UFOlogia Supplemento a Clypeus - 1981 No 13

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA
Supplement: SUPPLEMENTO A CLYPEUS N° 73
Issue Date: December 1981
Volume: Anno III, N° 1 (13)
Publisher: Gruppo Clypeus

This issue of UFOLOGIA, a supplement to Clypeus, is dedicated to exploring the "problematic of IFOs" (Identified Flying Objects) and delves into the complexities of perception and testimony in ufological reports. The cover features a graphic representation of a "magic cube" symbolizing the multifaceted nature of ufological reality, encompassing both external UFOs and internal IPOs (which likely refers to IFOs or internal perceptions).

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the magazine's two-year journey and outlines its future direction. It emphasizes a commitment to the programmatic balance of "INFORMATION & CRITICISM." The publication's line has evolved, becoming more precise due to the maturation of the editors' and collaborators' ufological perspectives. The editorial notes a shift away from purely case-based reporting towards ideas, studies, and original contributions, particularly from Italian researchers. This change is partly a response to a perceived crisis in sightings in Italy but more significantly aims to fill a void in the national landscape for specialized technical journals and to foster a more critical engagement with international ufological developments. UFOLOGIA aims to be a didactic tool, publishing stimulating articles that raise questions rather than offering definitive answers, thereby laying the groundwork for a more scientific ufological research.

The magazine intends to continue its role as a "stimulus" by publishing provocative and "heretical" writings, even those that might be rejected a priori. This approach is seen as necessary to encourage debate in an Italian environment that is adept at polemics but less so at accepting and studying new research contributions. The editorial specifically mentions the inclusion of articles from foreign skeptics, not for propaganda purposes, but to integrate all viewpoints that can advance ufological research beyond rigid "skeptic/believer" dichotomies.

Furthermore, the magazine plans to maintain and expand its technical articles, citing examples like statistical applications in ufology and the influence of perceptual systems on ufological reports. The goal is not to provide a "cultural baggage for the perfect ufologist" but to foster a deeper interest in technical and scientific aspects that are often sidelined in favor of pseudo-research driven by exoticism and mystery. To aid comprehension, articles will be supplemented with notes on authors and their writings, providing ideological context.

The "criticism" section has also seen changes. The "Controluce" and "Osservatorio" sections will focus on significant facts and personalities in ufology, moving beyond simple news reporting to offer constructive criticism and insights into new ufological "avant-gardes" and the "status" of research. A dedicated section for reviewing new editorial releases is introduced, recognizing the significant role books play in disseminating preconceptions and unreliable information about the UFO phenomenon.

The "Gli altri dicono" (What others say) section is being re-evaluated. After two years, its original purpose is considered largely fulfilled, and its continuation is uncertain due to the repetitive and uninspired nature of most ufological publications, which offer little material for critique. The editorial suggests a need for a new direction for this section.

Regarding collaborators, Roberto D'Amico and Flavio Roux are leaving, while Massimo Nebbia, already a collaborator since 1978, is joining. The cover artwork is described as the "magic cube" of ufological reality, representing both external UFOs and internal IPOs.

Finally, UFOLOGIA is transitioning to an "aperiodic" publication. The reimbursement fee of L. 10,000 will cover a certain quantity of published material rather than a fixed annual subscription. The initial plan was for six 32-page issues (numbers 13 to 18), but this issue (No. 13) has four extra pages. Future issues will maintain flexibility in page count based on material availability, aiming for an equivalent total page count. This elasticity is driven by the need to develop specific themes, as seen in issue No. 12's focus on mythology and this issue's dedication to the "problematica ifologica." The goal is to guide Italian ufology out of its current stagnation, which benefits those content with their established positions but hinders progress towards scientific research standards.

The editorial addresses criticisms of being purely destructive, asserting that the magazine aims to rebuild the 'constructed' nature of ufology by first clearing away the foundations.

