Notiziario UFO - 1971 03-04 No 38

Magazine Overview

This issue of NOTIZIARIO UFO, volume 2, issue 38, dated March-April 1971, is the official bimonthly publication of the 'centro unico nazionale' (CUN) for the study of phenomena believed to be of extraterrestrial nature. It is authorized by the Tribunal of Bologna.

Editorial: New Frontiers

The editorial section highlights an article by Edgardo Bartoli, originally published in 'La Domenica del Corriere', titled "LA TERRA E IL SOLE RETROCESSI IN SERIE 'B'" (The Earth and the Sun Demoted to Series 'B'). This article features an interview with Professor Zdenek Kopal of the University of Manchester.

Interview with Professor Kopal

Professor Kopal discusses his discovery of a planetary system forming around the star Epsilon Aurigae, located four thousand light-years away. This star is twenty times larger than our Sun. Based on observations from the American satellite 'OAO 2', Kopal identified a disk of solid particles, some as large as small planets, obscuring the star every twenty-seven years. He suggests that life might develop on these celestial bodies, but expresses concern about humanity's place in the universe.

Kopal states, "Our importance as citizens of the universe is terribly diminished. And woe betide if elsewhere they realize our existence: it would be an immense danger, we should go unnoticed." He emphasizes the need for caution and prudence when considering contact with extraterrestrial civilizations, suggesting that humanity should try to remain unnoticed.

Kopal's work also touches upon the improbability of life arising, given the vast number of conditions required. He posits that while Earth might be unique in our solar system, the universe likely hosts countless planets with potential for life, possibly based on different elements like silicon instead of carbon.

"The War of the Worlds" Broadcast

The magazine revisits the famous 1938 radio broadcast of H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds" by Orson Welles. It recounts how the realistic, dramatic presentation, interspersed with simulated news bulletins, caused widespread panic among listeners in the United States who believed an actual Martian invasion was occurring. The article notes that this event was considered a psychological test regarding how people might react to an announcement of UFOs being extraterrestrial spacecraft.

Project OZMA and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

The issue details Project OZMA, initiated in the autumn of 1959 by astronomer Frank D. Drake at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia. The project aimed to detect potential extraterrestrial signals using radio waves, specifically focusing on the neutral hydrogen frequency (1,420.405.752 cycles per second). Drake, supported by Professor Otto Struve, believed that the Milky Way contained billions of star systems and that intelligent life might exist on many of their planets.

Despite 150 hours of listening, Project OZMA was suspended due to the radiotelescope's reallocation for other studies. Drake had expressed hope that the research would eventually yield results, even if it took decades.

Soviet Radioastronomy Efforts

A section titled "I russi cercheranno di parlare con altri mondi" (The Russians will try to speak with other worlds) reports on the Soviet Union's plans to establish contact with extraterrestrial civilizations using new radioastronomy equipment near Moscow. Astrophysicist Nikolai Petrovic suggests that while interstellar travel is currently unfeasible, communication via radio or light waves is possible. He also highlights the increasing population on Earth and the need to consider colonizing other planets.

The article mentions a previous Soviet experiment in 1965 where radio signals were detected from a source named CTA-102, located at the edge of the galaxy. The signals exhibited periodic variations, leading to speculation about an artificial origin, though natural phenomena were also considered as explanations.

Professor Hashtrudi on UFOs

An article from the Persian publication 'ETTE LAAT' features statements from Professor Mohssen Hashtrudi, a physicist at the University of Teheran. Hashtrudi believes that UFOs are observing Earth and pose a potential threat. He suggests that just as humans are trying to reach other planets, beings from other worlds are trying to reach Earth. He also discusses the growing influence of physics and mathematics in language and the increasing global population, necessitating the colonization of other planets.

