Notiziario UFO - 1980 04-05 - Vol 3 No 4-5

Magazine Overview

Title: NOTIZIARIO UFO
Issue: 4-5
Volume: III
Date: April-May 1980
Publisher: Riccardo Mariotti Editore
Country: Italy
Price: L.1500

This issue of Notiziario UFO, the official publication of the Centro Ufologico Nazionale, is dedicated to technical and scientific aspects of ufology and current space topics. It features a prominent cover story on the Gallio encounter, a detailed article on UFOs and radar, and an in-depth interview with renowned ufologist Antonio Ribera.

Cover Story: Gallio: Face to Face with Two Ufonauts

The cover story details the extraordinary experience of Angelo D'Ambros in Gallio, Vicenza, on November 24, 1978. D'Ambros, a retired bricklayer, reported a close encounter in a wooded area with two beings described as humanoid but with distinct somatic differences, including yellowish skin, large heads, and disproportionately long limbs. He described them as about 80 cm and 60 cm tall, hovering slightly above the ground. During the encounter, one of the beings attempted to take D'Ambros's sickle, causing a slight electric shock. D'Ambros resisted, and the beings fled. He then observed a strange object, described as being like two saucers placed one on top of the other, oblong in shape with a small dome, colored red and blue, with a white stripe. The object, approximately four meters long and two meters wide, had four aluminum-colored legs and took off vertically at high speed, emitting a bright red flash. D'Ambros's son-in-law, Luciano Munari, investigated the site and found two U-shaped footprints and scorched grass. The article includes a transcript of an interview with D'Ambros and discusses the physical evidence found, including an imprint on the sickle.

UFO and Radar: A Technical Analysis

This section delves into the complex relationship between UFO sightings and radar detection. It explains the different types of radar systems (surveillance, approach, tracking, meteorological, etc.) and their operational principles, including the use of electromagnetic waves. The article highlights that while radar is a powerful tool, it is not infallible and can be subject to various limitations and deceptions. Atmospheric phenomena like thermal inversions are discussed as a common cause of false radar echoes, making distant objects appear closer or creating anomalous 'angels.' The text also touches upon the Condon Report's acknowledgment of enigmatic radar cases that could not be explained by atmospheric aberrations alone, such as the Washington 1952 and Colorado Springs 1967 incidents.

Furthermore, the article explores how radar can be deliberately deceived or 'blinded' by human technology, citing examples of electronic countermeasures (ECM) used during military operations. It discusses the development of radar-absorbent materials and techniques, such as 'chaff' (aluminum strips) and 'needles,' used to confuse enemy radar systems. The author posits that if human technology can achieve such deception, it is plausible that more advanced extraterrestrial intelligences could similarly neutralize radar detection at will. The article concludes that while ECM can sometimes help UFOs evade radar, radar sightings remain of significant interest, with military organizations like the USAF archiving such reports.

Interview with Antonio Ribera: A Curious Conversation

This extensive interview with Antonio Ribera, a highly respected Spanish ufologist, covers a wide range of topics related to the UFO phenomenon.

On the Reality of UFOs: Ribera firmly believes that the UFO phenomenon is real and exists independently of human witnesses. He suggests that UFOs could be advanced 'super-machines' from a civilization beyond our own, possibly originating from a parallel universe, or a combination of these hypotheses.

European vs. American Ufology: Ribera notes subtle differences, with European ufology, particularly in Italy, characterized by a blend of scientific rigor and Latin intuition, leading to unexpected insights. He contrasts this with American ufology, which he sees as more statistically driven. He also critiques South American ufology for its tendency towards irrationality, 'cultist' attitudes, and messianic interpretations, attributing this to indigenous cultural influences and syncretism.

The Role of European Ufology: Ribera believes European ufology's strength lies in its rational and scientific approach, free from the romanticism of earlier generations, making it a crucial player in understanding the mystery of UFOs.

The 'Ummo' Case: Ribera expresses a strong skepticism about the 'Ummo' case, calling it an 'irritating enigma.' He suggests that the information attributed to 'Ummo' might be a product of human deception, possibly a test of credibility or a hoax orchestrated by individuals or even government agencies like NASA. He criticizes researchers like Claude Poher and Jacques Vallée for their interpretations of the case, particularly Vallée, whom he advises to read his latest book on the subject.

