Clypeus - 1971 - Vol 8 No 4

Magazine Overview

CLYPEUS is a bimonthly review founded in 1964, dedicated to exploring the 'New Frontiers of Science'. This issue, number 35, from July-August 1971, is published by the CENTRO DE ESTUDIOS INTERPLANETARIOS and features a cover illustration of Stonehenge with hovering oval shapes. The magazine aims to disseminate knowledge about the 'Enigmas of the Universe' to a broad audience, challenging common prejudices and fostering enthusiasm for the unusual.

Editorial Stance

The editorial, titled "EDITORIALE", reflects on the magazine's journey since its inception in 1964. It highlights the initial challenge of presenting topics considered obscure to the general public and expresses satisfaction in having overcome this prejudice with the help of its readers. The editorial emphasizes the magazine's role in making these 'enigmas' accessible and sparking curiosity. It announces a significant change for the upcoming year: CLYPEUS will become a monthly publication, appearing in newsstands across Italy with a modern format, richer in pages, colors, and photographs, thanks to the collaboration with a new publishing house in Turin. The editorial concludes by inviting reader participation through a questionnaire to further improve the magazine.

Key Articles and Features

"RICERCHE E POLEMICHE INUTILI PER UN RADAR-VENTO" by Renato Vesco

This article by Renato Vesco addresses a critique from the C.U.N. (Centro Ufologico Nazionale) regarding his previous analysis of a purported UFO sighting in Turin on September 24, 1970. Vesco refutes the C.U.N.'s claims, arguing that their investigation was misdirected. He suggests that the Turin phenomenon was likely a meteorological event, possibly related to a 'radar-vento' (weather balloon). Vesco criticizes the anonymous author of the C.U.N. article for making personal attacks and for what he perceives as an incomplete investigation. He details his own extensive research into UFOs, drawing from his long-standing interest in aeronautics and astronautics, and his experience gathering documentation from various countries. Vesco also touches upon the possibility of secret advanced aircraft and criticizes the tendency to sensationalize ordinary events as UFOs.

"IL FUTURO DEI GIORNI" by Solas Boncompagni

This historical research piece, chapter XIV, explores themes of UFOs, the mystery of life, and the concept of a 'new dimension'. Boncompagni discusses the idea of a 'primaeval unisexuality' and the transition from the corruptible to the incorruptible. He draws parallels between recurring destructive and regenerative laws in the macrocosm and microcosm, and speculates about 'wars in the skies' and a 'new cosmic legislation'. The article references ancient beliefs and modern phenomena, suggesting a connection between astral bodies and a spiritual dimension. It delves into prophecies concerning the 'end times', including the transformation of humans from visible to invisible beings and a return to unisexuality, citing biblical and hermetic texts. The author also discusses potential cosmic cataclysms, such as the tilting of the Earth's axis, and the cyclical nature of destruction and renewal, linking these concepts to ancient symbols like the 'cosmic spiral' and the swastika.

"UN UFO CHE SI CHIAMAVA 'TIBERIO'....." by Renato Vesco

Renato Vesco debunks a widely reported luminous phenomenon observed across Western Europe on February 23, 1971. He identifies this event, initially speculated to be an extraterrestrial spacecraft, as the atmospheric re-entry of the third stage of the French 'TIBERE' rocket. Vesco provides details from O.N.E.R.A. (Office National d'Etudes et de Recherches Aerospaciales), explaining that the experiment aimed to study the electrical phenomena of re-entering space vehicles. He criticizes the tendency to sensationalize such events and create 'mysteries' around them, emphasizing the importance of scientific investigation and collaboration with relevant organizations. Vesco also reflects on the challenges of UFO research in the current climate, contrasting the rigorous approach of early ufologists with what he sees as a decline in scientific seriousness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CLYPEUS strongly advocates for a scientific and critical approach to the study of UFOs and other unexplained phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, verifiable evidence, and open debate, while cautioning against sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. The magazine positions itself as a platform for exploring 'new frontiers of science' and challenging conventional thinking. The recurring themes include the nature of UFOs, cosmic laws, prophecies of the future, and the intersection of science, history, and the paranormal. The editorial stance is one of intellectual curiosity combined with a commitment to factual accuracy and reasoned analysis, aiming to educate and engage readers in the pursuit of knowledge.