Space Exploration News

Brief reports cover two space exploration topics:

• Two Space Probes for Jupiter Exploration: American scientists are planning a new program to launch two automated probes, 'Pioneer F' and 'Pioneer G', in early 1972 to study Jupiter. These probes will conduct thirteen experiments during a week in Jupiter's orbit.
• Russian Probe Lands on Venus: The Soviet probe 'Venus 7' successfully landed on Venus in December 1970, transmitting data for 23 minutes. The probe confirmed extreme surface temperatures and pressure, indicating Venus is inhospitable to life.

Mitchell's Telepathy Experiment

Edgar Mitchell, one of the Apollo 14 astronauts, is reported to have attempted a telepathic transmission of graphic symbols to a medium in Chicago during his flight to and from the Moon. This was a personal initiative by Mitchell, who has a long-standing interest in telepathy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the implications of astronomical discoveries for humanity's understanding of its place in the cosmos, the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence, and the potential for future space exploration and contact. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages open investigation and discussion of UFO phenomena and related scientific advancements, while also acknowledging the psychological and societal challenges associated with such topics. There is a clear emphasis on scientific inquiry and the dissemination of information, contrasting with the idea of maintaining secrecy, as suggested by Professor Kopal.

This issue of "notizie C.U.N." from March 20, 1971, focuses on UFO phenomena in Italy and internationally, detailing investigations, witness accounts, and the organizational efforts of the C.U.N. (Centro Unico Nazionale).

Establishment of C.U.N. Section in Orvieto

The magazine reports on the initiative by student Francesco Izzo to establish a section of the C.U.N. in Orvieto. Izzo, a passionate researcher of extraterrestrial phenomena, aims to create a serious center for scientific study. The article highlights the C.U.N.'s reputation for a realistic and objective approach to this delicate subject. It invites individuals interested in resolving the enigma of flying saucers, who have witnessed observations or possess related material, to contact Francesco Izzo in Orvieto to contribute to what is described as "one of the greatest mysteries of the 20th century."

The article also notes that the local press has favorably commented on the establishment of the Orvieto section, which the C.U.N. sees as further motivation to operate with greater decisiveness in their research.

International Relations and the Gargano Case

Regarding international relations, the C.U.N. mentions that photographic documentation of the Gargano case from September 1966, previously published in "L'EUROPEO," continues to be a focus of attention for ufologists in other countries. Japanese ufologists from the CBA (Cosmic Brotherhood Association) in Yokohama have dedicated a prominent space to this case in their official publication, "UFO NEWS," featuring both Japanese and English captions.

Key Figures in C.U.N.

Mario Maioli - President of C.U.N.

Mario Maioli, born in Bologna, is 68 years old and resides in Bologna. He has a classical education and served in the Army. Since 1947, he has been part of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta and is a director. For fifteen years, he has been actively involved in the UFO problem. He was a friend of Consul Dr. Alberto Perego and supported CISAER (Italian Center for Aviation Electromagnetics Studies in Rome) until 1966, gathering scholars and enthusiasts around the UFO issue. As a founding member of the C.U.N., he has served as its President since 1967. Maioli was among the first to address the UFO issue in Italy and was a key organizer of the first National Congress on Unidentified Flying Objects and Extraterrestrial Phenomena in Riccione in 1967. He also attended the World UFO Researchers Congress in Magonsa, West Germany, in November of the same year.

Franco Bordoni-Bisleri - Vice-President of C.U.N.

Franco Bordoni-Bisleri, born in Milan, is 58 years old and resides in Milan. He has a classical education and graduated in pure chemistry from the University of Pavia in 1935. He served in the Air Force and was decorated with four silver medals for military valor, two of which were earned in combat. He also received the German Iron Cross for his service during World War II. After ceasing military service following the armistice of September 8, 1943, he is recognized as one of Italy's most experienced fighter pilots. He joined Società Bisleri in 1950 and became its President in 1970. Currently, in addition to his presidency at Bisleri, he is President of Vetrerie Bordoni Miva, the National Union of Liquour Industrialists, and the Milan Aeroclub. He is also an administrator for Vetrerie Milanesi and Vetrerie Balsaretti Modigliani. As a founding member of the C.U.N., his passion for UFOs led him to become Vice-President of the Center in 1967.