Photographic Evidence: Ribera discusses the controversial photographs of the alleged UFO from San José De Valderas, noting that analyses by CNES were ambiguous, while American researcher William Spaulding claimed to have detected a nylon thread. Ribera disputes Spaulding's findings, arguing that such a thread would be undetectable in a second-generation copy and that other photos show the object's consistency.

Experience with the UFO STUDY GROUP: Ribera recounts his positive experience presenting his findings to the UFO STUDY GROUP of the British House of Lords, noting the attentive reception and intelligent questions from the members.

Collaboration: Ribera accepts the invitation to collaborate with Notiziario UFO, with the caveat that his contributions will be sporadic due to his numerous commitments.

Personal Journey into Ufology: Ribera explains his lifelong curiosity about the unusual, starting with childhood stories and a science fiction novel, and progressing to collecting information on phenomena like the Loch Ness Monster and ghosts before becoming interested in UFOs in the late 1940s.

Other Articles and Sections

• Editorial: Roberto Pinotti reflects on the importance of the Centro Ufologico Nazionale's role in Italian and international ufology, emphasizing the need for accurate information, documentation, and professional research. He also mentions his new role as President of the CUN.
• Italian Style UFO Flap 1978: An overview of a significant period of UFO reporting in Italy during the latter months of 1978, compiled by the CUN and analyzed using the Hynek 6-category system. The report notes a high percentage of 'Nocturnal Light' (NL) reports and a significant number accompanied by photos.
• Regional News: Updates from various regional branches of the Centro Ufologico Nazionale across Italy.
• Letters, Reviews, UFO News: Standard sections for reader correspondence, book reviews, and brief news items related to UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and technical approach to ufology, emphasizing rigorous investigation, evidence analysis, and critical thinking. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness towards the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging its reality while cautioning against unsubstantiated claims or overly romanticized interpretations. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and speculation, and on the importance of professional research methodologies. The magazine also highlights the role of the Centro Ufologico Nazionale as a central hub for ufological research and dissemination in Italy.

This issue of La Stampa, dated Friday, September 17, 1976, features a prominent cover story questioning whether a Soviet aircraft penetrated American air defenses. The magazine also delves into a series of UFO sightings in Greece and Cyprus, and presents two detailed accounts of alleged UFO abductions: the Franck Fontaine case in France and the Travis Walton case in the United States.

Soviet Aircraft Penetration of US Air Defenses

The lead story, datelined Washington, September 16, reports that US Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld acknowledged the possibility of a Soviet aircraft penetrating American air defenses without detection. When asked if such an event could occur in America as it did in Japan with a Soviet MiG-25, Rumsfeld stated, "It can happen. The USA no longer has a valid air defense."

UFO Sightings in Greece and Cyprus

An article by Roberto Cioni and Dimitri Dacoronias details UFO events in Greece and Cyprus. On December 12, 1979, the government of Cyprus confirmed a UFO sighting based on credible testimonies from pilots of three foreign airlines and one UN aircraft. These pilots reported observing a flying object from their aircraft and radar, proceeding East-West at an altitude of approximately 40,000 feet (13,000 meters). The object was described as cone-shaped, about 50 meters in size, moving slowly without leaving a trail, and was confirmed by Nicosia airport radar. No military interception attempts were reported.

Additionally, on December 14, 1979, several luminous objects were sighted in Northeastern Greece, specifically near the village of Catarachi. Residents reported five luminous objects that flew over their village around 6:45 PM, descending towards nearby hills. The objects were described as discs emitting intense, pulsating luminosity that sometimes became fixed. They were observed descending to the ground without noise and then rapidly ascending, disappearing in about thirty seconds. Witnesses noted the objects formed precise patterns, one resembling an open 'A' and another a Greek 'P'. A serviceman on leave stated they were not conventional aircraft.

The Case of Franck Fontaine: Abducted by a UFO?

An extensive report by Edoardo Russo details the disappearance and reappearance of 19-year-old Franck Fontaine in Cergy-Pontoise, France. On the night of November 25, 1979, Fontaine, along with friends Jean-Pierre Prèvot and Salomon N'Diaye, was reportedly preparing to go to a market. Fontaine disappeared under mysterious circumstances. His friends initially reported seeing a strange luminous phenomenon. A large-scale search was initiated by the gendarmerie.