Title: Cornucopia
Issue Date: March 1971
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Cornucopia, subtitled 'Misteri E Curiosità', presents a collection of intriguing articles spanning paranormal phenomena, ancient history, mythology, and scientific advancements. The content is primarily in Italian, with a focus on unusual events and discoveries.

Articles and Features

Il Mostro di Val Nerina

This short report details a claim by Matilde Papa, a peasant woman from Collestatte, province of Terni, Italy, who stated she encountered a frightening reptile with a toad-like head and an exceptionally large body. The area is noted for similar past sightings, with previous attempts to find the creature unsuccessful, attributed to its camouflage abilities.

Modello di Universo

An unusual artifact, described as a 'Model of the Universe,' was reportedly found at the bottom of Lake Sevan in Armenia. The model depicts Earth surrounded by two spheres, representing water and air, with the Sun above. The Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn are positioned between the Sun and Earth. This bronze artifact is believed to date back to the second millennium BC, according to 'L'Unione Sovietica' (issue no. 4, 1971).

Ritorno alla Misticopsicosi

An inquiry among 30,000 American magazine readers revealed that 43% believe in life after death, 38% do not, and 19% have not considered the issue.

Non più le Piramidi d'Egitto

English archaeologist Collin Renfrew, a professor at the University of Sheffield, has presented evidence suggesting that Western civilization might have originated in Northern Europe about a thousand years before its appearance on the Mediterranean shores. His calculations, based on carbon-14 dating, indicate that Stonehenge is older than Mycenae. Megalithic tombs in Britain and ancient Iberia are also suggested to be a millennium older than the pyramids. Furthermore, the Tartaria tablets discovered in Transylvania in 1961, believed to belong to the early Vinca culture, are considered older than Sumerian manuscripts, potentially representing the earliest human writings.

Comunicazioni Uomo-Pianta?

James Atkins, an American scientist specializing in communication problems, plans to attempt communication with a tomato plant. The experiment involves two tomato plants: one will be spoken to daily, while the other will be ignored. The reactions of the plants upon fruit maturation will be observed.

Misteri E Curiosità

• This section presents several brief reports:
• Spanish Conquistadors and Rubber: Spanish conquistadors learned the use of rubber for waterproofing fabrics from indigenous people in the New Kingdom of Kando. Initially, rubber was applied as a liquid to fabrics, but its effect was short-lived.
• Marine Monster in Naples: A three-meter-long marine monster weighing 250 kg was caught in Bacoli, province of Naples. The creature had skin and a dorsal fin similar to a shark but a large mouth filled with tiny teeth.
• Yeti Search: Japanese explorer Masahiko Taniguchi claims to have located two sets of footprints in the Himalayas, leading him to believe in the existence of a creature in those mountains.
• Giant Tree in Formosa: A colossal tree, nicknamed 'Miou Yueh,' was discovered in Formosa. It is estimated to be over 4000 years old and stands as tall as a 20-story building.
• Monks' Prayer: Greek monks have circulated a prayer invoking divine protection for their homeland, cities, islands, villages, and monasteries, which they believe are threatened by 'cosmic tourism.'
• Soviet Particle Accelerator: A new type of electrostatic accelerator in Novosibirsk, Soviet Union, can produce all known elementary particles and may aid in the discovery of new ones, potentially allowing for detailed study of antimatter.

Ricerche E Polemiche Inutili Per Un Radar-Vento (seguito e fine)

This concluding part of an article references a previous issue ('Clypeus' no. 34) and discusses the admission of a false UFO case ('the Barra da Tijuca case'). The author expresses personal regret and a desire for scientific honesty.

Una Grande Scoperta Astronomica in America

This article, written by Giordano Bruni, discusses the discovery of two components of the radio-transmitting star Quasar 3C-279, which are moving away from Earth at speeds ten times that of light. This finding, announced at a Radio Astronomy Congress in Boston, contradicts Einstein's theory of relativity, which posits the speed of light as the ultimate limit. Conversely, it supports the fluid dynamics theory of the universe proposed by Italian scientist Marco Todeschini of Bergamo, which allows for superluminal speeds. Todeschini's work suggests that particles within atomic nuclei orbit their centers at speeds 1.41 times the speed of light, explaining the immense energy released from atomic nuclei. His 'Psychobiofisica' is presented as a unified cosmic science that aligns with Galileo's relativity.

