UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO, Rivista di Informazione Ufologica, is the second issue of Volume 1, dated December 1986. It is published by Cooperativa Studi e Iniziative UPIAR s.r.l. and edited by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU). The cover features an illustration of a jet airplane flying low over a landscape at night, with a glowing, ring-shaped object or phenomenon in the sky above it, hinting at the issue's focus on comparative UFO studies and potential encounters.

Contents Overview

The editorial highlights the issue's content, including a statistical study of Italian UFO cases from 1977, a theoretical article on recent issues in France, and increased coverage of Italian case studies. It mentions an article by Fiorino on third-type encounters, a review of investigations into 1986 sightings, and a detailed analysis of a case with numerous witnesses and photographic evidence. The issue also includes a panorama of UFO applications in new information technologies by Verga and a report from Moscow on events beyond the Iron Curtain.

Key Articles and Features

UFO E IFO: UNO STUDIO COMPARATIVO (UFO and IFO: A Comparative Study)

This extensive article by Marcel Delaval summarizes a statistical study conducted by the 'Cooperativa studi e iniziative UPIAR' titled "UFO/IFO Comparison: a Descriptive Study of the Year 1977 in Italy." The study is significant for being the first to extensively codify national case data for statistical analysis, considering over forty variables. It also marks the first comparative study of 'identified' (IFO) and 'unidentified' (UFO) Italian cases and the first application of inferential statistical techniques to Italian cases, with only one prior precedent in France by the governmental agency G.E.P.A.N. The project originated in 1978 with foreign researchers at the 'Euratom' Community Research Center in Ispra. The study's goal was to quantify information and identify characteristics that differentiate UFOs from IFOs. The analysis used statistical descriptive methods and more sophisticated factorial analysis techniques. The study found that most variables did not show significant differences between UFO and IFO cases, but differences emerged in categories like size, color, luminosity, luminous effects, trajectory, maneuvers, and speed. The article discusses the 'human bias' factor and presents data on the number of witnesses, their relationship, and the sex of the witnesses, noting a higher percentage of women in UFO cases. The factorial analysis, while attempted, was limited by incomplete data.

Gli Strani Esseri di Rudiano (The Strange Beings of Rudiano)

This article by Paolo Fiorino details a series of sightings in Rudiano and surrounding areas in July 1986. Witnesses reported a luminous object described as a 'glowing haze' or 'colored fog' that moved erratically. One witness described it as a 'plate with crumpled edges.' The object reportedly increased in brightness and intensity, taking on a reddish hue. No noise was perceived. The final moments of the sighting were unclear, with some reporting it simply vanished, while others claimed it moved towards Orzinuovi. The article explores various hypotheses, including atmospheric effects, deltaplanes, and disco lights, but finds them insufficient. It also mentions earlier sightings and a subsequent report of a 'spherical object' with a luminous ring. A separate incident, reported in 'Il Giornale di Brescia,' describes an encounter with a small, bald, large-headed figure, approximately one meter tall, near a canal. The figure reportedly entered a metallic, box-like object that illuminated and flew away. The witness remained anonymous. The article draws parallels to similar reports from Valensole, France, and other cases of 'box-like' or 'shoe polish box' shaped objects. It concludes that while the Rudiano case has elements suggesting genuineness, the lack of witness cooperation and potential for misinterpretation or hoax remain significant challenges.

Computer e UFO (Computer and UFO)

Maurizio Verga's article discusses the growing impact of personal computers (PCs) on ufological research. It traces the history from the early use of large mainframe computers for cataloging cases in the 1960s and 70s to the current widespread use of PCs. The article highlights the development of international and national UFO databases, mentioning projects like UFOCAT, Poher's catalog, URD, UFODATA, UFOCOMFILE, and ARGENCAT. It details the creation of the 'Rete Ufologica Computerizzata' (RUC) in Italy, coordinating PC use for cataloging and analysis. The article also touches upon astronomical programs for identifying celestial bodies and the use of computers for analyzing UFO photographs. It discusses the 'telematics' revolution, with networks like COMPUFON and CUFON connecting researchers. The author notes the differing attitudes towards computers among ufologists, with 'humanistic' approaches often showing resistance, while 'technical-scientific' ones embrace the technology. The article emphasizes that while computers are powerful tools for managing vast amounts of data, they cannot improve the quality of the data itself, and their results depend on the input and interpretation by the user.

