UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 10

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica, Volume II, Number 10, dated July 1991, is a semiannual publication by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (C.I.S.U.). It is priced at £. 6.000 and features the cover headline 'FARI E LUCI NEI CIELI ITALIANI' (Beacons and Lights in the Italian Skies), accompanied by an illustration of powerful light beams illuminating a town.

The editorial introduction highlights the diverse topics covered in this issue, including a study on 'laser effect' beacons (IFOs) that are causing numerous sightings and are explained technically for the first time. It also features an investigation into a Sardinian case of a close encounter, a study on the physiological effects of UFO phenomena, and a look at the mysterious crop circles in English fields. Finally, the issue addresses the media's portrayal of UFOs.

Articles and Features

Luci Nella Notte (Lights in the Night) by Paolo Toselli

This article explores the phenomenon of 'fari pubblicitari' (advertising beacons) mistaken for UFOs. Toselli recounts an experience on July 14, 1990, near Alessandria, where reported strange lights were eventually identified as spotlights from a discotheque. He details how these powerful lights, often projected onto clouds, create elliptical or round luminous shapes that can be easily misinterpreted as UFOs. The article traces the rise of these 'false UFO' sightings, noting their prevalence since the mid-1980s, and provides examples from Italy and other countries, including cases in Piedmont, Lombardy, Rome (1973), France, London, Stafford, Heywood, Madrid, and Virginia.

I Precedenti (Precedents)

This section, referencing Allan Hendry's work, discusses earlier instances of lights mistaken for UFOs, often due to reflections from moving searchlights. It describes common witness reports of 'nebulous ovals,' 'sigars,' and 'indistinct round lights.'

I Casi Esteri (Foreign Cases)

This part details foreign sightings attributed to advertising lights, including cases in St. Martin d'Auxigny (France), London, Stafford, Heywood (UK), and Spain, linking them to discotheques and public events.

Caratteristiche Del Fenomeno (Characteristics of the Phenomenon)

This section analyzes the characteristics of these light phenomena, noting their increasing frequency in Italy. It highlights that these 'falsi UFO' are often caused by sophisticated lighting equipment used by discotheques, traveling shows, concerts, and festivals. The typical observation times are between 9 PM and 11:30 PM, with variations. The descriptions often involve discoid or elliptical lights, usually white but sometimes red or multicolored, that rotate, join, and separate, creating the impression of a chase.

I Fari "Space Cannon" (The "Space Cannon" Beacons)

This article delves into the specifics of 'Space Cannon' beacons, manufactured in Fubine, Italy. It explains their design, which uses powerful Xenon lamps to create intense light beams visible from kilometers away. The article details their use in advertising for discotheques and events, and mentions their potential military application. It also touches upon the company's export activities and the development of smaller, more advanced models.

Un Nuovo I.F.O. (A New I.F.O.)

This section concludes the discussion on advertising lights, emphasizing that these phenomena are becoming increasingly common and need to be recognized. It reiterates that their visual impact can easily trigger ufological interpretations, especially during times of heightened public anxiety, citing an example from Imperia where lights were mistaken for missile reflections during the Gulf War.

Note Bibliografiche (Bibliographical Notes)

A list of references and sources used in the articles, including previous issues of UFO magazine, books, and newspaper articles.

Dischi in Cielo E Cerchi Nell'Erba (Discs in the Sky and Circles in the Grass)

This section presents two investigative reports.

#### Case of Ferrere (AT)

This report details an incident on July 30, 1990, near Ferrere, where a witness reported seeing luminous objects described as 'four circular lights' or 'lamps' that expanded and contracted. While the witness initially heard a faint noise, it was later dismissed. The article investigates the possibility of these lights being from a discotheque and discusses the discovery of circular traces in a field, which are ultimately attributed to natural causes, likely fungal growth ('fairy circles'), rather than a UFO landing.

#### Case of Zeme Lomellina (PV)

This report from October 13, 1988, describes a sighting in Zeme Lomellina, Pavia, where multiple witnesses reported seeing three to five luminous, disc-shaped objects rotating and moving in the sky. While some witnesses initially considered them to be 'laser lights' from a distant discotheque, the intensity and behavior of the lights, particularly for the main witnesses (the Renzo family), suggested something more unusual. The article notes the emotional distress of the witnesses and the difficulty in definitively explaining the phenomenon, though it leans towards the possibility of powerful projectors.