I.F.O.: Perceptual and Testimonial Ambiguities in Ufological Reports

This extensive article by Paolo Toselli, an expanded version of a presentation given in Bologna in October 1980, addresses the critical reassessment of ufological research and focuses on the phenomenon of IFOs. Toselli notes that a significant majority (80-90%) of UFO sightings are actually recognizable objects. He criticizes the common ufological practice of discarding these cases, likening it to a diamond seeker who throws away a sapphire because it's not a diamond. Toselli highlights the importance of thoroughly studying IFOs, a stance he and his colleagues have championed since 1975, and which is supported by prominent international ufologists.

Toselli explains that IFOs are crucial for UFO study because, as J. Allen Hynek stated, their evaluation must precede that of UFOs, as mixing them distorts the overall assessment. An "UFO" is essentially a residual category after all possible identifications have been made. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of IFO formation is essential.

He further elaborates on the process of testimony analysis, detailing how the initial stimulus (e.g., light energy from an object) undergoes numerous "passages" or "filters" at the levels of perception, memory, recall, and verbalization. These filters, including atmospheric conditions, optical effects (like looking through glass or jet exhaust), and even the observer's physiological state (tiredness, illness, visual impairments), can significantly alter the perceived characteristics of an object, making it difficult to accurately assess its true properties, such as size, distance, or speed.

The article details how the visual system processes light, from the retina's photoreceptors (rods for low light, cones for color) to the transmission of neural impulses to the brain. It explains how factors like adaptation to darkness, peripheral vision, and the quality of light can affect visual acuity. The observer's state of vigilance, physical condition, and emotional state (tension, anxiety) can lead to distorted perceptions.

Toselli points out that the perception of an object is an active process of interpretation, where the observer assigns characteristics based on incoming data and their own experiences, beliefs, and expectations. This interpretation can be influenced by suggestion and can lead to different perceptions even when faced with the same external reality. The recall of the perceived event is also subject to modification over time and through retelling, especially when interacting with an investigator.

He criticizes the dogmatic "Orthodoxy of Ufology," which labels critical thinkers and those who question established beliefs as "heretics" or "traitors." Toselli argues that true ufological research requires an open mind, free from the constraints of faith-based belief systems, and that a scientific approach necessitates questioning and deconstructing existing frameworks.

The article emphasizes that the testimony itself is not a direct copy of reality but a reconstruction influenced by numerous factors. The process of interrogation can further impact the testimony, with leading questions, excessive criticism, or pressure leading to inaccuracies. Toselli concludes that understanding human testimony, especially concerning unusual phenomena like UFOs, is far more complex than often assumed.

Reviews

This section includes reviews of ufological books:

• "Intelligenze extraterrestri" (Extraterrestrial Intelligences)
• "Dossier UFO" (UFO Dossier)

What Others Say

This section presents different perspectives on ufological topics:

• The theory of interaction
• Reflections on the character of IR-3 (likely referring to a specific type of UFO or phenomenon)
• Rationalism anti-ufology

Other Contributions

The issue acknowledges contributions from Claude Maugé and Roberto Pinotti. It also expresses gratitude to Carol Fattish for typing a significant portion of the texts.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

This issue of UFOLOGIA strongly advocates for a critical, scientific, and open-minded approach to ufology. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous analysis, particularly of IFOs, and the need to move beyond dogma and simplistic categorizations. The magazine positions itself as a platform for debate and the dissemination of research that challenges conventional thinking, aiming to elevate the study of UFO phenomena in Italy. Recurring themes include the analysis of perception, the reliability of testimony, the critique of established ufological narratives, and the promotion of scientific methodology in the field.

This issue of Phénomènes Spatiaux, dated September 1975, delves into the complex interplay between UFO sightings, human perception, and psychological phenomena. It presents a collection of articles that aim to demystify some reported aerial anomalies by examining them through the lens of psychology, physics, and known events.

The 'Zond IV' Incident and Witness Testimony

The issue opens with a detailed account of an event on March 3, 1968, where a woman in Tennessee reported seeing a large, cigar-shaped object with square windows and a fiery tail. Her report, submitted to the Air Force, described the object moving in a slight arc and appearing very large and close. She noted metallic aspects and internal illumination from the 'windows,' and a red-orange-yellow trail emanating from the rear. The object was ultimately identified as the reentry of the Soviet probe 'Zond IV.' The article highlights how the Air Force collected dozens of testimonies for this event, producing a report of over 400 pages.

