UFO Forum - No 18 - agosto 2001

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Forum, number 18, dated August 2001, is published by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) and features a cover story on the ufological theories and life of Renato Vesco. The magazine is dedicated to fostering the dissemination of technical articles, studies, research, debates, and proposals related to ufology.

Editorial

The editorial, titled 'Ai centro del mondo' (At the center of the world) by Giuseppe Stilo, discusses the ongoing debate within CISU about the association's visibility and its relationship with mass media and the public. Stilo argues that while research is paramount, the association must also consider its role in society and the need to communicate its findings effectively. He reflects on the cost-benefit of telematics for the association and cites Edoardo Russo and Marcello Pupilli on the efficient use of electronic communication. The editorial also touches upon the concept of 'tele-sickness' as described in Linus Word's book 'Le nuove malattie tecnologiche'.

Articles and Features

Fumettologia ufologico-spaziale (Ufological-Spatial Comics)

Marcello Pupilli details the preliminary work for creating a catalog of ufological comics. He explains the rationale for separating comics from the general Bibliocat catalog due to their serial nature and frequent re-editions. The article outlines the criteria for selecting material, defining 'ufologico-spaziale' broadly to include various unconventional aerial vehicles and alien interpretations, not just 'flying saucers'. The catalog focuses on material published after June 24, 1947, the date of Kenneth Arnold's sighting, with pre-1947 material categorized as 'Pre-Ufologia'. Pupilli calls for collaboration from readers to build this comprehensive repertory.

Un passo indietro (A Step Back)

Edoardo Russo's article, 'L'approfondimento concettuoso' (Conceptual Deepening), reflects on the CISU's approach to ufological research. He highlights the value of the association's numerous study projects and monographs, which demonstrate a commitment to specialized and in-depth research beyond anecdotal accounts. Russo contrasts this with commercial ufology and what he terms 'adolescent ufology.' He also discusses the concept of 'flying humanoids' and the CISU's contribution to defining it. The article emphasizes the importance of intellectual rigor and detailed investigation, suggesting that the increasing complexity of the articles is a sign of progress in transforming ufology into a serious field of study.

Nuova spedizione scientifica italiana a Hessdalen (New Italian Scientific Expedition to Hessdalen)

This section reports on a scientific expedition to Hessdalen, Norway, initiated by Professor Stelio Montebugnoli of the National Research Council's Institute of Radioastronomy. The 'Project EMBLA' group, composed of CNR-IRA engineers and astrophysicist Massimo Teodorani, aims to study the electromagnetic and luminous phenomena in the Hessdalen valley. The article details the instruments used, including advanced radio spectrometers and sophisticated cameras, and mentions the ongoing mission in the summer of 2001. The collaboration with the Comitato Italiano per il Progetto Hessdalen (CIPH) is also highlighted.

Opinioni a confronto (Opinions in Contrast)

This section presents various viewpoints on ufological issues:

• Studiare le abductions: alcune proposte (Studying Abductions: Some Proposals): This part discusses proposals from a UFOIN contest for studying UFO abductions. It includes contributions from Robert Boreham, Joe McGonagle, Mike Farrell, and Luis Gonzales Manso. The issue of whether abduction can be considered a legitimate part of ufology is raised.
• Peter Johnson: gruppi di supporto per "rapiti" (Peter Johnson: Support Groups for 'Abductees'): Johnson shares his experience supporting an abductee in Houston, Texas, emphasizing the need for abductees to connect with each other and for researchers to understand their experiences from their perspective.
• Bill Chalker: il DNA per l'indagine e la ricerca sulle abductions (Bill Chalker: DNA for Investigation and Abduction Research): Chalker proposes using DNA identification techniques to investigate biological evidence from abduction cases. He discusses the potential for DNA analysis to reveal anomalies and support theories about alien genetic plans, referencing a case involving Peter Khoury in Australia.
• Mike Farrell: riprendiamoci la notte! (Mike Farrell: Let's Take Back the Night!): Farrell calls for a more proactive and creative approach to UFO research, particularly concerning abductions. He advocates for closer operational relationships between abductees and researchers, utilizing modern technology to gather evidence and move beyond passive observation.
• L'ufologia serve a qualcosa? (Does Ufology Serve Any Purpose?): This subsection features opinions from Michael Mortellaro, Jenny Randles, and others, debating the relevance and purpose of ufology.