Further Confirmations: The Padovano Sighting

This section, titled "ULTERIORI CONFERME" (Further Confirmations), refers to a previous report in "NOTIZIARIO UFO" (issue no. 37) about a sighting on January 3, 1971, in a town in northern Italy. Rag. Franzoso and his university student daughter reportedly saw a strange, luminous object in the sky around 11:20 PM. The object, hemispherical in shape with its curved part facing downwards, appeared suddenly and then vanished, reappearing elsewhere in the sky. This phenomenon of appearing and disappearing repeated two or three times.

The inexplicable nature of the phenomenon caused agitation. Upon returning home, they discussed it with friends, but the confidence was misplaced as the story was reported by newspapers and agencies the next day, including names and details that compromised their anonymity. The "GAZZETTA DEL MEZZOGIORNO" reported the incident on January 5, 1971, describing a "mysterious luminous object" sighted in the Padovano region.

The C.U.N. immediately contacted Rag. Franzoso for confirmation and to inform him of an upcoming visit from a C.U.N. interviewer. However, the witnesses were distressed by the publicity and reported receiving anonymous calls with insults and ridicule. Rag. Franzoso expressed his regret and desire to no longer be involved, confirming the newspaper accounts but stating he had nothing further to add.

The C.U.N. expresses sadness at their desire for peace but uses the incident to criticize the "obtuse and petty-mindedness" of those who resort to irony rather than observation and reflection.

Flying Saucers in Bologna

An article from "ABC" dated August 21, 1970, discusses the CUN (Centro Unico Nazionale) in Bologna. It states that while talk of flying saucers has diminished, there is still a group in Bologna that believes in Martians. This group founded the CUN to verify claims of sightings. The article notes that the CUN is one of seventy such centers worldwide and publishes a bimonthly journal called "Notiziario Ufo." However, it critically observes that only members claim to have seen flying saucers, implying a lack of independent verification.

Intensification of UFO Phenomena in Italy

The magazine asserts that UFO phenomena have not ceased but have intensified in Italy. It mentions that despite the public's tendency to sensationalize or ignore such events, the C.U.N. continues to record facts. The article references a sighting on November 13, 1970, in Ceglie, province of Bari, where Sig. M. Azzo observed two luminous, hemispherical objects flying in parallel, moving from east to west. This sighting, accompanied by a drawing, preceded the report of Rag. Franzoso's sighting in the Padovano region.

The C.U.N. emphasizes that recent sightings in Verona, Mantova, Rimini, Orvieto, Perugia, and Torino, previously covered in "Notiziario UFO," fit into a current and disturbing context. The magazine criticizes public information outlets for their modus operandi of reporting, commenting, and explaining news, suggesting that incomplete reporting leaves the consumer unsatisfied.

Perugia Sighting: Mysterious Object or Weather Balloon?

An article from "LA NAZIONE" dated September 29, 1970, titled "HA TENUTO I PERUGINI CON IL NASO... IN SÙ" (Kept the people of Perugia looking up...), describes a luminous object of a magnificent azure color observed over Perugia for over an hour. Many citizens called the newspaper seeking an explanation, with speculation ranging from flying saucers to spy objects and alien devices. The article, however, presents the official explanation: experts identified the object as a weather balloon launched for meteorological purposes to monitor air masses.

A letter to the editor from Paolo F. Guerri, a second-year student at the "Annibale Mariotti" classical high school in Perugia, strongly contests this explanation. He criticizes the newspaper's article as superficial and poorly titled. Guerri presents five points based on his own investigation:

1. The object, elliptical in shape, remained perfectly immobile over Perugia, which he argues refutes the weather balloon theory.
2. Witnesses observed a brighter central area, like an excrescence or dome.
3. The light emitted was not a solar reflection but resembled that of a mercury vapor lamp.
4. The object continued to shine with a bluish light even with the sun behind it, which he finds inexplicable for a reflective surface.
5. A witness observed the object for about four minutes, during which it shone like a star, appearing twice as bright as Venus, before disappearing.

