Notiziario UFO - 1969 No 6

Magazine Overview

This issue of NOTIZIARIO, dated 1969, is published by the Centro Unico Nazionale (CUN), an Italian organization dedicated to the study of phenomena believed to be of extraterrestrial origin. The magazine's cover features holiday greetings in multiple languages, with the main title "NOTIZIARIO" prominently displayed.

Editorial: "Dischi," Extraterrestrials? Let's Stop Joking

The editorial section, under the title "Dischi," Extraterrestrials? Smettiamola di scherzare" (Discs, Extraterrestrials? Let's Stop Joking), discusses the US Air Force's decision to cease its UFO research program. The article highlights that after twenty years, the program yielded no evidence of a threat to national security or extraterrestrial visitors. This decision was based on a study by the University of Colorado, which concluded that the hypothesis of extraterrestrial visitors is the least plausible.

The editorial also touches upon the controversy surrounding the Condon Report, a scientific study on UFOs funded by the USAF. It notes that the report, while not denying the phenomenon, did not prove its extraterrestrial nature and was deemed not to be a threat to US security. The article mentions the collaboration between the USAF and the University of Colorado with NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena), a civilian organization, and the subsequent friction that led to the withdrawal of NICAP members.

Key Articles and Reports

"L'AMERICA CESSA LE RICERCHE SUGLI 'U.F.O.'" (America Ceases Research on 'U.F.O.s')
This article reports on the official closure of the US Air Force's UFO research program after twenty years. It states that none of the 12,618 reported sightings provided evidence of a threat to national security or extraterrestrial origin. The decision was influenced by a study from the University of Colorado, which found the extraterrestrial hypothesis to be the least plausible.

"I dischi volanti ci spiano" (Flying Saucers are Spying on Us)
This piece discusses a proposal for a world congress by LEUFON (Intercontinental UFO Research and Analytic Network) to examine the vast amount of material collected on UFOs over the past 25 years. The report emphasizes the need for an international body to address the phenomenon, especially in light of potential public panic from unannounced landings. It suggests that UFO activity appears to be a peaceful observation by unidentified space powers, gathering data on Earth's progress, resources, and civilization.

"Rapporto Condon" (Condon Report)
This section critically examines the Condon Report, highlighting the controversies and skepticism surrounding it. It suggests that the report's conclusions were influenced by a preconceived skepticism and a desire to avoid compromising scientific credibility. The article also mentions a book written by Dr. Saunders in collaboration with R. Harkins, which challenges the Condon Report's findings.

"Una casistica imponente" (An Impressive Case List)
This section focuses on the work of the Centro Unico Nazionale (CUN) in Italy, which investigates UFO phenomena with a realistic approach, aiming to separate fact from sensationalism. The CUN has collected a significant amount of data and proposes to make some of its most significant findings public, including a photograph taken in Gargano in 1966.

Specific Sightings and Incidents:

• Oloron, France (October 17, 1952): A cylindrical object was observed, followed by smaller, reddish, spherical objects with yellow rings, moving in a zig-zag pattern and leaving a white trail.
• Gaillac, France (October 27, 1952): A cigar-shaped object was observed, accompanied by smaller objects, and a filamentous substance fell from the sky.
• Prato, Italy (October 27, 1954): Two luminous cigar-shaped objects were observed, followed by a white trail, moving at high speed.
• Florence, Italy (April 10, 1962): A landed flying saucer was encountered, and the witness was taken aboard by its humanoid crew and later released.
• Gargano, Italy (September 1966): A bank official observed two flying objects, one priest-hat shaped and the other cigar-shaped, and took photographs.
• Italy (July 17, 1967): Numerous newspaper accounts of UFOs seen throughout Italy on this night are reproduced.
• Australia (Date unspecified): An Anglican pastor, Lionel Browning, reported seeing a spacecraft and five or six flying saucers in the sky.

