Notiziario UFO - 1971 11-12 No 42

Magazine Overview

This issue of NOTIZIARIO UFO, the official bimonthly publication of the Centro Unico Nazionale (CUN) for the study of extraterrestrial phenomena, is issue number 42, dated November-December 1971. The magazine is published in Italy and is in Italian.

CUN Assembly and New Leadership

The issue reports on the annual General Assembly of CUN members held on December 12, 1971, at the 'Dante Alighieri' Italian Linguistic Center in Florence. The assembly accepted the resignations of President Mario Maioli and Vice President Franco Bordoni Bisleri. New members were appointed to the first category, and the new governing council for 1972 was elected. Dr. Franco Vanni was elected President, Roberto Pinotti Vice President, and Renzo Cabassi Secretary General. Gian Carlo Barattini, Dario Camurri, Francesco Izzo, and Umberto Leotti were appointed councilors. The editorial direction of NOTIZIARIO UFO was confirmed to Roberto Pinotti, with Stefano Breccia as deputy director.

The outgoing President, Comm. Mario Maioli, sent a farewell message thanking members for their trust and highlighting the contributions of Gian Carlo Barattini as the founder. He also expressed gratitude to Roberto Pinotti for his dedication, Renzo Cabassi for his secretarial and editorial work, and Ing. Breccia for his technical expertise. Maioli noted the challenges of Italian ufology, particularly the lack of group collaboration compared to international centers, and expressed his desire to step down to allow younger leadership to revitalize the organization.

Editorial by Franco Vanni

In his introductory article, the newly elected President, Franco Vanni, expresses his gratitude for being elected and acknowledges the privilege and responsibility of the role. He states his journalistic background and his conviction, shared with many others, that humanity is not alone in the universe, based on probability calculations. Vanni emphasizes that research is the primary objective of CUN and that organization is crucial for its success. He outlines his immediate goals: strengthening the center's structures and expanding the NOTIZIARIO UFO, which he sees as the main communication tool. He stresses the need for financial resources to move the organization from a 'pioneering' phase to one of consolidation and security, requesting the support of all members.

Vanni also reflects on the rapid technological advancements of the last century, suggesting that what is theoretically possible will eventually be realized. He touches upon the vastness of the universe, the potential for extraterrestrial intelligence, and the philosophical implications of such discoveries, including the relativity of human concepts like good and evil. He posits that life and time might be the only absolute values in the universe.

UFO Sightings: Madras and Ceylon

The issue features a report from collaborators Dr. Marco Marianti and Federica Giraldi about UFO sightings in Madras, India, and Ceylon in August 1971. An article in the Indian newspaper "The Indu" on August 21, 1971, described a strange phenomenon observed in Madras on August 20. Astronomers were unable to explain it. Marianti and Giraldi gathered testimony from five direct witnesses, all students from the University of Bologna. They described a silent, luminous object that traversed the sky at an angular altitude of 40-45 degrees in 6-7 seconds, moving uniformly. The object was described as rectangular, about the size of a cigarette held at arm's length. It left a luminous trail, described as bright like a laser, which initially appeared bluish-green and later turned reddish. A low, rumbling sound, like distant thunder, was heard about ten seconds after the object passed.

In Ceylon, during the first two weeks of August 1971, numerous UFOs were reportedly sighted, especially at night or during dawn and dusk. Some sightings occurred at a distance of only 7-8 meters. Local newspapers like "TIMES OF CEYLON", "LAKE HOUSE", and "WEEK-END SUN" (which published a photo) covered the events with significant interest. The report includes a drawing from the "WEEK-END SUN" photo showing a disc-shaped object with intense light.

Other Sections

There is a section titled "| «contatti»" which appears to be a placeholder or a brief note, and a diagram illustrating the apparent size of the UFO and its trail relative to the horizon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the organizational structure and future of ufological research in Italy, and philosophical reflections on humanity's place in the universe and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance, particularly from the new president Franco Vanni, is one of scientific inquiry, emphasizing probability, organization, and the need for financial stability to advance the study of UFO phenomena. There is a clear encouragement for collaboration and a forward-looking perspective on the potential discoveries related to extraterrestrial life.

This issue of 'Fornacette' (dated January 11, 1972) critically examines the coverage of the 'Fornacette case' by the newspaper 'Il Telegrafo'. The magazine argues that 'Il Telegrafo' has ignored the CUN (Centro Unico Nazionale), the primary investigative body for the case, while extensively reporting on the incident itself. The issue also touches upon media portrayals of ufology, including a television program and a letter to the United Nations.

'Il Telegrafo' and the 'Fornacette Case'

The lead article, "il Telegrafo ignora il CUN... ma non i suoi rapporti," published on January 11, 1972, by Luciano Gianfranceschi, is criticized for reviving the 'Fornacette case' after nearly six years. The magazine asserts that 'Il Telegrafo's' article, spanning six columns, did not introduce new information but rather reproduced the CUN's report from its June 1966 newsletter almost verbatim. This includes the reproduction of diagrams illustrating the trajectory of the object. The article questions the purpose of such extensive coverage if it merely reiterates existing findings without proper attribution.

