Notiziario UFO - 1970 11-12 No 6

Magazine Overview

This issue of NOTIZIARIO UFO, the official bimonthly publication of the Centro Unico Nazionale (CUN) for the study of phenomena of extraterrestrial nature, is dated November-December 1970. It is the 36th issue, marking the eve of the organization's sixth year of existence. The magazine is published in Italy and is presented as an international UFO news source.

Editorial: ANNO NUOVO...

The editorial reflects on the past year (1970) as a period of significant progress for the CUN, achieving new objectives. It calls for greater effort in 1971, emphasizing the need for a long-term perspective in addressing the UFO problem and valuing the extensive material collected by the Center. The editorial criticizes the almost invariable skepticism of government commissions and advocates for an approach that identifies recurring analogies in cases to form a comprehensive synthesis. It quotes Max Planck, stating that "A new scientific truth does not triumph by convincing its opponents... but rather because its opponents gradually die out, and a new generation grows up that is familiar with it."

The editorial highlights the persistent presence of UFOs, the secrecy surrounding controversial cases, and the contradictory attitude of authorities in minimizing facts. It asserts that the CUN will continue this work and aims to go further. The editorial also mentions the upcoming year's ambitious program, which will balance divulgative activities and on-site investigations with research. It stresses the importance of collaboration with academics, authorities, and other groups studying UFO phenomena in Italy and abroad. The CUN defines its role as respecting the individualism and activity of serious groups and cooperating towards common objectives, welcoming anyone willing to contribute to clarifying the enigma of UFOs.

CUN News (NOTIZIE CUN)

The General Assembly of CUN members was held on December 20th in Milan. The assembly approved the 1970 balance sheet, which showed a surplus of 162,110 lire. The existing Board of Directors was re-elected for 1971, with the Directors of regional sections and the Editor/Vice-Editor of Notiziario UFO (Roberto Pinotti and Stefano Breccia) confirmed in their roles. Mario Maioli was re-confirmed as President, and Franco Bordoni-Bisleri as Vice-President. Giancarlo Barattini stepped down as Secretary due to professional commitments, and Renzo Cabassi of Bologna was appointed to the position. Giancarlo Barattini was honored with the title of Honorary President for his crucial role in the Center's existence. The assembly also discussed new research and analysis perspectives arising from recent contacts with academic and scientific circles, emphasizing the need for divulgation and closer ties with technical-scientific environments interested in UFOs.

A section titled "DISCHI VOLANTI" (Flying Saucers) includes a newspaper clipping from "Il Resto del Carlino" dated December 9, 1970, announcing a conference on "Flying Saucers: Reality of a Myth" in Bologna, featuring Roberto Pinotti and Renzo Cabassi. The article also mentions the ongoing research into UFOs and the importance of scientific analysis.

Article: Esiste la vita extraterrestre

This article, dated December 2, 1970, reports on a significant discovery by NASA: the identification of amino acids in a meteorite that fell in Murchison, Australia, on September 28, 1969. Dr. Cyril Ponnamperuma, head of NASA's space analysis center, stated that this is the first conclusive proof of extraterrestrial chemical evolution, potentially predating the origin of life on Earth and the universe. The meteorite, identified as a carbonaceous chondrite, is believed to have originated from the asteroid belt 4.5 billion years ago. The presence of both 'D' and 'L' forms of amino acids, unlike the predominantly 'L' form found in terrestrial biological life, suggests a non-terrestrial and non-biological origin. The article also notes the presence of hydrocarbons and a higher proportion of carbon-13 isotope, further supporting a non-biological origin. The discovery was confirmed using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.

