UFO Forum - No 09 - febbraio 1998

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Forum, number 9, dated February 1998, is a quarterly publication from the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU), priced at £. 2.500. The cover features a striking illustration and the headline "La forza di un mito" (The strength of a myth), hinting at the issue's thematic focus on the enduring nature of UFO phenomena and their interpretation.

Editorial: Come cambia "UFO Forum"

Giuseppe Verdi, in his editorial, announces significant changes for UFO Forum. Starting with this issue, the publication will reach all CISU members, completing a progressive expansion of its dissemination scope. This move follows a successful 'experiment' where initial collaborators responded positively, actively participating in discussions. The magazine's format has been updated from 'occasional review' to 'quarterly review', with three issues planned annually (February, June, October). The graphic design has also been refined. Verdi clarifies that UFO Forum is a "quarterly of studies and debates" with two main objectives: 1) publishing technical articles for specialists, and 2) fostering reader discussion through the "Opinioni a confronto" section. He emphasizes that all readers are invited to share their views. The issue continues the numbering from previous publications, aiming to provide summaries of past discussions for new readers. While structural changes are minimal, improvements are noted. The editorial highlights a new, unpublished section where Paolo Toselli, the CISU president, will report on articles of potential ufological interest from scientific publications. Verdi previews the issue's content, including Roberto Farabone's analysis of Nico Sgarlato's views on the ETH, Jenny Randles on anti-kidnapping insurance, Paolo Toselli's critique of Bullard's abduction study, and Marcel Delaval's text on the genesis of UFO myths. Regular columns are present, with the exception of 'Biblioteca UFO', which is expected to return in a future issue. Verdi concludes by encouraging new readers to submit their writings, proposals, and critiques.

Un Passo Indietro: Undici risposte prima del congedo

Marco Orlandi bids farewell to his column "Un Passo Indietro" (A Step Back), which he initiated a year and a half prior to stimulate discussion among readers. He explains his departure is due to increased family and work commitments, and a desire for new perspectives to emerge in the column. As a final contribution, Orlandi addresses eleven 'hot' questions posed by Giuseppe Verdi in a previous issue. His responses cover a range of topics:

1. Expectations from the scientific community: Orlandi expresses low expectations, noting that while some younger scientists may be open, career pressures often lead to avoidance of 'controversial' topics like UFOs. He criticizes the scientific community's tendency to dismiss UFOs or equate them with the existence of aliens, showing a lack of understanding of serious ufological research. He believes a more responsible image from ufologists could foster better scientific engagement.
2. Public perception of ufology: He believes public attitudes are shaped by the often sensationalist and unsubstantiated information presented by 'experts' (ufologists). Until charlatans are weeded out, significant improvements in public perception are unlikely.
3. Ufological panorama in the year 2000: Orlandi anticipates little change unless the public becomes less susceptible to sensationalism and seeks more serious approaches.
4. Skepticism towards 'ETH debris': He is neither skeptical nor agnostic, viewing the ETH as a respectable hypothesis that shouldn't be dismissed without evidence.
5. Attribution of 'residue' cases and abductions: He believes many unexplained cases may have simple explanations, but warns against dismissing extreme hypotheses prematurely. He views abductions as a complex issue, questioning their feasibility on a large scale and emphasizing the need for compassionate support for abductees, rather than treating them as mere subjects for theories.
6. Definitive verdict on UFO phenomena: He believes a definitive verdict is possible but contingent on scientists treating ufology seriously and on ufologists presenting themselves responsibly.
7. Hynek and Vallée: Orlandi considers them well-known and convincing ufologists, but cautions against labeling them as infallible "sacred cows," acknowledging they, like all researchers, have both strengths and weaknesses.
8. 'Deniers' like Klass, Menzel, and Sheaffer: He argues that 'deniers' are no better than 'believers' in their dogmatic approach, prioritizing their own 'truth' over facts. He suggests the role of professional deniers is now largely obsolete, with some self-proclaimed ufologists doing more damage.
9. Importance of investigations, hoaxes, and witnesses: Orlandi stresses the importance of investigations but notes that misperceptions and misinterpretations by witnesses are more significant than hoaxes. He emphasizes that witnesses are generally normal individuals, but their accounts require careful scrutiny due to the complexities of perception and memory.
10. CISU as a voice in the desert: He agrees that CISU is largely a lone voice today, and its success depends on its ability to make itself heard.
11. CISU members as 'ufologists': Orlandi distinguishes between 'ufologists' (those who dedicate significant time and effort to serious research) and those who merely 'play at ufology'. He acknowledges that many CISU members are professionals with limited time but are dedicated to the cause. He stresses the importance of approaching ufology with respect and seriousness, regardless of the level of involvement.