Another report from an Ohio science teacher describes an object that initially appeared as a meteor but transformed into three objects in a 'perfect military formation.' The teacher attempted to signal the object with a flashlight, receiving no response, and noted his dog's distress. This report is presented alongside the 'Zond IV' incident to draw parallels.

The 'Airship Effect' and Psychological Interpretation

William Hartmann's research is introduced, proposing the 'airship effect' as a subjective tendency to connect luminous sources and interpret them as familiar shapes, particularly airships, driven by the polarization of such concepts in ufology. This phenomenon is linked to experimental psychology, where observers spontaneously perceive patterns, such as a triangle, from isolated points. The article explains that these perceived lines are 'amodal' – not literally seen but phenomenally present, influencing visual organization.

Gaetano Kanissa, a psychology professor at the University of Trieste, is cited, explaining that these imaginary lines are psychologically present and exert a coercive influence on visual perception, indicating a tendency to 'complete' incomplete objects.

Case Studies: Meteors, Fireballs, and Misinterpretations

The magazine examines several historical events to illustrate how phenomena are interpreted:

• France and Belgium, April 25, 1975: An extremely bright meteor was observed by hundreds, leading to 'ufological' hypotheses. Astronomer Pierre Kohler collected 120 testimonies, noting that witnesses often reported different times for the same event, despite its brief duration (maximum 20 seconds).
• Saskatchewan, Canada, February 9, 1913: Numerous fireballs with star-like appearances and long tails traversed the sky. The event, investigated by Chant, involved objects described by some as 'airships,' demonstrating the recurring 'airship effect.'
• West Virginia, 1962: A meteor shower featured extremely bright fireballs and blinding flashes, accompanied by sonic booms. Researcher Frank Drake investigated numerous testimonies, finding that witness memories transform rapidly, with reports becoming inaccurate within days.

Drake's findings suggest that witnesses often reconstruct events imaginatively based on fading memories. He also notes a curious phenomenon where witnesses report hearing a loud noise simultaneously with the visual sighting of a meteor, which is physically impossible, suggesting a psychological rather than physical simultaneity.

Subjectivity of Perception: Time, Duration, and Sensory Anomalies

The issue emphasizes the subjective nature of perception, particularly concerning time and duration. Citing Albert Einstein's relativity analogy, it explains how perceived duration can be distorted by emotional state and experience. Robert Ornstein's work on the psychology of consciousness and Henri Bergson's observations on the experience of time are referenced.

Drake's investigation into the 1962 meteor shower revealed significant discrepancies in witness estimates of duration, with some reporting seconds and others minutes. Similarly, speed estimates varied wildly, and often, faster perceived speeds were associated with shorter durations, contradicting physical expectations.

Optical Illusions and Afterimages

The magazine explores various perceptual phenomena that can lead to misinterpretations:

• Consecutive Images: After observing a bright object, a dark afterimage (negative consecutive image) may persist. Similarly, after watching a moving object, a phantom motion can be perceived in the opposite direction.
• Color and Orientation Effects: The 'McCollough effect' demonstrates how prolonged exposure to colored or oriented lines can induce complementary color afterimages or perceived distortions in vertical lines for days.
• Fusion of Afterimages: Under specific conditions, two separate afterimages can merge to form a continuous line or structure.
• Positive Consecutive Images: Less common, these involve seeing a light source appear to float and move with eye movements.
• Endoptic Phenomena: These are visual phenomena originating within the eye, such as 'muscae volitantes' (floaters) caused by particles in the vitreous humor. Other examples include the perception of blood vessels or the 'yellow spot' under unusual lighting conditions.

Conclusion

This issue of Phénomènes Spatiaux concludes that many reported UFO sightings can be explained by a combination of known physical events (like meteor reentry), psychological tendencies (like the 'airship effect' and pattern recognition), and optical illusions or afterimages. The subjective nature of witness testimony, influenced by memory, expectation, and perceptual biases, plays a significant role in how these phenomena are reported and interpreted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the psychological interpretation of visual phenomena, the unreliability of eyewitness testimony due to perceptual biases, and the tendency to attribute unusual aerial sightings to extraterrestrial origins when more mundane explanations exist. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to provide rational and scientific explanations for reported anomalies, while acknowledging the subjective reality of the witnesses' experiences. The magazine encourages readers to consider psychological and perceptual factors when evaluating such reports.

