Notiziario UFO - 1979 01 - Vol 2 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Notiziario (Volume II, No. 1, January 1979) is the official publication of the National Ufological Center, edited by Riccardo Mariotti. It presents itself as a monthly magazine focused on the technical study and scientific analysis of unidentified flying objects and current space-related topics. The cover prominently features an exclusive report on "The Sirio 2 Mission" and highlights other intriguing topics such as radar blindness, events in the central Adriatic, and a mysterious encounter.

Key Articles and Features

Letters to the Editor

Two readers, Carlo Egori from Massa and Armando Baiocchi from Savona, share their thoughts. Egori, a 22-year-old enthusiast, praises the magazine's quality and suggests focusing on the diversity in UFO sighting testimonies and the material versus immaterial nature of UFOs. Baiocchi expresses his satisfaction with the magazine and its predecessor, hoping it will shed light on the UFO mystery without succumbing to sensationalism. He also references historical depictions of UFOs in art, such as the Madonna and Child with Saint John painting.

A young reader, Gianluca Nigro from Genoa, expresses his interest in contributing to UFO research despite being 14 years old and inquires about joining the National Ufological Center. The response from the Center encourages his interest and suggests he document himself while maintaining an objective approach.

Interview: Padre Domenico Grasso

Claudio Gallo interviews Padre Domenico Grasso, a theologian with degrees in literature and theology, who has been interested in the UFO phenomenon since 1952. Grasso discusses the theological implications of extraterrestrial life, stating that the Bible does not explicitly confirm or deny it, and that the concept of multiple inhabited worlds is not contrary to Catholic theology. He suggests that the human desire to escape reality might drive some to seek solace in 'utopian' ideas, including extraterrestrial origins for UFOs. He also touches upon the Church's stance, noting that it has not officially pronounced on UFOs as the phenomenon is still considered within the realm of science fiction.

Adriatic Central: What's Happening?

This extensive report by Romano Di Bernardo details a series of unusual events in the Adriatic Sea, particularly between Pescara and the island of Pomo, during November 1978. The phenomena included mysterious waterspouts, 'white waters,' intense radar interference affecting numerous fishing vessels, and sightings of luminous objects. The report recounts the mysterious shipwreck of the 'Francesco Padre' on October 13th, where the crew members drowned but had no water in their lungs. On November 7th, fishermen reported seeing red and white lights moving at high speed, coinciding with radar failures. The Italian Navy investigated, and on November 9th, the patrol boat CP 2018 observed a red signal ascending from the sea, followed by significant radar disturbances. The article also notes widespread interference on televisions and radio communications during this period. The area has been dubbed the 'Triangle of Pescara,' drawing parallels to the Bermuda Triangle due to the concentration of unexplained events and their impact on the local socio-economic life, including a reported 30% decrease in fish catch.

The Long Night of Pescara: Commander Gallerano's Account

Romano Di Bernardo interviews Commander Piero Gallerano of the Pescara Port Authority regarding the naval sighting on November 9th. Gallerano confirms that his crew observed a luminous red signal, described as a 'rocket,' ascending from the sea at a 45° angle. He emphasizes the professionalism and trustworthiness of his crew. Following the sighting, the patrol boat experienced significant radar and VHF communication disruptions for about twenty minutes. Gallerano commends his subordinate, Capo Di Valentino, for not being silenced and for reporting the event, contrasting this with the alleged suppression of similar sightings in Chieti.

UFOs on the Past

This section explores historical accounts of UFO-like phenomena, including a mention of the 'Madonna and Child with Saint John' painting and frescoes from the Monastery of Decani in Yugoslavia, suggesting ancient depictions might represent UFOs.

When Radar Doesn't See

Giorgio Cieri discusses the limitations of radar technology in detecting UFOs. He argues that radar, like human eyes, can be deceived by environmental conditions and sophisticated countermeasures. The article explains the basic principles of radar and how objects can be designed to be 'radar-invisible' or to actively confuse radar systems. It highlights that civilian airport radars are less sophisticated than military ones, further increasing the possibility of missed detections.