La "Portofino" ufologica

Roberto Farabone critically analyzes Nico Sgarlato's article "Considerazioni sull'ETH" (Considerations on the ETH) from a previous issue. Farabone argues that Sgarlato's perspective, while attempting to explain why he doesn't believe in the ETH, is permeated by an excessive anthropocentrism. Farabone recalls the 1950s, when UFOs were widely considered extraterrestrial craft, contrasting this with Sgarlato's view that the ETH was an equally popular hypothesis in the 1950s, alongside theories of secret German or Soviet aircraft. Farabone questions Sgarlato's assertion that a historically-rooted hypothesis is harder to counter, suggesting that scientific progress relies on free experimentation and research, not just historical precedent. He criticizes Sgarlato's dismissal of the possibility of extraterrestrial life, particularly the idea of alien civilizations developing technology and traveling to Earth. Farabone argues that the universe likely contains life, but it may not conform to human-like evolution or technological development. He also questions Sgarlato's statistical arguments about planetary systems and habitability, finding them too speculative. Farabone contends that Sgarlato's reasoning, particularly regarding the 'Portofino' case and the characteristics of potential alien visitors, is based on anthropocentric assumptions and a limited understanding of life's potential diversity. He suggests that Sgarlato's views are influenced by a desire to fit phenomena into preconceived notions, rather than objectively analyzing the evidence.

Other Articles and Columns

• "Come (non) guadagnare un milione di sterline" by Jenny Randles discusses the case of the English anti-kidnapping insurance.
• "Rapimenti UFO; una falsa coerenza" by Paolo Toselli critiques Bullard's study on abductions.
• "Ufologia telematica: UFO, scienza, pubblico e...terremoti" explores the intersection of ufology, science, and public perception.
• "I Primordi: Le prime foto italiane dei 'dischi volanti'" by Giuseppe Stilo delves into the early history of UFO photography in Italy.
• "Riflessioni: La forza di un mito" by Marcel Delaval examines the enduring power of the UFO myth.
• "La Pagina Bianca: L'ufologia nell'era dell'informazione" discusses ufology in the context of the information age.

The issue also includes a section for reader contributions and correspondence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of ufological hypotheses, particularly the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH). There is a strong emphasis on scientific rigor, the importance of evidence-based research, and the need for ufologists to present themselves responsibly to gain credibility. The editorial stance, as articulated by Giuseppe Verdi and reflected in the articles by Toselli and Farabone, favors a critical, analytical approach, encouraging debate and questioning established narratives. The issue also touches upon the historical evolution of UFO beliefs and the influence of media on public perception. The departure of Marco Orlandi highlights a concern for diverse perspectives within the field. The magazine aims to be a platform for serious study and discussion, moving beyond sensationalism towards a more nuanced understanding of the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of "UFO Forum", dated February 1998, is titled "Numero 9" and features a cover headline "Quando si risponde alle \"provocazioni\"..." with a subtitle mentioning Roberto Farabone and "eleven \"hot questions\". The magazine focuses on critical analysis and discussion within the ufology community.

Key Articles and Discussions

Roberto Farabone's "Hot Questions"

Roberto Farabone responds to eleven 'hot questions' posed in a previous issue, offering his perspectives on the future of ufology, public opinion, and the scientific community's engagement with the topic. He expresses skepticism about the scientific establishment's willingness to engage with UFO phenomena, particularly if it challenges established paradigms. Farabone distinguishes between the "UFO phenomenon" (the observable fact of sightings) and the "UFO" itself (the potential cause), arguing that while the phenomenon is well-documented, the cause remains elusive. He critiques the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) for its current lack of scientific rigor, stating it "does not have the canons to be called 'scientific'". Farabone emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, rigorous investigation, and constructive debate within ufology, aiming to increase knowledge rather than relying on authority.

