Clypeus - 1967 - Vol 4 No 4-5

Magazine Overview

CLYPEUS, Issue No. 4-5, December 1967. This bimonthly publication, subtitled 'The Enigmas of the Universe,' is issued by the Gruppo Clypeus and is associated with the Piemontese Association of Exobiology in Turin, Italy. The magazine is directed by Gianni Settimo and edited by the Gruppo Clypeus. It is published under authorization from the Tribunal of Turin.

Cover Story: USSR in Contact with UFOs

The prominent cover headline announces that the USSR is also in 'contact' with UFOs, suggesting a significant development in the understanding or acknowledgment of these phenomena by a major global power.

Featured Articles and Content

This issue presents a diverse range of articles, reflecting the magazine's broad interest in the unusual and unexplained:

• 'Meteore con oblò' (Meteors with Portholes) by René Fouéré: This article examines the phenomenon of luminous meteors and discusses whether certain observed characteristics, such as the presence of 'portholes' or 'windows,' could exclude a purely meteorological explanation and point towards artificial craft.
• 'Fuoco magico sulle acque del Giappone' (Magic Fire on the Waters of Japan): This piece explores the 'shiranui' phenomenon observed near Kumamoto, Japan. It describes inexplicable lights appearing on the water, noted for their regularity over centuries and their potential connection to extraterrestrial visitors. The article also touches upon local legends and ancient artifacts that might support the idea of 'ancient astronauts.'
• 'Anche l'Urss in contatto con gli UFO' (Even the USSR in Contact with UFOs) by Ivan Ossvietcatov: This article, likely the main focus given the cover, delves into the Soviet Union's alleged interactions or discoveries related to UFOs.
• 'Così gli Inça plasmavano le pietre' (How the Incas Shaped Stones) by Rexy Lee: This article explores theories about how the Inca civilization might have achieved their remarkable stone constructions, possibly involving advanced or unknown techniques, potentially linked to extraterrestrial knowledge.
• 'Ricordi di un fumettiere' (Memories of a Comic Artist) by Andrea Lavezzolo and 'Comics' by Franco Fossati: These sections cater to readers interested in the world of comic strips and their creators.
• 'Cinema e S.F. - Letteratura insolita' (Cinema and S.F. - Unusual Literature) by Gianfranco Battisti: This section reviews science fiction films and other forms of unusual or speculative literature.
• 'Pensieri' (Thoughts) by R.T. Ferraris: A section for reflections or essays.
• 'Chi Cerca Trova' (Who Seeks Finds): An unspecified section, possibly a column or reader interaction feature.
• 'Astronauti extraterrestri organizzarono sulla Costa Azzurra uno zoo preistorico?' (Did Extraterrestrial Astronauts Organize a Prehistoric Zoo on the French Riviera?) by Bill Fargo: This article presents a speculative scenario linking extraterrestrial visitors to prehistoric life or phenomena on the French Riviera.

Editorial and Reader Engagement

The editorial section addresses the magazine's niche audience, acknowledging that its topics (unusual literature, comics, and other specialized subjects) might not appeal to the general public but cater to a specific, qualified readership. It highlights the inclusion of exclusive content, such as information from a Soviet scholar and excerpts from Peter Kolosimo's new book. The editorial also presents the results of a reader questionnaire (No. 3), detailing responses on preferred topics (with UFOs and Exobiology being highly ranked), adherence to the C.U.N. (a UFO study center), and reader preferences for future content. The magazine emphasizes its independence from political or religious currents and welcomes contributions from those who wish to advance scientific, cultural, and artistic thought.

SIFAR (Servizio Informazioni Fra Abbonati Rivista)

CLYPEUS offers its subscribers access to SIFAR, a service providing information, access to conferences, and opportunities to receive further details on published articles or connect with experts. Subscribers can also publish announcements in a dedicated section.

