UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO, Rivista di Informazione Ufologica, dated December 1988 (Anno III, N. 6), published by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (C.I.S.U.), delves into the complexities of ufology with a focus on current events and theoretical debates. The cover prominently features a photograph of circular ground traces in the Veronese region, with the headline "TRACCE AL SUOLO NEL VERONESE." The issue includes a special section on the "1º Congresso europeo sui fenomeni aerei anomali" held in Brussels.

In questo numero (In this issue)

The editorial highlights the return to a more conventional format after a special issue on abductions. It emphasizes the Brussels congress as a unifying theme, providing a panorama of international ufology and opportunities to meet key researchers. The editorial announces an interview with Jacques Vallée, whose work is reconsidered due to his long absence from the ufological scene and the limitations of the paraphysical hypothesis. It also mentions an interview with Vallée from the United States, where he discusses his early years in ufology, and a historical retrospective on his contributions. The article by English ufologist Jenny Randles, rich in ideas, is presented as a bridge between European and American ufology. The issue also features a detailed report on a presumed close encounter with traces in the Veronese area and a dossier on photos of humanoids in Italy, including an unpublished case near Trento and an analysis of other controversial cases by Paolo Fiorino.

Esistono Due Ufologie? (Are There Two Ufologies?)

This article by Jenny Randles offers a detached perspective on the different current trends in ufology. Randles, a prominent British ufologist, discusses her extensive career and her role in coordinating the Northern UFO Network and directing investigations for BUFORA. She notes the significant differences between ufology in the United States and other parts of the world, suggesting that European ufology is closer to the British way of thinking. Randles expresses concern about the growing interest in sociological and psychological theories, suspecting that the problem is deeper and that there may be two distinct UFO phenomena rather than one. She critiques the tendency to equate UFOs with alien spacecraft and the reductionist logic that leads to this conclusion. Randles also touches upon the issue of abductions, noting the increased interest but also the significant differences between abduction experiences and UFO sightings (UAP).

Randles emphasizes the importance of a critical approach to UFO investigations, highlighting that the vast majority of sightings are identified as IFOs (Identified Flying Objects). She uses the example of a case in Great Britain involving a luminous shape seen through a telescope, which was initially sensationalized by the media but later identified as the planet Jupiter. She argues that it is crucial to correct false impressions spread by the media and to focus on genuinely unexplained cases. Randles estimates that only about 20-30 cases per year worldwide qualify as 'true ufology.' She discusses three specific unexplained cases from BUFORA's archives: a small oval object in Ventnor, a white ball of light in Dukinfield, and three white lights in a triangle in Whitchurch. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine UFOs, she cautions against jumping to conclusions and suggests that these cases might represent different phenomena, including atmospheric or optical anomalies, or even secret military aircraft.

Tre Cerchi d'Erba Bruciata (Three Circles of Burned Grass)

This article by Gian Paolo Grassino details an alleged close encounter of the second kind with ground traces in the Veronese region. The incident began with anonymous phone calls reporting a fire in a field near Costeggiola on the night of September 19, 1988. The following morning, journalists from the newspaper L'Arena were alerted. A direct witness, who wished to remain anonymous, described seeing a blinding, silent luminous light with flames emanating from its underside. He estimated its size to be between 5 and 10 meters long. Upon investigation, journalists discovered three circular areas of burned grass, approximately 1.85 meters in diameter, forming an equilateral triangle with sides of about 10 meters. The grass in these circles smelled acrid, like vinegar. The article describes the investigation process, including interviews with witnesses like Mrs. Ada Schiavo, who reported seeing a strong light filtering through her shutters, and the landowner, Primo Giordani. The traces were photographed, and soil samples were collected for analysis. The article also discusses the involvement of the Carabinieri and the USL 25 (local health authority) in analyzing the site for radioactivity and collecting samples. Chemical analyses of the soil samples were conducted to determine the cause of the burns and the unusual smell. The article explores various hypotheses, including a hoax, a distant radiation effect, or a physical object. The presence of residual combustion materials and the smell of vinegar led to the hypothesis of an artificial fire using flammable substances. The article notes that the investigation was hampered by the difficulty of observing the field from the road and by the fact that the landowner had watered the field, potentially altering the traces.

