Notiziario UFO - 1991 01-12 - Vol 26 No 114-115

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Italy's International UFO News" (NOTIZIARIO UFO), volume XXI, issue 114/115, dated January-December 1991, is published by the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN). It presents a comprehensive exploration of UFO phenomena, blending scientific investigation, witness testimonies, and historical case reviews.

Key Articles and Features

"Una chiave" (A Key)

This editorial piece introduces the central theme of the issue: the scientific search for a common key to understanding various UFO phenomena. It highlights the CUN's findings that in at least three cases, the characteristics of the affected terrain are identical, suggesting a unified explanation for these events. The article also notes a change in the physical-chemical structure of soil contaminated by mysterious objects.

"Gli Ufo (forse) sono discesi per davvero sul nostro pianeta" (UFOs (perhaps) have really descended on our planet)

This article, accompanied by an ANSA press release dated December 3, 1991, details the findings of Italian and French researchers who have instrumentally confirmed recurring characteristics of UFO landings. A formal meeting at the CNES (French National Space Center) with the governmental SEPRA commission led to the comparison of soil samples from alleged UFO landing sites in Italy (Luogosano in 1989 and Cicciano in 1990) with French findings from Trans-en-Provence in 1981. The analysis, conducted by technicians Alessandro Dattilo and Vincenzo Iorio, revealed consistent and peculiar modifications in the soil's chemical-physical structure. Notably, UFO landings were associated with significant and rapid thermal effects, with the soil being irradiated by micro-waves at high intensity. In the Cicciano case, pure ytterbium, a metal used in industrial applications for superconductors and micro-wave emission, was found in the contaminated area. The article calls for formal support from Italian authorities for the researchers' efforts, following the French example.

"Effetto UFO" (UFO Effect)

This section features a detailed scientific analysis by Michel Bounias, a biochemist, on the modifications to vegetation caused by the UFO case in Trans-en-Provence. The study, conducted over several years, involved collecting and analyzing plant samples along a topographical axis from the presumed epicenter of the phenomenon. The biochemical analyses evaluated photosynthetic pigments, lipids, carbohydrates, and amino acids. The results indicated significant biochemical alterations in plants closer to the presumed landing site, with effects persisting even two years later. The study compared these effects to those caused by known physical and chemical agents, concluding that the observed traumata were not fully explainable by conventional means and suggested the intervention of a persistent effector or a phenomenon with unique characteristics.

"Cicciano, dopo l'avvistamento" (Cicciano, after the sighting)

This article reports on the investigation into a UFO sighting in Cicciano, Naples, where experts from the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN) examined alleged landing traces. Umberto Telarico confirmed that the imprints were likely produced by low-intensity thermal radiation. Samples of the discolored cement were collected for laboratory analysis. The article also mentions that the Cicciano case, along with Trans-en-Provence and Luogosano, shares the same 'extraterrestrial matrix'.

"Oggetto volante sul cielo fra il Cep e l'Arno" (Flying object over the sky between Cep and Arno)

This news report from 'Il Tirreno' (October 12-13, 1991) details an alleged UFO sighting by five young people in Pisa. The witnesses described a luminous white disk with a red ball inside, emitting a cone of light and an antenna-like structure. They ruled out conventional explanations like airplanes or helicopters due to the object's silent movement and unusual evolutions. Ufologist Corrado Malanga, affiliated with the CUN, interviewed the witnesses and found their accounts credible, noting that the description matched typical UFO case characteristics.

"'Perchè quei ragazzi non raccontano balle' L'ufologo conferma" ('Why those kids aren't lying' The ufologist confirms)

This article features an interview with Dr. Corrado Malanga, a researcher and part of the CUN, who confirms the credibility of the Pisa UFO sighting. He explains that the phenomenon described by the witnesses aligns with numerous other documented UFO cases, suggesting the possibility of an automated probe. Malanga also discusses other alleged UFO sightings in Italy, including one in Ancona in 1987. He defends the young witnesses against public skepticism.

