Notiziario UFO - 1971 01-02 No 37

Magazine Overview

Title: NOTIZIARIO UFO
Issue: 37
Volume: N. 1
Date: Gennaio - Febbraio 1971
Publisher: C.U.N. (Centro Unico Nazionale)
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This issue of "NOTIZIARIO UFO" is the official bimonthly publication of the Centro Unico Nazionale (CUN) for the study of phenomena believed to be of extraterrestrial nature. It serves as a documentary review for the technical study and scientific analysis of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related issues.

Contributo umanistico (Humanistic Contribution) - Editorial

The editorial discusses the growing recognition of "ufology" as a field of study, noting its inclusion in the Italian Zingarelli Dictionary. It highlights the significance of the Encyclopaedia Britannica's inclusion of the term "ufologist" in its "Book of the Year" for 1969, suggesting that the problem has acquired a sociological dimension. The editorial posits that modern society acknowledges the existence of groups dedicated to studying this phenomenon, which has become a common component of contemporary civilization. It draws a parallel with historical instances, such as Alfa Romeo naming a car "Disco Volante" (Flying Saucer), indicating the pervasive influence of the UFO concept.

The editorial further explores the psychological aspects, referencing a study by sociologist Donald I. Warren published in the American journal "Science." Warren's thesis, based on the 1968 Condon Report, suggests that individuals who report seeing UFOs often feel ill at ease within society. They may belong to various social strata but share a common characteristic of not fitting comfortably into societal norms, leading them to seek answers or an "escape" in the UFO enigma. The article notes that while some "ufologists" might be repressed or disillusioned individuals, the broader issue resonates with the anxieties of the 1970s, where people feel dissatisfied with official religion, politics, and authority, seeking integration with the universe.

It points out that millions of people worldwide have joined associations to study this complex question, though some methods may be questionable. The editorial emphasizes the value of the "humanistic contribution" from more qualified organizations, which exists and is developing, even if not yet recognized by dictionaries and encyclopedias.

UFO Formations and Public Perception

This section analyzes common UFO formations observed globally, suggesting their consistent and sometimes monotonous patterns might imply intelligent control. It contrasts this with the "Rapporto Condon" (Condon Report), which attempted to dismiss the UFO problem. The article argues that UFOs are increasingly appearing in various aspects of contemporary life, from advertising to popular culture, influencing public opinion. It cites a 1966 Gallup poll where over 5 million Americans claimed to have seen a "flying saucer," with a significant percentage believing in their physical reality.

The text also touches upon the common maneuvers of UFOs, described as defying basic aerodynamic laws. It discusses the reporting of sightings, noting that many are not publicly disclosed. The article highlights a shift in public perception, with a growing percentage of Americans accepting the idea of UFOs as extraterrestrial spacecraft. This growing acceptance is seen as indicative of the significant dimension the UFO myth has acquired in modern consciousness.

Psychological Aspects and Social Discontent

This section delves deeper into the psychological underpinnings of UFO sightings, as proposed by Donald I. Warren. It reiterates that individuals reporting UFO experiences often feel alienated from society. Warren's study, based on the Condon Report, categorizes witnesses by education, profession, and income. In a stable society, these factors correlate positively, but in a rapidly evolving society, imbalances occur. The article suggests that individuals experiencing significant social or economic disequilibrium are more likely to report UFO sightings, seeking an alternative reality outside their perceived societal constraints. It notes that those in a state of equilibrium, like a poorly paid laborer, may not see UFOs, while scientists in less fulfilling positions might. An exception is made for individuals with disproportionately high incomes, who apparently do not report visions, possibly due to a lack of perceived societal difficulties.