This issue of "OSSERVATORIO" (Observatory), dated January 1981, with issue number 26 and volume 26, is published by GNEOVNI in Italy and is in Italian. The cover headline asks, "Dove sono finiti ?" (Where have they gone?). The issue delves into the perceived decline in UFO sightings and explores the psychological underpinnings of witness testimony.

The Decline in UFO Sightings

The editorial notes a significant drop in UFO sightings, describing it as a 'lean period' for ufologists who had grown accustomed to the abundance of sightings during the 1970s. This phenomenon is presented as global, not limited to Italy. Charles Bowen of "Flying Saucer Review" is quoted, suggesting a return to a 'dark age' similar to the 1958-63 period. The article dismisses simplistic sociological explanations, such as the idea that UFOs are solely a product of American culture imported to Europe, and points out the resurgence of religious movements in the USA, which some might incorrectly link to the decline in UFO reports.

Psychological Factors in Witness Testimony

The core of the issue focuses on the unreliability and complexity of human memory and perception in UFO reports. The article discusses how experiences are not passively recorded but are actively reconstructed, influenced by subsequent thoughts and the need for meaning. Psychologist Bartlett's work on memory is cited, explaining how lost information is modified and how 'crazy' aspects of an event are transformed to make more sense.

An experiment by Frank Drake is mentioned, illustrating how witnesses tend to make drawings of incomplete figures more symmetrical and complete over time, suggesting a subconscious effort to 'improve' their descriptions.

A case involving Dominique Caudron and witness Mme Mausart from October 3, 1954, is presented. Initially, the object was described as mushroom-shaped with a violet or greenish light. However, 24 years later, the witness recalled it as a classic flying saucer with a dome, which the article reveals was actually the Moon.

This highlights the semantic nature of the UFO/IFO (Identified Flying Object) problem. Research on visual perception and memory indicates that images are not stored as words, making recall dependent on associative activity where words are applied to visual images. Without this, recall can be difficult.

Memory and Perception Experiments

Figure 9 illustrates how witnesses add details to descriptions over time, making them more logical. The case shows three stages of a drawing over months, evolving from an incomplete figure to a perfect equilateral triangle. Figure 10 shows the evolution of a witness's drawing of a UFO, which, after 24 years, no longer matched the original description or contemporary depictions, and was ultimately identified as the Moon.

The Difficulty of Describing and Evaluating Testimony

It is difficult to use words to describe memories accurately, complicating the analysis of testimony. A significant challenge is determining whether witnesses are reporting independently or are influenced by external factors. The pre-existing knowledge and beliefs of a witness are also complex to ascertain. While memory is fallible, it's conceivable that many witnesses are unconsciously influenced by information they've read or heard.

M. Sherif's classic experiment on autokinesis is described, where individuals observing a stationary light in a dark room perceived it as moving. Over time, group members converged on a shared perception, demonstrating how social factors influence individual perception.

This influence is crucial, especially since UFO reports often have multiple witnesses, which one might expect to increase reliability. However, the assumption that expert observers are immune to misperception is challenged.

Analysis of Blue Book Data

Statistics from the Blue Book, reviewed by CUFOS, surprisingly show that military and civilian pilots, followed by radar technicians, are most prone to mistaking fireflies for lanterns. American police are highlighted as having the highest rate of 'failures' in investigations, referencing incidents in Italy in late 1978 and early 1979.

William Powers, chief engineer at Searborn Observatory, investigated a phenomenon in 1966 identified as a barium cloud from rocket experiments. His report concluded that adults are not necessarily better observers than children, nor are responsible individuals better reporters than those with ordinary occupations. He stated that a clear distinction between 'trustworthy' and 'untrustworthy' is not possible.