Detailed UFO Case: Indianapolis, 1961

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed account of a UFO sighting that occurred in Indianapolis on October 12, 1961. The report, translated from 'The Ufo Investigator' of NICAP, describes an enormous, apparently spherical object with a band of lights, observed by Frank Edwards and hundreds of other citizens. The object displayed alternating white lights from its 'portholes' and red lights from its base. Witnesses described its metallic appearance, its reflective qualities, and its unusual maneuvering, including a spiraling ascent and hovering. The article dismisses explanations like advertising planes due to the object's extraordinary speed and maneuverability, concluding it was of a superior class to any known aircraft.

Other Content

The issue also includes sections for 'Messaggi' (Messages), likely reader correspondence, and information regarding subscriptions and the magazine's editorial policies, including copyright notices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CLYPEUS are UFOs, extraterrestrial life, ancient mysteries, and speculative science. The magazine positions itself as a platform for exploring unconventional ideas and phenomena that lie outside mainstream scientific discourse. Its editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and the dissemination of new theories, while maintaining a commitment to providing unique content not readily available elsewhere. The publication aims to foster intellectual curiosity and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in various avant-garde fields.

This issue of Clypeus, identified as number 2-3 and dated February 1965, is a magazine focused on unusual phenomena, science fiction, and related topics. The cover headline highlights "Phénomènes spatiaux" (Spatial Phenomena), suggesting a primary focus on UFOs and extraterrestrial matters. The publication appears to be Italian, with a price of 700 lire and a mention of being from Torino.

UFOs and Soviet Investigations

The magazine features an exclusive report from Moscow by Professor Ivan Ossvietcatov titled "ANCHE L'URSS IN CONTATTO CON GLI UFO" (Also the USSR in Contact with UFOs). This article debunks sensationalist claims of direct contact between Soviet authorities and UFOs, but confirms that the USSR has indeed encountered and investigated these phenomena. It mentions that UFOs have flown over Soviet territory and that the military and astronomers have observed them. A specific incident cited is the possible appearance of "siliceous wool" near the capital in the spring of 1953. The article notes the recent establishment of a special commission, led by Major General Solorov, to study UFOs, and the television's broadcast of UFO drawings. It also recounts observations by cosmonauts: Valeri Bikovski's sighting of an "ovoid body" in 1963 and Titov's strange experience in 1961, initially attributed to malaise but now considered potentially related to unidentified objects. Professor L. Leonov is quoted stating that unidentified, "indescribable" objects are orbiting Earth, and that these are not Soviet secret satellites, nor likely US ones, given their unusual "perfect cylinder" shapes. These objects, observed by Voshkod 1, Voshkod 2, and even American cosmonaut James McDivitt, suggest a technology far removed from human understanding, possibly indicating a distant alien race.

Ancient Mysteries and Construction Techniques

Another significant section, titled "COSI' GLI INCA PLASMAVANO LE PIETRE" (This is How the Incas Shaped Stones), delves into the mystery of ancient construction, particularly the pyramids. It presents a theory, attributed to an Italian priest in Peru, about a liquid solvent that could turn stones into malleable clay. This solvent, if rediscovered and applied, could explain how ancient civilizations like the Incas, Egyptians, and those in Mexico managed to transport and shape massive stones, some weighing up to 600 tons, into precisely fitting blocks. The article acknowledges the ongoing enigma of how these colossal structures were built, dismissing simpler explanations like ramps and rollers as insufficient and highlighting the need for advanced technology or methods.

Science Fiction and Comics

The magazine also touches upon the world of science fiction and comics. A brief mention is made of Frank Edwards' book "Flying Saucers Serious Business." There's news about the formation of the "Club U.F.E. (Unione Fiorentina Extraterrestre)" in Florence, with founding members Andrea Bechi, Claudio Conti, and Ivano Melone. A review of Peter Kolosimo's book "Psicologia dell'Eros" is included, suggesting a connection between extraterrestrial themes and human psychology. The magazine also features a section on the history of Italian comics, with Andrea Lavezzolo recounting his experiences writing screenplays for comic books like "Il Saladino," "Fulmine," and "Gim Toro." He details the challenges faced, including censorship and low pay from publishers, and expresses nostalgia for the era when comics were more akin to "real novels."

