Clypeus - 1971 - Vol 8 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: CLYPEUS
Issue: 32
Volume: VIII
Issue Date: 1970
Publisher: Clypeus
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This issue of Clypeus, number 32, is subtitled 'NUOVE FRONTIERE DELLA SCIENZA' (New Frontiers of Science). It presents a diverse range of topics, from the role of science fiction in shaping future thought to geological theories and mysterious ancient artifacts.

Articles and Features

The Present Function of Science Fiction by Isaac Asimov

In this exclusive article for Italy, renowned scientist and author Isaac Asimov reflects on his lifelong passion for science fiction. He contrasts the past perception of science fiction enthusiasts as visionaries and time-wasters with the present reality, where many of the problems science fiction writers explored decades ago have become critical issues. Asimov argues that the rapid pace of transformation in the modern world necessitates anticipating and addressing problems before they become acute. He notes that while the world is oriented towards the future, individuals often lag behind due to historical patterns of slow change. Asimov highlights contemporary challenges like overpopulation and environmental pollution, which science fiction writers foresaw. He credits science fiction with influencing public perception and preparing minds for concepts like space travel, citing how ideas once confined to genre magazines are now discussed in mainstream media. Asimov emphasizes that science fiction has not only predicted discoveries but also broader societal and technological shifts, such as the development of atomic energy and nuclear balance. He concludes by stating that science fiction can serve as a powerful educational tool and a stimulus for young people to pursue scientific careers, ultimately contributing to humanity's ability to solve future problems.

A Mysterious Jewel

This section, translated by Luciana Monticone from 'Lumière dans la Nuit' (June 1970), discusses a small, ancient gold artifact discovered in Bogotá, Colombia. Measuring 38 mm in length, the object, initially thought to represent a bird or fish, is now recognized by experts as remarkably resembling a modern airplane, possibly a 'Concorde'. The artifact is estimated to be at least a thousand years old, leading to speculation about ancient civilizations possessing advanced technology. The article details the object's unusual features, such as its rectangular nose and the separation of its body, and questions whether it represents a pilot's seat or a specific function. The author suggests a connection to the Nazca lines in Peru, proposing they might be ancient airstrips. The mystery of the jewel raises questions about whether it is artistic reminiscence or precognition.

The Fragmentation of Pangaea and the Original Continental Unity of Eurafrica by Renato Vesco

Renato Vesco presents a paleogeographical study challenging the prevailing understanding of continental drift. He recounts a past debate with natural science professors who contested Alfred Wegener's theory. Vesco posits that Sardinia and Corsica were once united with Spain, and that Sicily and Crete were detached from Libya and Egypt, respectively. He also suggests that the Aegean archipelago represents a 'hinge' that allowed the 'Pangaea' block (Euro-Afro-Levantine) to spread. Vesco discusses recent oceanographic research in the Mediterranean, involving deep-sea core sampling, aimed at verifying the historical connection between landmasses. He argues that Wegener's theory, while groundbreaking, may have had limited conclusions. Vesco proposes that the Mediterranean basin was once a narrow, elongated saltwater lake and that the 'hinge' of European continental drift is located in the Aegean region. He also speculates about submerged lands like 'Esperia' and 'Tritonide', and the possible origins of Cyprus and Crimea as fragments of larger landmasses. The article touches upon the geological processes, such as tectonic shifts, volcanic activity, and erosion, that have shaped the Mediterranean coastlines over millions of years. Vesco suggests that re-evaluating geological evidence in light of new data from deep-sea drilling projects could shed more light on the 'Mediterranean fracture'.

Other Contributions

This issue also includes contributions from illustrators and writers such as Marco Rostagno, Henry Durrant (with extracts from 'IL LIBRO NERO DEI DISCHI VOLANTI'), Remo Fedi, Renato Vesco, Roberto D'Amico, and Luciana Monticone. The magazine announces the beginning of 'RAPPORTO UFO ITALIANO' (Italian UFO Report), a project by the Ufologica Fiorentina, directed by Solas Boncompagni.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Clypeus positions itself as a publication exploring 'New Frontiers of Science'. The issue demonstrates a strong interest in speculative and forward-looking topics, particularly science fiction's role in predicting and influencing future developments. There is also a clear focus on scientific inquiry into historical mysteries, such as the ancient gold artifact, and geological phenomena, as seen in the paleogeography article. The magazine appears to encourage independent study and collaboration, as indicated by its open call for contributions from scholars. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded investigation into phenomena that push the boundaries of conventional scientific understanding, while also valuing rigorous scientific methodology and research.

