the compass (25% at 5 meters from the traces, 5% near metal posts) and a slight increase in radioactivity. However, the LAET report, published in January 1970, critically analyzed these findings. They suggested that the lights could have been aircraft, noting the proximity of Bierset airfield. The traces were questioned due to conflicting measurements and the lack of clear photographic evidence. The magnetic deviation was deemed inconclusive, especially since measurements were taken days after the event. The radioactivity increase was attributed to normal conditions after plowing or the presence of the investigators themselves. The report concluded that the physical effects reported by Yerna, Mean, and Zeevaert did not constitute proof of a UFO. The presence of litter in the area and the possibility of young people camping or using sleeping mats were suggested as alternative explanations for the traces.

Professor J. Allen Hynek's Passing (Page 10)

A short report announces the death of Professor J. Allen Hynek on April 27, 1986, at the age of 75, due to a brain tumor. It details his career, including his work in astronomy, his involvement in the U.S. Optical Satellite Tracking Program, and his role as a scientific advisor for U.S. Air Force UFO projects. He founded the Center for UFO Studies in 1973 and authored several books on UFOs, including 'The UFO Experience: A Scientific Inquiry,' where he coined the term 'close encounters.' The report notes changes within the Center for UFO Studies following his death, including a new director and a new name for the center.

'DE MAN VAN MARS...' (Page 10)

This section briefly mentions a 1954 book titled 'Flying Saucer from Mars' by Cedric Allingham, which describes an encounter with a Martian and his spaceship. The book included photographs and a handwritten letter as evidence. The author and a witness named James Duncan were reportedly untraceable, leading to speculation about a 'mysterious disappearance' or that Allingham had died in a Swiss sanatorium.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance towards UFO reports. While presenting detailed accounts of sightings and alleged physical traces, the articles often delve into scientific analysis, seeking natural explanations or highlighting inconsistencies in witness testimonies and evidence. The 'SVL EVALUATIE' (SVL Evaluation) sections frequently conclude with terms like 'ONVOLDOENDE' (Insufficient) or 'NATUURLIJKE OORZAAK' (Natural Cause), indicating a skeptical approach. The Hollogne-aux-Pierres case, in particular, is thoroughly deconstructed by the LAET report, emphasizing the lack of conclusive evidence for a UFO. The magazine also acknowledges the passing of key figures in UFO research, such as Professor J. Allen Hynek, while maintaining its analytical perspective.

This issue of the SVL Journal (No. 5/18, July 1986) focuses on UFO reports, investigations, and a significant sonic boom incident, with contributions from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Sweden. The journal, published by SVL (Group for Study of Strange Aerial Phenomena), aims to advance scientific research in ufology. It includes detailed case studies, analyses, and evaluations of reported phenomena.

Articles and Reports

The Patrick Moore UFO Book Hoax

This section reveals a hoax involving the book attributed to 'Cedric Allingham'. It is revealed that the author was actually Patrick Moore, a British astronomer and TV personality, who collaborated with his friend Peter Davies. Davies adopted the pseudonym and his photo appeared on the flap. The telescope used in the photo was Moore's. Davies later admitted his involvement, while Moore remained silent. The article criticizes this prank for reviving the 'contactee-myth' and being a severe infringement on the scientific method.

Jacques Vallée's New Book

Jacques Vallée has released a new book titled 'Alintel', described as a UFO novel that intertwines factual events with fantasy. It is mentioned that Vallée may have previously written science fiction books under a pseudonym.

Lars Thorn's Faked Photos

In May 1971, Swedish photographer Lars Thorn took two photos of a 'flying saucer' near Skillingaryd, which were widely published and considered among the best UFO photos. Fourteen years later, the Danish UFO group GICOFF investigated the case. They discovered that the 'UFO' was a hoax, consisting of two glued hubcaps suspended by wires. Further analysis showed the object was only about 40 centimeters in size. The article notes that even 3D techniques can lead to subjective interpretations, as seen in an analysis of these photos.

