Clypeus - 1969 - Vol 6 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: Clypeus
Issue: 1
Volume: VI
Date: February 1969
Subtitle: Nuove Frontiere della Scienza (New Frontiers of Science)

This issue of Clypeus magazine, dated February 1969, explores various topics at the intersection of science, mystery, and the unknown. The cover features a complex, symbolic illustration by Lorenzo Alessandri, hinting at the diverse and unconventional subjects within.

Editorial: The Condon Report and UFOs

The editorial addresses the controversial "Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects" report compiled by Professor Edward Condon for the U.S. Air Force. The report, a massive 1465-page document costing $500,000, concluded its work by recommending the Air Force cease the "Project Blue Book" initiative and cease funding other government bodies investigating UFOs. The editorial highlights the storm of protests the report generated, particularly from organizations like N.I.C.A.P. (National Committee for Aerial Phenomena Investigations), which accused the report of ignoring credible witnesses. Physicist James McDonald, a proponent of UFO existence, criticized the commission for "deliberately wasting a truly unique opportunity." A psychologist from the Condon Commission, who was dismissed, published a book criticizing the investigation's methods. The report itself, the editorial notes, was compiled with the assumption of the non-existence of flying objects, relying on explanations from scientists at observatories, university labs, Ford Motor Co., Raytheon Co., and the Stanford Research Institute. The article mentions cases of hoaxes, such as the Castle Rock incident in Colorado, but also acknowledges cases that remained unexplained, like the 1966 photographs from Roseville, Ohio, and the 1950 McMinnville, Oregon, photos, which the commission could not logically explain. Scientists from the Stanford Research Institute also analyzed radar reports, attributing many to atmospheric phenomena but failing to explain all "blips."

Article: The Loch Ness Monster

This section, primarily authored by Gianni Garrone, delves into the enduring mystery of the Loch Ness Monster. It begins by referencing a recent report from December 1968 about Soviet helicopter pilots spotting two large, unknown sea creatures in the Antarctic, suggesting the possibility of unknown species. The article then focuses on the Loch Ness Monster, detailing its location in Inverness, Scotland, its dimensions (56 square kilometers, over 200 meters deep), and its connection to the sea via the Caledonian Canal. It debunks a claim by an Italian journalist that he invented the story, stating the "bomb" exploded in August 1933. The article traces sightings back to 1872, with a witness named D. Mac Kenzie. Subsequent incidents include the disappearance of Eileen Watson in 1923, Olaf Hambro's strange encounter in 1932, and Mary Hamilton's observation in May 1933 of a large, slender-necked creature. Arthur Grant, a veterinary student, provided a detailed description in 1934, noting webbed extremities, an oval eye, and a dark, thick tail. The article mentions the naturalist Oudemans, who had collected 215 eyewitness accounts and photographs by 1934. It also recounts a 1935 sighting in Loch Dochfour and mentions similar sightings in Iceland, Sweden, and Norway. A more recent event in 1953 involved a dying, scaly creature washed ashore on the Scottish coast, measuring ten meters long, which Professor Julian Huxley suggested might be a plesiosaur. The article notes that scientists became less skeptical after a decomposed creature resembling a giant seahorse was found near New York. Radar in 1954 detected the monster at a depth of 180 meters, and a film was presented on television in 1960 by Tim Dinsdale. Professor M. Slack concluded in 1954 that it was an unknown animal. The article summarizes the current understanding: the monster exists, its color and size are debated, it may have companions, and it likely belongs to an unknown species. A curious observation is made about the resemblance of the monster's snout to the figureheads of Viking "drakkars," suggesting the dragon effigies might have been inspired by sightings of sea serpents, which were common along Norwegian coasts and used to intimidate enemies.

