UFOlogia Supplemento a Clypeus - 1980 No 7

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA
Issue: Nº 60
Volume: II
Date: January-February 1980
Publisher: Gruppo Clypeus
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This issue of UFOLOGIA, a supplement to CLYPEUS, marks the beginning of its second year of publication. The magazine adopts a more critical and informative stance, moving away from being solely a group organ to become a "free and independent voice." It signals a shift towards more commentary and less case-based reporting.

Editorial

The editorial highlights the magazine's evolution, adopting a more concise title and emphasizing "criticism" alongside "information." It announces the departure of Paolo Mercuri and the addition of new collaborators like Roberto D'Amico, Luigi Sorgno, Roberto Farabone, and Paolo Toselli. The editorial also notes the continuation of the "Notiziario ufologico A.C.O.M." and other bulletins within UFOLOGIA. It introduces an extensive article by French astrophysicist Pierre Guérin on the state of ufology thirty years after the Kenneth Arnold sighting.

Key Articles and Features

"Il mistero dei palloni giapponesi" by Roberto D'Amico

This article investigates the mystery of Japanese balloon bombs launched towards the United States during the latter part of World War II. The author posits that these were not UFOs but rather a sophisticated weapon system. The Japanese, seeking retaliation after the Doolittle raid on Tokyo in April 1942, developed a campaign using unmanned aerostats. These balloons, approximately 10 meters in diameter, were designed to cross the Pacific using prevailing air currents and drop incendiary or fragmentation bombs. The US military, initially unaware of the true nature of these objects, cataloged them as potential UFO sightings. The article details the recovery of these balloons, their construction, and the US's efforts to understand and counter the threat, including the establishment of specialized units and public awareness campaigns. The author notes that the campaign was ultimately deemed a failure by the Japanese High Command due to the limited number of balloons reaching their targets and the subsequent silence from the American press, which had been subjected to censorship.

"DOVE VA 'UFOLOGIA'" (Where is 'UFOLOGIA' Going?)

This section examines the international distribution of UFOLOGIA, detailing the number of copies sent abroad as "exchanges" with similar publications and as "personals" to individual researchers. It provides a breakdown of distribution by country, showing a significant reach in Europe, the USA, and Canada, alongside other regions worldwide.

"L'UFOLOGIA DEL RIFLUSSO" (The Reflux of Ufology) by e.r.

This piece discusses a growing trend of "critical ufology" or "ufology of reflux," particularly noted in France. The author contrasts this with the Italian ufological scene, which is sometimes criticized for its tendency to "prove" UFOs rather than critically analyze them. The "reflux" is characterized by a more skeptical and analytical approach, with some researchers suggesting paranormal or psychological explanations for UFO phenomena. The article mentions several French authors and their works that explore these themes, including explanations of UFOs as manifestations of the subconscious, products of science fiction, or esoteric phenomena. It also highlights Belgian researchers who have systematically debunked classic UFO cases. The author views this critical trend as healthy for the field, encouraging self-criticism and a more rigorous approach to research.

"Recensioni" (Reviews)

This section includes a review of a book by Roberto Farabone on UFOs.

"Operazione 'IR-III'" (Operation 'IR-III') by Luigi Sorgno

This article likely discusses the tactics employed by the UFO phenomenon.

"Gli altri dicono" (Others Say)

This section presents a collection of notes and observations from various sources, including the "Notiziario ufologico ACOM," "Il gambero," "Nuraghex," "La torre...di Babele," "Gli arcani," "Il giornale dei misteri," and "Notiziario UFO."

"Inserto: UFO in Piemonte pag.9-12"

This indicates a special insert focusing on UFO sightings in the Piedmont region of Italy.

"Controluce"

This section features an article titled "Il fascino negativo della divulgazione" (The Negative Fascination of Disclosure) by P.T., and a report on ongoing research into UFOs in Lombardia, along with a discussion on "Problemi di epistemologia" (Problems of Epistemology).

"Trent'anni dopo" by Pierre Guérin

This article provides a review of the UFO situation thirty years after the Kenneth Arnold sighting, offering an astrophysicist's perspective.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical investigation of unexplained phenomena (specifically the Japanese balloon bombs), the critical analysis of ufology as a discipline, and the promotion of skepticism and rigorous research. The editorial stance is clearly defined as independent, critical, and informative, aiming to foster a more mature and self-aware ufological community. The magazine positions itself as a platform for thoughtful discussion and analysis, moving beyond mere reporting of sightings.

