Clypeus UFO and Fortean Phenomena - 1978 No 11

Magazine Overview

Title: CLYPEUS
Issue: Anno II Numero 5 (11)
Date: Settembre-Ottobre 1978
Publisher: EDITORE: GIANNI V. SETTIMO
Country: TORINO (ITALIA)

This issue of CLYPEUS, a bimonthly magazine focused on UFO and Fortean phenomena, delves into the state of ufological research in Italy and presents significant international findings. The cover prominently features a striking illustration and headlines highlighting "Hynek critica l'ufologia italiana" (Hynek criticizes Italian ufology), "Il primo documento ufficiale sovietico sugli UFO" (The first official Soviet document on UFOs), and "UMANOIDI GIGANTI DEL TIPO «MICHELIN»?" (Giant Humanoids of the "Michelin" Type?).

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the previous issue's "humor special" and expresses pride in winning a "Marlboro special prize" for contributing to the dissemination of humor. It then introduces the thematic structure of the current issue, focusing on research groups, particularly in Italy, and the UFO experience as it relates to the witness. The editorial highlights two key articles related to research groups: one by Professor Joseph Allen Hynek, sharing his impressions of Italian ufology after his visit, and another by Jenny Randles discussing the proliferation of UFO groups, especially in the UK, and its applicability to Italy. The second theme, the witness experience, is explored through an article by Peter Kor, who emphasizes the importance of the witness in understanding UFO phenomena, and by Pierre Vieroudy, who links psi subjects to UFO witnesses.

Lo Stato della Ricerca Ufologica in Italia (The State of Ufological Research in Italy)

By Joseph Allen Hynek

Professor Hynek shares his observations from a recent visit to Italy, where he participated in a UFO congress sponsored by "Il Giornale dei Misteri." He notes that UFO activity in Italy is surprisingly high for its size and that public opinion is polarized. While some scientists are open-minded, others are strongly opposed. The Italian press appears more generous with coverage than in other nations. Hynek observes that ufological research in Italy, like elsewhere, suffers from a lack of government support and funding. He critiques the organization of the UFO congress, despite the organizers' good intentions, and mentions the involvement of the Center for UFO Studies in establishing a coherent methodology for studying Italian and Southern European cases. Hynek expresses hope that a properly financed effort could unite independent groups, lamenting the difficulty for UFO groups to learn the lesson of "unity is strength." He lists several Italian cities where UFO groups were active in early 1978.

Il Primo Documento Ufficiale Sovietico Sugli UFO (The First Official Soviet Document on UFOs)

By Jean-Louis Degaudenzi

This article presents an official Soviet document on UFOs, published in a scientific popularization anthology by Yuri Poslepov, a candidate for the Academy of Sciences. The document confirms clandestine statements by Professor Zigel regarding UFO observations over Soviet territory. The publication of Poslepov's research suggests a renewed authorization for UFO-related publications after years of obscurity, likely due to public pressure and an increase in UFO sightings in 1977. The military is reportedly concerned about unidentified objects over secret bases and space launch sites, considering the possibility of extraterrestrial origin. The article details specific incidents: strange phenomena observed near space installations (Sverdlovsk, Tuyratam, Plesetsk) and military bases (Oust-Ishimkoe) in the Siberian region. In June 1976, luminous cylinders were observed and photographed above the Plesetsk launch pads, causing radar disturbances and preventing fighter jets from intercepting them. In May 1977, a large sphere with smaller discs was observed over Plesetsk. In January 1977, three large cylinders hovered over the same base, again causing radar failures and evading interceptors. Poslepov concludes that these objects are not terrestrial and are likely extraterrestrial probes interested in Soviet space activities.

Una Pletora di Gruppi Ufologici (A Plethora of Ufological Groups)

By Jenny Randles

Randles discusses the overwhelming number of UFO groups emerging, particularly in the UK, attributing this partly to the popularity of films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." She notes that many new groups are formed by impatient young individuals seeking information. Randles emphasizes the need for established groups to guide these newcomers. She then contrasts desirable developments, like the formation of the Southern UFO Network, with less desirable ones, such as the controversial statements made by Ken Rogers of the British UFO Society (BUFOS). Rogers' claims of nervous exhaustion after a UFO sighting and his subsequent departure from BUFOS are discussed, along with his assertion that older British ufologists had abandoned the field due to similar issues. Randles refutes this, stating that many prominent British ufologists continue their work. She criticizes the sensationalism and misinformation spread by some groups, which she believes harms the cause of ufology and wastes the time of more responsible organizations.