The article also touches upon the broader societal context, describing modern humanity as feeling overwhelmed by a rationalized, controlled, and predictable society. This leads to a sense of alienation and a yearning for a "breakthrough" or a more complete integration with the universe. The rise of neo-humanistic movements, where individuals form associations to study complex issues like UFOs, is presented as a response to this societal unease.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

This section reports on recent UFO manifestations in Italy. It begins by referencing a news report about a luminous, hemisphere-shaped object sighted near Padova by a retired man and his daughter. The CUN contacted the witnesses and concluded that the sighting fits into a broader pattern of UFO presence in Italian skies. The magazine promises to investigate other similar reports from across Italy.

The article then revisits the Turin sighting of September 24, 1970. While acknowledging that some clues might suggest it was a weather balloon, the authors maintain that other factors warrant doubt. They conclude that the enigma persists, fueled by collateral sightings that occurred that evening. The magazine presents a differing opinion from writer Renato Vesco, who critically suggested the Turin object was a secret British device built in Canada. The CUN, however, does not exclude the possibility of secret aircraft but states that their investigations have not yet confirmed Vesco's hypothesis.

Correspondence with Meteorological Services

This part of the issue includes correspondence regarding the Turin UFO sighting. A letter from the Direction de la Météorologie Nationale in Paris to Sig. Dario Camurri in Turin confirms that the balloon observed on September 24, 1970, was not launched by the French National Meteorology Service. It suggests the object might be a balloon from the SPARMO program (Solar Particles and Radiations Monitoring Organization) and forwards the request for information to J.P. Legrand, Director of SPARMO.

A subsequent letter from J.P. Legrand of SPARMO to Sig. Dario Camurri clarifies that the balloon observed over Turin was not launched by SPARMO. Legrand suggests it was likely launched by the CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) launch center at AIRE/ADOUR and advises Camurri to contact Monsieur Soubrier there for information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the sociological and psychological impact of UFO phenomena on society, the analysis of UFO sightings and their characteristics, and the investigation of specific cases. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging its growing presence in public consciousness and its potential connection to societal anxieties and a search for meaning beyond the mundane. The magazine aims to document and analyze these events, engaging with scientific and meteorological authorities while maintaining an open mind to the possibility of extraterrestrial origins.

This issue of the "SOLAR PARTICLES AND RADIATIONS MONITORING ORGANIZATION" magazine, dated February 3, 1971, focuses on UFO phenomena and the investigative efforts of the Centro Unico Nazionale (CUN).

Correspondence and Initial Reports

The issue begins with a letter from Saint-Maur, France, dated March 2, 1971, addressed to Sig. Dario Camurri in Torino, Italy. The sender, J. P. Legrand, clarifies that a balloon observed over Torino on September 24, 1970, was not launched by SPARMO but likely by the CNES center in Aire/Adour. Information regarding this launch could be obtained by contacting Sig. Soubrier at Aire/Adour. Legrand concludes by stating that the 'Torinese mystery' remains unsolved for now, and any clarification on the pyramidal object sighted over Torino would be communicated. He also makes a critical remark about 'Vesco's pontification,' suggesting that the CUN's investigation and research are more valuable than general, principle-based statements.

A brief 'RICORDO' section expresses deep sorrow at the news of the passing of Professor Nikolai Žirov, a writer, scholar, and Doctor of Chemistry, who was a correspondent from Moscow. The magazine extends its condolences to his family.

CUN: The National Center for the Study of Flying Objects

The article "Gli studiosi dei dischi volanti" (The scholars of flying saucers) introduces the CUN, a thriving association with over five hundred members dedicated to studying phenomena believed to be of extraterrestrial origin. The CUN aims to coordinate all information regarding the alleged presence of extraterrestrials on our planet. The article highlights the CUN's growing international recognition, citing a recent article from the Ticinese newspaper 'POPOLO E LIBERTA'' on January 5, 1971, which documented the interest the CUN's work has generated even among Italian-speaking Swiss. To accommodate this, a Swiss section of the CUN is being established, with Alessandro Materni of Bellinzona appointed as its director. The magazine also announces the formation of the Umbrian Section of the CUN, led by Francesco Izzo of Orvieto.