Natura-cultura (Nature-Culture)

• Il complesso rapporto tra fantascienza e dischi volanti (The Complex Relationship Between Science Fiction and Flying Saucers): Nico Conti explores the intricate connections between science fiction literature and UFO experiences, suggesting that SF has helped shape the cultural context for understanding UFO phenomena.

Casistica (Case Studies)

• Un mancato UFO (A Missed UFO): A brief report by Goffredo Pierpaoli.
• Rassegna Casistica (Case Review): Includes a report on a luminous ellipse in Buttapietra.
• Roswell a la española (Roswell, the Spanish Way): Manuel Borraz examines aspects of the Roswell case.
• L'enigma della meteora impossibile (The Enigma of the Impossible Meteor): Manuel Borraz discusses a case related to an anomalous meteor.

I Primordi (The Beginnings)

• Solitudine di un uomo (Solitude of a Man): This section, likely biographical or historical, is attributed to Marcello Pupilli and Giuseppe Stilo.

Scienza & UFO (Science & UFO)

• I vent'anni di UPIAR e il nuovo libro di Jimenez (The Twenty Years of UPIAR and Jimenez's New Book): Roberto Farabone and Paolo Toselli discuss the 20th anniversary of UPIAR and a new book by Jimenez.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous, in-depth study of ufology, emphasizing scientific methodology and critical analysis. The editorial stance, as articulated by Giuseppe Stilo, advocates for a more visible and socially engaged approach to ufology, while maintaining a commitment to intellectual depth and avoiding sensationalism. The magazine consistently promotes the idea of ufology as a serious field of research, distinct from mere speculation or commercial exploitation. There is a strong emphasis on cataloging, historical research, and the scientific investigation of phenomena, as evidenced by the articles on comics cataloging, the Hessdalen expedition, and DNA analysis in abduction cases. The magazine also encourages reader participation and collaboration in these research efforts.

This issue of UFO Forum, dated Agosto 2001, features a prominent cover story titled "Il complesso rapporto tra fantascienza e dischi volanti" (The Complex Relationship Between Science Fiction and Flying Saucers) by Nico Conti. The magazine explores various facets of ufology, with a particular focus on the influence of science fiction and media on UFO reports and abduction experiences, alongside discussions on research methodologies and the nature of evidence.

Active Investigations and the Future of UFO Research

The issue opens with an article advocating for "active" UFO research, suggesting that projects could be more easily and ethically achieved through collaborative efforts of researchers rather than relying on wealthy benefactors. It highlights the desire of modern UFO enthusiasts to not just hear about phenomena but to actively document them. The article provides a list of online resources for active UFO research, including monitoring alleged abductee experiences, investigating alien dust, analyzing footprints, and examining equipment used for alleged implants. It emphasizes the role of the internet in sharing information and evidence, and quotes Michael Lindemann stating that UFO mysteries are not beyond human comprehension and require active investigation. The author concludes that it's time for this new type of active inquiry to be prepared for potential extraterrestrial encounters.

Boreham & McGonagle: Searching for a Target

This article, a collaboration between Robert Boreham and Joe McGonagle, addresses the phenomenon of abductions. They acknowledge their limited authority in ufology and abductions, relying on internet resources due to time constraints. They outline three main theories for abductions: genuine physical abductions by unknown entities, hallucinatory experiences induced by electromagnetic stimulation of the brain, or psychosociological causes stemming from exposure to ufological folklore and literature. The authors propose two new research avenues: using new technologies to confirm or refute the physical reality of abductions, and investigating the influence of media and electromagnetic fields on potential targets. They suggest identifying "uncontaminated" groups or individuals for study, emphasizing the need for careful methodology to avoid contaminating the subjects or their experiences. The article also touches upon the logistical challenges of reaching these targets, suggesting anthropological, medical, or religious missions as potential avenues, and highlights the importance of informing contact personnel about contamination issues and interview techniques.