Article: Scambiato per un disco volante un "pallone sonda,, su Torino

This article, published in "La Stampa" on September 25, 1970, addresses a widely reported sighting of a luminous object over Torino on the evening of September 24, 1970. Thousands of residents reported seeing the object, which was described as triangular and luminous, moving in the sky between 6:50 PM and 8:00 PM. Initial reports caused alarm, with some speculating about Martian invasions. However, radar analysis from Caselle airport confirmed that the object was a meteorological balloon sonde launched from Grenoble, France, as part of an experiment to study alpine winds. These balloons, approximately 30 meters in diameter and inflated with helium, are equipped with radio transmitters to send data on humidity and wind speed. The article explains that the experiment, involving 11 balloons, aims to create wind charts for mountainous regions. It also mentions similar launches from other locations in Italy and Switzerland. The article notes that the aluminum coating on the balloons reflects sunlight, contributing to their visibility.

Letters to the Editor and Related Articles

Several letters and related articles discuss the Torino sighting and the nature of UFOs:

• Letter from Giancarlo Barbadoro (Torino): Expresses doubt about the Torino object being a simple balloon sonde, claiming it moved uniformly and had a pyramidal shape with a square base, which he observed through a telescope. He questions why radar would not have detected a metallicized balloon and suggests that published photos did not accurately represent the object's initial appearance.
• Letter from Arduino Albertini (Torino): Critiques an article in "Gazzetta del Popolo" that identified the Torino object as a balloon sonde. He argues that the object's movement and shape were inconsistent with a balloon sonde and questions the radar's ability to identify it so quickly. He also references other sightings of similar objects in the Torino area.
• Response from "Gazzetta del Popolo" (October 4, 1970): The newspaper defends its reporting, stating that the radar center at Caselle was aware of the balloon sonde experiments and confirmed that the object's trajectory and altitude matched the expected data. They also note that the object disappeared at sunset, consistent with a non-luminous balloon.
• Article from "Gazzetta del Popolo" (October 7, 1970): Reaffirms that the Torino sighting was a balloon sonde, citing the radar's confirmation and the object's disappearance at sunset. It also mentions that the "Gruppo Clypeus" (a UFO study group) also concluded it was a balloon sonde.
• Article from "La Stampa" (September 25, 1970): Discusses the Torino sighting and the subsequent explanations, noting that the "Gruppo CLYPEUS" aligned with the official explanation. It also references a commentary from the "Jules Laforgue" Cultural Center which described the object as a pyramid and questioned the balloon sonde explanation.
• Official Communication from 50° Stormo C. B. (Piacenza): A letter dated May 6, 1969, addressed to Renzo Cabassi, denies reports in "Tribuna Illustrata" about an "unknown object" sighted over the Piacenza Air Base. The communication states that the object was a balloon sonde launched from a nearby civil airport for meteorological reconnaissance and had no basis in truth.

Novità in Libreria (New Books)

This section announces two books:

• "Gli Extraterrestri Sono Tornati" by Dr. Alberto Perego, previously announced as "Dirò Tutto" and "La Rivelazione dell'Era Cosmica".
• "Quello Che I Governi Ci Nascondono Sui Dischi Volanti" by Saulla Del Lo Strologo (De Vecchi Editore).

Publicity Informativa (Information Advertising)

This section promotes language learning resources:

• "SPACELINK" for those who know English, with contact information for Miss Christine Henning in London.
• "LES EXTRATERRESTRES" for those who know French, with contact information for GEOS International.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the analysis of sightings, the potential for extraterrestrial life, and the role of organizations like CUN in gathering and disseminating information. The editorial stance is one of persistent inquiry, challenging official skepticism, and advocating for a more open and scientific approach to the UFO enigma. There is a strong emphasis on collaboration and the belief that a new generation will be more receptive to unconventional scientific truths. The magazine also highlights the importance of distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentified objects like balloon sondes, while still acknowledging the possibility of the former.

This issue of 'Il Messaggero' from October 13, 1970, focuses on a series of unidentified flying object (UFO) sightings across Italy, with a particular emphasis on a mysterious luminous object observed over Verona. The magazine presents a detailed account of the Verona sighting, including witness testimonies and expert analysis, alongside reports from other Italian cities.

