Ovni Presence - No 33-34

Magazine Overview

This issue of Ovni Présence, titled "Speciale Italia," is a special double issue (33/34) from December 1985, focusing entirely on the field of ufology within Italy. It is published by Ovni-Présence, with a cover price of 35FF/10FS and ISSN 0223-0976. The magazine is in French and originates from Switzerland.

The cover features a dramatic illustration of a flying saucer beaming light down onto a fenced area, with a lone figure observing. The main headline is "speciale italia-".

Editorial and Introduction

The editorial addresses the delay in publication, attributing it to a small, vulnerable team facing increased workload due to ufological, familial, and professional activities. The complexity of producing this double issue was compounded by the need to translate most texts from English or Italian into French. The editorial team emphasizes their goal of providing quality information and presents this "Spécial Italie" as a comprehensive panorama of Italian ufology, aiming for balance and tolerance rather than favoring any single trend.

It is noted that the quarterly publication schedule of Ovni-Présence has been inconsistent, and subscribers will receive the issues originally planned for 1985 regardless of the actual publication date. The editorial thanks Bruno Mancusi and Edoardo Russo for their decisive collaboration.

Ovni-Présence is described as a publication of the Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes (AESV), founded in 1974, dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena. Reproduction of any content is strictly forbidden without written authorization.

Key Articles and Features

Who's Who in Italian Ufology

This section introduces prominent figures in Italian ufology:

• Antonio Chiumiento: Born in 1949, a leading Italian investigator with over 700 investigations. He is a member of the CUN's executive council and vice-president.
• Paolo Fiorino: Born in 1957, specialized in studying Italian RR3 (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) cases and compiling a catalogue.
• Edoardo Russo: Born in 1960, a chemist interested in UFO cases with physical traces. He represents the SUF in Switzerland and has authored articles on ufology.
• Bruno Mancusi: Born in 1959, an economist involved in ufology since 1973. He was editor of "Clypeus-Ufologia" and is the CUN's secretary for international relations.
• Paolo Toselli: Born in 1960, specializing in the psychological and sociological aspects of the UFO problem. His articles have appeared in international publications.
• Maurizio Verga: Born in 1963, actively interested in Italian Type 1 reports since 1977, compiling a database of Italian close encounters (ITACAT).

Prologue: The Italian Ufology Landscape

This section, written by Edoardo Russo, analyzes four distinctive characteristics of Italian ufology:

1. Language: Italy's linguistic isolation has historically limited international exchange, with reliance on translated works. However, this also allowed Italian ufologists to quickly adopt changes from the French and Anglo-American scenes.
2. UPIAR Initiative: The "UPO Phenomena International Annual Review" (UPIAR) was an attempt to produce academically acceptable ufological research, though it faced challenges due to its Italian origin and limited readership.
3. National Archives Concept: Since 1980, the CUN's documentation center has become a significant archive, collecting, coordinating, and cataloging UFO data, making it accessible to all.
4. Intelligentsia-Association Link: The magazine emphasizes the successful integration of "intellectuals" within the broader ufological community, preventing isolation and fostering a collaborative approach.

"E la nave va" (And the Ship Goes On)

This article discusses the specific characteristics of "transalpine" ufology, suggesting a unique approach or perspective within Italy.

"Le cas du 5 décembre" (The December 5th Case)

A preliminary report on luminous and acoustic phenomena observed across the province of Cunéo on December 5, 1984. The event involved a luminous object, an explosion, a loud noise, and a dark cloud. The report details the geographical distribution of the sightings and mentions potential electromagnetic interference.

"Alerte OVNI sur base OTAN" (UFO Alert at NATO Base)

This article investigates an alleged UFO sighting over the NATO base in Aviano on the night of June 30-July 1, 1977. An informant, a non-commissioned officer, reported that a large, luminous object, described as a 'toupie' or 'disk,' hovered over the base for about an hour. The object emitted colored lights and a humming sound. Radar detected the object, and military personnel observed it. The official explanation cited moonlight reflection, which the author refutes based on meteorological data.

"Turin-Caselle: Bourret d'omissions"

This piece critically examines the Turin-Caselle case, suggesting that previous accounts, particularly by Michel Monnerie, may have omitted crucial details or presented a biased narrative. The author questions the validity of the case, suggesting it might be a balloon or a hoax, and points out inconsistencies in witness testimonies and official reports.