A Presumed Close Encounter of the Third Kind

Mario Pagni reports on an incident near Florence on May 22, 1978. The witness, Sig.ra Li Puma, along with her husband and daughter, observed luminous spheres hovering over a road. They also reported seeing small, humanoid figures described as 'dwarfs' wearing red cloaks. The spheres ascended vertically and disappeared. The report includes a second investigation involving members of the National Ufological Center and an army officer, who found some evidence of unusual radiation in the area but no definitive proof. The witnesses are described as sincere and not prone to fantasy.

The Case of Torrita di Siena: Summing Up

This article provides a detailed analysis of the Torrita di Siena UFO encounter, based on a report by an Italian Army officer. The report corroborates the witness's account of a luminous object and two beings. Key details include the object hovering low over the road, the car's engine and lights shutting down, the beings' movements described as 'floating,' and their physical characteristics. The witness's strong emotional reaction and the subsequent self-activation of the car after the object's departure are highlighted as significant points. The article also mentions the collection of physical evidence, including a burned spot on the road, and notes that the witness was a skeptic prior to the event. A comparison is made to a similar alleged sighting in Milan in 1962.

Chemical Analysis of Samples

Following the Torrita di Siena incident, chemical analyses were performed on samples collected from the site by the National Ufological Center. The tests, conducted at EURATOM, included radioactivity, X-ray fluorescence, and carbon analysis. The results were inconclusive, showing no significant anomalies or evidence of extreme heat, suggesting that any potential manipulation of the site was unlikely.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a serious, technical, and analytical approach to ufology, aiming to present documented cases and expert opinions. There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation, witness credibility, and exploring the phenomenon from various perspectives, including theological and technological. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging objective research while cautioning against sensationalism and unfounded speculation. The recurring theme is the unexplained nature of UFO phenomena and their potential impact on society, science, and even theology.

This issue of "Notiziario UFO" (UFO Newsletter) presents a multifaceted exploration of UFO phenomena, blending contemporary sightings with historical accounts and critical analysis. The cover story, "UFO DI FRONTE ALL'OBIETTIVO" (UFO in Front of the Lens), details a sighting by Massimo Batisti near Gavorrano, Italy, in February 1977. The article "GLI UFO NEL PASSATO" (UFOs in the Past) by Daniele Bedini revisits historical cases, including the 1952 Oloron, France, event and the 1561 Nuremberg, Germany, sighting, highlighting recurring patterns and visual similarities.

UFO Sighting in Grossetano

The lead article focuses on Massimo Batisti, a 24-year-old postal worker from Follonica, who reported an unusual aerial phenomenon near Gavorrano on February 13, 1977. Batisti described an elongated, almost rectangular object with an intense, light yellow luminosity that appeared to pulsate rhythmically. It was surrounded by a faint halo and remained stationary for about 30 minutes before suddenly vanishing. Fortuitously, Batisti had his camera and managed to take a photograph, which, despite being reproduced in black and white, is presented as evidence of an unconventional object.

Historical UFOs: Oloron and Nuremberg

Daniele Bedini's article "GLI UFO NEL PASSATO: astronavi madre in manovra?" (UFOs in the Past: Mother Ships Maneuvering?) delves into two significant historical cases. The first, from Oloron, France, on October 17, 1952, describes a long, narrow, whitish cylinder observed by Yves Prigent and his family. This object was accompanied by smaller, reddish, ringed spheres that moved erratically, leaving behind a white, fibrous trail that dissolved. The second case, from a 1561 pamphlet depicting a Nuremberg, Germany, event, shows opaque and luminous objects, including spheres and cylinders, expelling smaller spheres and leaving a volatile, whitish substance. The article notes the striking similarities between these historical accounts and the Oloron sighting.

The "Debunking" of Eugenio Siragusa

The article "SIRAGUSA: squallida fine di un mito" (Siragusa: A Squalid End to a Myth) by the editorial staff announces the arrest of Eugenio Siragusa, a prominent Italian "contactee" and founder of the "Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica" (Cosmic Brotherhood Study Center). Siragusa, accused of sexual violence, manipulation, fraud, and extortion against young women, is portrayed as a charlatan who exploited the UFO phenomenon for personal gain. The article asserts that the Centro Ufologico Nazionale had long identified Siragusa as a mystifier and that his downfall serves to "sfrondare" (prune) the UFO issue of its mythical and mystical fringes.

