Notiziario UFO - 1988 07-12 - Vol 23 No 109

Magazine Overview

This issue of "UFO" (Notiziario Italy's International UFO News), volume XXIII, number 109, dated July-December 1988, is a technical review of ufology published by the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (C.U.N.). The cover prominently features the headline "INDIA E Extra-terrestri" and a detailed diagram of a 'Shakuna Vimana,' an ancient Indian flying machine.

Editorial Stance and Key Articles

The editorial, titled "VANTAGGI" (Advantages), by Giancarlo Barattini, highlights the positive outcomes of the organization remaining a small, focused group, leading to highly qualified and qualifying activities, exemplified by their participation in the International Astronautical Congress in Bangalore.

Coral E. Lorenzen (1925-1988); APRO (1952-1988): DUE EPITAFFI (Two Epitaphs)

This section commemorates the passing of Coral E. Lorenzen on April 12, 1988, at the age of 61. She was the co-founder, with her husband Jim, of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), the first private UFO research organization in the USA. The article notes the passing of Jim in 1986 and highlights Coral's dedication to APRO's work for 36 years. APRO was known for its serious and professional approach, documenting cases like Antonio Villas Boas's abduction and photographic evidence from Barra da Tijuca and Trindade. The organization had international branches and representatives worldwide. Roberto Pinotti served as Italy's representative for nearly twenty years. The article concludes by stating that APRO passes its torch to the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies and MIUFON.

Dr. Roberto Pinotti in India

This section details Roberto Pinotti's participation as a guest speaker at the 39th Congress of the International Astronautical Federation in Bangalore, India, from October 8-15, 1988. He presented two papers: "ETI, SETI AND TODAYS PUBLIC OPINION" and "INDO-ARYAN TRADITIONS AND HISTORY OF ASTRO-NAUTICS." The article emphasizes the abundant and convincing evidence in Sanskrit literature regarding ancient craft of non-human origin, though it cautions against assuming "extraterrestrial" origin without considering other plausible explanations. The word 'Vimana' is discussed as meaning 'aeroplane' or 'celestial chariot.'

#### Pushpaka Vimana no myth, says Italian scholar

Reporting from The Times of India News Service, this article highlights Dr. Roberto Pinotti's presentation in Bangalore. He discussed the 'Vimana' mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts, defining it as a 'celestial chariot of the Gods' or 'aerial car.' He noted that these texts describe Vimanas as being made from special heat-absorbing metals like 'Somaka,' 'Soundalika,' and 'Mourthwika,' and mentioned seven types of installed aboard. The 'Vymanika Shastra' is presented as an attempt to explain advanced technology.

#### 'India had a superior civilisation'

Another report from The Times of India states that Dr. Roberto Pinotti suggested India may have had a superior civilization with possible contacts with extraterrestrial visitors, evidenced by the 'Vimanas' described in ancient texts, which might indicate a connection to modern aerospace technology.

#### ET is no laughing matter

By L.K. Sharma, this article from The Times of India discusses Dr. Pinotti's presentation on 'ETI, SETI and today's public opinion.' It notes that science fiction and popular interest in UFOs have significantly influenced the average person's acceptance of extraterrestrial life. Surveys show a rise in belief in ETI, with women being more skeptical than men. Pinotti also referenced statements by Presidents Reagan and Gorbachev regarding potential extraterrestrial threats.

Ancient vimanas: Myth or fact?

This section, quoting from "Vymanika Shastra," discusses how ancient Indian mythology describes gods and heroes traveling in 'Vymanas,' flying chariots with exceptional astronautic capabilities. Dr. Pinotti's research suggests these were not mere myths but potentially real advanced technologies.

India. Relazione di un italiano al congresso di astronautica (India. An Italian's Report at the Astronautics Congress)

By Elio Criscuoli, this article discusses Roberto Pinotti's unusual presentations at the International Astronautical Congress in Bangalore. Pinotti presented theories on Indo-Aryan traditions and the history of astronautics, as well as ETI, SETI, and public opinion. His research suggests that ancient Indians may have encountered a superior civilization, possibly extraterrestrial visitors using advanced 'Vymanas.'