This issue of 'Un Altro Libro Sugli UFO' (Another Book on UFOs) is a collection of reviews and articles related to ufology, published in Italian. The main review, by Roberto Farabone, critically examines Franco Ossola's book of the same title, published by Longanesi & C. The magazine also features a section on UFO sightings in Piedmont, Italy, and discussions on the nature and 'tactics' of UFO phenomena.

Review of 'Un Altro Libro Sugli UFO' by Franco Ossola

Roberto Farabone reviews Franco Ossola's book, noting that it covers familiar ground in ufology, including sightings, study commissions, contactees, space archaeology, the Blue Book project, the Condon report, and various UFO theories. However, Farabone criticizes the book for being outdated, stating that it largely ignores recent and promising research, mentioning only paraphysics and 'space animals' as recent developments. The reviewer laments that Ossola's work perpetuates the misconception that ufology is solely about data collection and theory-building, neglecting the broader international research efforts by figures like McCampbell, Phillins, Ballester Olmos, Guasn, Ramirez-Barbero, and Per Andersen. Farabone also points out the book's inclusion of a 'mélange' of ufologists, 'space archaeologists,' and contactees in its 'Protagonists' chapter, which he feels adds to the confusion surrounding the subject. The bibliography is also described as old and lacking in quality.

'Operazione «IR - » La tattica del fenomeno Ufo' by Luigi Sorgno

This article explores the 'tactics' allegedly employed by UFO occupants in their interactions with humans. The author, Luigi Sorgno, uses the case of the Hill abduction as a starting point, imagining himself as the 'alien leader.' He questions the aliens' desire to keep the abduction secret while simultaneously leaving behind subtle clues. Sorgno suggests that the aliens might have used artificial means to block the Hills' memories and that the physical traces left behind were intentional. He posits that the aliens' actions were a form of psychological manipulation, akin to the fairy tale of Tom Thumb, designed to ensure the witnesses could later recall the event. The author speculates that 'IR-3' phenomena might be subjective, induced by the ufologists onto a receptive mind. He also touches upon the humanoid appearance of pilots and the unique design of their craft. The article suggests that the aliens' goal is to disseminate the UFO phenomenon globally through various channels, potentially using psychic or mediumistic abilities to establish contact.

Reviews of Other Ufological Publications

ACOM - Notiziario Ufologico (n° 13, December 1979)

This review by Paolo Toselli praises the publication for its original and interesting material, noting its sarcastic and self-critical spirit. It highlights an editorial and a self-critical piece, along with an investigation identifying two UFOs with the planets Venus and the Moon. The issue also includes a catalog of the Alessandria 'flap' and an article by Paolo Fiorino questioning the 'game of hide-and-seek' played by ufologists. Notably, it features an article by Michel Carrouges that challenges the experience of the Hill couple, suggesting it might be an observation of a planet, and attempts to debunk the 'star map' presented by Jean-Marie Gantois. The review mentions a table for identifying UFOs and IFOs, and an article by Dominique Caudron questioning the humanoid nature of ufologists, though it falters by referencing Leonard Stringfield and the Stanford abduction.

Il Cambero (n° 3, October 1979)

This publication is described as a photocopied organ of the 'Universal Center' in Ercolano, Italy. The review notes the presence of a 'First Universal Congress' with limited participation. The congress's topics included the 'universal movement,' parapsychology and ufology, UFOs and terrestrials, and a commemorative discourse on Ercolano. The reviewer sarcastically comments on the state of Italian ufology.

Nuraghex (n° 30, December 1979)

This issue contains a significant portion of ufological content, including reports on a UFO-aircraft encounter over Valencia and a synthesis of the Cergy-Pontoise 'abduction' case, both drawn from the French press. Other news is sourced from Italian and specialized foreign magazines. The review notes that the ufological section primarily consists of case studies, which can become tedious.

La Torre... di Babele (n° 17, January 1980)

This publication has a reduced ufological section, featuring a Sicilian sighting and various press clippings without citations. The reviewer notes an improvement in the recency of the reports.

Arcani (n° 1, January 1980)

This issue marks a new format and a new ufological section responsible, Franco Ossola. Ossola contributes a column and an article, 'Gli UFO assurdo mistero,' which retells the story of the 'turning point' in ufology. The review mentions that Ossola takes over from 'Pier Luigi Dani.'