Guerri concludes by questioning what the object could have been, given these observations, and implies that weather balloons cannot account for such phenomena.

The newspaper's response, while acknowledging the student's letter and admiration, reiterates its role as chroniclers rather than imposing opinions. They explain that their initial interpretation of the Perugia object as a weather balloon was based on the characteristics of such balloons: transparent material, containing a gas lighter than air, carrying recording instruments. They suggest that the object's luminosity, even with the sun behind it, is due to its transparency and altitude, allowing it to catch the last rays of the sun. They state that this is their opinion and does not negate the reader's doubts.

Letters to the Editor and C.U.N.'s Response

Following the Perugia sighting, the magazine notes that numerous letters from readers, like Guerri's, indicate a public desire for truth rather than vague reassurances. The C.U.N. states its commitment to seeking the truth. The issue of a "ballon-sonde" (weather balloon) allegedly sighted over Torino on September 24 is mentioned, with the C.U.N. noting that no official entity has clarified the matter.

A letter from the "CENTRE NATIONAL D'ETUDES SPATIALES" (National Center for Space Studies) in Aire-sur-l'Adour, France, dated March 3, 1971, addressed to Sig. Dario Camurri in Torino, states that the observed balloon was likely not launched by their center. They enclose a brochure about their balloon activities.

The C.U.N. concludes that the significant conclusions regarding the phenomenon observed over Piedmont on September 24 of the previous year should make people reconsider their habitual explanations of UFOs as mere weather balloons.

Case LEF. 23-24.2.71: A Complex Sighting

This section presents a partial report on observations made on February 23 and 24, 1971. The sightings, which occurred over an eight-hour period, spanned multiple Italian regions (Liguria, Piedmont, Lombardy) and neighboring countries (Spain and France), presenting a more complex situation than initially expected. The report is based on information gathered by the C.U.N.'s reporting network, with further investigations ongoing. Results from French and Spanish collaborators will be published in a future issue.

Obstacles to the investigation included recent strikes by postal and telecommunications workers, which hampered information exchange. Additionally, some subscribers or members did not receive issue no. 37 of "NOTIZIARIO UFO," which was mailed on March 10.

The magazine expresses hope that such disruptions will not recur and proceeds to detail the observations from February.

February 23, 1971 Sightings:

• 5:30 PM: A luminous globe-shaped object remained visible for over an hour over Fenestrelle, Perrero, and Pragelato.
• 6:15 PM: The object was no longer visible.
• 7:00 PM: In S. Caterina, province of Asti, numerous people observed a parachute-shaped, reddish, solid object moving slowly towards the southwest. The object later changed shape to a chalice topped with a hemisphere.
• 7:10 PM: A witness near Mathi, between Caselle and Lenzo Torinese, saw a very luminous white object, appearing the size of a full moon, rise from Monte Basso. The object initially moved towards the witness, then rapidly changed direction, ascended, and disappeared behind Monte Basso. The witness noted a white, conical cloud formation in the area where it vanished. The witness had the impression the object emerged from the mountain itself. No electromagnetic effects were registered; a portable radio remained functional.
• 7:13 PM: At Ussel (Correze, France), Enrico Escurat and his brother saw a luminous cone-shaped light descend, widening as it came down. The object, located slightly north and descending vertically, reached the apparent size of a full moon. It then stopped, rotated, and began descending again rapidly in a zig-zag motion. After another stop, it appeared to explode, leaving a white trail that remained visible for twenty minutes, changing color to mauve. It was no longer visible by 7:35 PM.
• 7:15 PM: A commercial airliner passed not far from the phenomenon, and a private aircraft passed ten minutes later, likely having witnessed it.
• 7:15 PM: Signora Enrichetta Tron, from Reynaud, reported to Brigadier Lippi of the Carabinieri in Perrero that she saw a light on the mountains of Colle del Piz. In a radio interview, she described seeing a strong light around 7:15 PM, unlike anything she had seen before, and heard no noise.