Book Reviews and References:

The issue includes a review of "UFOS AND RELATED SUBJECTS: AN ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY" by Lynn E. Catoe, published by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research. It also lists various Italian and international publications related to UFOs, including works by Roberto Pinotti, Alberto Perego, Livio Caputo, and others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFOs, the skepticism from official bodies like the USAF, and the persistent efforts of civilian organizations like the CUN to gather and analyze evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the phenomenon while urging for rigorous scientific study and caution against sensationalism. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible reports and mere speculation or hallucination. The magazine champions the idea that scientific understanding evolves, and what seems impossible today may become fact tomorrow, as suggested by the quote from Lynn E. Catoe.

The issue also touches upon the historical aspect of UFOs, with references to ancient records and myths that might suggest past extraterrestrial visitations. The CUN's role is presented as crucial in providing a more grounded and objective approach to the UFO phenomenon, countering the tendency for misinformation and public panic.

This issue of "Notiziario" from July 1969, published by CUN, focuses on the intersection of UFO phenomena, religion, and mythology, exploring the 'ancient astronaut' theory. The cover features a striking image and the provocative question, "WAS GOD AN ASTRONAUT?", setting the tone for an in-depth investigation into whether extraterrestrials visited Earth in antiquity.

Key Articles and Themes

The Ancient Astronaut Hypothesis

The issue presents a compelling argument for the presence of extraterrestrials in Earth's past, drawing on a wide range of evidence. The introductory note by Lynn E. Catoe expresses a hope that humanity will one day discover the exact nature and origin of UFOs. The magazine highlights the work of various authors and researchers who have contributed to this field.

Book Reviews and Mentions:

Several books are featured, underscoring the growing interest in the subject. Antonio Ribera's works, "CASO PERFECTO" and "PLATILLOS VOLANTES ANTE LA CAMARA," are noted for their detailed analysis of UFO cases and photographic evidence. Eugenio Danyans' "PLATILLOS VOLANTES EN LA ACTUALIDAD" and "PLATILLOS VOLANTES EN LA ANTIGUEDAD" are also mentioned. The issue references "LOS HUMANIDES" by Brad Steiger and "FENOMENOS INSOLITOS DEL ESPACIO" by Varl, among others, all published by Editorial Pomaire in Barcelona.

Prehistoric Evidence:

The article "Non è più un'ipotesi fantascientifica, dicono gli studiosi" (It's no longer a science fiction hypothesis, say scholars) by VIE NUOVE presents striking parallels between ancient art and modern space technology. It discusses prehistoric drawings found in the USSR and Switzerland that depict figures wearing helmets and suits, resembling astronauts. The article also touches upon the discovery of aluminum in ancient Chinese tombs from 300 AD, suggesting advanced technological knowledge.

Japanese 'Dogu' Figurines:

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the enigmatic Japanese 'dogu' figurines. These terracotta statues, dating back thousands of years, are analyzed for their uncanny resemblance to modern space suits, complete with helmets, goggles, and articulated joints. The article notes that even NASA has shown interest in these findings, with a similar suit being developed for experimental purposes.

Mayan and Other Ancient Civilizations:

The issue explores the possibility of extraterrestrial influence on other ancient civilizations, including the Maya. A relief from the Temple of the Inscriptions in Palenque is presented, depicting a figure in what appears to be a spacecraft, complete with controls and propulsion systems. The article "L'UOMO, UN CATTIVO ALLIEVO" (Man, a Bad Student) by Dr. Roger W. Wescott suggests that extraterrestrials may have civilized humanity millennia ago but abandoned them due to their poor progress.

The 'Martian' Rock Painting:

A letter from G. Shatskey in Samarcand, dated December 1, 1965, shares a photograph of a rock painting depicting a 'Martian' with a halo. Shatskey, who studies ancient hunting and cattle-breeding practices based on rock paintings and petroglyphs, expresses interest in UFOs and requests more information. This painting is seen as a significant piece of evidence supporting the ancient astronaut theory.

Sunday Mirror's Series:

The magazine references a series in the British newspaper SUNDAY MIRROR, based on Erich von Däniken's book "WAS GOD AN ASTRONAUT?" This series is highlighted as a major factor in the widespread acceptance of these theories, confirming that the questions raised by the ancient astronaut hypothesis are being considered globally.