UFO (December 1979)

This issue is considered the best so far, with a good balance of foreign and Italian content, as well as theoretical articles. It includes a critique of the GEPAN (an acronym for a French UFO investigation group) and an article by Farabone based on a letter from Professor Gille, who claims GEPAN is a French version of the Condon Committee. The issue features varied international case studies, including landings near military bases in Italy and Spain. It also includes postal sections with contributions from 'true believers' and letters opposing terrestrial hypotheses.

UFO (January 1980)

This issue is deemed a significant decline in quality, with a focus on photocopied sheets of case files, including those from the State Meteorological Service. The review criticizes the inclusion of numerous self-citations and a poor photograph. It suggests that the publication is overly concerned with 'official ufology' and neglects actual research.

UFO in Piemonte (UFOs in Piedmont)

This section provides a catalog of UFO sightings in the Piedmont region of Italy, primarily from the 1950s. Each entry includes the date, location, type of sighting (e.g., Poss.ASTR. - Probable Astronomical, PROB.AER. - Probable Aerial, IR-O - Incontri Ravvicinati del Terzo Tipo), and a brief description of the event. Notable cases include:

• December 12, 1954, Venaria: A luminous, spherical object with a bluish-white color was observed rotating and performing impressive maneuvers before disappearing at high speed.
• December 12, 1954, Torino: Similar sightings to Venaria were reported by dozens of people.
• May 14, 1955, Valdellatorre: A luminous globe emitted a beam of light towards observers.
• July 18, 1955, Torino: A long, fusiform object was observed at high altitude.
• July 21, 1955, Torino: A fast-moving object with intermittent flames was seen.
• July 25, 1955, Torino: A small ball of fire was observed on the hills.
• July 25, 1955, San Benigno: A luminous object with a trail was seen.
• August 14, 1955, Torino: A circular, pearly grey object was observed rotating and descending.
• August 6, 1956, Torino: A strange whistling sound preceded the sighting of a large, rotating ball that emitted a loud detonation.
• November 8, 1957, Giaveno: Two disc-shaped objects landed, and a hunter's dog was found carbonized at the site.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical review of ufological literature, particularly its tendency towards outdated information and sensationalism. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine research and what is perceived as 'pseudo-ufology.' The publication seems to favor a more skeptical and analytical approach, questioning established narratives and highlighting international research efforts. The 'UFO in Piemonte' section suggests a focus on documenting historical sightings within Italy. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to sift through the vast amount of ufological material to present more credible and well-researched information, while also acknowledging the limitations of current understanding and the potential for psychological factors in witness accounts.

This issue of "UFO IN PIEMONTE" (Page 11) presents a collection of UFO sighting reports from the Piemonte region of Italy, primarily from the late 1950s and early 1960s. It also includes a significant analytical article by Pierre Guérin titled "TRENT'ANNI DOPO: Il punto sulla situazione ufologica" (Thirty Years Later: The State of Ufology).

UFO Sightings Catalog

The magazine details numerous specific incidents, each with a code, date, time, location, and a brief description, often citing sources. These reports document observations of luminous objects with varying characteristics:

• 1957-11-13, Naples Area: An object was investigated by authorities, with speculation about a Soviet satellite or a local prank.
• 1957-12-20, Oropa: A luminous pink object turned reddish-yellow, becoming brighter and disappearing with a bright glow.
• 1958-10-22, Aosta: Dozens witnessed a red bolide crossing the sky towards Switzerland.
• 1958-11, Biella?: Mr. Locatelli observed a very luminous object moving at airplane altitude.
• 1958-12-08, Candelo: A yellow object with reddish veins and a whitish trail was seen.
• 1959-01-30, Biella: Eugenio Ratto observed a bright green, disc-like object moving faster than an airplane.
• 1959-01-30, Quarona: Workers reported a similar phenomenon to the one in Biella.
• 1959-03-07, Acqui Terme: A spherical, yellowish object with a whitish trail was sighted.
• 1959-03-15, Caselle: Couples near the airport saw a light approaching with an unusual, pendular motion, growing larger.
• 1959-04-17, Verbania: Dozens observed a motionless, luminous object that gradually shrank and disappeared.
• 1959-05-15, Caselle: A repeat of the March 15th sighting.
• 1959-09-07?, Caselle: Twenty-six disc-shaped objects were detected by radar at high speed, along with a larger, low-flying object.
• 1959-09-16, Torino: Mr. and Mrs. Billet observed two powerful light beams, followed by numerous grey, disc-shaped objects with a halo, moving and evading the beams.
• 1959-12-02, Torino: A luminous globe, appearing the size of a football, with a long tail, moved horizontally.
• 1959-05-15, Caselle: A repetition of the March 15th sighting.
• 1959-09-07?, Caselle: Twenty-six disc-shaped objects were detected by radar at high speed, along with a larger, low-flying object.
• 1959-09-16, Torino: Mr. and Mrs. Billet observed two powerful light beams, followed by numerous grey, disc-shaped objects with a halo, moving and evading the beams.
• 1959-12-02, Torino: A luminous globe, appearing the size of a football, with a long tail, moved horizontally.
• 1960-09-17, Asti: Francesco Viarengo and others observed a luminous point approaching from Alessandria.