"Il prof. Dini difende i giovani testimoni dell'avvistamento" ('UFO, what's there to laugh about?')

Professor Dino Dini, a physicist and coordinator for a NATO aerospace research group, defends the young witnesses of the Pisa UFO sighting. He posits that UFOs are likely automated probes sent for planetary exploration, based on their described characteristics and movements. Dini also touches upon the possibility of extraterrestrial life and advanced civilizations, suggesting that the universe is vast enough to support life on other planets. He reconciles his scientific views with his Catholic faith, emphasizing that the Church allows for individual interpretation on such matters.

"La Perestrojka ha riabilitato anche i cacciatori di UFO" (Perestroika has also rehabilitated UFO hunters)

This article reports on the first World UFO Congress held in Tucson, Arizona, in May 1991. It highlights the participation of Soviet cosmonaut Marina Popovich, who stated that Perestroika had made it possible to discuss UFOs openly in the Soviet Union, unlike in the past when such discussions could lead to psychiatric confinement or exile. The congress featured delegates from 14 countries, including military and intelligence personnel, discussing various UFO cases and the phenomenon's implications.

"Roswell: UNA CONFERMA IN PIU'" (Roswell: ONE MORE CONFIRMATION)

This investigative piece details a trip by journalists Antonio Huneeus, Javier Sierra, and Roberto Pinotti to Roswell, New Mexico, to interview former military personnel involved in the 1947 UFO incident. They spoke with Walter Haut, who prepared the original press release confirming the recovery of a UFO. Haut maintained that the press release was truthful and that the subsequent cover-up was due to state secrecy. He also mentioned that Major Jesse Marcel and Sheridan Cavitt, who were involved in the recovery, were serious individuals who believed in the extraterrestrial origin of the object. The article also touches upon the alleged presence of alien bodies and the transfer of debris to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

"UFO: OPERARE SUL CAMPO" (UFO: OPERATING IN THE FIELD)

This article discusses the characteristics required for a Field Investigator (FI) within the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN). It emphasizes the psychological and technical skills needed, as well as the ethical considerations. The author critiques the lack of defined roles and guidelines for FIs, leading to potential issues like unprofessional behavior, personal frustration, and the manipulation of witnesses. The article categorizes potential problematic FIs based on psychological profiles, including those with unresolved mother complexes, difficulties with interpersonal relationships, and a need for protagonism. It stresses the importance of a critical yet empathetic approach when dealing with witnesses to maintain credibility and gather accurate information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and investigative approach to ufology. It emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence, laboratory analysis, and credible witness testimony. There is a strong undercurrent of skepticism towards official explanations and a belief in the existence of a government cover-up regarding UFO phenomena. The editorial stance supports rigorous research and encourages open discussion, while also cautioning against sensationalism and unprofessional conduct within the ufological community. The publication aims to legitimize the study of UFOs as a serious scientific endeavor.

This issue of "CUN, CISU EUFOLOGIA" from "la Repubblica" dated Tuesday, October 29, 1991, focuses on the methodologies and organizational dynamics within ufology in Italy, particularly highlighting the relationship between the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN) and the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU).

The Investigator's Approach

The article "Il rapporto col testimone" (The Relationship with the Witness) stresses that for an investigator (FI) to be credible, they must establish a strong rapport with the witness on three levels: with the witness themselves, with the CUN, and with themselves. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the witness's unique language and social context, rather than just the physical means of contact. The FI must adapt their communication style to resonate with the witness, recognizing that different social groups have distinct ways of communicating. The text warns against exploiting witnesses, comparing it to 'milking a cow,' and advocates for empathy, understanding, and assistance.

It highlights that the FI's role is not just to collect information but to help the witness process their experience, protect them from media scrutiny, and validate their reality. The concept of 'loving' the witness during a difficult period of accepting a reality larger than themselves is introduced as crucial.