Vicente Juan Ballester-Olmos: A Realistic Approach to a Degraded Subject

Vicente Juan Ballester-Olmos presents a critical perspective on abduction phenomena, arguing that despite thousands of alleged experiences, no physical proof has emerged. He posits that abductions are likely psychological events combined with fabrications. To validate this, he suggests rigorous psychological and psychiatric examinations of witnesses, particularly those reporting multiple abductions. He also proposes comparative studies of abduction cases before and after Whitley Strieber's influential book in 1987, and an analysis of European abduction cases to see if media trends correlate with reporting. Ballester-Olmos also touches upon the government's potential knowledge of UFOs and the debate between "curing" or "investigating" the phenomenon. He expresses skepticism about government transparency and the possibility of definitive answers, referencing historical documents and researchers like Wilbert Smith and Robert Sarbacher.

Michael Orton: The Need for a "Roadmap"

Michael Orton calls for a more in-depth approach to UFO research, posing two key questions: "How much does the Government know?" and "Is our goal to 'cure' or to 'investigate'?" He believes governments are likely aware of UFO phenomena but maintain secrecy. Orton suggests that if the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) is true, government cover-ups are understandable, but if abductions and animal mutilations are involved, it presents a different kind of problem. He doubts governments would publicly engage with abduction issues beyond debunking. Orton also critiques the approach of some UFO researchers and media programs, particularly those that he feels encourage victimhood or irrational behavior. He contrasts the role of a therapist, who listens without judgment, with the potential for UFO researchers to dismiss or rationalize experiences, leading to irrational conclusions. He emphasizes the need for researchers to discover and present something new and interesting, rather than rehashing old cases.

Mark Cashman: Specificity of UFO Phenomena

Mark Cashman asserts that significant discoveries have been made in ufology, even if they are not what people want to hear. He lists six key findings: UFO experiences fall into specific, classifiable categories; UFOs exhibit a limited range of shapes, luminous constants, and behaviors, appearing at specific times; the demographic distribution of witnesses tends towards the general population as reports become more unusual; methods exist to reliably derive distance, dimensions, altitude, and energy emission from testimony; luminosity is complexly linked to behavior; and UFO entities are typically bipedal, bilaterally symmetrical, and taller or shorter than humans. Cashman concludes that while much has been learned about the characteristics of UFO phenomena, the intent and nature of UFOs remain elusive.

Jenny Randles: Human Psychology and Atmospheric Physics

Jenny Randles highlights two specific areas where ufology has provided insights: atmospheric physics and human psychology. She notes that rare phenomena like the mirage effect, possibly responsible for the Goose Bay case, have been identified as potential UFO causes. Randles points out the difficulty in categorizing Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomena (UAP) generated by geological or physical processes, suggesting that UFO research has brought these to scientific attention. She also emphasizes the value of UFO studies as a real-world laboratory for observing the complex interactions between perceptual psychology, sociology, and belief systems. This research has led to the identification of "fantasy-prone personalities" (FPP) and a better understanding of visual creativity. Randles also discusses how UFO research has shed light on paranormal phenomena, such as the appearance of light orbs in bedrooms and the sensation of "doors to superior dimensions," which might otherwise have remained undiscovered. She further mentions how UFO investigations have uncovered significant social issues, such as the case of a military aircraft's exhaust causing a bright fireball, which led to safety regulations, and the potential danger of commercial aircraft directing their engines downwards.

Meurger: Fantascience and Conditioning of UFO Themes

This section delves into Bernard Meurger's work, particularly his 1978 book, which analyzed the array of devices used by "extraterrestrials" in encounters. Meurger argued that these elements were already present in pre-WWII science fiction. He focused on American science fiction, believing that UFOs originated in the US and thus required analysis within that literary context. Meurger highlighted how themes like alien abductions were invented and explored in American science fiction as early as the 1930s. He identified numerous coincidences suggesting that science fiction not only allowed but also conditioned the construction of UFO themes. The article contrasts Meurger's views with those of Michel Carrouges, who saw a transposition of mythological deities to interstellar protectors, and with Charles Fort, whose ideas influenced early science fiction. Meurger's analysis suggests that the cultural context, particularly American technological imagination, plays a crucial role in shaping UFO experiences.