The CUN's Investigation

The magazine emphasizes that the CUN conducted the original investigation, which involved a 27-page report containing testimonies from individuals like Faieta, Marshal Polidori, Valeriani, and agent P.S. A. De Pompa. The investigation also included original color photographs and drawings of the landing site, as well as details about three individuals identified as NASA personnel who allegedly conducted examinations on Faieta. The CUN is credited with performing analyses of the terrain and flattened vegetation. The article expresses dismay that 'Il Telegrafo' failed to mention the CUN by name in its extensive report, suggesting either a journalistic oversight or an attempt to claim the CUN's work as their own. The magazine clarifies that 95% of the information published by 'Il Telegrafo' originated from the CUN.

Debunking 'Il Telegrafo's' Claims

The issue explicitly refutes two points reported by 'Il Telegrafo':
1. That a police agent was present at the moment the object arrived.
2. That anyone saw 'little men' approximately half a meter tall.

The CUN asserts it possesses proof that these claims are false.

'Rischiatutto' and the Fratellanza Cosmica

On January 5, 1972, the popular television program 'Rischiatutto', hosted by Mike Bongiorno, featured Ignazio Castellana, a member of the 'Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica' (CSFC). Castellana, presenting himself as being in frequent contact with extraterrestrials, discussed UFOs. Following this, on January 6, 1972, the CUN sent a letter to RAI (the Italian public broadcasting company) addressed to Mike Bongiorno. The CUN, as the National Center for the Study of Extraterrestrial Phenomena, stated its intention to review Castellana's declarations. The CUN's internal board was to examine whether to intervene, possibly by publishing a response in their official organ, 'NOTIZIARIO UFO'. The CUN's internal regulations require all claims to be supported by evidence, and they considered the possibility of inviting CSFC members for a round table discussion with CUN experts.

CUN's Stance on CSFC

The CUN acknowledges the existence of UFOs and extraterrestrial machines but expresses disagreement with the CSFC's interpretation of their motives. While the CSFC suggests extraterrestrials are intervening due to humanity's self-destructive tendencies (like nuclear weapons and pollution), the CUN questions why extraterrestrials would have been involved in ancient times (e.g., the story of Jonah) if their arrival was solely due to modern threats. The CUN also questions the method of communication, noting the CSFC's claims of telepathic transmission, and wonders why extraterrestrials would need to physically contact individuals like Eugenio Siraguza instead of communicating through more established scientific or religious channels. The CUN believes that the CSFC's claims, particularly those linking extraterrestrial warnings to biblical prophecies and the imminent end of the world, are alarmist and potentially destructive to the serious study of UFOs that the CUN has been promoting for seven years.

The CUN's Mission and Funding

The CUN emphasizes its commitment to serious, analytical study of UFO phenomena with precise methodologies. It relies on funding from its members and subscribers, operating with no financial gain. Their motivation stems from a firm belief in the existence of UFOs and a desire to uncover the truth. The CUN believes that increased public interest and more subscribers could provide the necessary funds to establish its credibility as a reliable source of information on UFOs, thereby countering the 'ridicule lid' that suppresses public reporting.

Professor McDonald's Letter to the UN

Included in the documents section is a letter dated June 5, 1967, from Professor James E. McDonald of the University of Arizona to U Thant, then Secretary-General of the United Nations. McDonald thanks U Thant for the opportunity to present his views to the UN Outer Space Affairs Group. He submits a statement urging immediate UN action on the UFO problem, emphasizing its vast dimensions and the need for scientific attention. McDonald believes that UN involvement could help suppress the 'ridicule lid' that hinders public reporting of UFO sightings. He strongly considers the hypothesis that UFOs are extraterrestrial probes, stating that his year-long intensive study compels him to view this as the only currently acceptable hypothesis to explain the numerous credible sightings of machine-like objects worldwide. He offers his personal assistance and emphasizes that the UFO problem is an eminently international scientific issue, urging the UN to accelerate serious scientific study globally. McDonald notes the possibility of a global surveillance by UFOs and stresses the urgent need for understanding its purpose and plan.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance is clearly in favor of serious, evidence-based investigation into UFO phenomena, as exemplified by the CUN's work. It criticizes media outlets like 'Il Telegrafo' for sensationalism and lack of proper attribution. The publication advocates for a scientific approach, contrasting it with what it perceives as the more speculative and less rigorous methods of groups like the Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica. The CUN's dedication to truth, its reliance on member support, and its efforts to legitimize ufology are highlighted. The inclusion of Professor McDonald's letter reinforces the magazine's call for international scientific engagement with the UFO subject, treating it with the seriousness it believes it deserves.