The Ubiquity of Misinterpretation

The article questions why, for decades, thousands of people have mistaken simple phenomena like stars, meteorites, airplanes, or the Moon for UFOs. It argues that atmospheric conditions, witness ignorance, or a simple bright star being mistaken for an unidentified object are not sufficient explanations alone. A particular 'psychological state' of the witness is proposed.

A case of a French farmer in 1954 who shot at his neighbor, mistaking him for a Martian near his flying saucer, is cited. Reports of witnesses identifying stars or Venus as UFOs for hours are also mentioned, challenging the idea that misinterpretations of mundane stimuli are always brief.

While some witnesses do realize their error, this is not common. The article emphasizes the role of 'interpretation' in perceiving phenomena.

The Morrison Case and Perceptual Shifts

Philip Morrison's account of three radio astronomers observing a large, silent, cigar-shaped object with illuminated windows is recounted. They initially identified it as a remarkable UFO. However, a change in wind and the sound of the aircraft's engines revealed it to be an ordinary airliner, closer than they thought. This shift in perspective completely altered their vision of the phenomenon.

Collective and Emotional Interpretation

Errors in interpretation tend to be repetitive and follow a pattern, suggesting a collective schema. Allan Hendry's work indicates that people unconsciously project UFO observation models onto IFOs. Hendry suggests this points to a fundamental 'emotional programming' on a vast scale, where fear and emotions associated with sightings are disproportionate to the actual experience and are driven by anticipations.

Latent UFO Image and Archetypes

Neurophysiological and psychophysical studies suggest that we construct internal models of the external world, filtering information based on these models. When new information significantly differs, we become consciously aware of it.

Charles Furst's research on repeated image observation shows how our eyes develop fixed patterns, leading us to ignore parts of familiar scenes. This 'habituation' can lead to unusual interpretations of stimuli, such as seeing a bright star as a UFO.

An example from Philip Morrison describes a police officer reporting a UFO that landed. Investigators found an aluminum tank used for livestock. The officer had seen a shiny object in the distance while driving, and his assumption of it landing led to the misinterpretation.

'Habituation' alone is insufficient to explain UFO reports. The semi-conscious state during routine actions, where most sightings occur, also contributes to perceptual distortion.

The question of why UFOs are particularly prone to misinterpretation leads to the concept of a 'latent UFO image.' Given the popularity of the topic, most people have 'ufological knowledge.' This latent image may arise from archetypal components of the unconscious, surfacing during moments of relaxation.

Cryptomnesia and Transposition

Beveridge suggests that intuitions often come to researchers during moments when rational thought is suspended. The mathematician Poincaré experienced a sudden idea while driving. Applying these concepts to UFO experiences, habituation, witness psychology, and Hendry's 'anticipation' can lead to the 'latent UFO image' emerging in a witness's consciousness, similar to cryptomnesia. This could involve a 'transposition' of a UFO-like image onto an unidentified stimulus, akin to Rorschach inkblot interpretations.

This is not necessarily pathological; the sheer volume of IFO reports suggests it's a normal phenomenon, applicable beyond just UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the psychological and perceptual factors contributing to UFO reports, particularly the role of memory, interpretation, and 'habituation.' The editorial stance appears critical of simplistic explanations and highlights the unreliability of witness testimony when not rigorously analyzed. It suggests that many UFO sightings are likely misinterpretations of mundane phenomena, influenced by psychological biases and the cultural 'myth' of the flying saucer. The article advocates for a more scientific and critical approach to ufology, acknowledging the limitations of human perception and memory.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, published by Edizioni Mediterranee in January 1982, is the 19th issue of Volume VI. It addresses the perceived decline in UFO sightings and media interest, termed 'UFO saturation,' and explores the future of ufological research. The magazine features reviews of recent publications, discussions on scientific methodologies, and updates on ufological organizations.

The Decline of UFO Interest and Media Coverage

The lead article discusses the phenomenon of 'UFO saturation,' where the constant stream of UFO news has led to public and media desensitization. It contrasts the extensive media coverage of a 1978 meteor event with the minimal coverage of a similar event in November 1980, attributing this difference to a decline in public interest. The article posits that this lull might be a necessary period for the maturation of ufology, allowing for deeper reflection and documentation rather than frantic investigation.