I Piloti dei Dischi Volanti

This is the second part of an article by Jader U. Pereira, originally published in 'Phénomènes Spatiaux' (no. 25, September 1970). It details various types of alleged alien occupants observed in UFO encounters, categorized by physical characteristics and behavior. The article describes 'Type 5' occupants (11 cases) with large heads, 'Type 7' occupants (4 cases) with a single eye, 'Type 8' occupants (32 cases) wearing suits, 'Type 9' occupants (24 cases) in average to slightly above average stature, 'Type 10' occupants (23 cases) wearing suits, 'Type 11' occupants (13 cases) with a single eye, and 'Type 12' occupants (5 cases) of tall stature.

Giano e gli Dei Italici – Saturno e l'Età dell'Oro - L'Età del Ferro - Set ed Osiride

This section delves into ancient Italian mythology and its connections to astronomical events and early metallurgy. It discusses the deity Giano, considered the supreme god and father of gods and men, equivalent to the Indian Ganesa and Greek Iacchus. Giano is associated with beginnings and entrances, holding the key to Olympus. The article explores the legend of a kingdom shared by Giano and Saturn, linking Saturn to a period of 'much fire' from the sky, possibly referring to meteorites. The use of the sickle as a symbol for Saturn is discussed in relation to harvests and death. The text also touches upon the origins of metallurgy, suggesting that iron ('Aia' or 'Aiath' in ancient languages) might have been the first metal used, possibly of meteoric origin, and that its association with fear in ancient Egypt stemmed from the myth of Set (associated with iron) and Typhon.

Parliamo un poco di Giano

Written by Evelino Leonardi, this piece further explores the deity Giano. It questions the etymology of 'Janua' (door) and its connection to Giano, suggesting that Giano's role as a 'door god' might be too simplistic for a deity of his stature. The article references the word 'porta' (door) and its linguistic variations across different languages, noting that 'Janua' has no clear cognates in other Indo-European languages. It discusses Giano's attribution for the founding of Terracina and mentions a double-headed idol used by the Buhr people of Dutch Guiana. The author also references René Guenon's views on the significance of verbal similarities and sacred science.

Ultimi

A brief report from Rome on September 4, 1971, describes a sighting of a luminous, circular object with a reddish light by numerous inhabitants of the Balduina, Camilluccia, and Monte Mario areas. The object moved slowly and stopped several times, heading North-North-West.

Popol Vuh

This is a review of 'Popol Vuh: Le antiche storie del Quiché,' edited by Adrián Recinos and translated by Lorenzo Terracini. The review highlights the Quiché people of Guatemala's rich mythological heritage, particularly the creation narrative found in the Popol Vuh, which is described as a unique and poetic relic of indigenous thought.

Gli altri mondi sono abitati?

This article, referencing Fontenelle's 1686 work 'Conversations on the Plurality of Worlds,' discusses the ongoing exploration of space and the possibility of life beyond Earth. It posits that humanity's journey to the Moon is just the first step in exploring the cosmos. The author suggests that exploring space can increase our knowledge of the physical world and alleviate a sense of cosmic insignificance. The article also touches upon the conditions necessary for life to emerge from inert matter, referencing experiments by Stanley L. Miller and others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, ancient mysteries, and alternative scientific or historical perspectives. There's a clear interest in UFO phenomena, ancient civilizations, and mythological interpretations that often connect to astronomical events or early human technological development. The editorial stance appears to favor presenting these topics with a degree of seriousness, even when dealing with anecdotal evidence or speculative theories, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond mainstream scientific consensus. The inclusion of detailed classifications of alleged alien types suggests a commitment to cataloging and analyzing UFO-related reports.

Title: Clypeus
Issue: 5
Date: August 1971
Publisher: Gianni V. Settimo
Focus: Esobiology, mysteries, science fiction, and the unexplained.