February 24, 1971 Sightings:

• Observation in Perosa Argentina: A RAI interviewer collected testimony from Signor Roncaglia about the same observation. He described the object as mushroom-shaped, luminous, with a clear color, resembling white fog with luminous reflections. He noted it was large and that friends of his also saw it and searched the mountains for two hours without finding anything.

• Observation in Fenestrelle: Brigadier Marciano received similar testimonies from residents of Fenestrelle.

• Observation in Ciaberso: Signor Bruno Pons reported hearing a sputtering engine noise and a whistle, thinking an airplane had crashed. He went to alert the Carabinieri.

• Observation near Passirana (Rho): A technical director from Alfa Romeo, while driving, saw a "light" of limited size but high luminosity, with a white-blue color. The luminous object moved slowly towards the west-northwest. The witness lost sight of it in the town but regained it minutes later. He was amazed by its rapid movement. The object then appeared as a red cloud with a downward appendage, located 100-150 kilometers away, appearing fixed in the sky.

• Photograph: A photograph of the "red cloud" is presented, taken from the Torino-Milano highway by a photographer from "Gazzetta del Popolo." The caption indicates it was published on February 25, 1971.

• Torino Explanation: The mysterious "red cloud" was also visible from Torino, prompting official and scientific explanations. Professor Fracastoro, Director of the Astronomical Observatory of Pino Torinese, stated in "La Stampa" on February 24 that it was a "nocturnal cloud" over 10 kilometers high, west of Torino, reflecting sunlight. He noted that while it was evening on Earth, the cloud was still illuminated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the reporting of numerous witness sightings across Italy and abroad, and the ongoing debate between unexplained aerial phenomena and conventional explanations like weather balloons. The C.U.N. positions itself as a serious research organization committed to objective inquiry, aiming to uncover the truth behind these events. The editorial stance is critical of sensationalism and dismissiveness, advocating for a more open-minded and analytical approach to UFO reports. The magazine also highlights the challenges faced by researchers, including public skepticism and logistical difficulties in information gathering.

This issue of "La Stampa", dated February 24, 1971, focuses on a series of mysterious luminous phenomena observed across Northern Italy on the evening of February 23, 1971. The cover headlines, "Mezza città con gli occhi al cielo per il timoro della nube verde" (Half the city with eyes on the sky for fear of the green cloud) and "Mezza città con gli occhi al cielo per il timoro della nube rossa" (Half the city with eyes on the sky for fear of the red cloud), highlight the public's reaction and the media's evolving narrative.

The Phenomenon and Initial Reactions

The article begins by recounting an initial statement by Professor Fracastoro, who suggested the phenomenon might have been a noctilucent cloud, allowing for an extended period of daylight. However, he later revised his statement, considering the possibility of a solid object entering the atmosphere, potentially a meteorite, a re-entering space vehicle, or another man-made object.

Witness Testimonies

The magazine presents multiple witness testimonies from various locations:

• Colle di Superga, Torino: Signorina Marisa Ferrero described a spherical object, appearing 3/4 the size of the full moon, emitting reddish light with yellowish glows. It had a tail composed of phosphorescent dots and black smoke, moving slowly towards the South-Southwest. The sphere eventually became opaque, leaving only the luminous tail.
• Palazzolo sull'Oglio, Brescia: Luigi Selini, a technical designer, observed the phenomenon in three phases. Initially, a cone-shaped object with a red cylindrical part at the vertex. The intensity of light within the cone changed, and then the cylindrical object dissolved, leaving a long, white, conical trail.
• Asti: Signor Luigi Ottaviano observed a very luminous spherical object with a streak of non-solid substance, resembling a comet's tail, directed northwards. The object, excluding the tail, was yellowish-white. A similar red object was noted from Asti at the same time.
• Bordighera: Hunter Giovanni Pierasco saw an incandescent spherical object with a well-defined trail falling behind the mountains, possibly into France.
• Statale 24 del Monginevro: Carabinieri and train passengers witnessed a luminous red object with a long trail, appearing to fall towards the Moncenisio massif, with some suggesting it fell into French territory.
• Air Corridor ABM (Ambra-Monte Bianco): A TWA pilot reported a strange, inverted cone-shaped object, initially motionless, then moving rapidly and appearing to crash, with large flames seen from the presumed crash site.
• Ortovero: A Lufthansa pilot reported an object, initially white then red, that nearly collided with the aircraft before crashing near the Ligurian coast. The phenomenon was described as a red and intense light, fixed and not flickering like a fire, and remained visible for hours despite two meters of snow in the area.
• Camporosso, Imperia: Signorina Luisa Degano observed a triangular object, very luminous, followed by a second identical object of a lighter color and a tail.
• Bordighera (February 24): Signor Giovanni Verdesca saw a very large, fire-red object with a comet-like trail, disappearing behind the French mountains.