Incontro Ravvicinato Nel Nuorese (Close Encounter in Nuoro) by Salvatore Cappai, Antonio Cuccu, Aristide Lai

This article investigates an incident on April 26, 1984, near Macomer, Sardinia. A 10-year-old boy and an adult reported an encounter with a strange humanoid entity in a wooded area, followed by the takeoff of a disc-shaped object. The event was accompanied by anomalous phenomena and subsequent trace evidence was found. The investigation, conducted years later, faced challenges due to the time elapsed and the reluctance of some witnesses. The article details the description of the entity and the object, the witnesses' emotional state, and the physical evidence found, concluding that the event was likely an unexplained close encounter of the third kind.

Effetti Sulle Persone (Effects on People) by Umberto Telarico

This article, based on Telarico's monograph 'Effetti Fisiologici degli UFO,' explores the hypothesis that UFOs may cause physiological effects through electromagnetic radiation. It defines electromagnetic radiation and discusses both natural and man-made sources. The article categorizes effects based on the intensity of the electromagnetic fields, distinguishing between low-intensity (affecting cellular processes) and high-intensity (causing more severe physical symptoms). It also details the effects of ionizing radiation. The author then lists symptoms observed in 'close encounters,' including transient and persistent effects, and rare cases of contamination. Specific examples of effects on eyes, skin, and motor functions are provided, along with cases of burns and paralysis.

Effetti Particolari (Particular Effects)

This section elaborates on specific effects observed in UFO encounters, such as the spontaneous erection of body hair (attributed to electrostatic fields), visual disturbances (lacrimation, photophobia, temporary blindness) possibly caused by intense light emissions, and unusual auditory perceptions (buzzing, whistling) linked to electromagnetic frequencies. It also discusses the phenomenon of temporary speechlessness and the possibility of respiratory discomfort.

Scottature E Cicatrizzazioni (Burns and Scarring)

This part presents cases of physical injury attributed to UFO encounters, including burns on skin (even through clothing) and unusually rapid healing of wounds.

Paralisi Motoria (Motor Paralysis)

This section describes a case where a witness experienced temporary motor paralysis after observing a strange object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a scientific and investigative approach to ufology, aiming to provide objective information rather than sensationalism. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications, particularly those caused by terrestrial sources like advertising lights. There is a clear effort to debunk common misconceptions while still acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases. The publication is presented as a cultural and informative resource for members and collaborators of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici, highlighting its non-speculative nature.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated April 1990, focuses on two primary themes: the evolving phenomenon of 'crop circles' and the physiological effects experienced by UFO witnesses, alongside an analysis of media coverage of UFOs. The magazine presents detailed investigations and discussions on these topics, featuring contributions from various researchers and ufologists.

The Return of the Circles

The section "IL RITORNO DEI CERCHI" (The Return of the Circles) by the V.E.C.A. group details their study of crop circles in England during the summer of 1990. The report highlights the increasing complexity and diversity of formations, with 30 new types appearing that year. The authors note that while some formations follow established patterns, others are entirely novel, suggesting an evolution in the phenomenon. They discuss the structural variations, including spiral, radial, and concentric patterns, and the precise measurements of these formations. The article also touches upon the commercialization of crop circles, with farmers charging for access and their imagery being used in advertising and popular culture.

The Social Context of Crop Circles

Thierry Pinvidic's article, "IL CONTESTO SOCIALE" (The Social Context), traces the evolution of crop circle designs from simple circles in the early 1980s to complex 'pictograms' by 1990. He notes the increasing number of formations and their spread across different regions and countries. Pinvidic discusses various hypotheses for their origin, including agricultural issues, animal activity, archaeological remains, meteorological phenomena, military activities, human activities, and extraterrestrial origins. He also addresses the debate on whether crop circles are natural or artificial, presenting the findings of an experiment by the VECA group that successfully created a complex crop circle, suggesting that human fabrication is a plausible explanation for many cases.

How to Fabricate a 'Circle'

Gilles Durand's article, "COME SI FABBRICA UN 'CERCHIO'" (How to Fabricate a 'Circle'), details an experiment conducted by the VECA group with a special effects expert to create a complex crop circle. The experiment demonstrated that it was possible to create a formation with characteristics similar to those found in England using simple tools and a short amount of time, challenging the notion that all crop circles must have an extraterrestrial origin.

Crop Circles in America

The article "Gli altri cerchi" (The Other Circles) discusses the emergence of crop circle-like phenomena in North America in 1990, following extensive media coverage of the British cases. A study by the North American Institute for Crop Circle Research cataloged 86 ground markings in the US and Canada, noting variations in type and size. The article suggests that the American phenomenon might be in its early stages compared to the more developed British cases and that the link between UFO sightings and these formations appears to be largely arbitrary.