The Fascinating Mystery of the Fourth Dimension

This article by Renzo Rossotti delves into the concept of the fourth dimension, questioning whether space travel could exist in a realm beyond our conventional understanding of time and space. It references mathematicians like Gauss, Helmotz, Saccheri, and Howard Hinton, who explored the idea of hyperspaces (S4). The article notes that Enrico Poincaré acknowledged the existence of hyperspaces, even if they are impossible for us to imagine. It also touches upon the idea that phases of life, like birth and death, might be presented as four-dimensional bodies. The text mentions an article from "L'Osservatore Romano" in 1947 that linked these concepts to biblical accounts, such as Jesus entering a locked room after his resurrection, suggesting that the geometry of hyperspaces could provide a scientific explanation for such phenomena.

Life's Resilience and the Universe's Inhabitants

An article discusses the scientific basis for the origin of life, noting that amino acids and DNA components can be synthesized under specific physical conditions, such as UV radiation. This suggests that life might have emerged in numerous places across the cosmos. The text emphasizes that life is remarkably resilient, capable of surviving in extreme environments on Earth, such as in atomic pile water, petroleum, and acidic solutions. This resilience leads to the speculation that if life can exist in such harsh conditions on Earth, it is highly probable that billions of planets in the universe could harbor life, potentially even intelligent life.

Flying Saucers in Prehistory

This section, featuring contributions from Peter Kolosimo and referencing researcher Aimé Michel, explores the intriguing possibility of extraterrestrial visits to Earth in prehistoric times. It highlights rock carvings found in Piemonte (Italy), France, and Spain, dating between 30,000 and 10,000 BC. These carvings are interpreted as depicting cosmic vehicles and beings. The article discusses specific examples, such as a "Sun Rock" carving with a radial pattern and internal "coppelle" (small depressions) that resemble portholes, and other cave paintings that bear striking resemblances to modern UFOs and even the Lunar Excursion Module (LEM).

One of the most compelling pieces of evidence cited is a Roman-era bust discovered in the Louvre, which an archaeologist named Egger identified as potentially representing one of the slaves described by the Roman proconsul Quintus Caecilius Metellus Celer in 62 BC. The physical characteristics of the bust, such as its reddish skin and facial features, are compared to those of Native Americans, suggesting a possible pre-Columbian contact.

The article also references the work of Professor Andre Leral-Courban and the findings from caves like Lascaux and El Castillo, which contain geometric shapes and humanoid figures that some interpret as evidence of ancient alien encounters.

Ancient Egyptian Voyages to America

Another significant article presents the theory of R. A. Jairazbhoy, an Indian historian, who claims that ancient Egyptians, specifically during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses III (1195-1164 BC), may have reached the Americas. Jairazbhoy's theory is based on archaeological findings along the Gulf of Mexico coast, particularly at San Lorenzo and La Venta, where a flourishing civilization (Olmec) emerged around 1200-1150 BC. He suggests that Ramses III ordered the construction of a fleet to reach the "mountain of Manu" (America) and that some Egyptians settled there, influencing the local culture.

Evidence cited includes an Egyptian bas-relief depicting Ramses III in a boat in the underworld, with symbols (circles containing crosses) found in both Egyptian and Maya/Aztec art. Jairazbhoy also points to the Olmec practice of collecting the genitalia of defeated enemies, a custom also attributed to Ramses III, and an Olmec bas-relief of a dignitary with arms crossed in the Egyptian manner. Egyptologists like T. G. H. James of the British Museum are skeptical of these claims, finding no objective support for them.

Other Features

The magazine also includes a section on philately, highlighting commemorative stamps related to the Apollo 15 mission and Australian railway and airline anniversaries. There are also brief mentions of other publications and ongoing research in parapsychology and astronomy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Clypeus consistently explores themes of the unexplained, ancient mysteries, extraterrestrial contact, and the frontiers of science. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance, presenting various theories and evidence, even those that are unconventional or controversial, encouraging readers to ponder the possibilities beyond conventional scientific understanding. The editorial stance seems to be one of curiosity and a desire to uncover hidden truths about humanity's past and its place in the universe.