Article: Tempovisione - The Future of Observation

Authored by Bill Fargo, this article explores the concept of "Tempovisione" (Tempovision), a hypothetical technology that could allow people to witness events from the distant past or far-off locations, such as the discovery of America, the death of Caesar, or the birth of Earth. The author dismisses the idea as mere science fiction, presenting it as a plausible scientific project. The article discusses the possibility of receiving signals from distant stars and the vastness of the universe, citing Professor Otto Struve's estimate of 10 billion potentially life-supporting planets in the Milky Way. However, it acknowledges the immense distances involved, noting that even with spacecraft traveling at speeds close to light, reaching nearby stars like Alpha Centauri would take thousands of years. The article touches upon the Soviet Venus 4 probe's journey and the theoretical possibility of faster-than-light travel through photon propulsion. It also mentions the intriguing case of CTA 102, where Soviet scientists in 1965 suggested that radio signals received from this cosmic object were not natural but deliberate transmissions from intelligent beings, intended to attract attention. The article concludes by suggesting that with advanced electronic brains, it might be possible to decipher these interstellar messages and potentially "see" cosmic landscapes.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section titled "Cornucopia" by Renato Gatto and "Letteratura" (Literature). A "Referendum - Questionario nº 4" is presented by S.I.F.A.R. "Clypeus."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Clypeus firmly positions itself as a publication dedicated to exploring "New Frontiers of Science." It embraces topics that push the boundaries of conventional understanding, including UFO phenomena, cryptozoology (the Loch Ness Monster), and speculative future technologies like "Tempovisione" and interstellar communication. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open inquiry, presenting evidence and theories for phenomena that are often considered fringe or unproven, while also acknowledging scientific skepticism and the need for rigorous investigation. The editorial's critical examination of the Condon Report suggests a critical but not dismissive approach to official findings on UFOs. The detailed exploration of the Loch Ness Monster indicates a fascination with enduring mysteries and the potential for undiscovered life forms. The article on "Tempovisione" and extraterrestrial intelligence reflects a forward-looking perspective, contemplating humanity's place in the cosmos and the possibilities of future scientific discovery.

This issue of Clypeus, dated 1968, is a multifaceted exploration of enigmatic topics, blending ancient mysteries with futuristic concepts and the burgeoning field of astronautical philately. The magazine presents a wide array of speculative theories and archaeological puzzles, aiming to connect seemingly disparate fields of knowledge.

Time Travel and Cosmic Messages

The issue opens with a discussion of CTA 102, a celestial object located millions of light-years away, and the implications of its signals reaching Earth. This leads into the concept of 'Tempovisione,' a hypothetical technology that could allow observation of distant cosmic events or even the history of planets. A narrative describes an alien message received by a patrol of starships, detailing the evolution of a planet and its civilization, suggesting a universal desire to share history across vast distances and time.

Further exploring the idea of observing the past, the magazine introduces the concept of a 'time-ship' proposed by French engineer Emile Drouet. This vessel, equipped with a 'time-wave' radar, could theoretically travel to different points in Earth's history to transmit images, though returning from such a journey is deemed impossible. The idea is presented as 'theoretically possible' by French research scientists. The potential for such technology to reveal the birth and evolution of Earth is highlighted.

Another concept discussed is Alexander Volegov's 'archeovideophone,' an apparatus that could recreate historical figures and allow conversations with them, based on available documentation. This technology is envisioned as a future living room appliance connected to a TV.

Father Pellegrino M. Ernetti, a Benedictine monk, proposes an even more ambitious idea: capturing the 'indestructible waves' of sound and image that persist in the air, potentially allowing us to hear the words and see the faces of historical figures, including Christ.

The Festo Disk: An Ancient Enigma

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the 'Disco di Festo' (Festo Disk), an artifact discovered in Crete. The disk, made of terracotta and covered with pictographic signs, has baffled archaeologists, historians, linguists, and novelists for decades. Its script, unlike the deciphered Linear B found in other Cretan sites, remains a mystery, despite affinities with Greek, Asian Minor, and Etruscan languages.

Luigi Pernier, the archaeologist who led excavations at Festo, discovered the disk in 1908. The article details the disk's physical characteristics, its unique spiral inscription, and the ongoing debate about its direction of reading (from center to periphery or vice versa). Theories suggest it might be a religious document, a record of a treaty, or even a narrative of the disappearance of Atlantis.

Professor Benjamin Schwartz proposes a new theory, suggesting the disk was a matrix for producing other clay disks, with the inscriptions appearing in relief and readable in the traditional left-to-right direction. The article notes the difficulty and controversy surrounding the interpretation of the disk, with some jokes suggesting that serious engagement with it could lead to a mental institution.

Obelisks, Mythology, and Cosmic Connections

The magazine also explores the symbolic significance of obelisks, particularly in ancient Egypt. It draws a connection between Egyptian sun worship and the obelisk, noting its resemblance to a 'gigantic stone placed upright' or a 'small pyramid.' The article traces the evolution of these monuments from primitive stone pillars to the bell towers of churches, symbolizing humanity's desire for ascent and liberation from earthly constraints.