Eight days later, on December 3, Fontaine reappeared in the same location where he disappeared, claiming only a few hours had passed and that he had been preparing to leave with his friends. He had no memory of the intervening week. His mother and girlfriend had to show him newspaper clippings to convince him of the time elapsed. The case involved extensive investigations by the gendarmerie and experts from GEPAN (Groupe d'Études et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés). Despite initial skepticism from authorities and some scientific experts, the friends maintained their story. The article notes the unusual nature of Fontaine's reappearance and his claim of amnesia, raising questions about the events and potential motivations behind the story, including theories of a hoax or a genuine encounter.

The Travis Walton Case

Another detailed account by Edoardo Russo covers the alleged UFO abduction of Travis Walton in Arizona, USA. On November 5, 1975, Walton and six other loggers were working in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. They reported seeing a luminous object hovering above a woodpile. Travis Walton, aged 22, approached the object and was struck by a beam of blue-green light, causing him to be thrown backward and seemingly incapacitated. His companions, terrified, drove away. They later returned to search for Walton, who had disappeared.

Walton reappeared five days later, reportedly disoriented and with no memory of his time away, claiming only a few hours had passed. The case involved extensive searches, polygraph tests administered to the witnesses, and investigations by UFO research organizations like APRO and MUFON. Scientific and psychological evaluations were conducted, with some experts suggesting drug influence or psychological trauma, while others, like UFO researcher James Lorenzen, supported the witnesses' accounts. The article discusses the conflicting opinions, the media's involvement, and the subsequent attempts to discredit the case, particularly by writer Philip Klass. Despite the controversy, the case remains a significant event in UFO literature.

Ufology and the Scientific Method

An article by Pier Luigi Aiazzi discusses the challenges of applying the scientific method to ufology. It contrasts Isaac Newton's principle of "Hypotheses non fingo" (I do not feign hypotheses) with the modern approach in human sciences, which often requires constructing hypotheses to understand complex phenomena. The author argues that ufology, dealing with potentially intelligent non-human entities, requires an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from psychology and other human sciences, not just physics and statistics. The article suggests that UFOs should be considered as "thinking subjects" rather than just "unidentified flying objects," implying a need to understand their motivations and interactions.

The Weapons of Humanoids

Paolo Toselli's article, "Le Armi Degli Umanoidi" (The Weapons of Humanoids), continues its examination of objects reportedly carried by alleged alien beings. The second part of the article focuses on the effects of these "weapons," which are often described as tubes, pencils, or metallic rods emitting light beams. The author notes that while these "weapons" are frequently used, there are no documented cases of death resulting from them. Instead, temporary paralysis is a common reported effect, often associated with luminous rays. The article cites several cases, including one from Australia in 1893 where a witness's hand remained paralyzed after being hit by a ray, and the 1965 case of Maurice Masse, who experienced prolonged sleepiness after being "paralyzed" by a pencil-like object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to adopt a stance of presenting UFO phenomena and alleged encounters with a degree of seriousness, detailing witness testimonies and investigative efforts. While acknowledging skepticism and the need for scientific rigor, it gives significant space to accounts of UFO sightings and abductions, suggesting an open-minded approach to the subject matter. The inclusion of articles on the scientific method applied to ufology and the analysis of alleged alien "weapons" indicates a desire to explore the phenomenon from multiple perspectives. The editorial stance seems to be one of documenting and analyzing these events, leaving the ultimate conclusions to the reader while highlighting the complexities and controversies surrounding them.

TEMPONOSTRO is a monthly magazine focused on "third youth," covering topics related to science, love, and the unexplained. This issue, dated June 1980, features a significant focus on UFO phenomena, alongside articles on scientific theories and historical events.

UFO Sightings and Encounters

The magazine presents a detailed chronological report of UFO sightings in Italy from September to December 1980. These include:

• September 12: An object shaped like a liquid gas cylinder was observed in Olbia (SS).
• September 13-14: Orange lights in Northern Italy were identified as weather balloons.
• September 16: A strong red light was seen near Cormons (GO) by three individuals.
• September 21: A reddish sphere was sighted in Cagliari (Monte Urpino), leaving a colored trail.
• September 21-22: A bright red-white light emanated from an object hovering near Marsala (TP), producing a noise similar to aircraft.
• October 4: In Viggiù (VA), two thin, proportioned beings about 80 cm tall with phosphorescent eyes were observed.
• October 17: Two red spheres, described as being under an "azure umbrella," were seen near Strozz (BG).
• November 16: A luminous object was sighted in the sky over Terminillo.
• November 18: A bright glare was observed near Delbio (Sondrio).
• November 29: Two lights were seen in the sky over San Donà and Musile del Piave (VE), moving rapidly towards the sea.
• December 1: A white, luminous ball with a reddish halo was seen moving rapidly in a zig-zag pattern in Porto San Giorgio (Ascoli).
• December 2-3: Fortunato Zanfretta in Genoa reported being abducted by a UFO.
• December 5: Angelo Delucchi observed a pink disc near Riva Trigoso (GE) from which a light beam was directed at his car, causing his vehicle's controls to fail.
• December 11: A luminous disc, appearing red, was seen ascending rapidly over Palma di Montechiaro (Agrigento).
• December 15: Two sightings in Cagliari reported red flashes and a luminous object.
• December 15: Three people independently observed a luminous white ball in Rovereto (Trento).

The "SS514" Phenomenon

A dedicated section investigates UFO activity along the SS514 road in the Ragusa area of Sicily. Three specific incidents are detailed:

1. September 18, 1976: A couple saw a large green sphere emitting light.
2. May 5, 1977: A truck driver witnessed a dark grey UFO with a rotating ring and yellow interior light, observing an entity with a grey suit and helmet.
3. December 15, 1978: Angelo Cappuzzello encountered two entities over 2.15 meters tall, speaking an unknown language, near his truck.

The article notes the lack of industrial or high-voltage lines in the area, questioning why this specific location attracts UFO activity.

Scientific Articles

Black Holes, Classical Mechanics, and Relativity

Giuseppe Chiota presents a theoretical framework for understanding the universe, starting with the 'two-body problem.' He posits that the observed phenomena in galaxies, such as spiral arms, can be explained by the rotation of the reference system during the ejection of masses from a central nucleus. This theory suggests that galaxies at their edges might behave like 'black holes' due to speeds exceeding the speed of light, leading to a contraction of spacetime. The article discusses the implications for a 'new physics' that moves beyond classical mechanics and Einstein's relativity, particularly concerning the concept of kinetic energy and the principle of action-reaction.

The Tunguska Event

An article by Paolo Fiorino revisits the 1908 Tunguska event, proposing the theory that it was caused by a comet, or a "snowball," impacting Earth. Scientists Thomas Ahrens and John O'Keefe of the California Institute of Technology support this theory, noting that such an impact would vaporize the comet and create a massive incandescent steam cloud without leaving a crater, consistent with the event's characteristics.

Other Topics

UFOs and Ancient Civilizations

An excerpt discusses the book "The Sirius Mystery" by Robert K. G. Temple, which explores the hypothesis that ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Sumerians were influenced by extraterrestrial visitors from the Sirius star system.

UFO Invisibility

An article from the magazine "METEORA" claims to have discovered the mechanism by which UFOs become invisible, attributing it to "psychic energy" rather than electromagnetic phenomena. The director, Antonio Alfieri, offers to send a full report.

The "Portiere" Book

A brief mention is made of a book titled "Il Portiere" (The Goalkeeper), part of a "TECNICA DELLO SPORT" series, focusing on technical and athletic preparation for goalkeepers.

Editorial Stance and Themes

The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded approach to UFO phenomena, presenting various theories and witness accounts without definitively endorsing any single explanation. There's a strong emphasis on scientific inquiry, even when exploring speculative concepts like new physics and extraterrestrial contact. The recurring themes include UFO sightings, the potential for advanced extraterrestrial intelligence, the limitations of current scientific understanding, and the search for explanations that bridge the gap between unexplained phenomena and established scientific principles. The magazine also seems to encourage reader participation and discussion, as indicated by the "Pagina Bianca" section.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

TEMPONOSTRO consistently explores the intersection of science, mystery, and the unexplained. This issue heavily features UFO reports, presenting a wide range of sightings and witness testimonies from Italy. The magazine also delves into theoretical physics, discussing concepts like black holes and relativity, and attempts to connect these scientific ideas with observed phenomena. There's a clear interest in exploring alternative explanations for events that challenge conventional understanding, including historical mysteries and potential extraterrestrial influences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider various hypotheses and contribute their own perspectives, as evidenced by the "Pagina Bianca" section and the invitation for reader submissions.