Notiziario UFO - 1970 07-08 No 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of NOTIZIARIO UFO, the official bimonthly organ of the centro unico nazionale (CUN) for the study of phenomena of extraterrestrial nature, is dated July-August 1970. It is issue number 4, part of volume N. 4 (34), and was authorized by the Tribunal of Bologna on April 27, 1970. The magazine is published in Italy and is in Italian.

Editorial: Questioni di Metodo (Methodological Questions)

The editorial section features a letter from Gian Luigi Zoccoli, a collaborator of CUN, addressed to the President, Mario Maioli. Zoccoli expresses concern that the intensity of UFO sightings seems to have decreased, leading to a decline in public interest. He argues that the current research methodology, based on induction from facts, has led to an "insurmountable wall" and proposes a shift towards a deductive method, starting from general principles to reach particular truths, even if this is considered heretical by official science. He believes this new approach is necessary to move forward in understanding the phenomenon.

In response, Mario Maioli acknowledges Zoccoli's critique and thanks him for recognizing CUN's objectivity. Maioli defends the experimental method but agrees that prejudices often hinder scientific progress, citing Max Planck's observation that new truths are accepted by new generations rather than by convincing opponents. He states that while applying a deductive method starting from the existence of God might be too philosophical for CUN's scope, he accepts Zoccoli's request to further develop research that begins with rigorously verified facts and leads to logical conclusions.

News from CUN

This section reports on CUN's establishment of a collaborative relationship with the reorganized NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) in Washington. NICAP is developing ACCESS, an automated clearinghouse for UFO sighting statistics, intended to provide a centralized data source for scientists. CUN will contribute its data to this effort. The section also mentions the upcoming completion of a comprehensive study of Italian UFO phenomena from 1947 to 1970 by the CUN's Florence section, led by Dott. Solas Boncompagni. Gratitude is extended to Prof. Nikolai F. Žirov for his continued collaboration from Moscow.

Current 'Contactees'

This article discusses the phenomenon of 'contactees,' individuals who claim to have direct communication with extraterrestrials. It highlights the challenges of telepathy, particularly the psychic weaknesses of many individuals, leading to self-deception. The text references Guido Da Todi's work "TEORIA E PRATICA DELLA MAGIA INIZIATICA" and notes that many who claim contact with UFO occupants are influenced by similar ideas. The article contrasts the cautious approach of researchers with those who claim direct contact, often through telepathy or extrasensory perception. It also revisits the case of George Adamski, the Polish-American 'contactee,' whose claims of pacifism and messages from space beings were controversial but influential. The article notes that Adamski's followers, including some in Italy, continue to promote similar narratives.

Interview with Eugenio Siragusa

An interview with Eugenio Siragusa of Catania, an "operator" who claims to be able to contact extraterrestrials, is featured. Siragusa asserts that UFOs and their occupants exist, and that they occasionally visit Earth to communicate with chosen individuals. He describes them as concerned about humanity's "collective madness," lack of love, and injustice. Siragusa claims to have met extraterrestrials eighteen times and communicates with them through "mental genetics." He states that they come from the Pleiades and other distant regions and that a public revelation of their existence would cause chaos. He believes that many "operators" and "conditioned" individuals in Italy are preparing for a "supreme revelation." Siragusa also recounts his own predestined experiences, including miraculous survivals during wartime, and suggests that figures like Jesus, Ezekiel, and Moses were "conditioned" messengers. He interprets the Bible as a testament to astral inspiration and a precise document. He believes that extraterrestrials are monitoring human activities, including space missions, and that they have established bases on the Moon. Siragusa warns of "terrible events" if humanity does not embrace order, justice, brotherhood, and progress, citing the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah as a potential outcome. He mentions the Apollo 13 mission failure as an example of a warning that was ignored. The article concludes by urging readers to believe and to consider the Old Testament, specifically Isaiah 60:8, for answers.

Other Articles

"IF THE SPACE PHONE RINGS - IGNORE IT!": This section features an article from the Sunday Mirror (August 23, 1970) discussing a proposal at an international astronomy congress in Brighton. Scientists, including Professor Zdenek Kopal and Professor Clyde Tombaugh, suggested that humanity should ignore any signals from extraterrestrial beings, as contact could be dangerous due to the vast difference in advancement. Kopal warned that highly advanced beings might treat humans like insects, and Tombaugh stated that contact could be a disaster. The article implies that official science is now adopting a policy of silence regarding UFOs.