The concept of the 'Duat,' the Egyptian underworld, is discussed in relation to Dante's 'Inferno.' The 'Duat' is described as a vast region of water, and its association with the west as the 'land of sleep' or 'hidden land' is explored. The article suggests that Dante's knowledge of such concepts might have influenced his work, particularly the journey of Ulysses.

Furthermore, the magazine posits a connection between ancient Egyptian symbols, such as the star inscribed in a circle (representing the Southern Cross), and the idea of a lost continent like Atlantis. It speculates that the Festo Disk might have been brought to Crete by explorers from a civilization that predated the Mediterranean cultures, possibly relating to the disappearance of Atlantis.

Astronautical Philately

The issue concludes with a section on astronautical philately, highlighting the growing popularity of stamps and postal items related to space exploration. Commemorative stamps issued by Jordan featuring astronauts Borman and Lovell, as well as a special US envelope postmarked on the 'Moon Orbital Flight,' are mentioned as highly sought-after collector's items. The article notes the upcoming release of a special US stamp honoring the Apollo 8 mission, featuring an image of Earth from the moon. It also touches upon Soviet commemorative stamps related to space achievements, including those depicting flying saucers and the docking of the 'Soyuz' spacecraft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Clypeus are the exploration of the unknown, the search for connections between ancient civilizations and advanced technologies (including extraterrestrial), and the speculative nature of scientific and historical inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards unconventional theories, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional understanding. The magazine bridges the gap between archaeology, mythology, theoretical physics, and popular interest in space exploration and UFO phenomena, presenting a rich tapestry of intriguing, often speculative, ideas.

This issue of "Clypeus" (Issue 4, February 1969) focuses on the intersection of modern physics and spirituality, challenging purely materialistic interpretations of science. The main article, "PROSPETTIVE SPIRITUALI DELLA FISICA MODERNA" by Remo Fedi, argues that modern physics, despite its mathematical rigor, opens avenues for spiritual understanding.

Spiritual Perspectives of Modern Physics

Remo Fedi's article begins by addressing a persistent prejudice that modern physics is solely materialistic. He contends that while novelty is often embraced, a true understanding of scientific history involves integration rather than mere substitution of old ideas with new ones. Fedi highlights the importance of prior scientific foundations, citing the necessity of Galileo and Newton for Einstein's relativity.

He proposes that the emergence of new phenomena, while requiring a foundational 'something,' is not solely about addition but about a qualitative transformation. This transformation, he suggests, is driven by a spiritual principle that permeates the cosmos. Even dialectical materialists, he notes, acknowledge emergent evolution, which can be seen as a cosmic translation of the passage from quantity to quality, echoing concepts found in Marx and Engels.

Fedi references Herbert Spencer's ideas, suggesting that scientific knowledge needs philosophical coordination to discover general principles. He emphasizes that the spiritual aspect informs physical reality, and that modern physics, by moving beyond strict causality, aligns with this spiritual dimension.

The article critiques the purely mechanistic view, noting that while it has been influential, it is insufficient for understanding subatomic phenomena. It highlights the shift from cause-effect to probability and statistics in quantum mechanics. Bernhard Bavink is cited for his observation that classical mechanistic views, derived from macrocosmic experiences, are inadequate for the subatomic realm. The article stresses that mathematical abstraction, rather than intuitive sensory perception, is necessary for understanding these new concepts, as exemplified by Heisenberg's work.

Fedi discusses the limitations of human perception and the need to move beyond anthropomorphic views. He argues that transcendence does not exclude immanence, and vice versa, rejecting absolute dualism. The hermetic principle of 'as above, so below' is reinterpreted not as a direct equivalence of laws but as a recognition of universal contingency and gradual spiritual development.

The author touches upon the philosophical implications of determinism and indeterminism, suggesting that these can be replaced by hierarchical or spiritual evolutionary models. He asserts that the phenomenal world is not acosmic but part of a larger cosmic order, accessible through a higher spiritual plane.