Recognition for Scientific Ufology

A significant piece of news is the award given by the Fund for UFO Research to 'UFO Phenomena International Annual Review' (UPIAR), an Italian publication. The Fund, dedicated to supporting scientific UFO research, recognized UPIAR for its rigorous approach, highlighting the lack of such reputable scientific journals in the field. The article also announces the expansion of UPIAR's editorial team and the upcoming launch of a quarterly supplement, 'UPIAR-Research in Progress.'

GEPAN's Activities and Publications

The issue provides an update on the activities of GEPAN (Groupe d'Etudes des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiès), the French governmental UFO investigation office. It notes the growth of the GEPAN team and its increased funding. GEPAN has published nine fascicles over the past two years, including seven 'Note Tecniche' detailing research results and two 'Note Informative' for public dissemination. These technical notes, particularly NT 1 and NT 3, are praised for their methodological rigor and analysis of UFO research problems, offering a sophisticated approach that is rare in the field.

Reviews of UFO Publications

The 'recensioni' (reviews) section critically examines several recent UFO books and publications:

• "Intelligenze Extraterrestri" by Maurizio Blondet & Roberto Pinotti: This review criticizes the book for relying heavily on sensationalism and the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH) without providing a precise framework for understanding the phenomenon. The reviewer argues that the book risks promoting misinformation and associating UFOs with aliens, alienating scientific and official bodies.
• "Dossier UFO" by Paolo Di Girolamo: This review dismisses the book as 'folklore ufologico,' criticizing its superficiality, sensationalism, and lack of documentation. It argues that the book perpetuates outdated arguments and the ETH, hindering genuine UFO research by focusing on 'little green men' rather than objective investigation.
• "Gli altri dicono" (Various Publications): This section, curated by Paolo Gastaldi, offers critical commentary on numerous UFO publications from 1981. Gastaldi notes a proliferation of 'graphic' publications but criticizes them for repeating past errors and lacking originality. He singles out publications like 'NUOVA ERA' for offering some valid insights despite relying heavily on foreign material. Other publications are criticized for their lack of quality, repetitive content, or adherence to outdated theories.
• "DOCUMENTI UFO": Praised for maintaining originality and providing a platform for ideas, including methodological discussions.
• "GLI ARCANI" and "GIORNALE DEI MISTERI": Criticized for their limited UFO content and reliance on anecdotal evidence or copied material. The review notes a polemic within 'GLI ARCANI' regarding scientific methodology.

Theoretical Discussions

The issue includes articles discussing theoretical aspects of ufology:

• "LA TEORIA DELL' INTERAZIONE O COMUNITARIA" by Marco Mucci: This article proposes an updated version of the para-physical hypothesis, suggesting that UFOs are para-physical entities that interact with the environment and witnesses' cultural frameworks, leading to secondary manifestations like abductions. While acknowledging the idea's potential, the reviewer notes its lack of scientific rigor and its reliance on the same flawed data collected by less competent ufologists.
• "RIFLESSIONI SUL CARATTERE DEGLI IR-3" by Gianfranco Mieli and Massimo Pigliucci: This article analyzes the characteristics of IR-3 cases. While praised for its construction, the review points out the authors' tendency to draw general conclusions from questionable qualitative data and their adherence to 'ufological' methods.
• "RAZIONALISMO ANTI-UFOLOGICO": This piece critiques an article that defends rational explanations for UFO sightings. The reviewer argues that while simplistic explanations can be problematic, ufologists have historically engaged in speculative theories, and criticizing rationalism without acknowledging past errors is hypocritical.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the state of ufology in the early 1980s. There is a strong emphasis on the need for a more scientific and rigorous approach to the study of UFO phenomena, moving away from pure speculation and the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The magazine highlights organizations and publications that are striving for this scientific rigor, such as GEPAN and UPIAR. The editorial stance appears to favor critical analysis and methodological soundness, as evidenced by the critical reviews of several books and articles that are deemed sensationalist or lacking in evidence. The issue also reflects on the role of media in shaping public perception of UFOs and the challenges faced by researchers in gaining credibility.