Recent Sightings (Recente Meldingen)

This section details several UFO/IFC (Unidentified Flying Object/Unidentified Flying Craft) sightings from Belgium and the Netherlands, mostly from August 1985 and February 1986. Each report includes witness accounts, locations, dates, and the SVL's evaluation:

• Ensival (Luik), 08/08/1985: A white light mass was observed moving, emitting powerful light beams, and disappearing at high speed. The SVL evaluation is 'HELIKOPTER' (helicopter).
• Wegnez (Luik), 08/08/1985: A witness reported a brilliant orange ball with a loud sound, which flew away at high speed. The SVL evaluation is 'HELIKOPTER'.
• Andrimont (Luik), 08/08/1985: Witnesses described two large light points that made a sharp turn and stopped abruptly. The SVL evaluation is 'HELIKOPTER'.
• Stembert (Luik), 08/08/1985: A witness reported two large, orange lights that moved, became dimmer, and disappeared at high speed. The SVL evaluation is 'HELIKOPTER'.
• Tiege (Luik), 08/08/1985: Witnesses observed a stationary, silent object with a strong yellowish light that revealed a 'fuselage' shape. The SVL evaluation is 'HELIKOPTER'.
• Hengelo (Overijsel), August 1985: A witness observed a white flickering light that turned red and disappeared, compared in size to the moon. The SVL evaluation is 'ONVOLDOENDE' (insufficient).
• Hengelo (Overijsel), 25/02/1986: Witnesses reported rapidly blinking yellow lights followed by a red light, suggesting a possible rocket launch. The SVL evaluation is 'VUURPIJLEN' (flares).
• Enschede (Overijsel), 28/02/1986: A witness observed a rectangular, intense red light that moved rapidly and changed shape and color. The SVL evaluation is 'ONVOLDOENDE'.
• Antwerp Agglomeration (Antwerpen), 11/03/1986: A loud, sharp bang was heard, possibly caused by a supersonic aircraft breaking the sound barrier. The SVL evaluation is 'DRUKGOLF SUPERSONISCH VLIEGTUIG' (shockwave following a supersonic aircraft).

The 'Knal' (Bang) Incident

On Tuesday morning, March 11, 1986, a loud, sharp bang was heard across the Antwerp agglomeration, causing buildings to shake and windows to rattle. While initial speculation included explosions or accidents in the port, the most likely explanation, supported by the SVL, is a shockwave from a supersonic aircraft. Military exercises involving supersonic speeds were planned for that day over the North Sea, and the phenomenon of sound reflection from high atmospheric layers could explain its audibility over long distances. Military radar data is being examined to confirm the presence of supersonic military aircraft over the area.

Trace Cases in Belgium - Part 3

This section, by Wim Van Utrecht, continues the analysis of Belgian CE II (Close Encounter of the Second Kind) reports.

• Tourinne-la-Chaussée (Liége), 1954: A case involving beams of light, classified as 'unidentified CE II' by SOBEPS. The SVL evaluation is 'INSUFFICIENT'.
• Sint-Truiden (Brabant), first half of August 1957: A witness reported a white light behind trees, followed by a fire at a nearby factory the next day. An investigation by Filip Rekoms found some anomalies, but the SVL concluded the fire was likely arson and the traces were 'IRRELEVANT'.
• Lokeren (East-Flanders), 31/10/1958: A blinding light was observed, followed by a phenomenon similar to ball lightning. Thousands witnessed blue spheres over the Normandy coast. The SVL evaluation is 'NATURAL CAUSE (- BALL LIGHTNING)'.
• Rosières (Brabant), September 1965: A case involving beams of light, classified as 'unidentified CE II'. The SVL evaluation is 'INSUFFICIENT'.
• Linsmeau, Racourt (Brabant/Liége), 03/1968: A case with white and transparent lights, classified as 'unidentified CE II'. The SVL evaluation is 'INSUFFICIENT'.
• Jupille-sur-Meuse (Liége), 1968: A circular white object was observed. The SVL evaluation is 'INSUFFICIENT'.
• Hollogne-aux-Pierres (Liége), 09/10/1969: Jacques Yerna reported observing a UFO with red flashing lights and a bright white flash-light. He described a dark silhouette resembling a flying saucer. The LAET investigation found rectangular imprints and magnetic deviations. The SVL evaluation is 'ONVOLDOENDE' (insufficient), with a critique of a distorted account by Julien Weverbergh.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The SVL Journal consistently applies a critical and analytical approach to UFO reports. The editorial stance favors conventional explanations such as helicopters, natural phenomena (like ball lightning or shockwaves from supersonic aircraft), or hoaxes, when evidence supports them. The journal emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, detailed documentation, and scientific methodology in the study of unexplained aerial phenomena. There is a clear skepticism towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, as demonstrated by the debunking of the Patrick Moore hoax and the critical analysis of the Lars Thorn photos and the Jacques Yerna case.

This issue of SVLT, identified by volume VII and issue VI, dated November 15, 1986, features a critical commentary on the 'Eison report' and discusses a separate UFO sighting investigation.