Fedi emphasizes that our observation is intrinsically linked to our thought and action, and that space-time is not a rigid framework but a construct influenced by our psychic and gnoseological disposition. He argues that natural laws are not static discoveries but evolve, moving beyond the mechanistic, positivistic view rooted in causality. The shift from necessity to probability and from causal to statistical interpretation in physics is presented as a significant development.

Other Articles and Features

Cornucopia

This section features several short news items:

• Discovery of the Temple of Sopek: Archeologists have reportedly discovered the lost temple of Sopek, the crocodile god of ancient Egypt, in perfect subterranean condition. The find includes sarcophagi, jewels, and a marble statue of Sopek.
• Discovery of Ancient Sibari? American and Italian scholars believe they may have located the ruins of the ancient city of Sibari, submerged by water. The site, spanning nearly 10 kilometers, was explored using a cesium magnetometer, a device typically used for space exploration.
• Return of the 'Bad Disks'? A flying disk sighting is reported in Prassununga, Brazil, where a vendor named Tiago Machado claims to have been injured by a strange weapon wielded by a crew member of the disk. He described two short beings in shiny suits who approached him after he offered them his cigarette.

Literature Review

The "Letteratura" section reviews Peter Kolosimo's new book, which is described as an fascinating and rigorous exploration of dreams and their connection to the subconscious. The review highlights Kolosimo's ability to delve into the hidden aspects of personality, desires, and character, offering a path to a more serene life. The book is praised for its comprehensive approach to the world of dreams, including nightmares, ideational dreams, and sleepwalking, and for its analysis of dream symbols through the lens of psychoanalysis. The reviewer notes that Kolosimo, a popular science communicator in Italy, surpasses himself with this work, which is considered the clearest and most exhaustive treatise on the subject. The book is published by Edizioni Mediterranee in Rome and costs 2,500 lire.

"E DOMANI LA TEMPOVISIONE" (Tomorrow: Tempovision)

This section, continuing from page 10, discusses experiments at the University of Padua in electronics, where recordings of speeches by Demosthenes, Pythagoras, and Caesar have reportedly been captured. While acknowledging the possibility of misattribution, the article suggests these might be genuine voices from antiquity. The potential of "Tempovision" to unlock major astronomical, geological, and archeological enigmas is mentioned, with a hope that it will lead to reflection on past errors.

Questionnaire

The issue includes a referendum questionnaire for readers of "Clypeus." It covers topics such as:

• Preferred articles and authors from 1968.
• Overall opinion of "Clypeus."
• Interest in published articles appearing in book form.
• Recommendations for improving the magazine.
• Favorite books and films of 1968.
• Reading habits regarding similar publications, science fiction, and comics.
• Specific preferences within science fiction and comics (e.g., "NOVA SF°", "Galassia", "Sgt. KIRK").
• Ratings for various authors.
• Interest in specific columns like "Cornucopia," "Telestar," and "UFO"-related strips.
• Requests for reader suggestions and addresses of potential new subscribers.

Another section of the questionnaire focuses on UFOs, asking readers about:

• Personal sightings or investigations of UFOs.
• Beliefs about UFOs being a global psychological phenomenon versus a natural physical phenomenon.
• Concerns about UFOs being mistaken for missiles due to political tensions.
• The necessity of an international investigation into the "physical phenomenon" of UFOs.
• Whether such research would lead to other discoveries and expand scientific frontiers.
• Beliefs about UFOs being secret terrestrial constructions.
• Potential dangers to humanity if UFOs are secret.
• Belief in intelligent life on other worlds and UFOs originating from them.
• Whether UFOs are piloted by intelligent beings or are remotely controlled.
• The possibility of contact with these beings and whether encounters have already occurred.
• The global importance of the UFO issue and whether it should be handled by a large international organization under UNESCO and the UN.
• The appropriateness of a petition regarding UFOs.

Finally, there is a section for readers to provide personal details (name, age, hobby, studies, profession, address) and to sign.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the philosophical implications of modern physics, the critique of materialism and positivism, and the exploration of spiritual or metaphysical dimensions beyond empirical science. The magazine appears to advocate for a more integrated worldview that encompasses both scientific inquiry and spiritual understanding. The inclusion of a detailed questionnaire on UFOs and extraterrestrial life suggests a strong interest in these topics and a desire to engage readers in discussions about them. The editorial stance seems to be open-minded, encouraging critical thinking and a departure from conventional, purely materialistic interpretations of reality. The review of Kolosimo's book further reinforces the interest in the subconscious, dreams, and the less explored aspects of human psychology and experience.