"Mini-catalogue: La Grande Peur... Version Italienne"

This section, by Gérard Barthel and Jacques Brucker, presents a catalogue of Italian UFO sightings from 1954, linking them to the "Great Martian Fear" wave that swept through France. It details numerous cases with dates, locations, descriptions, and references, often concluding with whether the case was a canular (hoax), a bolide (meteor), or an unexplained phenomenon.

"Une année particulière" (A Particular Year)

This retrospective by Edoardo Russo reviews the year 1984 for Italian ufology, noting a reduction in reported UFO sightings but an increase in research activities and media interest. It highlights two significant close encounters of the second and third kind, and discusses the case of Polcanto, near Florence, involving a luminous entity and unusual ground traces.

"Clips & Claps"

This section provides updates and brief reports:

• The CUN has published a UFO investigation methodology manual by Edoardo Russo.
• The CUN is also publishing "The Computer UFO Newsletter" in English, edited by Maurizio Verga, focusing on computer applications in ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes rigorous investigation, the importance of detailed case analysis, and the need for a systematic approach to ufology. There is a clear stance against sensationalism, with a focus on distinguishing between genuine phenomena, misidentifications (like balloons), and hoaxes. The editorial team advocates for a collaborative spirit within the ufological community, integrating both experienced researchers and enthusiasts. The "Speciale Italia" issue, in particular, aims to provide a balanced and comprehensive view of Italian ufology, acknowledging its unique characteristics while adhering to scientific principles of evidence and analysis.

This issue of "Inforespace", published by SOBEPS asbl, is dated July-August 1985 and focuses on UFO phenomena, particularly within Italy. The cover story, "Diable et caisse volante" (Devil and Flying Box), details a remarkable encounter in Prata di Principato Ultra, Italy.

"Diable et Caisse Volante" Case

The main article recounts the experience of Giuseppe Cocozza, a 57-year-old farmer, on October 8, 1984. While working in the fields, he observed a humanoid figure approximately 1.30 meters tall, wearing a suit resembling "goat skin" and a helmet connected by tubes to a backpack. The humanoid was seen planting a fork in the ground. When Cocozza coughed to get its attention, the entity turned towards him and, after a moment, moved away, emitting blue-violet sparks from its sides. Shortly after, Cocozza spotted a "flying box"-like object, described as having a dome and three antennas, rising from behind trees and moving rapidly towards Altavilla Irpina. Investigators from SUF and CUN documented landing traces, including eight holes in the ground and conical indentations within a rectangle, as well as two large footprints. A stronger heat was noted inside the traces. An artistic interpretation of the humanoid by U. Telarico is included.

Italian UFO Research and Parliamentary Interpellations

The issue highlights the state of UFO research in Italy in 1984. Several projects were underway, including regional cataloging of observations by Gian Paolo Grassino, the "Progetto Italia 3" by Massimo Pigliucci, and "Tracat" by Maurizio Verga, which listed 153 landing case reports. The CUN also launched "Projet Origines" to review old newspapers for early UFO information and "Projet 64" to create a microcomputer database of Italian cases.

Parliamentary interpellations regarding UFOs were a significant topic. Following a 1978 wave of sightings, the Italian Air Force's 2nd department was institutionally tasked with monitoring UFO developments. However, the armed forces considered themselves limited to technical control and data collection, not scientific opinion.

In 1984, four parliamentarians (Abete, Fiori, Scaiola, and Scovacricchi) submitted an interpellation to the Minister of Defense, Giovanni Spadolini. They cited the success of the Uruguayan military UFO organization CRIDOVNI in collaborating with civilians and suggested accrediting competent Italian civilian experts. They also requested access to declassified UFO documentation, referencing similar actions in the US and UK. The interpellation noted positive international developments, including confirmations from US astronomers, the establishment of a Chinese UFO study organization, and French and British government involvement.

Minister Spadolini's response, dated December 1984, stated that the Ministry of Defense, through the Air Force Staff, processes UFO reports with the collaboration of other military branches. He claimed that declassified dossiers contained no truly unidentified reports and that most observations could be reduced to meteorological phenomena. He also mentioned that the Prime Minister's office was considering entrusting the CNR (National Research Council) with UFO research studies. However, he expressed no interest in establishing a military ufological body and stated that civilian experts could not be accredited within the Defense administration.

Media and Publications

In 1984, the CUN collected 450 press clippings on UFOs, a significant increase from previous years. The media showed particular interest in the parliamentary question posed to the Ministry of Defense. The issue also mentions the publication of J. Vallée's "Messengers of Deception" in Italian.