Incontro con Vallée (Encounter with Vallée)

This is an interview with Jacques Vallée conducted by Linda Strand, a journalist for Science Digest and Astronomy. Vallée, a renowned ufologist, discusses his career, his current work, and his views on the UFO phenomenon. He clarifies that he has not abandoned ufology but has taken a more private approach, focusing on constructing a framework for understanding the phenomenon. He explains that his new book, "Dimensions," aims to provide a new perspective by synthesizing previous research with new data. Vallée discusses his background in astronomy and computer science, his early work with J. Allen Hynek on the Blue Book project, and his development of the "Vallée typology" for classifying UFO sightings. He recounts his shift from a purely scientific approach to considering the parapsychological and sociological aspects of UFOs, particularly in his book "Passport to Magonia." Vallée expresses concern about the exploitation of the UFO phenomenon for various purposes, including the creation of cults and psychological manipulation, as discussed in his book "Messengers of Deception." He criticizes the uncritical use of hypnosis in abduction investigations and advocates for a more rigorous and ethical approach. Vallée also touches upon the controversy surrounding the Majestic-12 documents, expressing skepticism about their origin and purpose. He believes that the UFO phenomenon is real but not necessarily extraterrestrial, suggesting it may involve interactions with other dimensions or realities. He emphasizes the need for an international perspective in ufological research and criticizes the insular approach often taken by American researchers.

Documenti UFO (UFO Documents)

This section lists several monographs published by C.I.S.U. on UFO-related topics:

• "Il Naufragio dell'Ufologia?" (The Shipwreck of Ufology?) by Jacques Scornaux.
• "Quale Ufologia?" (What Ufology?) by Thierry Pinvidic.
• "TRACAT: Catalogo dei casi ufologici italiani di tracce al suolo" (TRACAT: Catalog of Italian ground trace UFO cases) by Maurizio Verga.
• "UFO-IFO. Il Punto sulla Situazione" (UFO-IFO. The Situation Update) by Claude Maugé.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and analytical approach to ufology, distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes. There is a clear emphasis on scientific methodology and the importance of rigorous investigation, as exemplified by the detailed analysis of the Costeggiola ground traces. The issue also reflects a growing debate within ufology regarding the nature of the phenomenon, with contributions from prominent figures like Jenny Randles and Jacques Vallée exploring the possibility of multiple UFO phenomena and the influence of psychological, sociological, and paraphysical factors. The editorial stance appears to favor a balanced perspective that acknowledges the reality of unexplained aerial phenomena while cautioning against premature conclusions, particularly the uncritical adoption of the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The magazine also highlights the international dimension of ufology and the need for cross-cultural research.

This issue of the magazine, dated November 1988, features a prominent interview with ufologist Jacques Vallée, titled "Vallée à Bruxelles," and a dossier on "LE FOTO DI 'IR-3' IN ITALIA" (Photos of Humanoids in Italy). The magazine is published by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) and focuses on European ufology.

Interview with Jacques Vallée The interview with Jacques Vallée, conducted in Brussels during a congress, explores his current views on the UFO phenomenon. Vallée outlines three levels of understanding: the physical (UFOs as concentrated energy), the physiological (effects on witnesses), and the socio-mythological (societal impact). He notes a shift from 'psychological' to 'physiological' effects in his earlier classifications, citing personal experiences and medical reports from Brazil. Vallée also discusses his novel, "ALINTEL," which explores multi-dimensional encounters and the Doppler effect. He critiques the prevailing 'Alien Intelligence Agency' (ALINTEL) concept, suggesting it dwarfs the hypothetical 'MJ-12.' Vallée emphasizes the need for intelligent skeptics in ufology, not just debunkers, to critically examine data. He also touches upon the societal impact of UFO narratives, drawing parallels between medieval folklore and modern UFO stories, suggesting that suppressed narratives re-emerge through alternative channels like rock music and advertising.

Vallée expresses skepticism about the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) as the sole explanation for UFOs, citing contradictions with observed data. He also clarifies that his book "Dimensions" is not a commercial repackaging but a compilation of his previous works to make them accessible, particularly to a new generation of researchers.

Dossier: Photos of Humanoids in Italy This section, authored by Paolo Fiorino, critically examines photographic evidence of humanoids in Italy. It highlights the rarity of such photos compared to UFO sightings and categorizes them into several groups:

A) Classic Fakes The "Monguzzi case" from 1952 is detailed, where Cesare Monguzzi claimed to have photographed a UFO and an astronaut-like figure, later confessing it was a hoax using models. The article suggests external pressure might have influenced his confession. The "Salmaso case" from 1963 in Piove di Sacco is also discussed, where Mario Salmaso claimed to have photographed a UFO and a figure, but later stated it was a photomontage, possibly for a journalistic scoop.

B) Prank Fakes This category includes cases like the one in 1982 where readers of "Giornale dei Misteri" sent in fake photos of an entity to demonstrate how easily ufologists could be deceived.

C) Advertising Fakes These are cases where photos are created for publicity, such as the "entity" photos published in "Sette" magazine, allegedly to promote W. Strieber's book "Communion."

