Quaderni UFO - Vol 01 No 02 - 1981 05-06

Magazine Overview

Title: QUADERNIS UFO
Issue: N°2
Volume: I
Date: MAGGIO-GIUGNO 1981
Publisher: Centro Ufologico Nazionale (C.U.N.)
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Cover Headline: UN APPROCCIO SOCIO-ANTROPOLOGICO

Articles and Content

"Un Approccio Socio-Antropologico" by Roberto Pinotti This lead article by Roberto Pinotti, President of the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (C.U.N.), introduces the magazine's focus on a socio-anthropological perspective of UFO phenomena. Pinotti details his personal journey into ufology, beginning over twenty years prior, and the establishment of the C.U.N. in 1965. He emphasizes the organization's realistic approach, aiming to combat sensationalism and promote correct information. The article highlights the C.U.N.'s efforts to gather official UFO reports, including those from the Italian military, and the transformation of their internal newsletter into a professional monthly magazine, 'Notiziario UFO'. Pinotti argues that ufology is not just the study of unidentified flying objects but also a mass phenomenon impacting collective behavior. He touches upon the common 'rational' conclusions about UFOs, such as their global presence but lack of harm, their contradictory nature, and the absence of a single world power controlling them. He also notes the public's evolving perception of UFOs, citing increasing belief in extraterrestrial life as evidenced by surveys in the US, France, and Italy.

"Gli UFO sono una droga?" by Massimo Greco Massimo Greco questions whether ufology has become an addictive 'drug' for its researchers. He describes the typical progression of a ufologist: initial approach through media or sightings, continuous intake of (often distorted) information, and a growing awareness of the phenomenon. This leads to a point where the researcher may discard rational explanations that contradict their beliefs. Greco contrasts 'UFO-believers' and 'UFO-skeptics', suggesting both are dependent on the phenomenon. He notes that some skeptics were once believers who became disillusioned. The article highlights the stubbornness of both groups in defending their positions and their tendency to humorously critique opposing viewpoints. Greco advocates for a more scientific approach, urging researchers to read works from both sides and to be open to losing their 'UFO-believer' mentality, welcoming collaboration from skeptics.

"1981: Chi ha paura di pensare ?" by G. Lucini This article critiques an article by Metta titled "1981: rilanciare l'Ufologia", published in "La Voce". Lucini expresses frustration with what he perceives as an overly dogmatic and 'church-like' attitude within some ufological circles, where belief is prioritized over understanding. He argues against the idea that ufology is a 'first step' on an endless ladder or that a single, universally valid law governs UFO phenomena. Lucini suggests that Metta's approach, which emphasizes collective analysis and dismisses individual cases, is flawed. He posits that the core issue is not the existence of UFOs but the 'taking of consciousness' and the potential for a 'new aristocracy' of those who believe they possess this knowledge. Lucini warns against a 'mouldy' and 'inquisitorial' atmosphere within ufology and calls for more dignity and courage to question oneself and one's beliefs, rather than hiding behind dogma.

"i 'foo fighters'" This section discusses 'foo-fighters', mysterious aerial objects observed during WWII, particularly in European and Far Eastern theaters. The article notes that these observations, predating the 'classic' UFO era of 1947, share common aspects with later UFO reports. It suggests that the phenomenon of 'foo-fighters', like UFOs, can be interpreted in multiple, often contradictory ways, making a single explanation difficult. The author speculates that some cases might be deliberate manipulations designed to create confusion and foster a 'rejection' of UFO research among the public and scientists. The article also touches upon the possibility that some phenomena might be explained by advanced terrestrial technology or even by psychological manipulation, rather than solely by extraterrestrial origins.

"Gli avvistamenti del 1978 in Italia in relazione al magnetismo." This article presents an analysis of UFO sightings in Italy during 1978, correlating them with magnetic anomalies. The author, using official data from the C.U.N. and geographical and magnetic maps, examined 122 validated sightings. The study involved superimposing magnetic survey data onto geographical maps to identify potential correlations between UFO sightings and magnetic field variations. The findings suggest a possible link between areas with higher linear magnetic intensity and the occurrence of UFO sightings, while areas with diverging magnetic lines showed fewer reports. The author notes that this graphical observation was not entirely surprising, given the potential for magnetic fields to influence phenomena.