Title: CLYPEUS
Issue: 1971
Publisher: CLYPEUS
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Cover Headline: IL PRETESO "UFO TRIANGOLARE" ERA "UN RADAR VENTO"

This issue of CLYPEUS, an Italian UFO review focused on 'New Frontiers of Science', presents a blend of UFO reports, geological theories, and mythological interpretations. The cover story by Renato VESCO addresses a reported 'triangular UFO' sighting, debunking it as a 'Radar Wind' balloon, a specialized meteorological device.

Articles and Content

The 'Triangular UFO' as a 'Radar Wind'

The article begins by referencing a letter to the editor of 'La Gazzetta del Popolo' concerning a UFO sighting on September 24th. The author, G. Barbadoro, questions whether the object was a weather balloon or a flying saucer. The article then quotes from the book 'I velivoli del mistero' (1969) to explain 'RADAR-VENTO' – specialized radar-reflecting balloons with a curious pyramidal-quadrangular shape, used by Swiss, French, and Scandinavian meteorological centers. A specific instance on March 16, 1967, in Milan, where such a balloon gave observers the illusion of a flying saucer, is highlighted. The author urges caution against premature enthusiasm for UFO sightings and suggests the period from May to November as more propitious for observing authentic UFOs.

The Fragmentation of Pangea and Original Continental Unity

This section, also by Renato VESCO, delves into geological and historical theories. It begins by discussing the fragmentation of Pangea and the subsequent continental drift, suggesting that the Mediterranean Sea's current configuration is a result of these processes. The text explores the concept of the Earth's axis and pole migration, referencing a discovery of the South Pole in the Sahara. It discusses the theory of continental drift, acknowledging Wegener's contributions while noting that some aspects have been challenged. The article posits that the Earth's rotation and cooling processes have influenced continental positioning, leading to the current geographical layout. It also touches upon the hypothesis of the Moon being ejected from the Earth, suggesting this event predates the consolidation of Pangea.

Mythological and Geological Connections

The text draws parallels between geological events and ancient myths. It discusses the legendary lands of Tirrenide, Esperide, and Atlantide, suggesting they might represent submerged or altered landmasses. The myth of the Hesperides' garden and its guardians is interpreted in the context of volcanic activity. The article also examines the 'Tritonide' lake in Libya and its connection to the goddess Minerva, proposing allegorical interpretations of these myths related to the diffusion of Atlantean knowledge and pre-colonial incivility.

Specific Locations and Their Histories

Several locations are discussed in relation to geological and mythological events:

• Samothrace (Dardania): Mentioned as a site of important 'cabiric mysteries', its mythical history involves a deluge and subsequent temple construction.
• Rodi (Telchinia): Known as a prehistoric 'magical center' with 'Phrygian mysteries', it is suggested to have undergone a similar fate to other lands.
• Crete: Its detachment from the Libyan-Egyptian coast is considered more plausible than other theories, with reference to underwater topography.
• Cyprus: Described as having moved southward, possibly facilitated by the deep trenches of the Levantine Sea. It is linked to the 'Pelasgic' people, considered precursors to the Hellenes, and their characteristic 'cyclopean' or 'Pelasgic' stone structures.

The Case of Signa

This section details an event that occurred on October 17, 1954, in Signa, Florence, Italy. Angiolino Caciolli, an ATAF worker, reported seeing a blue, human-like figure, described as a woman with a large veil, which moved in an unnatural, gliding manner. The figure appeared to be exceptionally tall and moved towards a ditch before disappearing. The witness was deeply shaken by the experience. The article contrasts reports from 'Giornale del Mattino' and 'La Nazione' regarding the details of the sighting, including the figure's appearance and movement. Similar phenomena reported in France around the same period are also mentioned.

SEZIONE UFOLOGICA FIORENTINA

The issue announces that the SEZIONE UFOLOGICA FIORENTINA, after years of work, is preparing to publish a comprehensive report on UFOs, expected by the end of 1971 or in 1972. As a preview and to promote the upcoming publication, CLYPEUS will feature selected cases from their 'RAPPORTO' (Report) starting from this issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently links geological phenomena, such as continental drift and pole migration, with ancient myths and legends, suggesting that these stories often contain kernels of historical truth about cataclysmic events. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to explain unusual phenomena through scientific and historical analysis, while remaining open to the possibility of genuine UFO encounters. There is a clear emphasis on debunking misidentifications, as seen with the 'Radar Wind' article, but also a commitment to documenting and investigating unexplained events.