Massimo Valloscuro: Altruism, Not Laziness

Massimo Valloscuro provides his answers to the same eleven questions. He believes that the scientific community's approach to ufology will not change significantly, but he hopes for more critical thinking from individuals. Valloscuro is cautiously optimistic about a shift in public opinion regarding ufology, especially among younger generations, if critical voices are persistent. He predicts that the ufological landscape in the year 2000 will be similar to the present, with continued speculation and sensationalism. Regarding the ETH, he states he doesn't have enough information to confirm or deny it, emphasizing that UFOs remain an "hypothesis". He outlines a rigorous procedure for investigating abduction claims, involving multiple psychiatric and psychological evaluations.

Nico Sgarlato Responds to Marco Orlandi...

Nico Sgarlato addresses the case of Maresciallo Cecconi, who photographed a possible UFO. Sgarlato had previously suggested it might be a type of balloon (UFO-Solar), a conclusion criticized by Marco Orlandi. Sgarlato clarifies his position, explaining that as an ufologist, he lacks the direct evidence to definitively identify the object. However, as a journalist, he reports facts and opinions. He reiterates that Cecconi's object bore a strong resemblance to a UFO-Solar, but he cannot confirm it was one. Sgarlato discusses the possibility of radar detection, noting potential inaccuracies in radar readings and the ambiguity of the object's speed and altitude estimations. He concludes that if the object was not detected by radar, it could indeed be a balloon.

...and to Antonio Blanco

Sgarlato also responds to Antonio Blanco regarding the Cecconi case. He finds the hypothesis of a balloon plausible, especially given the region's context. However, he acknowledges that this explanation doesn't fully address all questions arising from the case. Sgarlato suggests that while Orlandi and Cabassi presented facts, Marco leaned towards the balloon hypothesis, while Sgarlato himself is more open to possibilities. He notes the difficulty in tracking slow-moving objects and the potential for misinterpretations of speed and altitude. Sgarlato emphasizes the importance of radar confirmation, stating that if the object was not radar-detected, it is more likely to be a balloon.

David Lollobrigida: A "Living Room" Collaborator

David Lollobrigida, a new collaborator, expresses his enthusiasm for "UFO Forum" and defends "living room" or "silent" collaborators. He argues that such individuals contribute significantly to organizations like CISU through financial support and by providing a different perspective. Lollobrigida explains his reluctance to engage in "field" research due to a lack of experience and the inherent challenges of verifying UFO evidence. He stresses the importance of rigorous training and a solid cultural background before undertaking investigations, warning against repeating past mistakes of uncritical reporting.

Jenny Randles: How (Not) to Earn a Million Pounds Sterling

Jenny Randles critically examines a case involving Joseph Carpenter (real name Joe Tagliarini), who claimed to have received a million pounds from an insurance policy for an alien abduction. Randles expresses concern about the commercialization of ufology, particularly in the UK. She investigates Carpenter's claims, which included photographic evidence and DNA analysis of an alien artifact. Randles finds the story highly improbable, noting the lack of verifiable evidence and the suspicious timing and nature of the claims. She suspects it was a hoax designed to promote insurance policies or gain notoriety. Randles highlights the media's tendency to sensationalize UFO stories without proper verification, leading to public confusion. She also notes the potential for legal repercussions in reporting on such cases.

Randles recounts her direct interaction with Carpenter, who admitted the story was a fabrication intended to promote the UFO topic and challenge the ufological community. She expresses concern that such hoaxes can damage the credibility of serious UFO research. Randles concludes that the media often treats UFO stories as mere entertainment, lacking in investigative depth. She also touches upon the importance of distinguishing between genuine researchers and those who exploit the topic for personal gain or sensationalism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the need for critical thinking, rigorous investigation, and a distinction between observable phenomena and speculative hypotheses in ufology. There's a clear concern about the commercialization of UFO research and the media's role in sensationalizing or misrepresenting the topic. The editorial stance appears to favor a scientific and evidence-based approach, while acknowledging the complexities and challenges inherent in studying the UFO phenomenon. The magazine encourages debate and invites readers to contribute their perspectives.

This issue of UFO Forum, dated February 1998, features a cover story titled 'Abductions: una falsa coerenza' (Abductions: a false coherence) by Paolo Toselli. The magazine delves into the complexities and potential biases surrounding UFO abduction cases, particularly in light of research by ethnologist Thomas Eddie Bullard. The issue also includes sections on ufology and science, public opinion on UFOs, and historical accounts of early Italian UFO sightings.