Publications and Subscriptions

Several other publications and services are advertised or mentioned:

• "L'ANCILE": Described as a supplement to Clypeus, this newsletter offers a variety of content including variety news, unusual literature, comics, and science fiction. It is available as a supplement to Clypeus subscribers and back issues are offered.
• LIBRERIA STAMPATORI: A bookstore in Torino specializing in science fiction, comics, and unusual literature, recommended for its ability to find rare Italian and foreign titles.
• ATLANTE: A monthly publication from the Istituto Geografico De Agostini.
• SEVAGRAM - PARALLEL - HYBRID: A review of speculative fiction.
• ARN-WALD: A periodical curated by Remo Boscolo, featuring diverse topics from poetry to historical speculation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Clypeus are UFOs and unexplained aerial phenomena, ancient mysteries and lost technologies, and the burgeoning field of science fiction and comics. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various theories and investigations without necessarily endorsing sensationalist claims, particularly in the Soviet UFO report. There's a clear interest in exploring the unknown, both in the skies and in the past, and in documenting the cultural output related to these subjects, such as books and comics. The magazine also serves as a platform for promoting related publications and organizations within the Italian ufology and science fiction communities.

Title: COMICS
Issue: 1
Volume: I
Date: July 1967
Publisher: Franco Fossati
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Cover Headline: INCONTRO CON IL SERGENTE KIRK

Content Summary

This inaugural issue of 'COMICS' magazine, curated by Franco Fossati, opens with an interview with Claudio Bertieri regarding the new 'Sgt Kirk' publication. Bertieri explains that 'Sgt Kirk' is a monthly magazine aiming to bridge the gap between new comic fans and those who remember the 'golden age' of comics, promising philologically sound reissues of classic characters and stories, as well as original Italian works. The magazine features contributions from notable artists like Hugo Pratt and Milton Caniff, with introductions by Carlo della Corte.

The issue also reviews the latest issue of 'Topolino', highlighting its enduring appeal and the launch of a new collection of 'Le grandi storie' by Disney. A new character, 'Spiderman', is introduced as a significant development in science fiction comics, praised for its sophisticated storytelling.

Another section focuses on the 'Agenti Tuono' (Thunder Agents) comic series, describing its premise as an organization serving the UN to combat warmongers. The character Noman is singled out as a particularly well-developed science fiction creation.

The magazine then shifts to coverage of the International Science Fiction Film Festival held in Trieste. It details the various films presented, including retrospectives and new releases from eleven nations. The Czechoslovakian film "Fine agosto all'Hotel Ozon" by Jan Schmidt is highlighted as the critics' choice for best film, while BBC's "La macchina si ferma" won for shorts and medium-length films. The festival's jury included notable figures like Fred Pohl.

Several science fiction publications and fanzines are also featured. "Fantascienza Minore" is described as a fanzine dedicated to SF comics, featuring articles and monographs on various characters. "Verso le Stelle" is announced for reprinting. Information is provided on "Apeiron", a quarterly study of the Universal Legion, and "Clypeus", a weekly publication. "Cronaca" is presented as a modern, provocative weekly.

"Nova SF" is reviewed as a unique 'science fiction book-magazine' that collaborates with major international SF authors and offers original, unpublished texts. It is noted for its direct-to-consumer sales model, avoiding commercial pressures and focusing on reader interest. The issue details its content, pricing, and subscription information.

Finally, the "Centro Cultori Science Fiction" (CCSF) announces revised membership terms, offering lifetime membership for a single payment. They also promote their upcoming "CATALOGO GENERALE DELLE OPERE E DEGLI AUTORI DI SCIENCE FICTION" and available back issues of their "Notiziario Illustrato".

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'COMICS' appears to be a platform for discussing and promoting the world of comics and science fiction literature in Italy. It champions the importance of well-researched and faithful reproductions of classic comic works while also highlighting new talent and international developments. The editorial stance is clearly pro-comics and pro-science fiction, aiming to inform and engage enthusiasts across different age groups. There's a strong emphasis on the literary and artistic merit of the medium, as seen in the detailed reviews and discussions of various publications and events.