Other Content

• Assemblea generale Ordinaria dei Soci (Roma - 21/2/1981) verbale: Minutes from the C.U.N. general assembly, detailing the election of probiviri (auditors), discussion of the board's functionality, and future prospects. It also notes the resignation of Avv. Giovanni Galardo and others. The assembly approved a proposal to reduce the C.D. (Direttivo) from seven to five members.
• Premi e riconoscimenti: An announcement that the Italian magazine "UFO PHENOMENA" received the "International Science Achievement Award" from the "Fund for UFO Research" for its scientific rigor.
• Book Review/Announcement: A mention of Ezio Bernardini's work on 'Foo Fighters' and a proposal for a special issue of 'Quaderni UFO' dedicated to it, requiring financial contributions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for a more scientific, analytical, and less sensationalistic approach to ufology. It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, evidence-based research, and the potential for psychological factors and societal influences to shape perceptions of UFO phenomena. There is a clear stance against dogmatism and 'belief-based' ufology, encouraging open discussion and collaboration between different viewpoints. The C.U.N. positions itself as a serious research organization dedicated to understanding the phenomenon through rigorous investigation and analysis, rather than succumbing to speculation or 'cropto-ufology'.

Title: Quaderni UFO
Issue: 15
Volume: 1
Date: March 1981
Publisher: Centro Ufologico Nazionale
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This issue of Quaderni UFO delves into the complex relationship between UFO phenomena and geophysical factors, particularly magnetic anomalies in Italy. It presents research conducted by the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN), highlighting the importance of systematic data collection, analysis, and archiving.

Research on Magnetic Anomalies and UFO Sightings

The lead article, authored by Dott. Amleto Pezzati, details a study correlating UFO sightings with magnetic field lines in Italy. Pezzati utilizes military magnetic charts (isogone and isodynamic lines) from 1973 to analyze the temporal and dynamic sequence of numerous sightings that appear to follow these magnetic corridors. He notes that while magnetic fields change slowly, the study aims to identify patterns in the distribution and timing of UFO events. The research involves mapping sightings onto geographical charts of Italy and analyzing their correlation with magnetic declination values, particularly in provinces that were hotspots for sightings.

Pezzati's methodology involves creating detailed maps, overlaying sighting locations with magnetic data, and analyzing trends over time. He emphasizes the need for rigorous data selection, prioritizing cases reported by public authorities, photographed, or verified by national ufological centers and astronomers. The study aims to uncover potential links between magnetic field intensity, geographical anomalies, and the frequency of UFO encounters.

Challenges and Methodologies in Ufological Research

Several sections address the practical challenges and methodologies of ufological research. A letter from Antonio Blanco to Massimo Pelillo discusses the inherent difficulties ufologists face in conducting investigations without the immediate collaboration of specialists in fields like astronomy, physics, and psychology. Blanco suggests that often, ufologists must act as 'factotums' due to the lack of readily available expert support. He proposes a modification to proposed seminars: instead of full seminars, audio recordings of lessons could be made available to CUN members, serving as preparation for those who can attend and as a resource for others.

Another article, likely an editorial or a section from the CUN's national coordination, discusses the "Progetto Cataloghi Regionali" (Regional Catalog Project). This initiative aims to create a comprehensive database of UFO cases across Italy, with regional coordinators responsible for collecting and cataloging information. The project acknowledges the difficulty of obtaining complete data and the need for collaboration from individuals and groups. It also touches upon the 'groupist' tendencies within the ufological community, where individuals or groups may be reluctant to share information, and emphasizes the importance of individual effort in data collection.