The Verona Sighting: A Detailed Investigation

The main article, "Come una «sentinella» nel cielo di Verona," details the events of October 6, 1970, when thousands of people in Verona and its province observed a luminous object in the sky for over two hours. The object was described as stationary, with a triangular-pyramidal shape, a complex 'fairing' with metallic parts, a dazzling golden-yellow bar across its length, and a transparent, diffused-light dome. It was observed to rotate slowly on its axis and move horizontally before disappearing at high speed.

Experts from the 'Club X4,' a scientific study and research center in Verona, convened to discuss the phenomenon. Astrophile Dario Tomelleri, who observed the object with a powerful telescope, provided a detailed description and definitively ruled out the possibility of it being a standard weather balloon, citing its unusual shape and prolonged stationary behavior. Dr. Angelico Brugnoli, president of 'Club X4' and a national councilor for CUN (Centro Unico Nazionale for extraterrestrial phenomena research), stated that the object's description was remarkably similar to other documented sightings in America (pilot James Howard in Labrador, 1954), Madrid (1968), and Bologna (1968). He expressed caution about definitive interpretations but acknowledged that many cases are difficult to explain with current knowledge.

Professor De Boni, who has studied unexplained phenomena for over 40 years, also observed the object but refrained from offering a definitive explanation. However, two participants, Carlo Montanari and student Laura Tomelleri, expressed strong conviction that the object was of extraterrestrial origin, with Tomelleri arguing that Earth is unlikely to be the only inhabited planet in the solar system.

Other Sightings Across Italy

The magazine also compiles reports of similar sightings from other parts of Italy:

• Torino (September 24, 1970): Counselor Dario Camurri of CUN reported observing a luminous object described as a 'dirigible' with black protuberances, moving parallel to rooftops before deviating towards the Susa Valley. The object was compared to a UFO filmed over Cannock, England, in 1966.
• Langeac, France (September 21, 1970): A sighting documented in 'LES EXTRATERRESTRES' by Jacques Pottier, featuring objects of a similar type observed in France and Italy.
• Perugia (September 27, 1970): A luminous object was seen moving slowly across the sky, described as a 'flying disc' or possibly a balloon.
• Mantova (October 7, 1970): A luminous object, likely a large weather balloon, was observed for several hours.
• Rimini (October 13, 1970): A 'flying disc' accompanied by a luminous trail appeared for 4-5 minutes, initially suspected to be a meteorological rocket or probe.
• Orvieto (Date not specified, but implied around early October): Witnesses reported seeing a circular, metallic-colored object with a blue flame and white smoke, which appeared to be descending before ascending again. The object was described as making no noise.

Expert Opinions and Meteorological Balloons

Several articles delve into the debate between those who believe the sightings are of extraterrestrial origin and those who attribute them to conventional phenomena like weather balloons. The OMM (World Meteorological Organization) responded to an inquiry from Dario Camurri, stating they could not provide information on a specific balloon observed in Turin but suggested contacting French meteorological services or the European Space Research Organization.

Meteorologist Emilio Bellavite, in response to engineer Lazzari's assertion that the Verona object was a 'usual' weather balloon, argued against this explanation. Bellavite pointed out that the object's shape (triangular-pyramidal) and behavior (hovering) were inconsistent with standard weather balloons, which are typically spherical and affected by strong winds. He also noted that the object's orientation seemed unusual for a gas-filled balloon. Bellavite suggested the object might have been a passive repeater for electromagnetic waves but concluded that the mystery remained, especially if military applications were ruled out.

A letter to the editor from 'Gazzetta del Popolo' by a reader from Celle Ligure discusses the 'pyramidal' object seen in Torino, suggesting it was a massive platform (400-700 meters long) at high altitude, possibly carrying smaller vehicles. This letter aligns with the idea of large, unconventional craft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently highlights the tension between the 'rational' explanation of weather balloons or other conventional aircraft and the 'extraterrestrial' hypothesis. The editorial stance appears to favor a more open-minded approach, acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding in explaining all reported phenomena. The magazine emphasizes the importance of detailed observation and expert analysis, while also recognizing the role of public fascination and the potential for misidentification. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery surrounding these sightings, with many experts admitting they cannot provide definitive answers, leaving room for speculation about extraterrestrial visitors or advanced, unknown technology.