Photographs of Contactees Unlike other countries, contactee photos are rare in Italy. The article mentions the "Adoniensis" case (of 'medianic' origin) and the "Antonio De Rosa" case from 1972, where photos of alleged "Venusians" were revealed to be stills from a Hungarian animated science fiction film.

Photos Taken by UFO Enthusiasts This section covers photos taken by members of UFO research groups, notably the GORU group from La Spezia. These photos often involve interpretations of shadows, natural formations, or atmospheric phenomena as entities. The article notes that these interpretations are often subjective and driven by a strong belief system, with the photos being taken during observation sessions rather than spontaneous encounters.

One notable case discussed is the "Monte Bondone" incident from 1978, involving a witness named "sig. Giorgio" who encountered a luminous humanoid figure in the woods. The article analyzes the photograph taken, noting its limitations but also suggesting that computer enhancement revealed details consistent with the witness's description. The witness is described as a reliable individual with a background in social work and civil protection.

The Brussels Congress This section reports on the "First European Congress on Anomalous Aerial Phenomena" held in Brussels from November 11-13, 1988. Organized by Thierry Pinvidic and Jacques Scornaux, and hosted by SOBEPS, the congress aimed to foster dialogue among European ufologists. The event was exclusive, limited to invited researchers from ten European nations, including prominent figures like Jacques Vallée.

The congress highlighted a significant divergence between American and European ufology. While American ufology is seen as focusing on abductions, crashed UFOs, and government conspiracies, European ufology is characterized by a more critical, methodological, and 'socio-psychological' approach. The article notes the overcoming of the 'neo-skepticism' trend, with a focus on rigorous investigation and the human factor in UFO cases. The need for new criteria to select credible UFO cases was a key theme, with Michel Figuet presenting his methodology for filtering cases based on strict parameters.

Richard Haines presented his scientific analysis of a Canadian photographic UFO case, emphasizing the rigorous methodology employed. Denys Breysse discussed his "Projet Becassine," a project to create a global computerized database of UFO cases to facilitate statistical analysis. Auguste Meessen proposed the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) as a viable framework for UFO research, suggesting advanced propulsion systems. Claude Maugé presented his catalog of "classic" UFO cases, and Hilary Evans critiqued the current state of American ufology, particularly the focus on abductions, drawing parallels to historical beliefs in demonic possession.

European vs. American Ufology Edoardo Russo and Gian Paolo Grassino's presentation "Towards a European Ufology" contrasted the trends in American and European ufology. They argued that while America has historically led UFO research, Europe has developed a distinct approach, characterized by a more moderate skepticism, a focus on methodological issues, and the integration of 'failed UFOs' (IFO) into the broader research scope. The article suggests that the prevalence of abduction cases in the US, often linked to genetic experimentation themes, differs significantly from European cases, which are more varied and less focused on such specific narratives. The authors attribute these differences to socio-cultural factors and the distinct roles of mass media in each region.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The issue consistently emphasizes a critical and rigorous approach to ufology, advocating for scientific methodology and careful data analysis. There's a clear distinction drawn between European and American ufology, with a preference for the former's more nuanced and less sensationalist stance. The articles highlight the challenges of photographic evidence, the need for intelligent skepticism, and the importance of understanding the human factor in UFO encounters. The editorial stance appears to favor a multi-disciplinary approach, integrating psychological, sociological, and physical perspectives, while remaining open to the possibility of genuine anomalous phenomena.

This issue of "UFO - Rivista di Informazione Ufologica" is dedicated to informing its readership about the availability of the magazine across Italy. It highlights that beyond subscriptions, the publication can be purchased at various bookstores and newsstands in major cities. The magazine expresses gratitude to its associates and the owners of these establishments for their cooperation and availability.

Distribution Network

The magazine provides an extensive list of retail locations categorized by Italian regions:

Piemonte

• Torino: Libreria "ARETHUSA" (via Po 2), Libreria "COMUNARDI" (via Bogino 2), Libreria "NOVA" (via Tarino 2), Libreria "PSICHE" (via Mad. Cristina 70/b), Libreria "ZANABONI" (corso Vittorio Emanuele 41).
• Torino: Edicola MAGNE' (via San Secondo 20).
• Alessandria: Libreria "LEONARDO DA VINCI" (via Trotti 22).
• Novara: Libreria "LA TALPA" (via Solaroli 4/c), Libreria "MEDUSA" (viale XX Settembre 30).
• Domodossola (NO): Edicola NEGRI (piazza Mercato 38).
• Borgomanero (NO): Libreria "IL DIALOGO" (viale Marazza 16).
• Romentino (NO): Libreria "GARAVAGLIA" (via Beldi 31).