The CIA's Role in UFO "Debunking"

Following the Siragusa case, the magazine discusses the broader concept of "debunking" UFO phenomena, referencing Roberto Pinotti's book "Gli Agenti del Discredito" (The Agents of Discredit). It suggests that authorities, particularly the CIA, have historically engaged in systematic efforts to discredit UFO reports, motivated by fears of public panic and social unrest. The article posits that the emergence of controversial figures like "contactees" serves to ridicule the entire subject, thereby controlling public perception.

Antonio De Rosa: Another "Contactee"

The article further examines the case of Antonio De Rosa, another "contactee" who claimed contact with "Venusians." De Rosa is depicted as a repeat offender who has generated publicity through sensational claims, often leading to ridicule and legal trouble for fraud. His actions are seen as contributing to the "debunking" strategy by associating serious UFO inquiry with outlandish behavior.

Italian Astronomers and UFOs

"I TELESCOPI CHE NON AMANO GLI UFO" (Telescopes That Don't Like UFOs) by Massimo Pittella presents the results of a survey conducted by the Centro Ufologico Nazionale among Italian astronomers. The survey, "Operazione ASTRO," revealed that most astronomers are not well-informed about UFOs, have little knowledge of professional sightings, and tend to attribute phenomena to natural or psychological causes, or to terrestrial technology and hoaxes. The article criticizes the limited interest and conventional interpretations offered by the scientific community.

The Characteristics of Extraterrestrial Beings

"IL DIRITTO SPAZIALE" (Space Law) by Pompeo Magno begins a discussion on the potential characteristics of non-human intelligent beings. It posits that such beings must be corporeal, likely with solid or semi-solid forms, and possess individuality and consciousness, drawing parallels to the criteria used to define human beings. The article explores the philosophical and scientific basis for these assumptions.

"La Guerra dei Mondi": A Cinematic Allegory

Mario Pagni's article "LA GUERRA DEI MONDI" (The War of the Worlds) analyzes the 1952 film adaptation of H.G. Wells's novel. Pagni highlights the film's technical achievements in special effects and its allegorical representation of Cold War anxieties, suggesting that the Martian invasion served as a metaphor for the perceived threat of Soviet aggression. The article also notes the thematic continuity between this film and later UFO-themed movies like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

Celestial Observations for January

The "IL CIELO DI GENNAIO" (The Sky in January) section by Mario Pagni provides astronomical information, including a chart of circumpolar constellations and a map of the night sky for January. It explains basic astronomical concepts like celestial coordinates and the apparent motion of stars, encouraging readers to observe the night sky.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently adopts a critical stance towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims within the UFO field, particularly concerning "contactees." It champions a more rigorous, evidence-based approach to ufology, aligning with the goals of the Centro Ufologico Nazionale. The magazine seeks to separate genuine phenomena from hoaxes and mysticism, while also engaging with scientific and historical perspectives. The editorial stance emphasizes the need for critical thinking and a scientific approach to understanding UFO phenomena, while acknowledging the enduring public fascination with the subject.

Title: UFO notizie
Issue: 1979 (February)
Publisher: Ubaldo Fanucci Editore

This issue of UFO notizie delves into advancements in satellite technology, the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena, and related scientific and cultural topics. It features articles on the SIRIO-2 satellite, international efforts to study UFOs, and the risks associated with space debris, alongside a personal UFO sighting and promotions for science fiction literature.

SIRIO-2: A New Mission in Orbit

The article "il satellite SIRIO DUE" by Vincenzo Fisauli details the development and mission of the SIRIO-2 satellite. Building upon the success of SIRIO-1, launched in August 1977, SIRIO-2 is designed to address the growing need for advanced telecommunications and to overcome the challenges posed by higher frequency bands being affected by meteorological conditions. The satellite's primary missions are to provide a meteorology service for Europe and Africa and to establish intercontinental time synchronization. The article explains that the components for SIRIO-1 were built in duplicate, with the spare parts being utilized for SIRIO-2. The European Space Agency (ESA) approved the SIRIO-2 program after extensive studies in 1978, with construction expected to begin in early 1979.

SIRIO-2 Meteorology Service

The global meteorological observation system, coordinated by the World Meteorological Organization, relies on five satellites, including Europe's Meteosat. Meteosat photographs the Earth and collects meteorological data, transmitting processed information and forecasts. However, a lack of ground stations in many African regions limits data acquisition, hindering accurate long-term weather predictions. SIRIO-2 aims to bridge these communication gaps, expanding the capabilities of the global meteorological network and improving service performance.