This document is a collection of classified advertisements from an Italian publication titled "CHI CERCA TROVA" (Who Seeks Finds). The content is primarily composed of listings for items for sale, items wanted, and services offered, with a strong emphasis on books, collectibles, and niche interests. The issue appears to be from the 1950s, based on the dates and content of the advertisements.

Classified Advertisements

The majority of the magazine is dedicated to "PICCOLI ANNUNCI" (Small Ads). These ads cover a wide spectrum of items:

• Machinery: A "NUOVA" Type Orion sewing machine is advertised for sale.
• Books & Publications: Numerous ads seek or offer books, magazines, and periodicals. This includes:
• Science fiction books, with specific titles and series like "Mondi Astrali," "Galassia," "Scienza Fantastica," "Urania," and "Proxima" being sought or sold. Many listings detail specific authors (e.g., Asimov, Clarke, Van Vogt, Simak) and their works, along with prices.
• Scientific and historical books, particularly in geology, astronomy, and archaeology. Several detailed listings provide authors, titles, publication details, and prices (e.g., works by Biasutti, De Lorenzo, Murchison, Flammarion, Fresa, Millikan, Casson, Le Bon).
• Specialized publications such as "MicroMega," "Planete," "Illustrazione dei Piccoli," "Notizie Nato," "Cronache del lavoro," and "Giallo Illustreto."
• Requests for specific encyclopedias (Enciclopedia Motta) and historical documents.
• Collectibles: Advertisements for the buying and selling of stamps (francobolli), with specific requests for German, French, Vatican, San Marino, astronautic, and ichthyological stamps. There are also ads for old comics (fumetti), antique coins (monete), and cigarette boxes (scatole).
• Other Items: Offers to buy or exchange Liebig figurines, and requests for old sports periodicals.

Special Features and Articles

Beyond the classified ads, the issue contains a few articles and informational sections:

Yoga Correspondence Course

One significant section details a "SIMPATICA INIZIATIVA" (Nice Initiative) offering a correspondence Yoga course. The course is presented as realistic and complete, designed by George T. Dharmarama, and aims to provide instruction without "mystifications." It is structured into several parts:

• Hatha Yoga Gymnastics: Focusing on hygiene, resistance, sports preparation, aesthetic physique, and mental presence.
• Six Purifying Practices (Shat Karma): To harmonize the body and enhance functions.
• Healthy Eating Guidance: Indications for a healthy diet.
• Yoga Pranayama: Breathing exercises for psycho-physical energy balance.
• Yoga-Based Cures: For certain illnesses, incorporating Indian medicine and Ayurveda.
• Relaxation Techniques.
• Meditation.
• History of Yoga Schools: Including Sankhya, Vedanta, and Tantra philosophies.
• Translations of Classic Yoga Texts and related disciplines.
• Sanskrit Yoga Vocabulary.
• Guidance on Italian and Indian Yoga Centers: Information on correspondence and visits to centers.

Instructors George Thomas Dharmarama and Yogacmrya Madhavan Naci are available for guidance, with plans for Indian female instructors to join.

Prehistoric Discoveries and UFO Theories

An article titled "A DIECI MINUTI DI CAMMINO DALL'AFOLLATA PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS... UNO ZOO PREISTORICO?" (Ten Minutes Walk from the Crowded Promenade des Anglais... A Prehistoric Zoo?) discusses intriguing findings near Nice, France, in the "Grotte del Lazzaretto" (Lazzaretto Caves).

• Researchers François Octobon and Noelle Chochon are exploring these caves, which contain traces of ancient animals and early human artifacts, suggesting a civilization dating back thousands of years.
• The article posits theories of "cosmonauti preistorici" (prehistoric astronauts) or extraterrestrial explorers who may have influenced early human development.
• It mentions the discovery of a frontal bone belonging to a creature that lived 150,000 years ago, exhibiting signs of advanced mental activity and the use of sophisticated tools (punters, daggers, axes, knives, scrapers, awls, and even bone razors).
• Further research by Henry de Lumley in the Vallonet cave (Roquebrune-Cap-Martin) uncovered evidence of human life from the early Quaternary period (one million years ago), along with remains of exotic animals like rhinos, elephants, hippos, lions, and hyenas.
• The findings challenge conventional timelines and raise questions about the origins and capabilities of early humans, with some suggesting extraterrestrial intervention.