Liguria

• Genova: Libreria "AΜΕΝΟΤΕΡΗ" (vico Giannini 1/3).
• Savona: Libreria "MΟΝΕΤΑ" (via Boselli 8/R), Edicola CLARA (via Scotto 9), Edicola LA NOTIZIA (via Calamaro 111R).

Lombardia

• Bergamo: Libreria "SEGHEZZI" (via Papa Giovanni XXIII 46).
• Sesto S.Giovanni (MI): Libreria "CELES" (via Cavallotti 95).
• Brescia: "LIBRERIA DEL CORSO" (corso Martiri d'Italia).
• Como: Libreria "S. FEDELE" (piazza S.Fedele), Libreria "MENTAN" (via Mentana), Edicola IN (piazza S.Fedele), Edicola (Cassina Rizzardi (CO)).

Friuli Venezia Giulia

• Udine: Libreria "TARANTOLA" (via Vittorio Veneto), Edicola COLPI (piazza Garibaldi), Edicola OSPEDALE CIVILE (Udine).

Emilia Romagna

• Reggio Emilia: Edicola FRAIMINI (via Confalonieri 1).
• Fidenza (PR): Libreria "PIROLA-MAGGIOLI" (vicolo Antini 28/30).
• Pontetaro (PR): Libreria "PIROLA-MAGGIOLI" (via Ida Mari 2).

Toscana

• Siena: Edicola ARTINI (via Don Minzoni 10), Edicola (viale 24 Maggio), Edicola "PORTA OVILE".
• Montalcino (SI): Edicola NANNETTI (piazza Garibaldi).

Umbria

• Terni: Ediocla GRISCI & ROSI (via Cesi 5), Edicola LUCCIONI (via Angeloni), Edicola MINIUCCHI (via 1º maggio).
• Amelia (TR): Edicola SBARAGLIA CIUCHI (piazza XXI Settembre).
• Orvieto (TR): Edicola LEONARDI (via Delle Ortensie 5).
• Foligno (PG): Edicola NATALINI (piazza Duomo).

Lazio

• Roma: "LIBRI UFO" (via Ostiense 54 bis), Libreria "CARLETTI" (via Vespasiano 75), Libreria "MANZONI" (viale Parioli 16/L), Libreria "VOLPETTI" (via Fontebuono 107), Edicola DE LEGIBUS (circonvallazione Ostiense).
• Roma: Edicola FURINI (piazza del Gesù), Edicola TRAVAGLINI (piazza Santiago del Cile), Edicola CAMPOSEO (via Chiabrera 136/138), Edicola FARINA (piazza Parco Rimembranza 10).
• Roma: Edicola PAPACCI (via viale Giulio Cesare), Edicola PIZZI (via del Serafico), Edicola BOSCO (via Francesco Acri), Edicola dei CONGRESSI (piazza Kennedy), Edicola FERRI (via Laurentina 505), Edicola GIOVANNOLA (piazza Dei Navigatori), Edicola DE CAROLIS (piazza San Silvestro), Edicola ASCONE (largo Chigi), Edicola FERRI (largo Marconi), Edicola BARONE (viale Della Tecnica), Edicola VIA ROMA (Montefiascone (VT)).
• Roma: Edicola CANU (via Villa S.Filippo), Edicola BENEDETTI (via Sistina), Edicola NARDI (via Carlo Felice 63), Edicola PELOSI (piazza Cola di Rienzo), Edicola TABACCHINI.

Campania

• Napoli: Libreria "LOMBARDI" (corso Costantinopoli 5 bis), Libreria "TRAMA" (piazza Cavour 75), Edicola OSPEDALE MONALDI (via Leonardo Bianchi), Edicola CAPUZZO (via S.Teresa 56), Edicola MUSEO NAZIONALE (via Enrico Pessina 52), Edicola BATTAGLIA (via Bosco di Capodimonte), Edicola IAVARONE (via Firenze 51), Edicola GENTILE (via Garibaldi/borgo Cairoli), Edicola PALMISANO (via Lepanto 33), Edicola PALMISANO (viale Augusto).
• Cancello (NA): Edicola STAZIONE FERROVIARIA.
• Caserta: Libreria "CROCE" (piazza Dante 11), Libreria "NIGRO" (via Acquaviva 23), Edicola "TITO" (corso Giannone 30), Libreria "NORINA" (via Acquaviva 55).

Sicilia

• Palermo: Libreria "VALENZA" (via Sammartino 511A), Edicola MARCHESE (Piazza O. Ziino).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the accessibility of the magazine to its readers. The editorial stance is one of gratitude and a commitment to ensuring the publication is widely available through both direct subscription and a network of retail partners across Italy. The detailed listing of locations underscores the magazine's effort to reach a broad audience interested in ufology.