Abductions: A False Coherence

Paolo Toselli's main article critically examines Thomas Bullard's extensive study on UFO abduction cases. Toselli highlights the disproportionate number of North American cases (nearly 50%) compared to European cases (19%), questioning whether this prevalence influences the perceived coherence of the phenomenon. He points out that Bullard concludes that the consistency of abduction reports suggests they are not mere chance or personal fantasies. However, Toselli probes the quality of Bullard's data, suggesting that the 'American stereotype' of abduction might be a significant factor.

The article analyzes Italian abduction cases cited by Bullard, finding only three, with one case (Fortunato Zanfretta) being complex and potentially miscategorized. Another case from Cesariis is noted as not being a UFO abduction despite Bullard's inclusion. The experience of Walter Rizzi is also discussed, with discrepancies in dating and interpretation.

Toselli criticizes Bullard for seemingly dismissing Italian cases, citing that Paolo Fiorino's catalog listed 18 probable UFO abduction cases in Italy by 1985, many of which were not included in Bullard's study. Several of these Italian cases were also reported in foreign publications.

The analysis extends to French cases, where Toselli finds issues with the inclusion of cases like the 'Iso of Cergy-Pontoise' and a woman's encounter near the Loire River. The case of Virginia Horton, investigated by Budd Hopkins, is noted for its inclusion in Bullard's 'top 50' cases, possibly due to Hopkins' influence.

Spanish cases are also reviewed, with criticisms of the inclusion of 'missing time' episodes and cases attributed to unstable personalities. The article highlights the differing opinions between Bullard and Spanish researcher V. J. Ballester Olmos regarding the credibility of these cases.

Great Britain is the most represented European country with 23 cases, but many are categorized as 'missing time' or 'psychic' experiences rather than strict abductions. The article questions the inclusion of these broader categories within abduction studies.

Toselli concludes that Bullard's study, despite its scope, suffers from a lack of critical selection criteria, leading to the inclusion of dubious cases and a potentially skewed view of the phenomenon. He notes significant differences in the descriptions of alien beings across regions, contradicting the idea of a uniform abduction experience.

The Influence of Hypnosis

In a subsequent section, Toselli further explores the impact of hypnosis on abduction reports. He cites Bullard's later work, which highlights numerous differences between cases investigated with and without hypnosis. Hypnotized witnesses tend to report more detailed accounts of medical examinations, including the 'removal of a probe' from their heads, which is rarely reported by non-hypnotized witnesses. Toselli suggests that investigators might inadvertently influence witnesses to report certain elements, like implants, due to their own expectations.

Furthermore, hypnotized witnesses overwhelmingly favor 'telepathy' over verbal communication with aliens. The article also points out that figures described by non-hypnotized witnesses often have human-like features, whereas hypnotized witnesses report more typical alien characteristics, such as bald heads and small noses. This leads to the conclusion that hypnosis may play a role in shaping the perceived characteristics of aliens.

Toselli posits that the specific details of UFO abduction cases might stem from popular culture, the hypnotist's influence, or the witness's own experiences and psychology.

UFOLOGY TELEMATICA: Scientists and UFOs

This section features contributions from various individuals discussing the future of ufology and its relationship with science.

Marcello Pupilli expresses skepticism about the scientific community's ability to investigate UFOs as a distinct phenomenon, given the current fragmented approach to research. He believes a more holistic and interconnected view of science is needed, one that can account for the 'extraneous element' that makes UFOs fascinating. Pupilli suggests that this new scientific approach could benefit UFO research.

Edoardo Russo offers a more reserved outlook, stating that ufology is unlikely to become a specific scientific discipline due to its fringe nature. He believes it will remain a niche area, studied by a select few who maintain critical approaches, often in collaboration with various institutions. Russo notes a trend towards sensationalism and commercialization in UFO topics, making it difficult to shift public perception.

Massimiliano Grandi expresses strong pessimism regarding the future of ufology, predicting it will continue to be associated with magic and the occult. He believes that only a small group of dedicated researchers will maintain a critical stance, while the broader public will be exposed to sensationalized and unverified information. Grandi criticizes the lack of rigorous methodology in ufology, arguing that without a willingness to propose and test hypotheses, the field risks becoming a narcissistic exercise in skepticism.

Grandi also critiques the sensationalist approach often taken by media and certain ufologists, citing the Ray Santilli 'alien autopsy' film as an example of how the field can be exploited. He advocates for focusing on a small, well-defined area of UFO phenomena, such as the Hessdalen lights or abduction cases, to develop strong, testable explanations.