Randles also addresses the issue of new groups often lacking awareness of existing, well-established organizations like FSR, Contact(UK), BUFORA, and MUFOB, which already possess extensive archives and libraries. She notes that many new groups fail to sustain their initial enthusiasm and disappear, often taking valuable local data with them. She suggests that smaller groups should consider affiliating with larger, established organizations like NUFON or SUFON to benefit from their resources and avoid duplicating efforts. She highlights that NUFON and SUFON maintain contact with BUFORA, Contact(UK), and FSR, creating a network for information exchange.

Other Articles and Sections

• Osservatorio (Observatory): This section covers various news items, including the UN creating a UFO committee, a "million pounds for a flying saucer" story, Hynek leaving his university position, and further UFO reports related to Carter.
• Il Vero Mistero UFO (The True UFO Mystery): An article by Peter Kor.
• I Testimoni: Soggetti PSI? (Witnesses: PSI Subjects?): An article by Pierre Vieroudy.
• I Testimoni: Pubblico Dominio? (Witnesses: Public Domain?): An article by Harry Tokarz.
• Casistica Recente (Recent Cases): Features "Giganti tipo 'Michelin' (parte I)" (Giant "Michelin" Type Humanoids - Part I).
• Clyppy: Gli Occhi Spaziali (Clyppy: The Space Eyes): A regular feature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the need for scientific rigor in ufological research, as advocated by Hynek and implicitly by the presentation of the Soviet document. There's a clear concern about the proliferation of disorganized and sensationalist UFO groups, particularly in the UK, and their potential to mislead new enthusiasts. The role of the witness is explored from multiple angles, with a focus on their psychological impact and potential connection to psi phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor serious, organized research and information dissemination, contrasting it with the more speculative and less rigorous approaches sometimes found in the field. The magazine aims to provide cultural and informative content, distributed to members of the "Gruppo Clypeus."

This issue of "Osservatorio" (Issue No. 9, dated May 31, 1978) delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, focusing on public opinion, scientific investigation, and psychological interpretations. The magazine presents itself as a platform for exploring these complex topics.

Opinion Polls in the USA and Australia

The issue begins by reporting on two significant opinion polls concerning UFOs. The first, conducted by the Gallup Youth Survey in the USA between February 24 and March 6, 1978, surveyed 1174 teenagers aged 13-18. The survey asked three questions: whether they had seen a UFO, if they believed in beings like us on other planets, and if they thought UFOs were real or imaginary. Key findings included that 14% of respondents claimed to have seen a UFO (15% of males, 13% of females), a figure comparable to the national average. Belief in the reality of UFOs was higher among those with lower school performance (16%) compared to those with higher performance (12%), suggesting a potential correlation between academic standing and UFO belief. Overall, 61% believed UFOs were real, with higher percentages among males (67%) and those with higher academic achievement. Geographically, the West region showed the most believers (66%), while the South reported the highest number of sightings (18%).

The second poll, conducted in June 1978 by Peter Gardner and Associates in Adelaide, South Australia, surveyed 793 citizens. The question was whether they believed UFOs existed and had landed on Earth. Positive responses numbered 353 (44%), negative responses were 258 (33%), and 182 (23%) were unsure. The survey also noted that belief in UFOs was more prevalent among younger individuals, with the average belief rate reaching 71.7% for those aged 18-24, dropping to 22.9% for those over 55.

Cutty Sark's Million Pound Prize

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the unusual initiative by Cutty Sark (UK Scotch Whisky) Ltd. Announced on June 1, 1978, the company offered a prize of one million pounds for a device that could be proven to have arrived on Earth from another solar system. This could be an interstellar spaceship, a reconnaissance drone, a missile, or a manufactured object. Additionally, they offered 1,000 pounds for a scientific article that significantly contributes to understanding the UFO phenomenon and 500 pounds for the best "UFO Logbook" documenting aerial phenomena found in 19th-century ship logs. The prizes were valid from July 1, 1978, to June 30, 1979. The company emphasized its serious intentions and criticized the reduction in funding for NASA's SETI project. Cutty Sark collaborated with BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) for this initiative, which was seen as a positive step for UFO research and public attention. The company also secured insurance from Lloyd's of London against potential claims.

Hynek Leaves University for Full-Time UFO Research

Professor Joseph Allen Hynek, a prominent figure in UFO research, announced his decision to leave his tenured position as an astronomy professor at Northwestern University in Chicago after 42 years. He intends to dedicate himself full-time to his Center for UFO Studies. His last lecture was on June 8, 1978. Hynek's departure marks him as the second astronomer, after Frenchman Claude Pohér, to fully commit to UFO research, highlighting a growing trend of scientific engagement with the phenomenon.