"Flap" in Piemonte (Flap in Piedmont)

This article by Gian Paolo Grassino recounts the events of September 15, 1985, when a luminous object was sighted in the sky over the Aosta Valley and Piedmont region. The sighting garnered significant media attention, including television reports and a film captured by a news crew. The object was described as changing shape, from circular-ovoid to a question mark-like form, and composed of three cylinders. Radar detected the airplane filming the object but not the object itself. The article notes that while the case was eventually identified as a stratospheric balloon, the investigation provided valuable insights into the process of collecting and analyzing witness testimonies, understanding media influence, and the dynamics of 'flap' phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of studying identified (IFO) cases to better understand human perception and potential biases in UFO reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes a scientific and analytical approach to ufology. The articles advocate for rigorous data collection, statistical analysis, and the use of technology, particularly computers, to advance research. There is a clear distinction made between identified phenomena (IFO) and unidentified phenomena (UFO), with a focus on understanding the characteristics that differentiate them. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the possibility of genuinely anomalous events. The magazine also highlights the challenges in ufological research, such as data quality, witness reliability, and the influence of societal factors like 'UFO psychosis.' The use of computerization is presented as a crucial tool for overcoming some of these challenges by enabling better data management and analysis.

This issue of "UFO" magazine, dated 1987, presents a collection of investigative reports and analyses concerning unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) and related topics. The publication, from the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici, focuses on detailed case studies, witness testimonies, and theoretical discussions within the field of ufology.

Key Articles and Reports

The Piedmont UFO Phenomenon (September 15, 1985)

The issue begins with an extensive report on a widespread UFO sighting event that occurred in the Piedmont region of Italy on September 15, 1985. Thousands of witnesses, including hunters and tourists, observed a luminous object for several hours. The object was described with various shapes, including 'probe balloons,' 'inverted pears,' and 'elongated bodies.' Many witnesses used optical instruments like binoculars and telescopes, providing detailed descriptions. The report analyzes the shape, color, luminosity, and apparent movement of the object, noting that descriptions varied depending on the observation tools used. The object's color was generally described as light, white, or undefined, sometimes appearing 'metallic' or 'silvery.' The analysis suggests the object was likely a large stratospheric research balloon.

UFOs and Airplanes: The Fiumicino Incident (September 9, 1986)

This article details an incident near Fiumicino Airport, Italy, on September 9, 1986. Witnesses reported seeing a strange, bright red, lenticular or disc-shaped object 'chasing' an Alitalia DC 9/80 aircraft during its landing approach. The object accompanied the plane until it touched down and began braking. Despite numerous witnesses, airport radar did not detect the object. The report also references a similar incident at the same airport in 1978 involving a luminous object observed by air traffic control personnel, which was also not registered by radar.

The Radar Doesn't See

This section discusses the recurring theme of UFOs not being detected by radar, even at airports with supposedly comprehensive coverage. It highlights that radar systems are designed to detect specific signals, such as those from aircraft transponders, and may not register objects lacking such equipment or those with different reflective properties. The limitations of radar in identifying unknown aerial objects are emphasized.

UFOs in the USSR

This section features reports from a special correspondent, Gianni Favero, detailing UFO observations and official investigations in the Soviet Union. It highlights a shift in Soviet attitudes towards UFOs, moving from propaganda dismissals to official inquiry. The establishment of a commission within the Soviet Academy of Sciences to study 'anomalous atmospheric phenomena,' including UFOs (referred to as 'NLO'), is discussed. Key figures involved include Academician V. Troitzkij, cosmonaut Pavel Popovich, and Academicians Zheltikin and Pisarienko. The article recounts specific cases, such as a widely reported incident in Kiev on December 2, 1983, involving fiery spheres, and an encounter on March 27, 1983, near Gorkij, where a radar station detected an unidentified object described as a 'cigar' without wings.

The Gorkij Case

A detailed account of the Gorkij incident is presented, including radar data and witness descriptions. The object was described as a gray, cigar-shaped craft without wings, observed by a radar controller and later by other witnesses. The report notes the object's movement, altitude, and speed, and its eventual disappearance from radar.

The Firefighters' Pursuit

This report describes an incident in Estonia on March 2, 1984, where a 'phantom fire' was reported, later identified as a luminous, pulsating 'flying sphere.' Firefighters responded to the scene but found no actual fire, only an intense light. The object was described as a red-orange sphere with flickering lights, and it was observed moving erratically before disappearing.

UFO and Aircraft Encounters in the USSR

This article recounts an incident involving an Aeroflot 'TU-134/A' jetliner and an unidentified object. The aircraft's crew, including pilots, navigators, and flight engineers, reported observing a large, luminous object that emitted a beam of light. The object's behavior, including sudden changes in direction and apparent interaction with the aircraft, is described. The report notes that while the object was visible to the aircraft's crew, it was not initially detected by ground radar, and later, another aircraft flying nearby did not see it until it was much closer.

The Case of Gorkij (Continued)

Further details on the Gorkij case are provided, emphasizing the involvement of radar and the description of the object's transformations. The report highlights the difficulty in definitively explaining such phenomena within current scientific knowledge.

UFOs in Sky and Sea (July 9)

This article describes a sighting by a family on the beach at Eraclea Mare, Italy, of a circular, yellow-red luminous object in the sky. They also observed a flashing yellow-red object over the sea. The report connects this sighting to similar events reported in nearby towns on the same evening.