Meheust: The Problem of "Vissuto" (Lived Experience)

This section discusses the debate between Meurger and Meheust regarding the interpretation of UFO reports. Meheust criticizes Meurger's work, accusing him of being a "Jungian" and "archaicizing" by relying on concepts like "archetypes" and "collective unconscious." Meheust argues that his own later work (1978) shifted towards a more empirical approach, moving away from Jungian perspectives. He contends that Meurger's analysis of his work is superficial and that Meurger fails to acknowledge his later, more empirical research. Meheust defends his focus on folklore and the "lived experience" (vissuto), arguing that it's essential to understand how cultural narratives shape perceptions. He criticizes Meurger's assertion that UFO reports are merely "effects of the story" (effetto del racconto), stemming from an accumulation of science fiction narratives. Meheust believes this view is overly simplistic and ignores the specific characteristics of abduction accounts. He argues that the problem of "vissuto" is crucial and that those who deny it bear the burden of proof.

Lagrange: Nature and Culture

Lagrange analyzes Meurger's hypothesis that UFO themes are deeply rooted in cultural imagination, particularly American technological narratives. Lagrange questions whether science fiction is merely a disguise for older phenomena like witchcraft or shamanism, or if UFO reports represent genuine experiences. He probes the relationship between UFOs and folklore, and whether technology influences perceptions. Lagrange suggests that Meurger's focus on cultural context might be too narrow, potentially overlooking the possibility of genuine, non-cultural phenomena. He proposes that the distinction between nature and culture might be artificial, and that UFOs could be seen as inventing both. Lagrange concludes that the separation between nature and culture is not always clear-cut and that the study of UFOs might reveal how these concepts are intertwined and even rejected as separate entities.

Su Alcune Ipersemplificazioni del Rapporto tra Cultura ed Esperienze UFO (On Some Hyper-simplifications of the Relationship Between Culture and UFO Experiences)

This article critiques overly simplistic views on the relationship between culture and UFO experiences. It argues against reducing UFO phenomena solely to skepticism, rationalism, or "monnerism" (a term possibly referring to a debunking approach). The author criticizes the idea that UFO experiences are merely products of cultural conditioning, citing the work of researchers like Michel Monnerie and Manuel Jimenez. Monnerie, in his book "Le naufrage des extraterrestres," is presented as having a simplistic analytical level, quickly dismissing hypotheses requiring further study. Jimenez, in "La psychologie de la perception," suggests that UFO reports are heavily influenced by science fiction and media. The article highlights Jimenez's observation that UFO witnesses often confuse their experiences with fictional narratives. It also references Meurger's comparative analysis of alleged UFO sightings and science fiction descriptions, such as the "phantom ships" of the late 19th century and Jules Verne's "Robur le Conquerant." The article concludes that while cultural influences are undeniable, reducing all UFO reports to mere imitations of science fiction is an oversimplification that ignores the specific nature and potential reality of these experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the complex interplay between perceived reality and cultural narratives, particularly science fiction, in shaping UFO phenomena and witness accounts. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous, multi-disciplinary research that acknowledges both the potential for cultural influence and the possibility of genuine, unexplained phenomena. There's a clear emphasis on critical analysis of research methodologies and a call for new approaches to move beyond simplistic explanations or debunking. The magazine encourages a nuanced understanding of UFOs, recognizing their potential to reveal insights into human psychology, cultural evolution, and possibly even unknown physical or technological realities.

This issue of UFO forum, dated August 2001 (Volume 18), features a cover headline focused on a "missed UFO" sighting and includes several in-depth articles and case studies related to unidentified flying objects.

Article 1: Un mancato UFO (A missed UFO)

Authored by Goffredo Pierpaoli, this article recounts a personal experience where a strange light observed at night was initially perceived as potentially anomalous. The author, driving with a passenger named Antonio, noticed an intense light that seemed to change size. After stopping and using binoculars, Pierpaoli identified the phenomenon as car headlights reflecting off fog on a winding mountain road. The article uses this incident to discuss the role of perception, tools like binoculars, and the potential for misidentification in UFO reports. It also touches upon the concept of IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) and the importance of careful observation and analysis.

Nico Conti provides a commentary, suggesting that the incident highlights "perceptual conditions" rather than a perceptual error, and that the passenger lacked the cultural background to interpret what he saw, even with binoculars. Conti frames the story as a defense of "instrumental ufology," emphasizing the need for tools and knowledge to correctly identify phenomena.