Theories that Answer the Riddle of the Universe:

This cover story encapsulates the magazine's central theme, suggesting that ancient texts and artifacts, when re-examined through the lens of modern scientific understanding, offer potential answers to the mysteries of the universe and humanity's origins.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ancient astronaut theory, the interpretation of ancient artifacts and texts as evidence of extraterrestrial contact, and the re-evaluation of religious and historical narratives in light of these possibilities. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, presenting various theories and evidence without necessarily endorsing them as definitive proof, but rather as compelling points for consideration and further research. The magazine encourages readers to question established historical and scientific paradigms and to consider alternative explanations for humanity's past.

Title: Panorama
Issue Date: July 31, 1969
Publisher: Arnoldo Mondadori Editore
Country: Italy
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Panorama magazine, titled 'TUTTE LE ASTRONAVI PORTANO A DIO' (All Spaceships Lead to God), delves into the complex relationship between UFO phenomena, ancient religious texts, theology, and the burgeoning field of space exploration. It presents a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from history, biblical studies, physics, and theological speculation to explore the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence and its potential connection to humanity's spiritual heritage.

Ancient Testimonies and Biblical Interpretations

The magazine begins by examining historical accounts that predate modern UFO sightings. It references a passage from Julius Obsequens' 'Book of Prodigies' (98 BC) describing an object crossing the sky, and a detailed account from the Battle of Lepanto (1571) where a fiery column was observed. A significant portion of the analysis focuses on biblical narratives, particularly the Book of Ezekiel and the story of the Ark of the Covenant. The authors propose that descriptions of divine manifestations in the Old Testament, such as Ezekiel's vision of a fiery chariot with living creatures and wheels, or the Ark of the Covenant's construction and function, could be interpreted as encounters with advanced technology or extraterrestrial beings.

Werner Keller's work, which posits that biblical texts are historical rather than mythical, is cited to support the idea that these ancient accounts warrant a re-examination through the lens of UFO phenomenology. The 'fiery column' guiding the Israelites through the desert is suggested to be a UFO, and the Ark of the Covenant is theorized to be an electrical device, possibly a transmitter, based on its description and the biblical accounts of its power.

Extraterrestrial Visitors and Religious Figures

The magazine explores the controversial theory, popularized by philologist Vladimir Zaitsev, that Jesus Christ might have been a cosmonaut from another planet. This theory suggests that Jesus's references to his 'kingdom not of this world' and his 'Father in heaven' could allude to an extraterrestrial origin. The 'star' seen by the shepherds in Bethlehem is interpreted as his spaceship. While this idea has faced criticism, particularly from Soviet media, it is presented as part of a broader discussion about the potential for divine figures to be interpreted as advanced beings from other worlds.

Theological Perspectives on Extraterrestrial Life

Several theologians and scholars weigh in on the implications of discovering inhabited planets. They generally agree that the existence of other intelligent beings would not contradict Christian doctrine but would rather underscore the grandeur of the Creator. The discussion touches upon whether extraterrestrials would possess souls, have committed original sin, and if Christ's redemption applies to them. The consensus among many is that God's plan is universal and that any extraterrestrial life would be part of His creation, possibly having received different forms of divine revelation or grace.

Scholars like Yves Congar suggest that God's incarnation could potentially extend to beings on other planets, while others, like Johann Pohle, argued in 1920 for the existence of multiple inhabited worlds as a testament to God's power and mercy.

Physics of UFOs and Reported Sightings

Ing. Stefano Breccia contributes a section on the physics of UFOs, theorizing about the propulsion systems that might enable them to achieve incredible speeds and maneuverability. He discusses the concept of a 'barrier' that modifies local spacetime, allowing for propulsion and protection. This barrier is hypothesized to be generated by specific shapes, such as disks or cigars, and its interaction with the environment could explain phenomena like localized burns or electromagnetic disturbances.