Physiological Effects of UFOs

"EFFETTI FISIOLOGICI DEGLI UFO - L'ipotesi elettromagnetica" (Physiological Effects of UFOs - The Electromagnetic Hypothesis) by Umberto Telarico explores the physical and psychological effects reported by witnesses of UFO encounters. The article discusses symptoms such as temporary motor paralysis, nausea, and hair loss, citing the well-known case of Betty Cash, Vickie Landrum, and Colby. It posits that these effects could be explained by electromagnetic radiation emitted by UFOs, drawing parallels with known effects of electromagnetic fields on the human body. The author concludes that the clinical symptoms observed in UFO witnesses are largely consistent with conventional medical pathologies and could be interpreted in terms of exposure to electromagnetic radiation.

UFO and Mass Media

Sherie Stark's article, "UFO E MASS MEDIA" (UFO and Mass Media), examines the role of the American press in reporting on UFO phenomena. It highlights how UFOs have become a widely recognized topic, with a high percentage of the population claiming to have heard or read about them. However, the article points out a disconnect between public awareness and serious scientific investigation, with many viewing UFOs as a modern myth. The piece analyzes the challenges faced by journalists in reporting on UFOs, including the influence of skepticism, the pressure to avoid sensationalism, and the difficulty in obtaining credible sources. It discusses the tendency of tabloids to publish unverified stories while mainstream media often dismisses UFO reports due to a lack of official validation and a fear of being associated with less credible sources.

No Excuse from the Tabloids

This section features an interview with Eddie Clontz, executive editor of the Weekly World News, who admits that tabloids often publish UFO stories based on hearsay without rigorous verification. He explains that UFO stories are treated as 'color pieces' rather than serious news, and the primary criterion for publication is simply that someone claims to have experienced something unusual.

The Role of the USAF

Herbert Strentz's study, "UNO STUDIO SUI GIORNALI" (A Study of Newspapers), analyzes how newspapers covered UFO reports from 1947 to 1966. Strentz criticizes the U.S. Air Force for prioritizing public relations over scientific investigation and notes that the media often accepted official explanations uncritically. He argues that the USAF's shift away from investigating UFOs in 1969 contributed to a decline in public interest.

Skeptics and Believers

Marcello Truzzi, a sociologist, discusses the challenges of reporting on UFOs due to the polarization between skeptics and believers. He notes that sensationalist claims often dominate media coverage, making it difficult to present a balanced perspective. The article also touches upon the role of figures like Philip Klass, a prominent skeptic, and the influence of organizations like CSI-COP in shaping media narratives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena with scientific inquiry, media representation, and public perception. There is a clear interest in presenting detailed research and analysis, even when dealing with controversial topics like UFOs and crop circles. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a critical examination of evidence, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the challenges posed by sensationalism and skepticism. The magazine encourages a balanced approach, urging readers and journalists alike to consider all possibilities without succumbing to preconceived notions or the pressure of public opinion.

This document is a distribution guide for the Italian ufology magazine "UFO - RIVISTA DI INFORMAZIONE UFOLOGICA". It details where readers can purchase the magazine beyond direct subscription.

Retail Locations

The primary content of this issue is a comprehensive list of bookstores and newsstands across Italy where "UFO - RIVISTA DI INFORMAZIONE UFOLOGICA" is available. The list is organized geographically by region:

Piemonte Locations are listed in Torino, Alessandria, Novara, Domodossola, Borgomanero, Romentino, and Verbania-Intra.

Liguria Retail points are identified in Genova and Savona.

Lombardia Availability is noted in Como, Vigevano, and Cassina Rizzardi.

Trentino Alto Adige The magazine can be found in Trento.

Emilia Romagna Locations are specified in Bologna, Parma, Reggio Emilia, Fidenza, Salsomaggiore, and Pontetaro.

Toscana Retailers are listed in Firenze, Siena, and Montalcino.

Umbria Availability is indicated in Terni, Amelia, and Foligno.

Lazio Several locations are mentioned in Rome, including "LIBRI UFO", "PROFONDO ROSSO", "PОСКЕТ 2000", "SAN SILVESTRO", and "DE LEGIBUS". An additional location is listed in Montefiascone (VT).

Campania Numerous outlets are listed in Napoli, including "LOMBARDI", "TRAMA", "OSPEDALE MONALDI", "CAPUZZO", "MUSEO NAZIONALE", "BATTAGLIA", "IAVARONE", "GENTILE", and "PALMISANO". Other locations include Cancello (NA), Caserta, and various points within Caserta.

Sicilia Retailers are identified in Palermo and Catania.

Sardegna Locations are provided in Sassari and Alghero.

Publisher Information

The document mentions that back issues can be requested directly from the publisher's address, though the publisher's name and address are not explicitly stated on this page.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This document focuses solely on the distribution of the magazine, indicating a practical concern for accessibility and reach among its readership. There is no editorial content or thematic discussion present on this page.