The issue also provides detailed methodological guidelines for cataloging UFO cases. It outlines a system for identifying the likelihood of a sighting being a conventional phenomenon (PROB. IFO), a possible UFO (POSS. IFO), a probable UFO (PROB. UFO), or insufficient data (I.D.). The importance of thorough investigation, including interviews and the analysis of trace evidence, is stressed. The article also highlights the need for systematic library research to identify past sightings and suggests specific periods (e.g., 1950, 1954, 1973, 1977, 1978) that were particularly active for UFO reports.

Archiving Efforts and the "Banca delle Documentazioni"

The "notizie dalla banca" section details the ongoing work of the CUN's archives: the "Archivio Stampa" (Press Archive) and the "Archivio Casistica Italiana" (Italian Case Archive). These archives are part of a larger initiative called the "Banca delle Documentazioni" (Documentation Bank), which aims to create a global and total archive accessible to all researchers. The CUN is actively seeking collaboration from its members and local branches to collect and control ufological news from newspapers and specialized press.

Contributors are encouraged to send in their collected articles and case files to the central archive. The "Archivio Casistica Italiana" emphasizes the importance of a unified approach to data collection, urging all CUN branches to contribute their findings to the central database. This effort is crucial for creating a common patrimony of data, news, and cases, ensuring the homogeneity and functionality of the center.

Regional Catalogues and Member Directory

The issue includes a comprehensive list of CUN members and collaborators across various Italian provinces, along with their contact information. This directory serves as a resource for networking and collaboration within the ufological community. It also provides updates on the "Progetto Cataloghi Regionali," indicating that fourteen regional catalogues are in preparation, covering eighteen out of twenty regions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific approach to ufology, emphasizing data-driven research, rigorous analysis, and systematic archiving. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting collaboration, standardization of methodologies, and the creation of a centralized, accessible database for UFO-related information in Italy. The publication highlights the dedication of its members and the challenges they face, while advocating for a more organized and professional approach to the study of UFO phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on moving beyond anecdotal evidence towards a more structured and evidence-based investigation.

Title: PHOENOMENALIA
Issue: 1
Year: 1981
Publisher: C.U.N. di Parma (Centro Ufologico Nazionale, Parma branch)
Language: Italian

This document is the first issue of 'PHOENOMENALIA', a publication by the Parma branch of the Italian National UFO Center (C.U.N.). The editorial, presented by the 'SEDE DI PARMA', introduces the publication and expresses wishes for its continuous activity and dissemination of information at provincial, regional, and national levels.

Key Information and Activities

The publication highlights several key points:

Contact Information

Friends and members of the C.U.N. Centers and Sections are encouraged to contact the Responsible Person, MAURO IOTTI, at Via Zaniboni nº 1, 43100 Parma, for further information (Telephone: 0521-93044).

Organized Events

The Parma branch has organized several 'sky watch' events within the province. The dates for these events in 1981 are listed as:

• June 13
• July 4
• July 18
• September 5
• September 19

Individuals from the Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, or Lombardy regions interested in participating in these events are asked to notify 'Amico Iotti'.

Testimony Codification Module

The issue includes a 'modulo di codificazione' (codification module) for testimonies of sightings. This module is for the exclusive use of the investigator ('AD USO ESCLUSIVO DELL'INQUIRENTE') and was adopted on January 1, 1981. The form includes fields for:

• Absolute reference code
• Date (day, month, year)
• Time (hours, minutes, GMT)
• Location (province, commune)
• Special codes
• Witness details (name, age, profession, address, phone)
• Object description (shape, color, size, behavior, speed, altitude, electromagnetic effects, physical trace evidence)
• Witness's state of mind
• Other details

The form also indicates that it is part of a larger codification system (10 pages) and refers to page 38 and potentially other sections ('contents laarin alla 1').

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the launch of a new publication dedicated to UFO phenomena and the organization of practical observational events ('sky watch'). The editorial stance is one of promoting and disseminating information about UFOlogy across Italy, encouraging participation and standardized reporting through codification modules. The focus is on local activities (Parma) with aspirations for broader, national reach.