The CUN's primary objective is to provide a balanced assessment of the flying saucer phenomenon, filtering out information that could lead to public skepticism and harm the organization's credibility. Founded in Bologna in 1967, the CUN is presented as the most scientifically reliable organization in Italy for this research, having overcome crises faced by earlier centers. The CUN operates under a strict statute, and interested individuals can request an application form by writing to the Bologna post office box. The CUN is part of a global network of seventy centers studying flying saucers and publishes a specialized magazine called 'Notiziario UFO.' The article quotes Roberto Pinotti, director of 'Notiziario UFO,' emphasizing the need for discretion when dealing with the public and media, stating that while internal discussions can be open to all hypotheses, external communication requires careful consideration to avoid sensationalism and skepticism.

CUN & Facts: Introducing the Leaders

A new section, "GUN & fatti," aims to introduce the individuals leading the CUN to its members. The magazine states that this is not for self-promotion but to bring the responsible members out of anonymity. The first profile is of Giancarlo Barattini, Honorary President of the CUN. Born in Bologna, 44 years old, and residing in Milan, Barattini has a classical education and military service in the Navy. He has been in advertising since 1948, holding the title of Professional Advertising Technician. For 12 years, he worked for LINTAS, a major advertising agency, as a Manager, with international experience in Germany, France, England, and the United States. Since 1969, he has been the owner and sole administrator of WORK SHOP ITALIANA srl, a Marketing and Advertising agency. His interest in UFOs began in 1954. He personally observed unidentified objects and participated in the investigation of the Fornacette case in 1966. In 1965, concerned about the superficial study of UFOs in Italy, he co-organized the CUN. He was instrumental in the launch of 'NOTIZIARIO UFO' in January 1966 and was a founder of the CUN in 1967. He served as Secretary of the Center in 1966 and 1967, organized the first National Congress on Unidentified Flying Objects and Extraterrestrial Phenomena in Riccione in 1967, was Secretary again in 1970, and was elected Honorary President in December of the same year.

Fornacette: Why is the CUN Silent?

This section addresses the widely reported UFO sighting and landing in Fornacette (Pontedera), Italy, which the CUN investigated extensively. The case, initially covered in the early issues of the magazine (now out of print), is being revisited for the benefit of new readers. The article presents "IL CASO n. 5 DEGLI ARCHIVI DEL C.U.N. - L'avvistamento di Fornacette: 13.7.66" (Case No. 5 of the CUN Archives - The Fornacette Sighting: 13.7.66).

How the Fact Was Learned

The "GIORNALE DEL MATTINO" reported on July 14, 1966, that a flying object had landed near Fornacette, with multiple witnesses. The CUN conducted investigations.

"The 'Spacemen' in Fornacette: They Parked the 'Disc', Took a Walk, Then Left"

This sub-headline summarizes the event. While some people only reported seeing a 'bright light,' others claimed more direct encounters. The article notes that the phenomenon seemed to have ended the 'flying saucer psychosis' but then re-emerged with new testimonies.

The Principal Witness's Account

Recounting the event, level crossing keeper Camillo Faieta described being ab-bagliated by a strong light around 2 AM on July 13, 1966, near the Fornacette railway crossing. He observed an object, described as two tubes, hovering over the canal, forming a small island. Two figures reportedly emerged from the object. The light intensified, then the object lifted off silently and disappeared. Faieta contacted the police and railway police. Upon investigation, three holes, approximately 3 cm in diameter and 10 cm deep, were found on the island, arranged in a triangle. The surrounding grass appeared flattened, but there were no signs of burning. A soil sample was taken from one of the holes for analysis.

Other witnesses corroborated parts of the event. Another level crossing keeper, at the Amaccio crossing about a kilometer away, also noted a large glow. A truck driver heading towards Pisa also saw a very bright light originating from the Fornacette area. A motorist on the Florence-Mare highway observed a luminous sphere moving at high speed and low altitude towards Pontedera.