UN Forms UFO Committee

The United Nations, under Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim, has established an international committee of scientists to evaluate the utility of the first international UFO study. The committee comprises five renowned scientists: Joseph Allen Hynek, Jacques Vallée (astronomer and mathematician), David Saunders (psychologist), Claude Poher (astronomer), and Gordon Cooper (astronaut). This committee was formed following persistent appeals from Sir Eric Gairy, the Prime Minister of Antigua. The committee has begun examining material provided by various governments, including sensational cases such as a 50-second film of a UFO taken by a TV operator in England and a case involving a Mexican doctor's encounter with an alleged extraterrestrial.

The Carter UFO Sighting

The magazine revisits the widely reported UFO sighting by then-US President Jimmy Carter in Leary, Georgia, in October 1969. While initially publicized in 1973 and used by Carter during his 1976 election campaign, researcher Robert Sheaffer concluded in June 1977 that the object was likely the planet Venus. Sheaffer's investigation involved checking astronomical records and interviewing witnesses. Subsequent inquiries by ufologist Tom Tiede and others have failed to corroborate Carter's account, leading to skepticism and suggestions that the sighting might have been a political maneuver or a misidentification of Venus.

Psychological and Sociological Explanations for UFO Experiences

Peter Kor, in his article "IL VERO MISTERO UFO" (The True UFO Mystery), argues that many UFO experiences are fundamentally psychological rather than physical. He criticizes the tendency of some researchers to accept the apparent realism of UFO reports without critical examination. Kor suggests that the widespread belief in psychic explanations for UFOs is a recent development, contrasting with earlier views. He posits that the lack of material evidence and the variety of UFO reports point towards psychological origins. Kor discusses theories that frame UFO experiences as manifestations of the collective unconscious, influenced by archetypes and reflecting humanity's spiritual crisis. He also critiques the idea of "alternative realities" or "fourth dimension" theories as attempts to reconcile physical evidence with psychological explanations, deeming them illogical. Kor advocates for a more rigorous approach, emphasizing that beliefs should align with reality rather than personal desires. He argues that the "mixed-bag" approach, which attempts to explain UFO reports through various means (interplanetary visitors, fantasies, etc.), is ineffective because it combines multiple weaknesses. He concludes that many "researchers" are too eager to accept exciting ideas without critical analysis, hindering their ability to recognize subtle truths.

Pierre Vieroudy's section, "I TESTIMONI: SOGGETTI PSI?" (Witnesses: Psychic Subjects?), explores the correlation between UFO witnesses and psychic abilities. Based on personal inquiries, Vieroudy suggests that UFO sightings are not confined to specific social strata but are observed across the population. He notes that many witnesses, or their family members, exhibit psychic faculties such as precognition, telepathy, or dowsing. He presents several case studies of individuals and families with multiple sightings and reported psychic abilities, including the Rabastens family case. Vieroudy's preliminary findings indicate that approximately 50% of witnesses in his sample were solitary observers, while 30% were accompanied by family members, and 20% by unrelated individuals. He also observes that a significant portion of his sample (around 60%) reported having psychic abilities recognized by others. He proposes the concept of a "type-witness" characterized by a difficult childhood, poor social adaptation, strong emotional influence, and a predisposition towards the paranormal and esoteric.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the evolving understanding of UFO phenomena, moving from purely physical explanations to incorporating psychological and sociological perspectives. There is a clear editorial stance favoring critical analysis and scientific rigor, as exemplified by Peter Kor's critique of unsubstantiated theories and the emphasis on evidence-based research. The magazine highlights the growing interest from scientific institutions like the UN and prominent researchers like Joseph Allen Hynek, suggesting a shift towards a more official and serious investigation of UFOs. The issue also underscores the importance of witness testimony and the potential link between psychic abilities and UFO experiences, while maintaining a cautious and analytical approach to avoid falling into speculative traps.

This issue of FSR magazine, dated June 1978, titled 'I TESTIMONI: PUBBLICO DOMINIO?' (The Witnesses: Public Domain?), edited by Harry Tokarz, delves into the often-negative experiences of individuals who report UFO encounters. The magazine highlights the psychological impact, public skepticism, and societal backlash faced by these witnesses, suggesting that the phenomenon itself might be less important than the witnesses' own psychological landscape and the societal response to their accounts.

The Plight of UFO Witnesses

The lead article by Harry Tokarz discusses the extensive collection of credible UFO encounter reports gathered over thirty years. While these reports are invaluable to researchers, many witnesses suffer humiliation and distress due to public disbelief and ridicule. Tokarz emphasizes that witnesses come from all walks of life and are often traumatized not just by the encounter itself, but by the subsequent public reaction. He notes that a significant majority of witnesses he studied did not fear the encounter, but rather the "depraved" public reaction, which leads to a cascade of new difficulties.