UFO Sightings in Yugoslavia

A brief report mentions that the Yugoslavian newspaper "VECERNJE NOVOSTI" published photographs of three flying discs taken by astronomer Damir Gradis, with the sightings confirmed by numerous residents in Zagreb. Further details are promised for a future issue of "Clypeus."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's primary function is to serve as a marketplace for collectors, enthusiasts, and individuals seeking specific items or information. The "Chi Cerca Trova" title itself emphasizes the exchange and discovery aspect. The inclusion of detailed book listings, particularly in science fiction, astronomy, and archaeology, suggests a readership interested in specialized knowledge and hobbies. The speculative articles on prehistoric astronauts and UFO sightings indicate an editorial openness to fringe theories and ufology, aligning with a segment of the readership interested in the unexplained and the frontiers of science and history. The extensive classified ads reflect a culture of collecting, trading, and information exchange prevalent in the mid-20th century.

This issue of MESSAGGI, identified as issue number 39, is a collection of short news items, announcements, and historical notes related to UFOs, parapsychology, and esoteric subjects. The magazine appears to be Italian, with content primarily in Italian, and mentions of Italian locations and organizations.

Contents

"Si dice" (They Say)

The "Si dice" section presents a series of brief, often quirky, anecdotes and news snippets:

• A Roman monthly magazine has started a column titled "Si dice" which was originally conceived by Clypeus years ago.
• A resident in Liguria is reportedly distributing 'Veliger larvae (Gastropods)' claiming they are abandoned capsules from extraterrestrials who frequent his home.
• A person named Adriano is circulating among theosophical circles, claiming to be a reincarnated Atlantean, and some people believe him.
• The director of a parapsychology newsletter is publishing news that Clypeus claims to have exclusive rights to.
• Someone, posing as Fulcanelli, is attending a group of painters in Piedmont.
• A Milanese association is organizing evening meetings on Tuesdays and Saturdays to promote the hollow earth theory and other 'nonsense' with some success.
• A well-known Milanese weekly magazine has allegedly reprinted photographs from Clypeus without proper authorization.
• A conference speaker from Rome is presenting articles published in Clypeus as his own work.
• A humorous observation about someone being highly susceptible while accusing others of susceptibility.
• The drama "Charles the martyr King" by collaborator Raymond W. Drake has been successfully staged in London, and his new book, "Spacemen in the ancient East," is set for release in February.
• The "Clipeoguida '68," which will list all UFO associations globally, their publications, and related news, is expected soon.
• Many people are reportedly waiting in vain for a response from Clypeus because they did not include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
• The next issue of Clypeus is scheduled for late January.
• Clypeus will soon be released in an international edition.
• Someone has photographed street lamps, passing them off as flying discs.
• The Montanari bookstore in Reggio Emilia is offering its catalog for free upon request.

Announcements and Subscriptions

This section addresses practical matters concerning the magazine and its readers:

• All subscriptions to Clypeus expire with this issue.
• Starting with the next issue, Clypeus will become a bimonthly publication. If all friends renew their subscriptions, it might become a monthly publication.
• The membership fee for Clypeus is 2,500 lire.
• Information is provided about meeting places for Clypeus friends at restaurants in Turin: "Piemontese" and "Chicco d'Oro."

Radiesthesia Course

Benedetto Lavagna, a collaborator and expert in Radiobiology from the Ministerial Training College in Sheffield and the National College in Toronto, has organized a Radiesthesia course.

• The course will begin in December and consist of four monthly lessons, held every Thursday from 9 PM to 10 PM at the Yoga school of Dr. Dharmarama, located at Corso Moncalieri nº 51, Turin.
• The lessons are practical and aim to develop the 'radiesthetic sense' in subjects interested in this 'singular and particular science.'
• The course can last up to a year, with a monthly fee of 1,000 lire (paid in advance). This fee will be donated as a scholarship for an Indian girl. Membership is flexible, allowing participants to leave at any time.
• The opening evening and the first lesson are scheduled for Thursday, December 7th, at 9 PM, at the same location in Turin.