Title: riflesso
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Date: November 1968
Publisher: IES
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Price: L.200
Cover Headline: mensile di opinione

Contents

This issue of *riflesso*, a monthly opinion magazine, presents a varied selection of articles and discussions. The table of contents highlights several key pieces:

• Pages 4-6: Dialogo aperto (Open Dialogue) - This section appears to cover multiple topics including Israel's relationship with the UN, the 'capelloni' (hippies) and their impact on Italy, the Biafra situation, and a curious mention of Baden-Powell as '007'.
• Page 7: L'internazionale studentesca (The Student International) - This article likely addresses the global student movements of the era.
• Page 9: Lettera aperta al Ministro Sullo (Open Letter to Minister Sullo) - A direct address to a government minister, suggesting a political or social commentary.
• Page 10: Abbiamo bisogno di una nuova morale? (Do We Need a New Morality?) - Authored by Peter Kolosimo, this piece delves into questions of ethics and societal values.
• Page 13: London blow-up - Written by Franco Varetto, this article might discuss events or social phenomena in London.
• Page 16: Il volo sulla luna e i "dischi volanti" (The Flight to the Moon and 'Flying Saucers') - Authored by Gianni Settimo, this article directly addresses the topic of UFOs and space exploration.
• Page 20: L'esame di maturità in due stadi? (The Maturity Exam in Two Stages?) - By Max Stainher, this likely discusses educational reforms or challenges.
• Page 21: L'Inghilterra per i giovani (England for Young People) - This article focuses on aspects of England relevant to a younger audience.
• Page 23: Nuda e sdraiata per i situazionisti (Naked and Lying Down for the Situationists) - Authored by Cecco Vincente, this piece likely explores art or philosophy related to the Situationist movement.
• Page 25: Occhio sul cinema: Godard regista senza ma (Eye on Cinema: Godard, a Director Without Buts) - Written by Mic Pateri, this is a film review focusing on the director Godard.
• Pages 26-29: Lo hanno scritto (They Wrote It) - This section might feature excerpts from other publications or writings.
• Page 30: Io contesto, tu contesti (I Contest, You Contest) - A piece likely focused on dissent or critical thinking.

The magazine also provides contact information for subscriptions and book services, directing requests to Gianni V. Settimo at the 'CLYPEUS' service in Torino. The editorial and administrative details indicate that *riflesso* is published by IES, with Renzo Rossotti as the responsible director and Franco Varetto as editor-in-chief. It was registered at the Tribunal of Torino in November 1968.

Related Publications and Services

The second page of the scan reveals several related entities and publications:

• CLYPEUS: An editor and cultural group based in Torino, associated with the Piemontese Association of Exobiology. They manage a book service and publish *riflesso*.
• SUFOI'S FOREIGN SERVICE: Edited by Willy Wegner in Copenhagen, Denmark. This appears to be an exchange publication.
• B.U.F.O.R.A. (Journal and Bulletin): Directed by J. Cleary-Baker in Winchester, England. This is another publication in exchange.
• PHÉNOMÈNES SPATIAUX: Directed by René Fouéré in Paris, France. This publication focuses on spatial phenomena.
• FLYING SAUCER REVIEW: Located in London, England. This is a prominent publication in the UFO field.
• «desiderata»: A weekly service for bibliographic research of Italian and foreign books on relevant topics, managed by Edoardo Marini in Trieste.
• nova sf: A science fiction magazine directed by Ugo Malaguti.

These affiliations suggest *riflesso* is part of a network of publications and services interested in exobiology, UFO phenomena, and speculative topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine *riflesso* positions itself as a 'mensile di opinione' (monthly opinion journal). The content of this first issue indicates a broad interest in contemporary social, political, and cultural issues, with a notable inclusion of topics related to the burgeoning UFO phenomenon and space exploration. The inclusion of articles on student movements, international affairs (Israel, Biafra), and philosophical questions about morality suggests an engagement with the intellectual currents of the late 1960s. The editorial stance appears to be open to diverse viewpoints, as suggested by the 'Dialogo aperto' section and the range of topics covered, including critical analyses of cinema and the arts. The magazine also serves as a hub for a community interested in exobiology and related research, evidenced by its affiliations and the services it promotes.