Organizational Dynamics and Internal Conflicts

"Il rapporto col CUN" (The Relationship with the CUN) discusses the importance of an FI's relationship with the institution and its members. It draws a distinction between fighting for the same cause and fighting for a common cause, advocating for the latter, which aligns with the CUN's mission to clarify a scientific mystery. The article criticizes 'careerists' and those who use the CUN for personal gain, citing the example of certain Roman entourages.

A significant portion of the issue details the conflict between the CUN and the CISU. The CUN accuses the CISU of being a contradictory entity of 'pseudoufologists' seeking attention and consensus, using the quote "Diabolus simia Dei" (The Devil is the monkey of God) to describe them. The CUN claims the CISU was formed by expelled CUN members and is attempting to exploit the CUN's reputation and previous successes, such as the "Quarto Congresso Nazionale di Ufologia." The article notes the defection of Antonio Chiumiento, former Vice President of the CUN, who became the first President of the newly formed CISU, but has since distanced himself from the CISU and rejoined the CUN as a consultant.

Self-Knowledge and Psychological Insight

"I rapporti con se stessi" (Relationships with Oneself) emphasizes that understanding oneself is key to understanding others. It suggests that analyzing others involves observing their actions, behavior, and tone of voice. The article delves into the concept of the 'alter ego' and the subconscious, linking it to personality splitting and the projection of repressed emotions. It critiques contemporary culture, particularly films, as a means of exorcising the subconscious by giving 'body' to hidden fears and negative aspects of oneself.

The text argues that fear of oneself stems from a lack of self-knowledge and inability to communicate with the subconscious. It states that an FI must be at peace with themselves and their subconscious, constantly engaging in self-examination and self-criticism. It criticizes ufologists who are overly confident and lack mental elasticity, citing an example of a former CUN member.

Investigation Techniques

"Il contatto col testimone" (Contacting the Witness) and "L'INCHIESTA DIRETTA SUL TESTIMONE" (Direct Investigation of the Witness) outline practical techniques for investigators. The primary recommendation is direct contact, as it is considered more effective than telephone interviews. Investigators are advised to create an image of themselves based on being rather than seeming, to foster trust. The article discusses the increasing fear of physical contact in contemporary society, linking it to the rise of communication technology like computers, which are seen as a way to avoid human interaction.

Detailed methods for interviewing witnesses are provided, including asking open-ended questions like "Tell me everything from the beginning." The FI should listen attentively, allowing the witness to recount their experience emotionally first, and then guide them to a more rational and detailed reconstruction. The importance of observing non-verbal cues, body language, and speech patterns is stressed for assessing credibility. The article also touches upon the use of graphology and drawing analysis as tools for understanding the witness.

"Strumenti tecnici utili all indagine sul campo" (Technical Tools for Field Investigation) lists essential equipment such as high-quality cameras, audio recorders, video cameras, and notebooks with blank white paper. The use of computers for data analysis and image digitalization is highlighted, with a recommendation for the Amiga standard due to its compatibility and affordability. The article also mentions the emergence of digital cameras.

"Fase di verifica" (Verification Phase) describes the process of reconstructing the case privately using collected data, identifying discrepancies, and potentially consulting experts. A final verification step involves bringing witnesses together to discuss their accounts, allowing the FI to observe their interactions and resolve any uncertainties.

UFO Sightings and Cataloging

"ULTIM'ORA" reports on a catalog of UFO sightings in Italy compiled by the CUN, covering approximately 9,000 reports over the last fifty years. It notes that while most sightings have rational explanations (weather balloons, satellites, aircraft), a small percentage remain unexplained. The article highlights Emilia Romagna, Piedmont, and Tuscany as regions with the highest number of reported sightings in the last decade. It also mentions the peak year of 1978, coinciding with the release of the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of a rigorous, scientific, and ethical approach to ufology. It advocates for self-awareness, empathy, and a deep understanding of human psychology in the investigation process. The CUN positions itself as a serious research organization, contrasting its methods with what it perceives as the superficial and attention-seeking tactics of the CISU. The underlying theme is that understanding UFO phenomena requires not only technical investigation but also a profound insight into human behavior and consciousness. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of the CUN's methodology and critical of the CISU's approach.