Michele Moroni discusses the public's perception of ufology, noting that it is often equated with 'alienology' and associated with conspiracy theories. He observes that in more 'cultured' environments, ufologists are often dismissed as purveyors of nonsense, while in less academic settings, they are seen as crusaders against government cover-ups. Moroni attributes this negative perception to the poor presentation of ufology in media, including sensationalist TV programs and films that promote the 'UFO-alien' association.

Goffredo Pierpaoli shares a pessimistic view, believing that the public's interest in ufology is waning due to saturation and a history of unfulfilled expectations. He predicts a period of collective rejection of UFO-related topics, followed by a potential reawakening driven by a more mature collective consciousness. Pierpaoli emphasizes the importance of admitting what cannot be explained rather than forcing explanations, and acknowledges that humanity has always coexisted with unexplained phenomena.

The Panic of Earthquakes Finds Its Instigators

This section features an intervention by Michele Coletti, originally from the 'it.discussioni.ufo' newsgroup, which Paolo Toselli highlights. Coletti discusses the claims of Dr. Alvaro Palanga, the Umbrian representative of the CUN (Centro Ufologico Nazionale), who allegedly has contact with psychics who predicted a major event during an earthquake in Italy. Toselli expresses concern that such claims could incite unfounded fears, particularly in regions already affected by natural disasters. He criticizes the CUN for mixing UFO topics with dubious theories and sensationalism.

False Memory Syndrome and Alien Abductions

This short piece discusses the concept of 'false memory syndrome' in relation to alien abductions, referencing an article from 'Corriere della Salute' (October 23, 1995). It notes that the phenomenon of abduction is a subject of debate, especially in the United States, and that the article explicitly uses abduction as an example of this syndrome.

Hypnosis on Trial

Giuliano Ferrieri reports on a legal case in the United States where two hypnotherapists were ordered to pay a significant sum for damages related to a patient's recovered memories of alleged sexual abuse by her father. The case involved the concept of 'False Memory Syndrome,' with expert testimony highlighting that such phenomena occur frequently. The article mentions that reports of people recalling being taken aboard alien spacecraft for interrogation and examination are among the cases cited in relation to False Memory Syndrome.

The First Italian Photos of "Flying Saucers"

Giuseppe Stilo's article, part of the 'I PRIMORDI' (The Beginnings) series, discusses the history of early UFO photography in Italy. He debunks the widely believed notion that the first UFO photos were those of Giampiero Monguzzi in 1952, which were later admitted to be fakes. Stilo presents evidence of earlier photographs published in the Italian newspaper 'La Gazzetta del Mezzogiorno' in September 1952. One photograph, taken by F. Roberto, shows three luminous points in the sky. Another, from Sarzana in September 1976, reportedly captured a flying disc.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the reliability and interpretation of UFO phenomena, particularly abduction cases. There is a strong emphasis on critical analysis, the influence of cultural factors and psychological elements (like hypnosis and false memories), and the need for rigorous scientific methodology. The editorial stance appears to favor a skeptical yet open-minded approach, urging researchers to avoid sensationalism and to focus on evidence-based investigation. The magazine also highlights the challenges ufology faces in gaining scientific legitimacy and public acceptance due to its association with fringe theories and media sensationalism.

This issue of UFO Forum, dated February 1998, focuses on the enduring nature of the UFO myth and how it is shaped and perpetuated by various actors. The main cover headline, "La forza di un mito" (The Force of a Myth), sets the theme for the articles within.

The Sarzana and Mestre Sightings

The issue begins by recounting the 1952 sighting in Sarzana, Italy, where apprentice photographer Osvaldo Castagna captured images of luminous objects. The article details the technical observations, including estimated speeds and the unusual light phenomena, noting that experts at the time ruled out any trickery. It also touches upon the difficulty of finding comprehensive documentation from that period in Ligurian periodicals.

Another significant case discussed is the 1950 Mestre sighting by merchant Adelmo de Colle. He photographed a luminous globe that changed color and appeared to be moving at high speed. The article includes descriptions of the photos and the 'secondary phenomenon' observed, like electrical discharges near a streetlight. Despite the detailed account, the case reportedly faded into obscurity.