These individuals often face a barrage of curious, skeptical, and hostile people, and sometimes even violent threats from individuals who oppose their accounts. The article points out that skepticism can be a defense mechanism for those who cannot accept the idea that humanity is not the center of the universe. Some individuals, unable to process the 'unknown,' may lash out at witnesses to protect their own worldview.

The Case of Robert Suffern

The article details the experience of Robert Suffern, a carpenter from Bracebridge, Ontario, who reported seeing a dark circular craft and a humanoid figure on his farm in October 1975. Following media coverage, Suffern was inundated with unwanted visitors and even received threats against his family, forcing him to change his phone number. His children also faced bullying at school due to his experience. Suffern's account illustrates the profound disruption and anxiety that reporting a UFO sighting can cause.

The Case of Jeff Greenhaw

Another case highlighted is that of Jeff Greenhaw, a young police chief from Falkville, Alabama. In October 1973, he encountered a metallic creature and photographed it. This event led to anonymous phone threats, his car being bombed, his trailer being burned, and ultimately his divorce and resignation from his position. Greenhaw felt his life was ruined by the incident, stating he could not have been more unfortunate.

The Case of Herb Schirmer

Herb Schirmer, a former police chief in Ashland, Nebraska, reported an encounter with a disc-shaped craft and a luminous figure in December 1967. Under hypnosis, he recounted being taken aboard the craft and communicating with an alien. Following his report, Schirmer faced a campaign of terror, including his effigy being hanged and burned. His car was also destroyed, and his wife divorced him. He was ostracized and struggled to find stability, constantly recognized as the 'UFO nut from Nebraska.'

The Psychological Impact

Dr. Berthold Schwarz, a psychiatrist studying UFO witnesses, notes that those involved in ufology can become emotionally overwhelmed. Howard Menger, a contactee from the 1950s, recounted his experiences in 1967, warning about the difficult repercussions for those who publicly share such accounts, especially in earlier decades.

The Role of Authorities and Institutions

The article suggests that even law enforcement and military institutions, to whom the public might turn for help, have become symbols of distrust regarding UFO matters. Individuals who previously sought help from the military often found it better to face public ridicule instead.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine explores the complex belief systems that shape human experience and actions. It suggests that UFO phenomena may be deeply rooted in psychological factors rather than purely physical events. The editorial stance appears to be one of empathy towards witnesses, acknowledging the severe personal costs of their experiences, while also hinting at a deeper, perhaps psychological, interpretation of UFO sightings. The recurring theme is the profound negative impact on witnesses, often exacerbated by societal reactions and institutional indifference, leading to a sense of inescapable persecution for some.

Other Articles and Features

"Il vero mistero" (The Real Mystery) by Peter Kor

This section, continuing from page 16, discusses how UFO researchers are gradually shifting their focus from the physical aspects of UFOs to their psychic nature. Kor suggests that the 'real mystery' lies not in the UFO phenomenon itself, but in the worldview of those who encounter or study them. He posits that UFO experiences might be genuine psychic experiences, akin to fantasies or hallucinations, blurring the lines between the paranormal and the ordinary.

"I testimoni" (The Witnesses) by Pierre Vieroudy

Continuing from page 18, this piece explores the hypothesis that UFO witnesses might be 'PSI subjects.' Vieroudy suggests that the UFO phenomenon could be induced by the latent paranormal faculties of the human group, implying that the witness is not merely an observer but an active participant in the phenomenon's materialization. The author notes a similarity between the 'typical witness' profile and the description of mediums in parapsychology.

"Casistica Recente" (Recent Case Studies)

This section details several recent UFO cases:

• "Giganti tipo «Michelin»" (Michelin-type Giants): This report from page 24 describes an event on November 12, 1976, at the Talavera la Real Air Base in Spain. Sentinels heard a penetrating whistle and then saw a humanoid figure, approximately three meters tall, described as a greenish light. The figure was seen near a 'vortex' and seemed to have a small head with a helmet and a bulky body. The witness, José Maria Trejo, was paralyzed by fear and subsequently experienced physical distress. The case was investigated by Juan José Benitez.

• Talavera la Real, Spain (November 5, 1974): Juan José Cavero, an economist, observed a disc-shaped object near the same air base. The object emitted multicolored lights and later he encountered a strange, thin being.

• Liria to Olocau, Valencia, Spain (March 14, 1976): Vicente Correl and his wife saw an ovoid UFO and a humanoid creature described as 'the Michelin man,' with a puffy suit and lights on its head. The encounter caused their car's headlights to dim and electrical wires to smoke.

"Clyppy" Comic Strip

A comic strip titled "Clyppy" depicts a humorous take on UFO encounters, featuring characters like Clyppy, a spaceship, and aliens, with themes of mystery, urgency, and intergalactic communication. It includes references to the 'Triangle of the Devil' and the Bermuda Triangle.