Article: "TRENT'ANNI DOPO: Il punto sulla situazione ufologica" by Pierre Guérin

Pierre Guérin's article critically assesses the state of ufology thirty years after the initial wave of sightings. He notes that while many cases are eliminated due to misidentification, hoaxes, or pathological hallucinations, a core group of unexplained phenomena remains (1-15% of all reports).

Guérin argues that ufology is currently in an "impasse," with contemporary journals oscillating between two main types of articles:

1. Scientific Interpretations: Physicists attempting to explain UFOs as extraterrestrial probes using magnetohydrodynamics and particle physics, anticipating future advancements in propulsion.
2. Polemical Ufologists: Those who, while convinced of the reality of UFOs, emphasize the deficiencies and improbabilities of the extraterrestrial interpretation, often linking UFO manifestations to parapsychological phenomena or human subconscious imagination.

He also criticizes studies of isolated UFO cases by researchers who haven't investigated them firsthand, leading to generalized conclusions that dismiss sightings as dreams or natural phenomena, effectively denying the existence of UFOs.

Critique of the Extraterrestrial Probe Model

• Guérin finds the classic model of UFOs as extraterrestrial spacecraft flawed for several reasons:
• Interstellar Distances: The immense distances involved make interstellar travel by current or foreseeable technology highly improbable, requiring thousands or millions of years.
• UFO Characteristics: The small size and high frequency of UFO appearances contrast sharply with the concept of massive interstellar vessels.
• Evolution of Forms: The shapes and behaviors of UFOs seem to evolve over time, sometimes mirroring contemporary science fiction narratives, suggesting a psychological or cultural influence rather than purely technological origins.
• Anthropocentrism: The model is criticized for being too human-centric, reflecting current human ideas about space exploration.

He references Bertrand Meheust's work, suggesting that UFOs might be manifestations shaped by human imagination and cultural context, possibly induced artificially in witnesses.

Critique of the Parapsychological Model

Guérin also refutes the parapsychological model, which posits UFOs as materializations of psychic energy triggered by collective anxiety and shaped by contemporary ideas. While acknowledging that this model might explain some aspects that the extraterrestrial probe model cannot, he argues it conflicts with other facts and is ultimately inconsistent.

He dismisses comparisons between UFOs and ectoplasms, highlighting the significant physical differences: ectoplasms absorb infrared light and are associated with cold, whereas UFOs exhibit intense thermal effects, capable of desiccating soil. He asserts that UFOs appear as perfectly structured machines, unlike the amorphous nature of ectoplasms.

Guérin concludes that while UFOs may evoke "paranormal" effects and share analogies with other extraordinary phenomena, they are not simply a type of psychic manifestation. He stresses the need for rigorous scientific methodology, emphasizing the constant comparison of models with observational data and the potential for new data to invalidate existing theories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a critical and analytical approach to ufology. It documents specific sightings while also delving into theoretical discussions about the nature of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, particularly evident in Guérin's article, favors rigorous scientific investigation, skepticism towards simplistic explanations, and a call for a more grounded and less sensationalist approach to the study of UFOs. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between factual reports and speculative interpretations, and on the importance of scientific methodology in understanding the phenomenon.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, dated January 15, 1981, delves into the complex phenomenon of UFOs, critically examining various hypotheses and debunking simplistic explanations. The magazine adopts a rigorous, analytical approach, drawing on statistical studies and scientific research to understand the nature and origin of these aerial objects.