Pierpaoli responds, clarifying that he did not intend to suggest a perceptual error but rather poor conditions. He reiterates that while the passenger struggled to understand, the binoculars eventually allowed for identification. He also discusses various roads and lighting conditions in the area that could lead to similar visual effects.

Article 2: Un'ellisse luminosa a Buttapietra (A luminous ellipse at Buttapietra)

This case study, investigated by Dario Paganini, details an event that occurred on October 13, 1997, in Buttapietra, Verona, Italy. A witness observed a luminous, elliptical object moving in a circular pattern for about 20 minutes. The object was described as white-silver, slightly inclined, and almost transparent. The witness managed to take two photographs, though one was blurred due to the object's movement. The investigation ruled out conventional aircraft, balloons, and satellites due to the object's atypical movement and shape. The investigator proposed several hypotheses, including light beams from distant sources (like discos or circuses), reflections from clouds or fog, or even a natural phenomenon. The article details the witness's testimony, the investigator's findings on the object's characteristics (estimated size, color, movement), and the meteorological conditions at the time. The investigator ultimately leans towards the hypothesis of light beams or reflections, possibly from a distant source, but acknowledges the possibility of an unknown phenomenon.

Article 3: Roswell a la española (Roswell in the Spanish style)

Authored by Manuel Borraz, this article critically examines UFO cases in Spain, particularly those involving alleged crashes or military experiments. Borraz questions the claims made by ufologists like Manuel Carballal, who suggest that many UFO incidents are actually secret military experiments or cover-ups. The article analyzes three examples cited by Carballal:

1. Barbate (Cadiz), 1996: An object reportedly fell and was recovered by US military personnel. Carballal suggests it was an RPV (Remotely Piloted Vehicle). Borraz points out that this was likely a military project with international collaboration, not a UFO cover-up.
2. Andalusia, 1989: Numerous sightings of a mysterious object were later identified as a stratospheric balloon launched from Sicily. Borraz notes that some ufologists still insisted on an extraterrestrial explanation.
3. Galicia, 1993: A luminous phenomenon was observed, and some concluded it was a UFO crash. Carballal suggested it might have been a missile from Portugal. Borraz argues it was more likely a meteor or a re-entering space vehicle fragment, given the location and characteristics.

Borraz criticizes the tendency to jump to sensational conclusions and suggests that many cases, while initially puzzling, have mundane explanations, often involving military tests or natural phenomena. He also touches upon the "Roswell" phenomenon and the idea of "Spanish Roswell" cases, questioning the evidence and the motives behind such claims.

Article 4: L'enigma della meteora impossibile (The enigma of the impossible meteor)

Also authored by Manuel Borraz, this article delves into a specific case from January 18, 1994, involving observations in Galicia, Spain, and a subsequent "crater" discovery. Initially thought to be a meteor, investigations by astronomers and specialists (including José Angel Docobo, Vakhtang Tamizan, Znedak Ceplecha, Francisco Díaz-Fierros, Y. Onda, and R. E. Spalding) found that the phenomenon did not fit the profile of a meteor. The "crater" was also found to be atypical, lacking impact evidence. Hypotheses explored included landslides, unusual ground piping, or even an artificial phenomenon like a "mini-tornado" generated by a "fireball" of methane gas from the seabed (a theory linked to the TWA Flight 800 incident). The article discusses the scientific investigation, the challenges in explaining the event, and the potential for misinterpretation or deliberate obfuscation. Borraz concludes that while some cases might involve military tests, the tendency to attribute everything to UFOs or cover-ups can obscure simpler explanations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the critical analysis of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of rigorous investigation, scientific methodology, and the avoidance of sensationalism. There's a recurring theme of questioning witness testimony, the influence of cultural factors (like science fiction), and the potential for misidentification of natural or man-made objects. The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical yet open-minded stance, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the possibility of genuinely unexplained events. The articles highlight the challenges faced by ufologists in distinguishing between genuine anomalies and mundane occurrences, often obscured by speculation or deliberate misinformation.

This issue of UFO forum, dated August 2001, features a prominent article titled "Solitudine di un uomo: Le teorie ufologiche e la vita di Renato Vesco (1924-1999)" by Marcello Pupilli and Giuseppe Stilo. The magazine also includes sections on "Decostruzioni" and "I Primordi," exploring historical UFO cases and the development of ufological thought.