Rukma Vimana

This section features a technical reconstruction of the 'Rukma Vimana' based on instructions from Pandit Subbaraya Sastry, drawn by T.K. Ellappa in Bangalore on December 2, 1923. The diagram shows a detailed cross-section and profile of the craft.

Sundara Vimana

Similar to the Rukma Vimana, this section presents a vertical section of the 'Sundara Vimana,' also drawn by T.K. Ellappa in Bangalore on December 2, 1923, based on Pandit Subbaraya Sastry's instructions. The text discusses how ancient traditions and texts describe flying vehicles with advanced technology, suggesting a forgotten superior civilization on Earth.

Tripura Vimana

This section includes a perspective view, vertical section, and plan of the 'Tripura Vimana.' The text notes that ancient Indian texts describe these vehicles as having terrible weapons and being powered by reaction propulsion. It also mentions that the 'Vymanas' are described in such technical detail that they cannot be dismissed as mere myths. The article references 32 'secrets' about Vimana characteristics, some relating to modern technologies like photography and radar.

Shakuna Vimana

This section presents detailed diagrams of the 'Shakuna Vimana,' including a horizontal section and perspective view. The text explains that the reconstruction is based on the 'Vymanika Shastra' and that while the text describes the craft's components, the interiors have been furnished according to modern concepts. It references ancient texts that speak of flying objects made with heat-absorbing metals and seven types of mirrors and lenses installed aboard. The 'tripura vyınana' is described as a triple craft powered by solar energy. The 'shakuna vyınana' is compared to a combination of an airplane and a missile.

#### PAESE SERA, 26 Ottobre 1988

This article discusses Roberto Pinotti's trip to India and Pakistan, where he visited Mohenjo Daro. He aimed to gather evidence supporting David Davenport's hypothesis that Mohenjo-Daro was destroyed by a thermal weapon, possibly of extraterrestrial origin. Pinotti also acquired a copy of the 'VYMAANIKA SHASTRA,' a treatise on ancient Indian aeronautics. The article suggests that Pinotti's findings could shed light on certain unresolved questions.

TOP SECRET

This section focuses on secret government operations and UFO investigations. It discusses the 'Gruppo Speciale' (Special Group), established under President Eisenhower, and the 'Majestic-12' (MJ-12) group, reportedly composed of 12 members who reported directly to the President on UFO matters. The article lists the alleged members of MJ-12, including prominent figures like Admiral Roscoe H. Hillenkoetter, Dr. Vannevar Bush, and notably, Dr. Donald Menzel, an astronomer known for his skepticism towards UFOs.

I controversi documenti noti come "Majestic-12": sono autentici? (The controversial documents known as "Majestic-12": are they authentic?)

This article questions the authenticity of the 'Majestic-12' documents, which surfaced in 1987. It notes the similarity in the number of members (12) between the 'Gruppo Speciale' and 'Majestic-12.' The article highlights the inclusion of Dr. Donald Menzel in the MJ-12 list, given his public stance against UFOs. It suggests that Menzel might have been involved in studying UFO crash debris behind the scenes.

UFO: LA CONGIURA DEL SILENZIO (UFO: The Conspiracy of Silence)

This excerpt discusses the Robertson Commission's findings in 1953, which concluded that UFOs were not a direct threat but could be a danger to national security by disrupting communication channels and fostering public distrust. The commission recommended downplaying UFOs in the media to reduce public interest and train personnel to identify and dismiss false alarms. The article links Lloyd V. Berkner, a member of the Robertson Commission, to the 'Majestic-12' group and the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), suggesting a coordinated effort to manage the UFO issue.

CIA, CULTO E MISTICA DEL SERVIZIO SEGRETO (CIA, Cult and Mysticism of the Secret Service)

This section, based on the book by Marchetti and Marks, discusses the CIA's covert operations and its influence on international affairs. It mentions the 'Bissell doctrine,' outlining eight types of covert activities, and the CIA's role in developing spy satellites. The article also touches upon the potential consequences of discovering extraterrestrial intelligence, citing Carl Gustav Jung's views on how humanity might react to being surpassed by a more advanced civilization.