Several ufological publications are discussed. "Ufologia", a quarterly magazine, is described as the primary organ for the new wave of Italian ufologists and considered one of the best in the world. "Il Giornale dei Misteri" (GdM), a Florentine monthly, is noted for its extensive reader sections and coverage of various esoteric topics, including ufology. The "Sezione Ufologica Fiorentina" (SUF), founded in 1961, is highlighted for its collaboration with GdM and its extensive catalog of Italian UFO cases. The "Centro Ufologico Nazionale" (CUN), founded in 1966, is presented as a major independent association of Italian ufologists. The article notes that "Ufologia" had ceased publication due to editor overload but a double issue was expected. The CUN publishes its official magazine, "Notiziario UFO", and other information sheets.

Case Studies and Analysis

The "ETUDE" section presents a detailed analysis of "traces of steps" related to humanoid encounters. It discusses the challenges in verifying such evidence, noting that most cases are based on weak sources like rumors and journalistic reports. The article categorizes trace evidence into types A (explicit association with UFO), B (direct association), C (indirect association), D (UFO not observed, only entities), and E (isolated entities). It also considers Type G (abductions).

The "Progetto Italia III" is described as an effort to conduct a comprehensive study of Italian third-type encounters (RR3), aiming to collect, catalog, and analyze available documentation. The project's objectives include short-term data collection and cataloging, and medium-term creation of a comprehensive catalog with essential data, summaries, and commentaries.

The article "L'Italie des rencontres rapprochées" (Italy of Close Encounters) examines the international casuistry of close encounters, suggesting that socio-cultural factors might influence the reporting of high-strangeness experiences. It notes that Italy, despite appearing "calm" in international literature, has a significant number of cases, particularly RR3, comparable to those in France and the USA. The ITACAT catalogue, compiled by Paolo Fiorino, aims to document over 300 cases of entities and over 160 trace cases.

Several specific Italian UFO cases are briefly mentioned, including one from 1912 in Copparo (Ferrara) involving a bright sphere and a slap, a 1946 case in Foligno (Perugia) with a hat-shaped object and a dwarf-like figure, a 1958 case in Adro (Brescia) with a box-shaped object, and a 1966 case in Furbara (Rome) involving a landed saucer. The article also touches upon the "Bigfoot" phenomenon and the difficulties in distinguishing between humanoid traces and UFO traces, emphasizing the need for critical analysis and the potential for misinterpretation of natural phenomena or deliberate hoaxes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, critical analysis, and the need for reliable documentation in the field of ufology. There's a clear focus on cataloging and studying UFO cases, particularly within Italy. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, acknowledging the complexities and often dubious nature of the evidence presented, while also recognizing the public's interest in these phenomena. The publication aims to provide a platform for detailed case studies, research updates, and critical reviews of ufological literature and activities, particularly within the Italian context. The role of organizations like CUN and SUF is highlighted, as is the ongoing debate about the nature and origin of UFOs and alleged encounters.

This issue of Radar magazine, dated November 1984, focuses on the human factor in the study of UFOs (OVNIs). The cover features a dramatic headline 'FEU SUR LE MARTIEN' (Fire on the Martian) and a stylized illustration, highlighting the magazine's investigative approach to the phenomenon. The issue delves into psychological, sociological, and perceptual aspects that influence witness testimony and the interpretation of sightings.

Article 1: 'Le facteur humain dans l'étude des ovi' by Maurizio Verga

Maurizio Verga critically examines the concept of 'material proof' in UFO cases, such as imprints. He argues that these are often merely a means to objectify a phenomenon too fantastic to be considered real. Verga expresses strong disagreement with those who differentiate between 'UFO cases' (OVI) and 'real UFO reports'. He believes that the human element, including misinterpretation and subjective experience, plays a crucial role. Verga suggests that many alleged UFO sightings are not due to misinterpreting conventional objects but rather to a 'transposition' where the witness sincerely transforms a known phenomenon into a more 'exotic' UFO experience, influenced by folklore. He concludes that the casuistry of UFOs is largely 'unexploitable' for understanding the core problem, but can be used to study aspects of the OVNI/UFO issue. He invites debate on his hypotheses, emphasizing the need to evaluate the validity of such evidence.