International Acknowledgements

Brief acknowledgments are made in English, French, German, Spanish, and Esperanto, thanking for exchanges with similar publications.

"CLYPEUS" - Certificate of Birth

This section details the historical origins and development of Clypeus and related organizations:

• 1934: Alberto Fenoglio establishes the A.P.R. (Associazione Piemontese Razzi) in Turin, which dissolves six years later due to wartime events.
• 1948: Fenoglio founds the C.A.P. (Centro Astronautico Piemontese), which briefly publishes a bulletin titled "Verso lo spazio" (Towards Space), featuring early news on Flying Discs in Italy.
• 1949: Gianni Settimo, with friends, creates the C.S.S. (Centro Studi Spaziali), which becomes interested in UFOs.
• 1952: Fenoglio and Settimo meet and decide to merge, forming the C.S.T. (Centro Spaziale Torinese). Bruno Peroni in Turin establishes a new center called "Sky Scout."
• 1953: Fenoglio, Peroni, and Settimo unite their efforts, founding the Centro Studi Clipeologici (C.S.C.).
• 1954: A young man from Rivoli (Turin), along with enthusiasts of Atlantean subjects, founds the "Vimana Club" in his city. Angelo Bogliaccino publishes a unique cyclostyled issue titled "Vimana '54."
• 1956: On June 27th, the "Vimana Club" merges with the C.S.C.
• 1963: The publication of "CLYPEUS" begins at Christmas.
• 1964: The 1st National Congress of Clipeology is held in Finale Ligure.
• 1965: The 2nd National Congress of Clipeology takes place in Turin.
• 1966: The C.S.C. dissolves, and the "Gruppo Clypeus" is formed.
• 1967: On the UFO's 20th anniversary, the "Gruppo Clypeus" founds the APE (Associazione Piemontese di Esobiologia) in Turin.
• 1968: Clypeus becomes a bimonthly publication and begins publishing the "Enciclopedia U.F.O."

"SPAZIALI NELL'ANTICO ORIENTE" (Space-farers in the Ancient East)

This section reviews the book "Spacemen in the Ancient East" by Raymond W. Drake, highlighting its premise that ancient myths and literature suggest extraterrestrial beings visited Earth and influenced early civilizations.

• The article posits that the phenomena we observe as UFOs today might have already occurred in ancient times, with myths and literature from the ancient East speaking of celestial beings arriving from the stars to bring civilization.
• It mentions various cultures like India, Tibet, ancient China, Japan, Egypt, and Babylon, suggesting that their myths, legends, and historical accounts point to interactions with 'space-farers' or 'divine dynasties.'
• The review specifically references the grandeur of the pyramids in Egypt and Semiramis of Babylon as potential evidence of advanced, possibly extraterrestrial, influence.
• The book by Raymond W. Drake is presented as an attempt to reach the significant scientific discovery that Earth was once governed by beings from other worlds.
• Details are provided for the book's publication by Neville Spearman Limited in London, and Dennis Payne is listed as the agent for Italy.

"desiderata" - Bibliographic Research Weekly

This is an advertisement for "desiderata," a weekly publication for bibliographic research, aimed at booksellers, bibliophiles, and scholars.

• Insertion requests for books, including 'permanent desiderata,' are free.
• Addresses of individuals wishing to receive periodic catalogs from antiquarian booksellers are also inserted free of charge.
• A sample issue can be sent for free.
• The publisher is Edoardo Marini Editore, located in Trieste.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings and theories, ancient astronaut hypotheses, esoteric beliefs (like theosophy and hollow earth theories), and the history and development of UFO research organizations in Italy. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting various claims and historical accounts, while also engaging in practical matters like subscription management and promoting related publications and events. The historical section on Clypeus suggests a long-standing commitment to documenting and fostering interest in the UFO phenomenon and related fields.