Scientific and Media Interpretation

The article notes that the phenomenon excited the imagination of thousands, leading some to believe they were experiencing science fiction. However, it states that scientific reality was more prosaic. Professor Fracastoro, director of the Pino observatory, suggested it was a natural phenomenon, a cloud reflecting sunlight at an altitude of over 10 kilometers, referred to as a "nottiscente" (noctilucent) cloud. The photo published, taken in Caluso, shows a luminous trail. The article concludes that the mystery was resolved for this instance, attributing it to a nebulous mass moved by strong winds, illuminated by the sun's rays.

Media Coverage and Follow-up

The issue lists numerous newspapers that covered the event, including "Il Giornale di Brescia", "Momento Sera", "Il Giorno", "Corriere d'Informazione", "Gazzetta del Popolo", "La Stampa", and "Stampa Sera", all reporting on February 24th or 25th, 1971. Extensive searches and investigations were conducted in the suspected crash areas by military and Carabinieri forces, with helicopters assisting. However, after a few days, the area was closed to normal traffic, and the matter became silent.

The magazine states that based on these and other reports from Italian and foreign collaborators, further investigations have been conducted, with more details to be published in the "NOTIZIARIO UFO".

CUN Initiative: Photographic Observation Network

Separately, the issue announces an initiative by CUN (Centro Ufologico Nazionale) called "R.O.F. - Rete di Osservazione Fotografica" (Photographic Observation Network). This initiative invites individuals with cameras to photograph the night sky at the zenith precisely at 22:00 on June 19, 1971 (or the pre-festive day if weather is adverse). Participants are asked to use a tripod, a red filter (optional), and a sensitive film (e.g., 27 Din). The shutter should be kept open for 15 minutes using the "B" setting and an open diaphragm. The resulting photographs, printed in a 120x120 mm format if square or 110x7 mm if rectangular, along with detailed information about the observation (location, time, equipment, film, weather conditions, etc.), should be sent to CUN in Bologna. The goal is to establish a regular photographic observation network of the sky.

Information and Advertisements

An "ATTENZIONE" section highlights Aimé Michel as the author of an upcoming editorial in the "NOTIZIARIO UFO", describing him as one of the world's most serious UFO researchers. A "PUBBLICITA INFORMATIVA" section promotes the French quarterly magazine "PHENOMENES INCONNUS", the organ of the "Cercle Français de Recherches Ufologiques", providing contact details for Pierre Delval in Grenoble, France. Another advertisement is for "IL GIORNALE DEI MISTERI", a monthly publication by Corrado Tedeschi Editore, mentioning an article in its April-May issue titled "Il segreto di ciò che videro gli astronauti": "OGGETTI MISTERIOSI SULLA LUNA" (Mysterious Objects on the Moon).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a strong focus on UFO sightings and related phenomena, presenting a collection of witness accounts alongside attempts at scientific explanation and media analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation, presenting diverse perspectives from eyewitnesses to scientific opinions, while also promoting citizen participation in UFO research through initiatives like the CUN photographic network. The coverage reflects the public's fascination with the unknown in the sky, balanced with a journalistic effort to provide factual reporting and potential explanations.