Article 2: 'Le facteur humain dans l'étude des ovi' (continued) by Antonio Chiumiento

Antonio Chiumiento critiques the scientific community's reluctance to seriously consider the UFO phenomenon, despite numerous indicators pointing towards an extraterrestrial hypothesis. He argues that the scientific approach has often been dismissive, treating UFOs as a 'paradox' rather than a subject for genuine research. Chiumiento believes this attitude is perpetuated by scientists who speak definitively about the issue without conducting proper investigations. He calls for a more open-minded approach, suggesting that events like the Aviano sighting deserve more scientific attention than a mere 'shrug of the shoulders'.

Article 3: 'Le facteur humain dans l'étude des ovi' (continued) by Paolo Toselli

Paolo Toselli provides an extensive analysis of the psychological and sociological factors contributing to UFO sightings, particularly focusing on 'OVI' (Identified Flying Objects) cases, which he distinguishes from genuine UFO phenomena. He explains how the human perception system constructs reality, and how memory is not a passive recording device but an active process of reconstruction, susceptible to external information, personal beliefs, and suggestions. Toselli details various perceptual illusions (autokinetic effect, phi phenomenon, moon illusion) and cognitive biases that can lead to misinterpretations. He emphasizes that witness testimony is shaped by internal processes (memory, personality, stress) and external factors (social influences, rumors, cultural narratives). Toselli introduces the concepts of 'mésinterprétation' (misinterpretation), 'transformation projective' (where a witness projects their expectations onto a stimulus), and 'élaboration projective' (a more complex process involving the integration of subjective elements and folklore). He highlights the role of 'habituation' (becoming accustomed to stimuli) and 'attentional states' (like stress or anxiety) in influencing perception. Social factors, such as group conformity and the spread of rumors, are also discussed as significant contributors to the formation of UFO narratives. Toselli concludes that many reported UFO cases are likely OVI, resulting from a complex interplay of cognitive processes, societal expectations, and the pervasive 'UFO imagery' in popular culture, rather than genuine extraterrestrial encounters.

Key Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the psychological and sociological dimensions of UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be critical of the uncritical acceptance of UFO phenomena and 'material proof' within ufology. It advocates for a more rigorous, scientific approach that accounts for human cognitive biases and social influences. The magazine seems to lean towards explaining many reported sightings as misinterpretations or psychological phenomena (OVI) rather than definitive evidence of extraterrestrial visitation. The recurring theme is that the 'human factor' is paramount in understanding UFO reports, often overshadowing the objective analysis of evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UFO testimony, the role of human psychology in perception and memory, and the influence of social and cultural factors on reported sightings. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of sensationalist claims and 'material proof' within ufology, advocating for a more nuanced and scientifically grounded approach. The magazine aims to demystify the phenomenon by exploring the cognitive and social mechanisms that may lead to the formation of UFO experiences, suggesting that many cases are better understood as 'Identified Flying Objects' (OVI) shaped by human interpretation rather than genuine unidentified aerial phenomena (OVNI).

This document represents the first issue of the magazine titled "Ovni-Présence". The cover prominently features the headline "Une nouvelle maquette pour Ovni-Présence" (A new mock-up for Ovni-Présence), suggesting a redesign or new presentation for the publication. The visual on the cover is a stylized image of a vintage typewriter with a white glove poised over it, overlaid with graphic elements and repeating French text.

Publisher and Contact Information

The magazine is published by the Observatoire des Parasciences, with a postal address at PO Box 80057 - La Plaine, FR - 13244 Marseille Cedex 01, France. The contact email provided is [email protected]. Links to online resources are also given: http://articles.lescahiers.net/?z=i2040 for general articles, http://lescahiers.net/CatalogueMartien/OP.html specifically for "Ovni-Présence", and http://lescahiers.net/CatalogueMartien/Anomalies.html for "Anomalies".

Copyright and Distribution Notice

A significant "Important note" is included in both French and English, clearly stating that it is forbidden to retrieve the digital version of this publication and put it online on any website, blog, or social network, including personal or amateur sites. The only authorized online publication is on the AFU (Archives for the Unexplained) website. Any other unauthorized publication is considered counterfeit and subject to legal prosecution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Based on the title "Ovni-Présence" and the inclusion of "Anomalies" as a section, the magazine likely focuses on UFO phenomena, unexplained events, and related research. The strong emphasis on copyright and controlled online distribution suggests a professional approach to publication and a desire to maintain control over the dissemination of their content. The mention of a "new mock-up" indicates a potential evolution in the magazine's format or presentation.