This issue of "La Notte" (dated October 15, 1954, with a cover date of October 30, 1954) prominently features the "IL CASO DI TRIPOLI" (The Tripoli Case), presented as a highly detailed UFO landing incident. The magazine also includes articles on other UFO sightings, geological correlations with UFO phenomena, and ancient texts describing flying machines.

The Tripoli Case

The main article details the alleged landing of a flying disc in Tripoli, Libya, on October 25, 1954. The event was witnessed by Carmelo Papotto, a farmer, who was inspecting his property in the early morning. He described a silent descent of an object resembling an "aerodynamic automobile" with a tail fin, a fuselage six meters long and three meters wide, and a transparent upper section. The lower part was made of an aluminum-colored metal, while the upper section was divided into sections. The object had two headlights on the front and a ladder extending from the underside. It rested on six wheels (four in pairs at the front, two at the rear). Papotto observed six occupants inside, dressed in yellowish suits with their faces covered. One occupant uncovered his face briefly to blow into a tube.

When Papotto approached the object and placed his foot on the ladder, he received a violent electric shock from the metal, repelling him. One of the occupants gestured to him to stay still. Another occupant removed and then replaced a wheel, activating a mechanism that covered it with a hood. Inside, Papotto glimpsed seats, dashboards, and a radio operated by a man wearing headphones. The "crew" was busy with the internal mechanisms, allowing Papotto to sketch the object.

After about twenty minutes, the object took off vertically without producing any noise, ascending about fifty meters before disappearing towards the east at a vertiginous speed.

The journalist from ANSA, who investigated the landing site, found "wheel imprints, covered with rubber 10 cm wide with quadrangular sections." Each parallelogram measured three cm. The imprints suggested four front wheels, paired like those on tractor-trailers, with an axial distance of about ten cm between the pairs, and two rear wheels positioned obliquely with an axial distance of 50 cm. The distance between the two axles was 3.30 meters. Traces of a bluish substance, possibly a protective coating, were found on the ground, especially on raised parts. An analysis of this substance was entrusted to a chemist, but the results were not made public.

The article notes that Papotto had not previously read about flying saucers in newspapers, as the press reached him with difficulty, which might explain his lack of caution in approaching the object.

Other UFO Sightings

The issue also reports on other sightings:

• Bellagio: Duke Tommaso Gallarati Scotti, recently appointed president of the Milan Fair, reported seeing a silver, disc-like object with unusual proportions in the sky while on an outing with five friends. The object moved towards the east and remained visible for a few minutes.
• Zelbio (Como): Danilo Migliavanda confirmed Gallarati Scotti's sighting, describing a luminous sphere moving across the sky, seemingly carried by the wind. He noted that the mountainous terrain allowed him to follow its path for about ten kilometers.
• Milan: On the same evening, Vittorio Fossali, a retired captain, observed a phenomenon similar to the one reported by the Duke of Gallarati Scotti. He described a luminous object that appeared in the sky after sunset, initially resembling a star but then moving westward. Its color changed from orange to fiery red, and it left a trail of white smoke. Fossali, a pilot, ruled out the possibility of it being a known aircraft.

UFOs and Geology

An article titled "UFO E GEOLOGIA" by Henry Durrant discusses the hypothesis that UFO sightings are often correlated with geological fault lines. It references research by F. Lagarde, who found that a significant percentage of UFO observations occurred along geological fissures. Studies in France and Australia reportedly support this correlation, with one analysis indicating that 40% of observations were in close proximity to fault lines. The article suggests that future research should focus on the "whys" and "hows" of this phenomenon.

Ancient Flying Machines and Discoveries

Another section, also attributed to Henry Durrant, delves into ancient texts that describe flying machines known as "Vimanas." These texts, including the Ramayana and Maha Bharata, describe Vimanas as spherical or disc-shaped craft powered by mercury, capable of vertical takeoff and landing, and used for both travel and warfare. The descriptions include details about their construction, speed, and ability to travel to celestial regions. The article draws parallels between these ancient accounts and modern UFO phenomena, suggesting that these are not merely myths but potentially descriptions of real ancient technology.