Analysis of UFO Phenomena

The issue begins by refuting the idea that UFO sightings are correlated with population anxiety or psychic states, citing critical analyses that find no such link. It also dismisses the notion that UFO types are influenced by popular fiction, providing examples of UFO sightings that predate or are unrelated to literary works. The article emphasizes that UFOs, unlike mediumistic manifestations, are radically different and appear to be inspired by human imagination across different historical epochs, without direct correlation to psychic fields.

Refuting the 'Spontaneous Waking Hallucination' Model

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to dismantling the 'spontaneous waking hallucination' model, often invoked by rationalists to explain away UFO sightings. The article presents statistical studies, notably those by Dr. Claude Poher, which indicate that the number of UFOs seen increases with angular elevation and is proportional to solar light hours, suggesting a real physical phenomenon rather than a purely psychological one. This statistical evidence is argued to be incompatible with mass hallucinations, which are typically brief and not sustained over long periods or by mentally sound individuals.

The Nature of UFOs: Physical or Psychic?

The analysis contrasts the fleeting nature of common sensory perception disorders with the detailed and often terrifying descriptions of UFO encounters. It highlights that UFO sightings are not typically reported by individuals with pathological disorders, nor are they explained by simple misinterpretations of natural phenomena. The article questions the psychiatric literature's lack of recognition for prolonged, detailed hallucinations in healthy individuals, especially when triggered by mundane observations.

UFOs and the 'Intelligent' Factor

The magazine explores the idea that UFOs are not natural phenomena or human psychic manifestations but are controlled by an external intelligence. It posits that these phenomena are active on our planet and are controlled by a 'Master.' The article suggests that this intelligence may be 'sceneggiando' scenes, possibly using induced hallucinations, with scenarios inspired by the witness's own culture and background. The elusive nature of UFOs is noted, with their behavior sometimes appearing magical or beyond current physical understanding.

Interstellar Travel and Extraterrestrial Intelligence

The issue delves into the concept of interstellar travel, arguing that it is not feasible through conventional means due to the vast distances and the speed of light. However, it entertains the possibility of 'hyperphysics' or space-time shortcuts enabling such travel. The article asserts that countless planetary systems exist in the universe where life has evolved, potentially giving rise to intelligent species far more advanced than humans. It suggests that the galaxy has likely been explored and possibly colonized millions or billions of years ago, long before Earth's formation.

The 'Master' Controlling UFOs

The magazine strongly suggests that an intelligence, not our own, controls UFOs. This intelligence is depicted as having a profound understanding of human technological evolution, capable of creating UFO forms that resonate with human dreams and technological aspirations of different historical periods. The article posits that these phenomena are not random but serve a purpose, possibly related to influencing humanity's development or understanding.

The Resistance to Accepting UFO Reality

A recurring theme is the resistance of 'rationalists' and the broader intelligentsia to accepting the reality of UFOs. The article attributes this to a deep-seated fear, a desire to protect established scientific and religious ideologies, and a reluctance to acknowledge phenomena that defy current scientific paradigms. It suggests that a more open and public study of UFOs would require dismantling the dominant ideology that views humanity as the pinnacle of cosmic evolution.

The Role of Science and Belief

The magazine critiques the scientific method's tendency to dismiss or reinterpret phenomena that do not fit within its existing framework. It argues that science, in its pursuit of logical explanations, has become overly reductive and may be hindering progress in understanding complex phenomena like UFOs. The article contrasts this with the historical tendency to attribute unexplained events to divine or angelic intervention, suggesting that the current resistance to UFOs might be a modern manifestation of this same pattern of belief.

Conclusion and Future Implications

The issue concludes by posing a question about the ultimate purpose of these UFO phenomena and the intelligence behind them. It expresses concern that without a rational integration of UFO evidence into our scientific understanding, humanity may continue to be plagued by credulity and a regression in thought, potentially driven by the very phenomena they are trying to understand.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFOLOGIA include the scientific investigation of UFOs, the critique of rationalist explanations, the exploration of parapsychological and extraterrestrial hypotheses, and the philosophical implications of intelligent life beyond Earth. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, advocating for a rigorous, evidence-based approach to understanding UFO phenomena, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific knowledge and the psychological barriers to accepting unconventional truths. The magazine appears to lean towards the idea of an external intelligence controlling UFOs, but emphasizes the need for further scientific investigation rather than blind acceptance of any single theory.