Renato Vesco: A Life Dedicated to UFO Theories

The main article is a comprehensive tribute to Renato Vesco, a significant figure in Italian ufology, who passed away in November 1999. Vesco was known for his "terrestrial theory" regarding UFOs, proposing they were advanced aerospace vehicles rather than extraterrestrial craft. The authors detail his life, from his early interest in aeronautics to his later years marked by a profound solitude and a dedication to his research. Vesco's correspondence with Marcello Pupilli is highlighted, revealing a vast archive of notes and manuscripts that have been passed on to CISU.

Vesco's personality is described as dual: an "heroic" and "warrior" side driven by his quest for truth, and a more introverted, sensitive side. Despite his groundbreaking ideas, he felt misunderstood by the ufological community, which he believed failed to grasp the magnitude of his work. His personal life was marked by reserve, and he rarely participated in public events or conferences, preferring private research.

His academic background as a technical expert in aeronautics (not an engineer, as sometimes misstated) is clarified. Vesco's interest in UFOs reportedly began shortly after the famous Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947. His early writings, such as "Nota sui convertoplani e sugli aeroplani aplani" (1951), already hinted at his convictions.

The "Terrestrial Theory" and its Roots

The article traces the development of Vesco's "terrestrial theory," suggesting that his ideas were crystallized around 1952-1954. He drew inspiration from various sources, including reports on German WWII aerospace technologies, particularly the "Feuerball" and "Kügelblitz" projects, which he believed were precursors to British flying discs. Vesco's research involved extensive study of technical literature, often citing sources like Luigi Romersa and Alberto Fenoglio, and even attempting to contact high-ranking officials like General Hoyt S. Vandenberg.

Vesco's major works, a trilogy published by Mursia between 1968 and 1972 ("Intercettateli senza sparare," "I velivoli del mistero," and "Operazione Plenilunio"), presented his comprehensive theories. These books were noted for their detailed technical analysis and extensive bibliographies, though they also faced criticism for their sometimes controversial interpretations and the perceived isolation of Vesco's views.

Decostruzioni: Analyzing UFO Cases

The "Decostruzioni" section critically examines specific UFO phenomena. One article discusses the Cando crater incident from January 1994 in Galicia, Spain. It questions the initial interpretation of the event as a rare meteor, highlighting inconsistencies in witness testimonies and the limitations of observational data. The article suggests that the calculations for trajectory and speed might have been flawed due to the limited number and distribution of observation points.

Another case explored is the falling of a blue ice block in Lugo, Spain, in July 1996. Initially thought to be of astronomical origin, subsequent analysis revealed it to be composed of water and a common detergent, leading to the conclusion that it likely originated from an aircraft. The article notes that some ufologists resisted this explanation, preferring to believe in a cover-up.

I Primordi: Early UFO Research and Publications

The "I Primordi" section delves into the history of UFO research and publications. It features an article by Roberto Farabone reflecting on the legacy of "UPIAR" (UFO Phenomena), an early scientific journal dedicated to UFO research, and its related colloquium and research-in-progress publications. Farabone laments the slow progress in applying rigorous scientific methodology to ufology, emphasizing the need for continuous self-criticism and open debate.

This section also touches upon Renato Vesco's own publications and his critical views on other ufological trends, particularly the "contactee" phenomenon. It highlights his efforts to establish a more technical and analytical approach to UFO studies, even as he faced isolation and criticism from parts of the community.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. The articles by Vesco and those discussing his work advocate for scientific rigor, detailed research, and a cautious interpretation of evidence. There is a clear distinction drawn between speculative or pseudoscientific claims and those grounded in technical analysis and verifiable data. The magazine seems to favor a rationalist perspective, seeking to deconstruct sensationalist claims and uncover the factual basis, or lack thereof, in UFO reports. The editorial stance appears to support in-depth investigation and a nuanced understanding of the historical and technical aspects of the UFO phenomenon, as exemplified by the extensive coverage of Renato Vesco's contributions.

This issue of "UFO forum" from August 2001 features articles exploring the intersection of UFO phenomena with psychology, research methodology, and the dynamics of online communities. The cover story, "UFO, costruttivismo, percezione" by Paolo Toselli, examines how psychologist Manuel Jimenez uses UFO sightings as examples to illustrate the theory of constructivism in perception.