FLAP 1954 is an issue dedicated to UFO phenomena, featuring a significant official statement from the U.S. Department of Defense and various reports of sightings and related scientific and investigative efforts. The magazine includes articles in Italian and English, reflecting an international interest in the subject.

Key Articles and Reports

U.S. Air Force Stance on Flying Saucers

A letter dated January 26, 1953, from Albert M. Chop of the Department of Defense, Office of Public Information, to Henry Holt & Company, addresses a proposed book by Major Donald E. Keyhoe. The letter acknowledges Keyhoe as a responsible and accurate reporter, with extensive cooperation with the Air Force in their study of unidentified flying objects. Information from Air Technical Intelligence records has been cleared and made available to Major Keyhoe. The Air Force, through its investigating agency 'Project Bluebook,' is aware of Keyhoe's conclusion that 'flying saucers' originate from another planet. The letter states that the Air Force has never denied this possibility, with some personnel believing in unknown natural phenomena, but acknowledging that if observed controlled maneuvers are correct, the only remaining explanation is an interplanetary one.

Mariner 9's Mysterious Encounter

An article from 'Il Tempo' dated November 24, 1971, reports on the Mariner 9 probe orbiting Mars. Scientists at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena are investigating a mysterious light source, described as seven hundred times more powerful than the star Canopus, which caused the probe to change its attitude. The incident, which lasted forty-seven minutes, occurred during a dust storm on Mars. While the probe has resumed normal operations and is sending back images, the source of the light remains unidentified. Hypotheses considered include Phobos, one of Mars's moons, or the planet Mars itself. The article also briefly mentions Soviet Mars probes.

Blue Sphere Sighting in England

A report from London, dated September 9, describes a mysterious blue sphere sighted by hundreds of people across England. The object was seen hovering and moving at high speeds. Police and Ministry of Defense stations were inundated with calls. While some speculated about a flying saucer from another planet, the Scottish meteorological office suggested a chemical substance from an experimental missile, and the Ministry of Defense proposed a vapor mass reflecting sunlight. However, the RAF found these explanations insufficient to account for the object's speed and behavior.

Spanish and Norwegian Sightings

Two brief reports detail sightings in Spain and Norway. A report from Seville, dated January 1, 1972, describes a couple who were followed for hours by a powerful, unidentified light source while driving. The object reportedly hovered at close range, emitting intense white light. Another report from Oslo, dated January 1, 1972, mentions a formation of seven unidentified objects flying over Norway at supersonic speed, observed by hundreds of people, pilots, and radar operators.

Radiotelescope Project

A report from Washington, dated January 17, mentions a proposal for the construction of the world's largest radiotelescope in the upcoming federal budget. The project, designed by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, would involve a 'Y' shaped structure with arms approximately 10 kilometers long, each equipped with nine antennas. The estimated cost for the initial phase is three million dollars, with a total project cost of sixty-two and a half million dollars.

C.U.N. and Notiziario UFO

Page 2 provides information about C.U.N. (Centro Ufologico Nazionale), an Italian UFO research organization. It clarifies that C.U.N. is primarily a research body, not a publishing house, and its members work voluntarily. The page announces that subscriptions to 'Notiziario UFO' and associative reports expire on December 31, 1971, and provides an address in Bologna for renewals and collaborations. It also outlines the publication schedule and nature of 'Notiziario UFO,' emphasizing that the organization is not in crisis and that direct correspondence will be handled through a dedicated section in the magazine.

Search for Extraterrestrial Communication

An article titled 'Le voci di altri mondi' (The Voices of Other Worlds) discusses the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence. It mentions the vast number of stars in our galaxy and the possibility of life on other planets. The article references attempts at communication, such as Project OZMA, and notes a recent conference in Soviet Armenia that revived the discussion, supported by Soviet and American scientific academies. It highlights the potential for large radio telescope networks to facilitate communication, with the understanding that any response from extraterrestrials would likely arrive with a significant time delay.

Debunking UFOs

The final page announces an upcoming article in 'Notiziario UFO' titled 'DEBUNKING,' which will cover the systematic depreciation of the UFO phenomenon, including a secret CIA recommendation to the Robertson Commission in 1953. It also mentions discussions on Italian UFO cases from 1971 and confused phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine exhibits a strong interest in UFO phenomena, presenting a mix of official statements, eyewitness accounts, and scientific inquiries. There is an open acknowledgment of the possibility of extraterrestrial origins for UFOs, particularly in the context of the U.S. Air Force's position. The publication also touches upon the scientific pursuit of understanding space and the potential for extraterrestrial communication, while also addressing the 'debunking' of UFO claims. The overall stance appears to be one of serious investigation and open-mindedness towards the subject, with a particular focus on gathering material and sharing information with its readership, especially through the C.U.N. organization and its publication 'Notiziario UFO'.