The 'Crazy' Car

This case report details an incident near Viareggio, Italy, on October 28, where a couple in a Fiat Panda experienced their car malfunctioning as a triangular object with yellow lights hovered above. The object reportedly emitted a loud noise and caused the car to shake and slow down.

Carrousel of Lights in the Salernitan Sky

This report describes an observation on October 22 in Postiglione, Italy, where a family witnessed six opaque white lights performing synchronized maneuvers in the sky, appearing to merge and separate before being obscured by clouds.

The Role of Ufology

This section delves into the theoretical and philosophical aspects of ufology, particularly in the context of French ufological thought. It discusses the shift towards socio-psychological explanations for UFO phenomena, questioning whether UFOs represent a new physical phenomenon or a manifestation of human perception and cultural myths. The author, Jacques Scornaux, explores the limitations of doubt and the challenges of establishing definitive proof in ufology.

The Limits of Doubt

Scornaux further elaborates on the 'limits of doubt,' arguing that while many cases can be explained, a small residue of unexplained sightings may persist. He discusses the difficulty in transmitting the conviction of certainty about these cases to skeptics and highlights the importance of rigorous criteria for evaluating UFO reports.

The Absence of Proof

This part of the discussion addresses the general lack of concrete proof for phenomena like UFOs and parapsychology. It suggests two possible explanations: either there is no new physical phenomenon, or the phenomena are deliberately elusive. The article introduces the concept of 'Operation Concreteness' in France, aimed at establishing new, stricter criteria for UFO case credibility.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, a recurring theme is the rigorous investigation of UFO sightings, often involving multiple witnesses, radar data, and photographic evidence. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific analysis and critical evaluation of testimonies, while also acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the role of psychological factors in perception. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to explain phenomena through scientific means but not dismissing the possibility of genuinely unknown events. There is a clear effort to differentiate between scientifically explainable events (like weather balloons) and those that remain anomalous.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and investigative approach to ufology. It highlights the importance of detailed case analysis, witness corroboration, and the use of scientific instruments and data. There's a notable engagement with theoretical discussions, particularly concerning the psychological and sociological interpretations of UFO phenomena, as seen in the articles by Jacques Scornaux. The publication seems to advocate for a critical yet open-minded stance, encouraging further research while acknowledging the complexities and challenges in definitively identifying the nature of all reported sightings. The inclusion of reports from the Soviet Union suggests an interest in global UFO activity and research efforts.

Title: SOFTEC COMPUTER
Issue: Not specified
Date: Not specified
Publisher: SOFTEC COMPUTER
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Cover Headline: CONTENUTI CHE PESANO (Content That Weighs Heavy)

Editorial Focus

This issue of Softec Computer magazine emphasizes that the selection of a Personal Computer should be guided by a clear understanding of the user's needs, desired software, and required assistance, rather than solely by memory capacity or price. The magazine highlights the importance of the provider's complete reliability and experience to ensure a truly productive purchase. Softec Computer positions itself as a partner in this process.

Seminars and Training

Softec Computer, with over 15 years of experience as a software and services company, organizes periodic training courses at various levels to provide comprehensive information on principal application programs. The magazine lists several seminars that have already been conducted:

Gestionale (Management Software) * Integrated management programs for multi-user personal computers. * General accounting, VAT, clients, and suppliers. * Sales, invoicing, and inventory management.

Office Automation Software * SUPERWINDOW: a user-friendly database. * WRITING ASSISTANT: for text processing. * GRAPHIC ASSISTANT: for creating management graphics. * LOTUS 1-2-3: a spreadsheet for budget analysis and elaboration.

Technical Software * GEM: a graphics environment for IBM PCs. * MAC PAINT - MAC DRAW: graphics for Macintosh. * PC-APT: a programming language for CNC machines.

Company Information

Softec Computer presents itself as a company committed to quality, with over 15 years of development in software and services. They organize multi-level training courses for complete information on application programs. The company has offices in:

• Torino (Direction and Sales): Via Juvarra, 24, Tel. (011) 535449-542592, 10122 TORINO.
• Milano (Sales Branch): Viale Jenner, 23, Tel. (02) 603721 (ric.aut.), 20159 MILANO.

The magazine also features logos for IBM Personal Computer and Apple Center, indicating their association or dealership with these brands.

Reader Engagement

A section is dedicated to readers interested in receiving information about Softec Computer's seminars, with fields for Name, Address, City, Company, Sector, and Telephone.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the importance of informed decision-making when purchasing personal computer systems, emphasizing software capabilities and user support over mere technical specifications. Softec Computer's stance is that of an experienced and reliable provider offering comprehensive solutions and training to ensure customer satisfaction and productivity. The editorial content aims to educate potential buyers and promote their specialized training services.