The 'Mars Cycle' Theory

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the 'Mars cycle' theory, which posits a link between UFO waves and Mars's proximity to Earth. The article traces the origins of this theory, crediting French writer Jimmy Guieu and later ufologists like Aimé Michel. However, it also highlights the potential Italian origin of the idea through Professor Engineer Paolo Vocca, an astronomer who observed correlations between UFO appearances and Martian oppositions. The article notes that Vocca's hypothesis, though initially influential, eventually became a dead end in ufology.

UFOs and the Media: Case Studies

The magazine examines how media coverage can both fuel and debunk UFO phenomena. The case of the 1954 Tradate 'Martian' hoax is presented as an example of a staged event that gained media attention. Another case from Molina di Fiemme, also in 1954, describes a similar 'Martian' appearance involving a staged 'flying saucer.'

The article also critiques the role of television in perpetuating myths, citing an instance where TV host Gianni Minoli presented a photograph of a puppet as a 'presumed alien' despite prior debunking by the Italian Centre for Ufological Studies (CISU). This highlights how media outlets, sometimes driven by audience ratings or a lack of rigorous fact-checking, can contribute to misinformation.

The Role of Witnesses and Ufologists

"The Force of a Myth" section, authored by Marcel Delaval, explores the contributions of witnesses, ufologists, and the media to the UFO myth. Delaval argues that witnesses, even when their observations are explained rationally (like the Varese sighting of Venus and Jupiter), may resist retracting their stories to 'save face.'

The role of ufologists is also scrutinized. The article discusses the case of the 'blue dwarfs' of Viggiù, where the witness A. N. reported an encounter. It then details how two individuals, described as 'Men in Black' (UIN), allegedly visited A. N. to intimidate him. The author, who is one of the individuals described, clarifies their background and purpose, suggesting that the 'Men in Black' narrative can be sensationalized and distorted.

Delaval emphasizes that the persistence of the UFO myth is driven by a fundamental human need for extraordinary explanations, and that even when cases are explained, the temptation to ignore or distort facts can be strong.

Specific Cases and Analysis

Sarzana Sighting (1952): Described as a fast-moving object, possibly exceeding the speed of sound, with unusual smoke and light emissions. Photographed by Osvaldo Castagna.

Mestre Sighting (1950): Adelmo de Colle photographed a luminous globe, initially red then white, moving at high speed. The photos were deemed authentic.

Varese Sighting (1987): Witness G. B. reported observing a bright light, later identified as Venus and Jupiter. The witness initially resisted this explanation.

Viggiù 'Blue Dwarfs' (1979): A. N. reported seeing small, blue, dwarf-like beings. This case is linked to the 'Men in Black' phenomenon.

Tradate Hoax (1954): A staged 'Martian' landing that caused panic.

Empoli 'Martian' (1954): A prank involving a person dressed as a 'Martian' on a motorcycle.

Crosia Sighting (1987): A luminous object filmed, analyzed by ufologists and linked to the Kenneth Arnold case.

Conclusion

Delaval concludes that regardless of the reality of UFO phenomena, witnesses, ufologists, and the media collectively contribute to the myth. He notes that even when cases are explained, the desire for extraordinary events and the challenges of correcting misinformation mean the myth continues to spread. He advocates for continued investigation rather than solely focusing on debunking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the theme of how UFO phenomena are perceived, reported, and mythologized. It highlights the interplay between eyewitness accounts, the interpretations of ufologists, and the dissemination of information (or misinformation) by the media. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to understand the psychological and social factors that contribute to the UFO myth, while also acknowledging the persistence of unexplained phenomena and the human fascination with the unknown. The magazine encourages rigorous research and fact-checking.

Bibliography

The issue includes a bibliography citing various sources, including newspaper articles, ufological publications, and television programs, underscoring the research undertaken for the articles.

Key Facts Synopsis

This issue of UFO Forum examines the construction and maintenance of the UFO myth, detailing how witness testimonies, ufological interpretations, and media coverage contribute to its persistence. It analyzes specific cases from the 1950s to the 1980s, including photographic evidence from Sarzana and Mestre, and the 'Mars cycle' theory. The magazine also critiques the media's role in sensationalizing or misrepresenting UFO events and discusses the psychological factors influencing witnesses. The 'Men in Black' phenomenon and staged hoaxes are also explored, emphasizing the human tendency to seek extraordinary explanations and the challenges in correcting misinformation in the field of ufology.

Title: UFO Forum
Issue: 9
Date: February 1998
Publisher: CISU (Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici)
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This issue of UFO Forum, a publication from the Italian Centre for Ufological Studies (CISU), delves into the complexities of ufological information in the modern era, particularly focusing on media practices and the credibility of information. The magazine critically examines how ufology is presented to the public, highlighting issues of disinformation and sensationalism.