Furthermore, the issue touches upon the "Pre-discovery of America" by Roberto D'Amico. It discusses evidence suggesting that various cultures, including Cretans, Phoenicians, and possibly ancient Hebrews, may have reached the Americas before Christopher Columbus. This includes findings of Phoenician inscriptions in the Amazon and a newly deciphered inscription from a Tennessee burial mound, which Professor Cyrus H. Gordon suggests indicates an ancient Hebrew presence.

"Il Libro Nero dei Dischi Volanti"

A review or announcement for the book "Il Libro Nero dei Dischi Volanti" (The Black Book of Flying Saucers) by Henry Durrant is included. The book is described as a journalistic account that compiles vast documentation and qualified reports on UFO observations. It aims to treat the subject seriously and provides precise references, a glossary, and citations for readers to verify the information themselves.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to adopt a serious and investigative stance towards UFO phenomena, presenting detailed eyewitness accounts and exploring potential scientific and historical connections. The inclusion of geological correlations and ancient texts suggests an effort to contextualize modern UFO sightings within broader historical and scientific frameworks. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider the evidence and draw their own conclusions, as exemplified by the review of Durrant's book which aims to provoke a "consciousness-raising" for the reader.

The articles on ancient history and pre-Columbian discoveries suggest a broader interest in uncovering hidden or forgotten aspects of human history, linking them thematically to the mystery of UFOs.

CRONACHE, issue dated January 21, 1971, published by CORRIERE DELLA SERA, is a magazine that explores a variety of topics, including archaeology, ancient history, ufology, astrology, and philately. The cover headline focuses on "LA SCOPERTA DI UN AMERICANO" (The Discovery of an American) and a related article about the lunar calendar of "Homo sapiens."

Articles

Il calendario lunare dell' «Homo sapiens»

This article, based on the work of Alexander Marshack, an amateur archaeologist from Harvard University, suggests that Homo sapiens of the Upper Paleolithic period was far more advanced than previously thought. Marshack's research on artifacts from the Ice Age, found in museums and originating from various parts of Europe, indicates that these objects, previously considered mere decorative ornaments, might contain undeciphered messages. He posits that Homo sapiens discovered the calendar and notation system not 10,000 years ago as believed, but as early as 34,000 years ago. Marshack's conclusion, derived from studying these artifacts, is that a system of notation was in use across much of Europe, with at least 24 sharpened tools used to make these signs. The diversity of these signs suggests they represented days, leading to the deduction that they represented the lunar cycle.

Ebrei sbarcarono in America prima di Colombo?

This article discusses a controversial claim by American scientist Cyrus H. Gordon, a professor of Mediterranean Studies at Brandeis University, that Jews landed in America about a thousand years before Christopher Columbus. The evidence presented is an inscription found in Tennessee in 1885 on a tomb containing nine skeletons. Dr. Joseph Mahan, director of the Columbus Museum of Arts in Georgia, brought the inscription to Gordon's attention. Gordon discovered that the five letters, written in the Canaanite style and with a style found on Roman-era Jewish coins, translate to "For the land of Judah." Gordon asserts that the archaeological context excludes fraud and suggests this inscription attests to a Jewish emigration, likely to escape Roman persecution after defeats in 70 and 135 AD.

Astrologia in burrasca

This piece highlights a controversy within the field of astrology. It notes the widespread belief in zodiac signs, with hundreds of millions of people relying on horoscopes. However, Steven Schmidt, with his book "Astrology 14," published in New York, claims that traditional astrological beliefs are false. Schmidt's theory is based on the slight shift in the Earth's axis over the past 2000 years, which he argues has altered the perspective of constellations. He contends that there are now 14 zodiac signs, including Cetus (the Whale) and Ophiuchus (the Serpent Bearer), rather than the traditional 12. The article suggests this could cause significant disruption in the astrology industry.

LE SCOPERTE DEGLI SCIENZIATI: Molti "doppioni" della nostra Terra.