"Non saranno rivelati al mondo i messaggi degli extraterrestri" (Messages from Extraterrestrials Will Not Be Revealed to the World): This article, from Gazzetta del Popolo (August 20, 1970), reports on a proposal by Professor Anthony Hewish at a congress in Brighton. Hewish suggested that any messages received from extraterrestrials should be kept secret from the public until scientists and governments have studied the implications. He argued that immediate public disclosure would lead to chaos and compromise scientific analysis. The article also mentions the development of a radio telescope in Holland by Hooghoudt that can predict the end of the world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO phenomena, the methodology of studying them, and the implications of potential extraterrestrial contact. There is a clear tension between rigorous scientific inquiry and the more esoteric, spiritual, or 'contactee' approaches. The CUN, while acknowledging the need for scientific rigor, appears open to exploring various avenues of investigation, including telepathy and personal testimony, as evidenced by the inclusion of Zoccoli's letter and the interview with Siragusa. The magazine's stance seems to be one of cautious exploration, seeking to document and analyze UFO-related events and claims while grappling with the challenges of methodology and public perception. The editorial emphasizes the importance of facts and logical conclusions, even while acknowledging the controversial nature of some of the topics discussed.

This issue of IL TEMPO, dated July 29, 1969, features a prominent article on Eugenio Siragusa, an Italian "contattista" from Catania, who claims to receive messages from extraterrestrials. The cover story, "Un <messaggio selenico> trasmesso da un catanese," highlights Siragusa's apocalyptic predictions and his "Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica." The magazine also delves into the enduring mystery of Atlantis, presenting geological and historical perspectives, and touches upon other fringe phenomena such as the "Aetherius Society" and the self-proclaimed antipope Michel Collin.

Eugenio Siragusa and the "Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica"

The article details Siragusa's claims of receiving messages from extraterrestrials, whom he refers to as "gli Angeli dell'Apocalisse." These messages reportedly predict imminent catastrophes caused by modern "science without conscience." Siragusa and his followers have reinterpreted the Bible in light of UFO phenomena, forming a religious sect with Siragusa as its charismatic leader and his collaborators as "apostles." The "Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica" regularly sends its cyclostyled messages to newspapers and news agencies, creating a situation that challenges those who study UFOs with a more objective and evidence-based approach.

The magazine notes that Siragusa's claims are often met with skepticism, but for his followers, it is a matter of faith. The article contrasts Siragusa's approach with that of the CUN (Centro Ufologico Nazionale), which aims to provide rational information and avoid sensationalism that could discredit the UFO phenomenon. The CUN emphasizes that their goal is to inform the public and prepare them for potential contact, rather than seeking personal encounters.

Siragusa's teachings include metaphysical assertions, such as his alleged reincarnation as an Atlantean. The article questions these claims, noting that while parapsychology is a developing science, it does not yet provide rational proof for such assertions. Siragusa's followers are described as having an unwavering faith, even when faced with ridicule or irony.

A specific incident is recounted from 1967, when Siragusa and his followers retreated to Mount Etna, expecting an apocalypse predicted by extraterrestrials. The event did not materialize, and the article points out that Siragusa's revelations often lack factual confirmation, drawing parallels to the claims of American "contactees."

Siragusa is also linked to the "Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America" (AFSCA), directed by Gabriel Green, suggesting a connection to the broader American UFO contactee movement. His "Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica" is identified as Section #33 of the AFSCA in America.

The Legend of Atlantis

An extensive section explores the legend of Atlantis, drawing from Plato's dialogues "Timaeus" and "Critias." The article discusses Solon's account of hearing the legend from Egyptian priests. It details Plato's description of Atlantis as a large island in the Atlantic Ocean, beyond the Pillars of Hercules, with advanced civilization, a sophisticated capital, and a powerful empire that conquered parts of Europe and Africa.

The legend is presented as a subject of historical and geological debate. While many scholars have been skeptical, the article explores theories suggesting that Atlantis might have existed. It discusses the geological composition of the North Atlantic, particularly the underwater mountain range, and its potential connection to the sunken continent. The theory that the end of the last glacial period was linked to the sinking of Atlantis is examined, with references to Soviet and Swedish researchers.

The article presents evidence from oceanographic research, including the discovery of unusual disc-shaped objects on the seabed, which some interpret as artificial. It also discusses the "basalt flood" theory, suggesting that continents composed of basalt, like Atlantis, were geologically unstable and prone to sinking. The possibility of Atlantis existing around 9500 BC is discussed, aligning with traditional dating for its destruction.

Other Phenomena and Groups

The issue also features a report on the "Aetherius Society" congress in London, where participants explored space through "mental rays" and claimed contact with extraterrestrials. The leader, George King, is described as a "white magician" who believes in exploring space and communicating with beings from other planets.

