CISU Sicilia - No 07 - luglio 1998

Magazine Overview

This issue of CISU SICILIA, number 7, dated July 1998, is a periodic bulletin from the Regional Coordination for Sicily of the Italian Center for Ufological Studies (CISU). It features a range of articles covering ufological news, analysis, and related cultural phenomena.

Editorial: IL CORSO DELLA STORIA (The Course of History)

The editorial critically examines the book "Il giorno dopo Roswell" (The Day After Roswell) by Colonel Philip J. Corso. The author of the editorial, Antonio Blanco, expresses skepticism about the book's claims, suggesting that while it may have partially succeeded in its commercial aims by selling many copies and generating publicity, its historical revelations are questionable. Blanco highlights the 'extreme recklessness' with which ufological figures, previously associated with the controversial Santilli film, have embraced Corso's narrative without scrutinizing its inconsistencies. He argues that Corso's reconstruction is not credible and that the book's Italian publishers falsely describe it as a 'historical denunciation firmly founded on reality.' The editorial concludes that Corso's claims are unverifiable and that more truth can be found in spy novels than in his memoir. Blanco suggests that the operation's success lies in its commercial return, and that the phenomenon of UFOs will likely see new figures emerge to capitalize on public interest.

UFO NEWS SICILIA

This section provides a roundup of ufological events and activities in the first half of 1998. It mentions a radio broadcast on Radio Antenna Uno hosted by Ubaldo Ferrini and Antonio Blanco, featuring several ufologists. Local press coverage is also highlighted, including articles in 'Lo Sperimentale' and 'La Città di Milazzo,' and an interview with Santo Conte for 'La Sicilia.'

A cycle of astronomy and exobiology conferences organized by Sebastiano Pernice for middle school students is noted, with Dr. Amleto Pezzati as a speaker. The section also discusses a Teletna television program called 'Viaggi' (Journeys) that featured recent UFO footage, including 'Oliver's Castle' and 'City of Mexico,' promoted by contactee Giorgio Bongiovanni. The program featured Dr. Rodono' and ufologist Carmelo Avellino, but the editorial criticizes the moderation and the lack of qualified experts, suggesting the program prioritized sensationalism over accurate information and possibly served local political interests.

UFO & IFO by Edoardo Russo

This article delves into the epistemological challenges of identifying UFOs. Edoardo Russo argues that the primary goal of ufological inquiry should be to identify possible conventional causes for reported sightings. He posits that a significant portion of UFO reports are indeed IFOs (Identified Flying Objects), and that investigating these is crucial, not a waste of time. Russo proposes a framework for identification, distinguishing between 'UFO in the broad sense' (unidentified by the witness) and 'UFO in the strict sense' (unidentified even after competent analysis). He emphasizes that the identification status of a case is dynamic and relative, not absolute, and can change with new evidence or re-evaluation. Russo suggests a multi-level approach to identification, including semi-automatic filtering, analytical evaluation by third-party investigators, and double-blind assessments. He concludes that the probability of a case being an IFO or UFO is a continuous variable, not a binary one, and depends on various factors and interpretations.

FOLKLORE ALIENO (Alien Folklore) by Salvatore Foresta

This article explores alleged cryptids and mysterious creatures, examining their potential connection to UFO phenomena. The 'Chupacabras,' known for draining the blood of animals, is discussed, with its origins traced to Puerto Rico in 1995 and its spread through Central America and into the USA. The article describes its physical characteristics and the various hypotheses surrounding its existence, ranging from extraterrestrial to biological weapon. The 'Popobawa,' a creature reportedly associated with sexual violence in Zanzibar, is also detailed, along with other African creatures like the 'Kongomato' and 'Tokoloshe.' Foresta suggests that while these creatures are often linked to UFO sightings, such associations are frequently forced. He attributes many of these reports to sensationalist media, collective hysteria, and the influence of folklore, particularly in regions with strong cultural traditions. The article also touches upon Italian sightings of 'hairy beings' and 'large felines,' as well as the enduring myths of Nessie and Yeti.

L'UFO NEL PAGLIAIO (The UFO in the Haystack) by Antonio Blanco and Massimiliano Teso

This piece critically analyzes recent UFO footage, particularly 'Oliver's Castle,' 'City of Mexico,' and 'The Interrogation of the Alien,' which have gained traction due to advancements in video editing technology. The authors argue that the increasing sophistication of digital manipulation makes it difficult to distinguish real footage from virtual reality. They express skepticism about the authenticity of many recent UFO films, suggesting they are often fraudulent. The article details how 'Oliver's Castle' was allegedly created by John Wabe using post-production techniques and was debunked by computer graphics experts. Similarly, the 'City of Mexico' footage is questioned for its inconsistencies, such as the object's disappearance behind a veranda and the lack of radar confirmation. The authors also criticize the alleged analysis of these films by individuals like Jim Dilettoso, whom they accuse of lacking credibility and fabricating expertise. The article implies that such footage is often promoted for commercial or sensationalist purposes rather than for genuine research.

IL MISTERO,, DEL GIORNO (The Mystery of the Day)

This section presents a historical account of early UFO reports, referencing a 1947 article from 'Corriere di Sicilia' about a sighting in Rome. It also includes a New York dateline discussing official statements from the UN Atomic Energy Commission regarding 'flying saucers' and their potential explanations as guided projectiles, celestial bolides, or atomic experiments.

INDAGINI IN CORSO (Investigations Underway)

This brief update mentions a quiet start to the year for local UFO reports, allowing for the continuation of ongoing investigations. It notes the possibility of opening new inquiries into recent sightings, including a mysterious triangular craft observed near the NATO base in Sigonella, Sicily.

UFO & MUSICA (UFO & Music) by Francesco Spampinato

Francesco Spampinato, the new head of the 'UFO & Music' project, explains the rationale behind cataloging UFO references in music. He argues that such projects are not mere collections but contribute to understanding the cultural impact of ufology. Spampinato details the project's methodology, which involves identifying UFO-related themes in song titles, lyrics, album artwork, and even music videos. The project aims to track how UFO phenomena have permeated popular culture, influencing common language and imagery. The article notes that the archive currently contains nearly 150 records and encourages collaboration from enthusiasts to expand the database.

OPINIONI: UFOLOGIA? (Opinions: Ufology?)

This section features a contribution from Dr. P.C., a physics researcher from the University of Catania, who questions the definition and scope of ufology. While acknowledging the existence of anomalous flying objects based on personal experience, Dr. P.C. expresses skepticism about extraterrestrial explanations, favoring the ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) as the most probable, but not definitively proven. He defines ufology as the study of UFOs and the phenomenon's social and psychological aspects, aiming to understand the limits of current science and identify phenomena that challenge conventional physics. Dr. P.C. admits to being a 'bad ufologist' for not actively seeking concrete proof but believes that the scientific community is largely dismissive or ignorant of UFO evidence. He also references the work of J.E. McDonald and the 'invisible college' of scientists who study UFOs discreetly.

CHI SIAMO, DOVE SIAMO (Who We Are, Where We Are)

This section provides an updated list of CISU members and collaborators in Sicily as of May 31, 1998. It includes contact information and encourages interested individuals to contribute to the organization and its website. The bulletin's editorial team and collaborators for this issue are also listed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include critical analysis of UFO literature and media, the scientific approach to identifying UFOs, the cultural impact of UFO phenomena, and the exploration of related folklore. The editorial stance is generally skeptical of sensationalist claims and emphasizes rigorous investigation and scientific methodology. The publication appears to be dedicated to promoting a more grounded and analytical approach to ufology, distinguishing between credible research and unsubstantiated speculation.