Article: UFO, costruttivismo, percezione by Paolo Toselli

This section delves into Manuel Jimenez's book "La psychologie de la perception," which applies constructivist principles to understanding UFO sightings. Constructivism posits that knowledge is actively built by the individual, rather than passively received as an objective truth. Jimenez, who has prior experience with the French UFO investigation agency GEPAN/SEPRA, argues that UFO sightings, particularly those deemed 'rare,' are often the result of applying specific, sometimes unusual, cognitive schemas. These schemas, formed by prior experiences and knowledge, shape how stimuli are interpreted. Jimenez analyzes data from the French Gendarmerie, finding that while many reported UFOs are identifiable as known phenomena (like satellite re-entries), the descriptions can vary significantly. He suggests that the specificity of a witness's identification (e.g., 'UFO' vs. 'light') correlates with the detail and structure of their perceived experience, implying that the chosen cognitive schema influences the perception itself.

Jimenez also discusses how the context of an observation can 'pre-activate' UFO-related cognitive schemas. He theorizes that an individual's interest in UFOs, fueled by media and literature, can lead to more detailed and specific perceptions when encountering a potential anomaly. The article highlights that our culture and prior knowledge can anticipate and facilitate the perception of what is deemed 'probable,' and that inadequate perceptions can be corrected by cultural suggestions for alternative schemas.

Article: "Sindrome" and Research Priorities by R. Farabone

This piece by R. Farabone addresses the challenges and organizational issues within the ufological community. Farabone laments the lack of rigorous, long-term research and verification of published findings, noting that many articles in journals like UPIAR/URIP propose methods that are rarely applied or tested over the years. He criticizes the tendency for ufologists to be 'ufophiles' (enthusiasts) rather than dedicated researchers, often lacking the necessary organization, time, or resources for systematic investigation.

Farabone identifies several 'syndromes' affecting online ufological communities, including:

• Globalization Syndrome: Discussions quickly escalate and involve many participants, often leading to polemics rather than focused debate.
• "Furious Bison" Syndrome: Disproportionately aggressive responses to messages, escalating conflict.
• "Lack of Appreciation" Syndrome: Individuals who contribute detailed ideas or concepts receive minimal feedback, leading to discouragement.
• "Wild Extrapolation" Syndrome: Taking a single phrase out of context to initiate an argument, leading to a loss of the overall context.

He argues that these issues detract from the core goal of advancing knowledge and understanding of UFO phenomena. Farabone also emphasizes the importance of developing a codified thesaurus for ufology to aid in indexing and understanding research trends, a project he has begun with a database based on keywords from UPIAR/URIP articles.

He calls for a shift in priorities, urging ufologists to commit to long-term research goals (e.g., 3-5 or 10 years) and to collaborate effectively within groups and associations. He draws a parallel to the lasting impact of figures like Don Lorenzo Milani, who achieved significant cultural impact despite operating in peripheral conditions, suggesting that genuine contribution, not mere exposure, is what truly matters.

Article: Scientific Approach to UFOs

This section, attributed to P. Toselli and G. Stilo, discusses the scientific study of UFOs and the challenges therein. It critiques the limited scientific effort dedicated to UFO research compared to established scientific fields, estimating that the total scientific effort invested is equivalent to less than a month of work by a dedicated community. The article stresses the need for ufologists to familiarize themselves with fundamental scientific concepts, such as angular dimensions, and to rigorously exclude conventional explanations before labeling a phenomenon as 'unexplained.' It references key figures and works in the field, including McDonald, Maccabee, Vallée, Hynek, and the Condon Committee, emphasizing that their contributions, while not always perfect, were valuable.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the need for a more rigorous, scientific, and organized approach to UFO research. There is a clear critique of the current state of ufology, which is seen as often amateurish, prone to polemics, and lacking in systematic investigation. The articles advocate for a shift from mere enthusiasm ('ufophilia') to dedicated research, emphasizing long-term goals, verification of data, and the development of standardized methodologies and terminology. The psychological aspect of perception, particularly constructivism, is presented as a crucial lens through which to understand witness testimony, suggesting that subjective interpretation plays a significant role in how UFO phenomena are experienced and reported. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical yet open-minded approach, encouraging deeper analysis and a move beyond anecdotal evidence and community infighting.