The LASSO Experiment: Precision Time Synchronization

Another key mission of SIRIO-2 is the LASSO (Laser Synchronization from Synchronous Orbit) experiment. This experiment utilizes laser technology to achieve time synchronization with a precision of one billionth of a second, a significant improvement over the current 100 nanoseconds (100 billionths of a second) accuracy. This enhanced precision is crucial for advancing fields such as astronomy, astrometry, geodesy, and geodynamics, as well as for improving the tracking of spacecraft and navigation systems. The experiment involves two ground stations and a passive reflector and an active laser detector on the satellite, allowing for precise calculation of time differences between the stations.

International UFO Research and Concerns

UN Proposal for UFO Investigation

A dispatch from New York dated November 28, 1978, reports that the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space may establish a group of three experts to conduct an international study on UFOs. This initiative was proposed by Sir Eric Gairy, the Premier of Grenada, who has been advocating for such a study for two years. He cited the recent disappearance of a Cessna aircraft in Australia and presented photographic and film evidence of UFO sightings to support his proposal.

Warning on Space Debris

The International Organization for Civil Protection has issued a warning regarding the potential danger posed by the numerous man-made objects in orbit. Since 1957, approximately 10,600 objects have been launched, many of which are still active, some even powered by nuclear sources. The bulletin highlights the incident of Soviet satellite COSMOS 954, whose radioactive fragments fell in Northern Canada on January 24th, as an example of the risks associated with falling space debris. The organization's involvement in this matter is unprecedented, as it typically focuses on non-war-related human-caused catastrophes.

Reader Contributions and Science Fiction

A Personal UFO Sighting

A reader named Erminio Zampar from Ponte S. Pietro (BG) shares a detailed account of a personal sighting on December 6, 1978. He describes observing a luminous object, appearing as a globe of intense white light above and reddish below, moving across the sky over the province of Bergamo. He believes it was not a conventional aircraft, satellite, or meteor. He invites other readers who may have witnessed similar phenomena to share their experiences.

"UFO notizie" and Professor Hynek

The magazine acknowledges a letter from Professor Joseph Allen Hynek, director of the "Center for UFO Studies" (CUFOS), published in the June 1978 issue of the "International UFO Reporter." Hynek's article, "The State of UFO Research in Italy," offered observations on the Italian ufological scene. The magazine expresses gratitude for Hynek's positive assessment of the "Centro Ufologico Nazionale" as a serious entity and hopes for continued collaboration.

"UFO 1979: OMAGGIO AI NOSTRI ABBONATI"

This section promotes a special offer for subscribers, providing two science fiction volumes from the "FUTURO" series by Fanucci Editore. The featured books include "Violare il Cielo" by Robert Silverberg, "Un Dio dal Passato" by Philip José Farmer, "L'Artiglio dello Spazio" by Gordon R. Dickson, "L'Astronave d'Oro" by Cordwainer Smith, and "Scacchiera fra le Stelle" by Poul Anderson. The offer includes detailed descriptions of the books and the "Enciclopedia della Fantascienza" series.

MO.B.I. - Mostra Brevetti ed Invenzioni

UFO notizie announces its participation in the "Mostra Brevetti ed Invenzioni" (Exhibition of Patents and Inventions) at the Fiera di Roma from February 4-11, 1979. A specific event, a conference on "IPOTESI PROPULSIVA DEGLI UFO" (Propulsive Hypotheses of UFOs), is scheduled for February 11th at 4:00 PM, featuring Dr. Roberto Pinotti and other experts in UFO phenomena and aerospace.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

UFO notizie maintains a consistent editorial stance focused on exploring the UFO phenomenon with a blend of scientific inquiry, investigative reporting, and a willingness to consider unconventional theories. The magazine actively engages with its readership, publishing personal accounts and fostering discussion. It also demonstrates an interest in related scientific advancements, such as satellite technology and space exploration, and promotes science fiction as a genre that often explores similar themes. The magazine appears to advocate for a collaborative and serious approach to UFO research, as evidenced by its interaction with Professor Hynek and its coverage of international initiatives.