"La Pagina Bianca" - Ufology in the Information Age

The lead article, penned by Alessandro Lucci, reflects on the author's personal experience of finding a distinct lack of ufological material during a trip to the United States in August 1997. Lucci recounts his disappointment at not finding any ufological magazines in Arizona, Colorado, or Nevada. His search eventually led him to a supermarket near Monterey, California, where he discovered the *Weekly World News*. This tabloid featured a sensational headline, "Roswell Aliens' Last Words," accompanied by a photo of a humanoid on a medical bed and another image of a disk-shaped craft being lifted by a crane, allegedly from the 1947 Roswell crash.

Lucci's skepticism was confirmed when he later found a similar photograph in the Italian aviation magazine *Volare*, in an article about the Roswell celebrations. The *Volare* photo, however, was rotated and cropped, obscuring the characteristic meteorological balloon and a date of August 22, 1967. This revealed the *Weekly World News* photo to be a fabrication, likely a manipulated image of a weather balloon. Lucci expresses his dismay at how market forces prioritize disinformation over factual reporting, emphasizing that serious ufology must be cautious and critically evaluate all information.

He stresses that in the current 'information age,' information is increasingly manipulated for profit, and that all news, especially from unverified sources, should be treated with skepticism. This caution applies to ufological matters both internationally and locally.

"Provocazioni" - Imaginary Titles: The Example of Ufologists

This section, introduced as a provocative piece intended to stimulate discussion, presents an excerpt from the *UFOrama Toscana* bulletin (issue 5, July-September 1997), authored by Massimiliano Grandi. The article begins by drawing a parallel between the Italian penchant for elaborate titles and qualifications and the way individuals in various fields, including ufology, often attach numerous professional titles to their names.

Grandi argues that the term "ufologo" (ufologist) is essentially a conventional label, lacking any formal definition or universally accepted theory within the field. He points out that there are no established professional structures or legal criteria to regulate who can call themselves an ufologist. Consequently, the term broadly encompasses anyone passionate about the UFO phenomenon, regardless of their level of expertise or approach.

He asserts that individuals interested in ufology should present themselves based on their personal history as enthusiasts and researchers, their cultural background, and their professional lives, rather than claiming unsubstantiated professional titles. Grandi warns that any attempt to assert non-existent professional dignities will only serve to further discredit ufology and those involved in it.

Documenti UFO: Monographs from CISU

This section promotes two monographs published by CISU:

"Il Caso Arnold" by Roberto Raffaelli

This monograph, spanning 35 pages and costing 6,500 lire, is presented as the most comprehensive Italian text on the Kenneth Arnold case. It details the famous 1947 sighting, which is often credited with initiating widespread public interest in UFOs. Raffaelli, an aviation enthusiast and pilot himself, meticulously analyzes and comments on Arnold's testimony, offering a unique perspective on this seminal event. The review notes that the case has been a subject of recent online debate among UFO researchers.

"Altre Riviste '98" curated by Giuseppe Stilo and Paolo Toselli

This 63-page publication, priced at 10,000 lire, focuses on the role of CISU in disseminating ufological information through popular magazines. The curators explain that CISU selectively engages with popular press outlets that maintain a scientific or skeptical approach, avoiding sensationalism. This monograph compiles articles authored by CISU members that appeared in various popular magazines during 1996, including *Il Giornale dei Misteri*, *The X-Files*, *IMisteri*, and *UFO News Magazine*. The articles cover a range of topics, from specific UFO cases like Roswell and Rendlesham to broader themes such as Jacques Vallée's work, the Philadelphia Experiment, and the concept of UFO cover-ups.

New Letters to UFO Forum

This section offers a special promotion for new readers, providing access to all eight previous issues of *UFO Forum* (plus a special issue on Cover-Up) for 30,000 lire, to encourage engagement with the magazine's content and discussions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of information dissemination in ufology, the media's role in shaping public perception, and the importance of skepticism and rigorous investigation. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of a serious, evidence-based approach to ufology, cautioning against sensationalism, disinformation, and the unsubstantiated claims of self-proclaimed experts. The magazine actively promotes discussion and encourages readers to engage critically with the subject matter, as evidenced by the "Provocazioni" section and the promotion of detailed research monographs.