This issue of "Notiziario UFO" (UFO Newsletter), Volume IX, dated June 30, 1969, published by CUN in Italy, addresses the persistent enigma of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The cover features a response from the Italian Air Force's Meteorological Service stating they have no technical data on UFOs, which the editorial questions, implying a potential ignorance or deliberate omission regarding the issue.

UFO Sightings and Characteristics

The magazine details various UFO sightings and discusses their common shapes, including discs, 'flying cigars,' and 'lampshades.' It highlights specific cases from Livorno (October 10, 1967), Brixham (April 28, 1967), and Pescara (September 30, 1965), noting that these phenomena are well-known to their readers. The editorial expresses skepticism about official authorities' requests for information on meteorological balloons, suggesting a disconnect or lack of acknowledgment of the UFO problem.

International UFO Phenomena

The issue presents UFO reports from various countries. From the Soviet Union, it details sightings in Kazakhstan (August 16, 1960) involving a luminous lenticular object, and observations from the Caucasus Astrophysical Station in 1967, including a 'cloud-like' formation and a crescent-shaped object. The article also touches upon the phenomenon of 'flying saucers' being observed more frequently when Mars is closer to Earth, posing the question of a potential connection.

The Tunguska Event and Ancient Astronauts

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the Tunguska event of June 30, 1908. Initially attributed to a meteorite, recent Soviet scientific studies suggest it was an aerial nuclear deflagration. The article posits that the event could have been caused by a flying disc from another planet, raising profound questions about extraterrestrial visitation and the possibility of advanced ancient civilizations.

UFOs in Communist Countries and Research Efforts

The magazine explores the UFO situation in communist countries, noting that while Hungary has seen press coverage, there are no dedicated research centers. It mentions the establishment of a 'UFO Section' within the Soviet Union's Cosmonautics Committee in October 1968, comprising scientists, military personnel, and writers, tasked with a preliminary investigation.

Ancient Civilizations and Extraterrestrial Contact

Further articles delve into theories of 'astronauts from lost civilizations.' These include the discovery of ancient drawings resembling modern astronauts in various locations like Elvetia, Central Asia, Australia, and the Sahara. The text discusses ancient Indian texts describing 'flying chariots' and Egyptian, Inca, and Chinese astronomical knowledge. The magazine questions whether ancient peoples had contact with extraterrestrials or possessed advanced technology, citing findings like aluminum in ancient Chinese artifacts and the Maya civilization's knowledge of the wheel.

Scientific Stance and Future Research

The issue highlights the growing number of scientists who are not satisfied with explanations of UFO sightings as mere visual aberrations. It calls for a serious, scientific, and global investigation into the phenomenon, emphasizing the need to overcome preconceptions. The article references the work of Professor Felix Zigel and the Soviet Union's efforts to study UFOs, suggesting that the nature of these objects might be an exceptional phenomenon that challenges conventional scientific methods.

Specific Reports and Mentions

Reports from Australia detail miners observing an oval, orange and white object that emitted a whistling sound. In New York, boxer Cassius Clay claimed to have seen 'flying saucers,' which he believed the government kept secret. The magazine also includes a brief mention of a 'flying luminous body' seen over Sofia, Bulgaria, on November 22, 1967, which was later identified by authorities as a NATO spy balloon.

Oceanography and Atlantis

Separately, an article discusses the lost civilization of Atlantis, with a British oceanographer suggesting its location was in the Mediterranean, not the Atlantic. This is contrasted with theories linking Atlantis to the island of Santorini, which was destroyed by a volcanic explosion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFOs, the perceived lack of transparency from official sources, the scientific community's increasing engagement with the phenomenon, and the speculative connection between UFOs and ancient extraterrestrial visitation. The editorial stance is critical of official dismissals and advocates for rigorous scientific inquiry into UFOs and related phenomena, including ancient astronaut theories.