Photographs and Analysis

The CUN took photographs of the traces, the island, and the scene using an EXACTA camera with various lenses. Samples of soil, reeds, and foliage from the flattened area were collected for analysis. The magazine expresses interest in collaborating with the police and carabinieri to compare findings. The "Giornale del Mattino" concluded its report by stating that regardless of whether the objects were real or not, something had indeed passed through the sky, illuminating the area.

'The Fornacette Case' for Selling Gasoline

Later, the magazine addresses a situation where a children's advertising magazine called 'IL TIGRE' published information about the Fornacette case, prompting questions from CUN members about why 'IL TIGRE' seemed to know more than the CUN.

Response to 'IL TIGRE' Article and CUN's Stance

The magazine clarifies its position regarding the Fornacette case, responding to an article published by Leo Arold in 'Tigre' which claimed to have exclusive information. The CUN acknowledges that the case is part of the NICUP archives and that the witness, Camillo Faieta, was reportedly interviewed by NASA experts who allegedly obtained a photograph of the object from his eye's reflection. However, the CUN states that the information published by 'IL TIGRE' is not supported by any proof that the CUN can verify. The CUN emphasizes its commitment to rigorous investigation and responsible disclosure, warning its members against believing unconfirmed UFO news. They explain that while they have extensive information on the Fornacette case, including witness testimonies, locations, and descriptions, they cannot make it public because it would involve mentioning disappeared letters, compromising testimonies, and revealing locations that could lead to legal repercussions and conflict with Italian law. The CUN stresses that no element previously released by them has been invalidated by subsequent findings. They reiterate that while they cannot publicly disclose all details, they are open to section directors presenting the Fornacette case through written reports requested from the Presidency. Any unauthorized public dissemination of information from these presentations would be officially denied by the CUN.

The CUN believes this approach ensures a secure future and upholds its reputation for absolute seriousness, distinguishing it from organizations that treat the UFO phenomenon with superficiality and recklessness. They aim to avoid contributing to the ridicule of the subject and to protect those who study it honestly.

Dossier Retrospective: A Disc Has Landed

This section presents a retrospective look at a UFO landing case from April 24, 1950, near Varese, Italy. The incident involved a worker named Facchini Bruno, who encountered a flying disc, possibly due to a malfunction. This case was reportedly well-documented and covered by "La Domenica del Corriere" in April 1952 and "Rivista Aeronautica" in May 1953. The accompanying interview aims to clarify the facts of the 1950 event without altering the basic account. Facchini Bruno, then 42, lived in Abbiate Guazzone (Varese) and worked at a local factory. On the evening of April 24, 1950, after a thunderstorm, he went outside and noticed a bright light. The luminous object appeared to be stationary, then moved and descended towards a nearby canal, hovering near its bank before briefly stopping on a small island in the middle of the water. Facchini reported the incident to the authorities. The article includes a diagram illustrating the object's trajectory and position.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes a rigorous, scientific approach to UFO research, prioritizing verifiable evidence and cautious public disclosure. The CUN positions itself as a serious organization dedicated to uncovering the truth about UFOs while protecting the credibility of witnesses and avoiding sensationalism. There is a clear distinction made between internal research, which can explore various hypotheses, and public communication, which requires concrete proof. The magazine also highlights the challenges of dealing with media and public perception, as seen in the response to the 'IL TIGRE' article. The editorial stance is one of thorough investigation, responsible reporting, and a commitment to upholding legal and ethical standards, even if it means withholding certain details from the public.

This issue of NOTIZIARIO UFO, dated February 24, 1971, focuses on significant UFO and aerial phenomena sightings in Italy. It includes an in-depth interview with a witness, a report on a mysterious crash, and a reader questionnaire.

The Facchini Case: A Close Encounter

The magazine presents a detailed account of an encounter experienced by Mr. Facchini on the evening of April 24, 1950. While returning home, Facchini noticed strange scintillations near a high-voltage power line. His initial thought was a problem with the electrical equipment, but upon closer inspection, he observed a large, dark, almost round object, resembling a flattened ball, with a small ladder and a faint greenish light filtering from the top. He saw an individual welding at the top, who was wearing a heavy-looking suit and mask. Two other individuals in similar attire were moving slowly around the apparatus.