Another article discusses Michel Collin, a Frenchman who declared himself Pope Clemente XV and claims to receive messages from extraterrestrials, particularly from Venus and Mars. His followers, known as "antipapists," engage in public demonstrations to promote his claims and advocate for the release of the "Third Secret of Fatima."

Finally, the article touches upon the closure of the US Air Force's Project Blue Book, which investigated UFO sightings. The decision to close the project, based on a Colorado University study, declared that UFOs held no significant interest for security or science, and that there was no evidence of extraterrestrial visitors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial contact, and alternative belief systems, including religious cults and ancient mysteries like Atlantis. The magazine presents these topics with a degree of journalistic inquiry, reporting on the claims made by various individuals and groups. While some articles, like the one on Siragusa, highlight the more sensational and faith-based aspects, others, such as the discussion on Atlantis and the report on Project Blue Book, offer more analytical and skeptical perspectives. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also implicitly acknowledging the skepticism that surrounds many of these claims.

This issue of "Notizie Varie" (Various News), dated December 24, 1969, with Volume LI and Number 14, presents a collection of articles covering a range of intriguing topics, from space exploration and historical mysteries to unexplained aerial phenomena and critical analyses of esoteric claims. The cover story focuses on NASA's objective to find water on the Moon during the Apollo missions.

Scientific Investigations and UFOs

The magazine features a critical look at UFO phenomena, citing a two-year scientific study that concluded most sightings had natural explanations, with very few remaining cases offering no basis for extraterrestrial contact theories. The study also highlighted the role of psychological perception and human fallibility in misinterpreting events. The article suggests that the "flying saucer" episode served as a psychological diversion from real-world problems, offering neither a threat nor a messianic salvation.

Historical Cartography and Ancient Civilizations

An article titled "CARTOGRAFIA" delves into the mystery of the Piri Reis maps, drawn in 1513 and 1528. These maps are noted for their surprising accuracy, depicting parts of Antarctica and Greenland with details that align with modern discoveries, suggesting the existence of a highly advanced, unknown civilization predating current historical records. The article references scholars like P. E. Victor, Professor Hapgood, and N. Y. Mepert, who support the authenticity and significance of these maps, hinting at a need to study them further.

Unexplained Disappearances

Under the heading "MISTERI A MEZZ'ARIA" (Mysteries in Mid-Air), the issue recounts several baffling disappearances. The "point of no return" zone off the southeastern coast of the United States is highlighted, where numerous modern aircraft, including the Star Tiger and Ariel, vanished without a trace since 1940. Another incident details the disappearance of five TBM Avenger aircraft and their rescue plane during a training flight in 1945.

UFO Sightings and Encounters

Several reports of UFO sightings are included:

• A luminous object was seen over Rome, Italy, disappearing behind Monte Mario.
• In Brazil, over a thousand people in Aracaju witnessed a circular object emitting lights, which evaded pursuit.
• In Itaiaia, Brazil, four sentinels and a police commander observed an unidentified object that left a patch of scorched earth.
• Motorists near Ostuni, Italy, reported a "flying saucer" with a red dome performing complex aerial maneuvers.
• A nine-year-old boy in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, claimed his father was abducted by a flying saucer, and the father has since disappeared.

Unusual Medical Case

A particularly strange case from Egypt is detailed: Nasra Abdalla El Kaml, a woman suffering from chronic hemorrhage, claims that mysterious figures descended from a large white disc and operated on her. Following this alleged encounter, her condition improved dramatically, and doctors confirmed she had undergone surgery. The incident has led to speculation about extraterrestrial involvement or advanced medical knowledge.

Thematic Analysis and Editorial Stance

The publication expresses a critical and skeptical approach to sensationalist claims surrounding UFOs and alleged extraterrestrial contact. It emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation, factual evidence, and a grounded perspective, warning against blind faith and the tendency to attribute all phenomena to extraterrestrial origins. The "Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica" (Center for Cosmic Brotherhood Studies) is presented as an organization dedicated to sifting through the "mythical and sensationalistic fringes" of the UFO problem to focus on verifiable facts. The editorial stance is clear: to present information objectively, without sensationalism, and to challenge unsubstantiated claims, even when they come from sources claiming spiritual or extraterrestrial inspiration. The issue also touches upon the potential for UFOs to be interpreted in religious or metaphysical contexts, but maintains a cautious and evidence-based approach.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFOs, the human tendency towards misinterpretation and sensationalism, the quest for scientific understanding of unexplained phenomena, and the exploration of historical enigmas through ancient artifacts like the Piri Reis maps. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach to these subjects, while acknowledging the existence of phenomena that defy easy explanation. The publication aims to inform its readers by presenting diverse accounts and analyses, encouraging them to think critically about the information presented.