This article explores the possibility of Earth-like planets existing elsewhere in the universe. It states that our galaxy, the Milky Way, contains hundreds of billions of stars, and the universe contains billions of galaxies. The Sun is described as a common G-class star, and it's suggested that many stars similar to our Sun might have planetary systems. The article references the work of astronomers like Van den Kamp from Sproul Observatory, who used strometric methods to detect planets orbiting nearby stars. It explains that stars rotating slowly, like our Sun, are likely to have planetary systems, and that 98% of small stars have this characteristic. The existence of numerous "double Earths" favorable to life is considered probable.

Radiazioni stellari più veloci della luce?

This short news item reports on a study by a group of scientists led by J. S. Allen and Geoffrey Endean from Oxford University. They concluded that electromagnetic fields produced in the Crab Nebula by a supernova are traveling at approximately 372,000 miles per second (600,000 km/s). This finding, published in "Nature," appears to contradict Albert Einstein's theory that no particle can exceed the speed of light in a vacuum (186,000 miles per second or 300,000 km/s).

Oggetto in cielo avvistato da minatori australiani (disco volante?)

This report details a sighting by miners in Western Australia of a strange flying object. The object, described as oval and colored orange and white, followed them for two hours over the Thaduna mine, 800 kilometers northeast of Perth. The miners reported that the object emitted a high-pitched whistle.

II Nord-America era abitato 120 mila anni fa: trovato un forno preistorico nella California

This brief report mentions the discovery of stone fragments around a prehistoric oven in the Mojave Desert, California. Archaeologist Louis Leakey is cited as concluding that humans lived in North America over 120,000 years ago. The oven, found six months prior, is about 40 cm in diameter and was buried under seven meters of earth and sand. Experiments indicated it had been subjected to high temperatures thousands of years ago.

Trovate nell'URSS uova fossili di dinosauro.

An announcement from the Tass agency states that a Soviet-Mongolian expedition discovered fossilized dinosaur eggs in the Gobi Desert. These eggs, dating back 60 million years, are relatively small (around 20 cm in diameter), despite the dinosaurs themselves being about 30 meters long. Sixteen such eggs were found in a large deposit on the banks of a prehistoric river.

Ferrovia bloccata da un ordigno spaziale

This report from Beziers describes an incident where a train was delayed for nearly an hour by a "space device" weighing 200 kg. The object, composed of metal lattices and instruments, fell onto the railway tracks and was suspended by a parachute from the overhead power line. It was launched from the Aire-sur-l'Adour space research base and landed about 300 meters from the village of Nissan-les-Enserune.

VERSO LO SPAZIO il mondo nei francobolli

This is a review of a book titled "Verso lo spazio" (Towards Space) by Roby Anderson, published by Editrice AMZ. The book, part of the "Il mondo nei francobolli" (The World in Stamps) series, focuses on space conquest through stamps. It covers topics from the first Sputnik launches to the American moon landing, featuring 77 pages of color illustrations, including photos from space. The review highlights that the book contains interesting anecdotes and details, making it appealing even to those not interested in philately.

IN ORBITA CON I FRANCOBOLLI

This column by Phil Aster discusses space-themed stamps. It mentions a series from Yemen featuring space pioneers like Galileo and Von Braun, noting the controversy surrounding the Von Braun stamp which depicts him with a device resembling a V-1 or V-2 rocket. The column also highlights a hunt for space-related postmarks and covers, including those for Apollo missions and the Explorer 1 launch. A Canadian commemorative stamp from 1952, depicting unusual objects in the sky, is also mentioned as being of interest to ufologists.

L' ECO DELLA STAMPA

This is a brief notice from "L' Eco della Stampa," an Italian press clipping service founded in 1901, stating that it has no correspondents, branches, or agencies in Italy and is exclusively based in Milan.

CLYPEUS - RIVISTA DI ESOBIOLOGIA

This section provides contact information for "CLYPEUS," a magazine of exobiology directed by Gianni V. Settimo, based in Torino, Italy. It also includes a form for reporting delivery issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine CRONACHE appears to have a strong interest in fringe topics, ancient mysteries, and scientific discoveries that challenge conventional understanding. Themes include the origins of humanity, ancient civilizations, extraterrestrial phenomena (UFOs), and alternative scientific theories (like the astrology controversy). The editorial stance seems to be one of curiosity and open-mindedness towards these subjects, presenting them with a degree of journalistic reporting while acknowledging their speculative nature. The inclusion of various international news items and specialized columns (like philately and exobiology) suggests a broad scope and a desire to inform readers about diverse and often unconventional topics.