The Eison Report: A Critical Commentary

The issue presents the first of two articles analyzing the 'Eison report,' which details a UFO photograph taken in Eison, Switzerland, on July 26, 1975. This photograph is noted to have been taken on the same date and approximately the same time as the better-known 'Saas-Fee photo,' with Eison being only 22 miles west of Saas-Fee.

An English version of the original Flemish report, numbering over 40 pages, was distributed globally by the Belgian group 'UFO 21/UFO-Belgium.'

Mathematical Analysis of the Eison Report

Ronny BLOMME, author of the 'Sky Map manual,' verifies the mathematical aspects of the Eison report. According to Guido ABTS, the report's author, similarities between the Eison object and the Saas-Fee object suggest a direct connection between these independently reported incidents. However, BLOMME's analysis leads to different conclusions.

BLOMME states that the analysis of the Eison photograph, which supposedly showed a large, axially symmetric object (20 meters in diameter and 5 meters high), is untenable. He argues that the distance to the object, as derived by Guido ABTS, is completely fictitious due to truncation errors in the calculations. Furthermore, the model introduced by ABTS to explain the apparent asymmetry of the object does not work. BLOMME concludes that the Eison case's only notable aspect is its proximity in space and time to the famous Saas-Fee case.

Circumstances of the Eison Photo's Disclosure

Wim VAN UTRECHT, in a preface, criticizes the circumstances under which the Eison photo became known within UFO circles, suggesting they are open to significant criticism.

The second part of the article aims to present evidence suggesting that the small brownish spot in the Eison photo is likely a bird frozen in flight.

Investigation of a Belgian UFO Sighting

The initial pages of the issue detail an investigation by LAET into a UFO sighting that occurred on October 9th. The investigation report, published by LAET, concluded that the physical effects reported by witnesses YERNA, MEAN, and ZEEVAERT offered no confirmation for the sighting. The information regarding the traces was contradictory, with Jacques MEAN's estimates of the rectangular trace dimensions being twice as large as those provided by YERNA and ZEEVAERT. While all three reported four sharply defined traces, the accompanying photos were not deemed special.

Alternative Explanation for Traces

Upon reviewing the LAET report, a detail struck the investigators as potentially explaining the incident without invoking a non-mysterious explanation. During the digging of beets on October 16th, a considerable amount of trash was noticed in the wood near the alleged landing site. This trash, not specified but possibly consisting of empty cans, bottles, and paper, along with the fact that children regularly play in the field, led to the hypothesis that youngsters might have been camping on the spot. The dimensions of one rectangular trace were found to be concordant with those of a sleeping mattress. In this context, the presence of a car and a man in the field could be explained by campers. The flash seen by YERNA close to the ground might have been an electric torch used by a camper. The lights in the sky could have been unrecognized airplanes due to the exceptional circumstances of the sighting.

Continued Investigation and Skepticism

Marc HALLET attempted to re-establish contact with Jacques YERNA on October 31, 1986, but received no reply, suggesting little hope for new data to definitively judge the case. The most interesting aspect remains the detailed investigation, despite the traces disappearing a week after the sighting and two days before the investigators' arrival.

The SVL evaluation for this incident is 'CAMPING YOUNGSTERS (-INTERESTING).'

Communiqués

Catalogue OVNI Tourraine

A fourth document from the University of Tours is announced for subscription, detailing Tourangelle observations used in a psychological typology study of witnesses. This catalog is presented as a complement to a preceding poly and of interest to ufologists compiling existing case files.

Details are provided for ordering the document, including prices in French Francs (FF) and Belgian Francs (FB), with contact persons and addresses in France and Belgium.

Rencontres de Lyon

The Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes (AESV) is organizing the 'Rencontres de Lyon' event on April 18-20, 1987. This event, intended to be annual, will feature exposés and free discussions. While the inscription deadline is February 14, 1987, it is advisable to inquire quickly and register to secure accommodation and catering. Exposés must also be submitted promptly. No inscriptions will be accepted after the February 14, 1987 deadline. The official language of the event will be French.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue demonstrates a strong critical and analytical stance towards UFO reports. The 'Eison Report' is subjected to rigorous mathematical scrutiny, revealing flaws in its conclusions. Similarly, a Belgian sighting investigation is re-evaluated, with a plausible, non-mysterious explanation proposed based on the available evidence. The 'Communiqués' section highlights ongoing UFO research and events, but the primary editorial focus is on debunking or critically assessing claims, promoting a skeptical approach to UFO phenomena.