Facchini, initially unafraid, approached the object. He mistook it for a craft that had made a forced landing and offered assistance, but received only incomprehensible guttural sounds. He felt an impression that they wanted him to ascend the apparatus. He then heard a loud noise, described as a 'giant beehive' or 'large dynamo,' and noticed internal details like a ladder, tubes, and manometers. Convinced it was not a conventional aircraft, he fled in panic.

As he ran, one of the individuals aimed a camera-like device at him, emitting a beam of light. Facchini felt as if he had been struck by a blunt object or a strong jet of compressed air, causing him to fall and hit a boundary stone. He experienced pain from contusions but remained conscious.

He observed the occupants collecting a component, which he described as an elevator that had been lowered. They then deposited it inside the craft, which closed up, and the 'beehive' noise intensified before the object ascended rapidly and disappeared into the dark sky. Facchini speculated that the sound was not from a combustion or jet engine but rather from an electric or compressed air motor, noting its low noise level at altitude.

Regarding the occupants' attire, Facchini described them wearing dark grey suits and masks. He noticed a tube extending from the mouth area of the mask. He believed the individuals were human-like, approximately 1.70 meters tall, and noted that their masks remained sealed, suggesting a need to filter the air they breathed.

He also reported finding four round imprints in the soil, about one meter in diameter and spaced six meters apart, along with scorched grass and pieces of metal, which were later analyzed as antifriction metal.

Facchini stated that he had never seen anything like it and had no opinions on its origin, but found the sealed masks particularly unusual for pilots.

The Monviso Crash: A Luminous Object

The issue also reports on dramatic sightings and a suspected crash near the Monviso mountain on February 23, 1971. A TWA passenger plane's pilot reported a large, luminous object, possibly a meteorite, that changed direction, resembled an inverted cone, left a luminous trail, and crashed into the woods, causing flames.

A private pilot from Caselle air base also observed a strange object, described as a 'braked balloon' or an 'Apollo spacecraft' with its point down, descending rapidly towards Monviso at an estimated altitude of 20,000 meters.

Cesare Marasso, driving near Sampeyre, witnessed a large luminous globe, twice the size of the sun, falling from the sky. The event was reportedly heard and seen by many residents in the valley. Carabinieri in Saluzzo, based on testimonies, believe the object may have fallen in the Crissolo area, at the foot of Monviso. The phenomenon was also noted by personnel at the Venaria military camp, the regional astronomical observatory, SIP technicians, and local residents.

Further investigations, including helicopter surveys, were planned to locate the crash site.

Book Reviews and Promotions

The magazine also includes promotional material for UFO-related publications. One is a collection of poems titled "ALLA RICERCA DELLE ZOLLE" by Ignazio Lippolis. Another is a review of "IL LIBRO NERO DEI DISCHI VOLANTI" by Henry Durrant, a journalist who aimed to treat UFOs as a serious subject. The book is divided into two volumes, with a third planned, covering landings and encounters. The original title is "LE LIVRE NOIR DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES." A self-adhesive sticker featuring a stylized "flying saucer" with the text "UFOS YES!" is also advertised.

Reader Questionnaire

A questionnaire is included for readers to share their views on UFOs. It covers topics such as awareness of UFO phenomena, beliefs about their nature (presages, psychological, or physical), potential dangers, the need for global research, and the possibility of intelligent extraterrestrial life and interplanetary travel. It also asks about preferences for international organizations like the UN and UNESCO to coordinate UFO research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are eyewitness accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena, the investigation of potential UFO crashes, and the broader implications of UFOs for humanity's understanding of the universe. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging scientific investigation and a global approach, and suggesting that the existence of intelligent life beyond Earth is a plausible and important consideration. The magazine positions itself as a platform for sharing such information and fostering discussion among enthusiasts and researchers.