The magazine also reports on several specific UFO sightings and related phenomena:

• A rhombus-shaped object observed over Brindisi, Italy, that split and rejoined.
• A luminous object seen over the Appia Antica, Italy.
• A mysterious phenomenon in New Zealand where an area of ground became desiccated and radioactive, with plants carbonized internally, attributed to UFO activity.
• The article also mentions the 'secondary effects' of UFO landings, hinting at future analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reinterpretation of ancient religious texts through the lens of modern UFO phenomena, the theological implications of extraterrestrial life, and the scientific exploration of space. The magazine adopts an open-minded yet analytical stance, encouraging readers to consider unconventional interpretations of historical and religious accounts. It emphasizes that while evidence for extraterrestrial visitation is still largely circumstantial, the consistent patterns across different cultures and time periods warrant serious investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity, challenging established paradigms and inviting a broader understanding of humanity's place in the cosmos and its spiritual heritage.

This issue of Il Giornale d'Italia, dated September 17-20, 1969, features a prominent cover story titled "Corpo misterioso segue l'Apollo" (Mysterious Body Follows Apollo). The headline highlights that astronauts could not distinguish the nature of the object, while technicians theorized it might be the third stage of the Saturn V rocket. The issue also includes reports from other Italian newspapers, "Il Resto del Carlino" and "La Stampa," dated November 17, 1969, and October 28, 1969, respectively, suggesting a broader coverage of the event or similar phenomena.

Article: Corpo misterioso segue l'Apollo

The main article details the events surrounding the Apollo mission. Astronauts aboard Apollo 12 reported an unidentified object following their spacecraft. Mission control in Houston analyzed the situation and, after careful examination of signals and data, concluded that the object was not a threat and likely space debris, possibly a Soviet probe or a 'flying saucer.' The astronauts were reassured and told to "go to sleep peacefully, the mysterious body is not a danger nor anything hostile; no one is chasing you."

Article: Allucinazione o Realtà? (Hallucination or Reality?)

This section presents a personal account from an individual who claims to have witnessed a luminous object near Appia Antica. The narrator describes a disk-shaped object emitting colored flares and then splitting into bubbles. He recounts a sensation of his skin transforming into something "piscido e nousounte" (slimy and unspeakable) after a white light contacted him. He fled to his car and later observed that his hands and face had returned to normal. Other witnesses reportedly saw a luminous object moving slowly in the sky, and a retired Air Force colonel also claimed to have sighted a similar object moving east.

Article: Era un pallone-sonda quel corpo luminoso? (Was that luminous body a weather balloon?)

This article, likely from "La Stampa" dated October 28, 1969, discusses a luminous object sighted in Italy between 5 PM and 6 PM on September 20, 1969. Numerous people in the city and surrounding provinces reported seeing the object at a great height. Meteorologists from the meteorological service of Caselle suggested it was likely a weather balloon launched from a Swiss or German airport for meteorological data collection. The article describes the characteristics of such balloons, their size (approximately 2 meters in diameter and 3 meters in height), and their function in measuring atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, and wind direction. It notes that winds at high altitudes on that day in Caselle were from the north-northwest. While this explanation is favored, the article does not entirely dismiss the possibility of it being an artificial satellite or a fragment of a space rocket.

Article: Il Resto del Carlino Report

An excerpt from "Il Resto del Carlino" dated November 17, 1969, mentions that the astronauts remained convinced that a power failure in the onboard electrical systems during the Saturn V's ascent was caused by lightning. However, technicians believed it was due to static electricity discharge from the rocket itself, a phenomenon described as a form of "counter-lightning." This hypothesis was reportedly formulated by astronaut Conrad.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the presence of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) or unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and their potential connection to space exploration, particularly the Apollo missions. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these sightings and providing various explanations, ranging from technical malfunctions and space debris to more conventional explanations like weather balloons. There is an attempt to ground the extraordinary claims in scientific or technical reasoning, as seen in the mission control's response to the Apollo sighting and the meteorological explanation for the Italian sighting. The inclusion of personal accounts alongside official reports suggests an interest in exploring the phenomenon from multiple perspectives.