Novità LIBRI (New Books)

This section reviews several books:

• IL GOVERNO INVISIBILE (The Invisible Government) by David Wise and Thomas B. Ross: This book is described as a revelation of the CIA's political and espionage activities. It highlights the connection between the CIA, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), the Robertson Commission, NASA, and the 'Majestic-12' group, all linked by the recurring name of Lloyd V. Berkner.
• Enciclopedia de los encuentros cercanos con OVNIS (Encyclopedia of Close Encounters with UFOs) by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Juan A. Fernandes Peris: This Spanish-language encyclopedia is noted for its importance to UFO researchers and is recommended for its detailed information.
• INTELLIGENZE EXTRA-TERRESTRI (Extraterrestrial Intelligences) by Roberto Pinotti and Maurizio Blondet: This is a revised and expanded edition of a book previously published by Editoriale Olimpia. The review praises the authors for their factual and rational approach to investigating UFO phenomena, presenting a stimulating read for scientists and ufologists alike.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of ancient history, advanced technology, and the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. There is a strong focus on the 'Vimana' literature from India as evidence of a sophisticated past civilization or alien visitation. The issue also delves into government secrecy surrounding UFOs, particularly through the lens of the 'Majestic-12' documents and CIA operations, suggesting a deliberate effort to control public perception and information. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the profound implications of the UFO phenomenon. The inclusion of technical diagrams and references to ancient texts underscores a commitment to detailed, research-oriented journalism within the field of ufology.

Title: Oltre la Terra
Issue: 20
Date: Not specified, but associated with "Oscar Mondadori Attualità" and a previous book from 1988, suggesting a publication around that time.
Publisher: Mondadori
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Price: Lire 9.000

This issue of 'Oltre la Terra' (Beyond Earth) delves into the multifaceted future of space exploration, presenting a vision of "Cities and Citizens of Space." It addresses the ongoing relevance of space conquest, spurred by the Soviet MIR station and American Shuttle missions, and posits that new generations are destined to engage with these challenges.

Key Themes and Content

The magazine explores a broad spectrum of topics related to space, ranging from the technical-scientific business of space to the technological impacts of space experiences on everyday life. It covers the establishment of permanent space stations, lunar bases, and the crucial role of human factors in space endeavors. Furthermore, it touches upon the colonization of Mars, the systematic exploitation of the solar system, the development of space colonies, and the prospects of interstellar flight. A significant focus is placed on the search for extraterrestrial civilizations.

The editorial stance suggests that these concepts, once envisioned by science fiction writers like Verne and Wells and theorized by pioneers such as Oberth, Goddard, and Ziolkovsky, will irreversibly shape humanity's future on the "frontier of the infinite."

Featured Projects and Personalities

The Olga Town Project

The issue highlights the architectural work of Daniele Bedini, who is recognized for his brilliant design of the Olga Town orbital geosynchronous space station. This project reportedly received plaudits from NASA for its innovative design standards. Bedini also leads the interdisciplinary team Futuro Srl, which aims to enhance the socio-humanistic components of space research, and he works as a space architecture expert for the European Space Agency (ESA).

Roberto Pinotti's Contributions

Dr. Roberto Pinotti, a writer and journalist, is featured for his sociological research into the psycho-social aspects of space activity. He has presented papers at international astronautical congresses concerning the human challenges of confinement in space and the potential for contact with extraterrestrial civilizations. His previous work, "Intelligenze extraterrestri" (Extraterrestrial Intelligences), co-authored with M. Blondet, was published in the Oscar Mondadori series in 1988.

Cover and Graphics

The cover artwork depicts two modules of the Olga Town space station, with graphics attributed to Roberto Roser. The overall presentation is dramatic, with the title and subtitle emphasizing the theme of human presence and development in space.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a forward-looking perspective on space exploration, viewing it not just as a scientific or technological pursuit but as a fundamental aspect of human destiny. It embraces speculative ideas about space colonization and extraterrestrial life, grounding them in the visionary work of past pioneers and science fiction authors. The editorial stance is one of optimism and anticipation for humanity's expansion into the cosmos, suggesting that the future is inextricably linked to the "frontier of the infinite."