UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 13

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica, number 13, dated December 1993, is a semi-annual publication from the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU). The cover prominently features the headline "UMANOIDI VOLANTI IN ITALIA" (Flying Humanoids in Italy) and an illustration depicting a man observing a hovering humanoid-like object. The issue's content is largely dedicated to the recent surge in UFO sightings in Italy, particularly those involving humanoid entities, and also includes a significant report on military UFO data and a proposal for a European UFO study center.

In This Issue

The editorial highlights an unexpected increase in UFO sightings in Italy during the preceding months, noting a rise in media interest. It announces that future issues will provide more detailed information on the 1993 sightings based on CISU's investigations. This issue specifically focuses on the "flying humanoid" cases, presenting them as a particularly unusual aspect of the year's ufological activity.

A significant development mentioned is the presentation of an objective and balanced report to the European Parliament in Strasbourg by Italian physicist Tullio Regge. This report addressed the necessity and opportunity of scientifically collecting and studying UFO data.

Another notable item is the publication of UFO statistics compiled by the Italian Air Force's State Major, obtained through extensive correspondence and requests by CISU. The issue also covers the Italian release of the film "Bagliori nel buio" (Flashes in the Dark), which reignited public interest in the Travis Walton abduction case, providing a detailed account of this complex event.

Table of Contents

• UMANOIDI VOLANTI? (Flying Humanoids?) - page 1, by Paolo Fiorino
• UFO: I DATI MILITARI (UFO: Military Data) - page 9
• UFO ALL'EUROPARLAMENTO (UFO at the European Parliament) - page 13, by Edoardo Russo
• BAGLIORI NEL BUIO (Flashes in the Dark) - page 19, by Edoardo Russo

Flying Humanoids? The Italian Wave of Sightings in the Summer of 1993

This section, authored by Paolo Fiorino, details the increase in UFO sightings in Italy during the summer of 1993, with a notable number of reports involving close encounters with humanoid entities. Fiorino clarifies that the term "humanoid entities" is debated, and some cases described might not fit the traditional definition of a UFO encounter. These entities are often described as being between a flying object and a humanoid, appearing intelligent and alive. The article emphasizes that "unidentified" does not mean "unidentifiable" and stresses the importance of not dismissing witness testimonies, even if they challenge current knowledge.

Fiorino notes that conventional explanations (weather balloons, drones, etc.) cannot fully account for these sightings. The article presents four out of six cases of "flying humanoids" from this wave, acknowledging that the investigation is ongoing and the presented information is a synthesis of testimonial accounts. The documentation includes interviews, on-site investigations by CISU, and information from civil and military authorities. For privacy reasons, full witness details are not published but are available in CISU archives.

The article then details specific cases:

• Pettorano (L'Aquila), June 20, 1993: A witness described a tall, slender figure with a helmet-like head and glowing eyes, hovering near a tree. The entity was described as having a metallic appearance and moving with unusual grace.
• Pescara, June 15, 1993: A helicopter pilot reported a near-collision with a humanoid object, approximately 1.30 meters high, with a head resembling a diving helmet and yellow-ochre limbs. The object displayed rapid and precise movements, including rotating around the helicopter.
• Guidonia (Rome), June 17, 1993: Two brothers observed a silent, descending object resembling a parachutist with a red light, near a military airport. The object later ascended and disappeared. While initially considered a balloon, the witnesses were not satisfied with this explanation.
• Lirio (Pavia), July 8, 1993: A farmer reported encountering a humanoid-shaped object, described as metallic, grey, and about 2 meters tall, with glowing red and blue lights. The entity allegedly communicated verbally before ascending. The case is considered unusual due to the reported communication and the entity's description.
• Rivisondoli (L'Aquila), August 22, 1993: A man observed a red and white object, described as man-like, moving slowly and descending near a road. The object was later seen again and followed a path along the road before disappearing. The witness felt it was a "living" entity.
• Siracusa, November 7, 1993: Multiple witnesses reported seeing a hovering "little man" dressed in green, with a large head, near a construction site. The figure was observed to be levitating slightly above the ground.

The article concludes this section by noting that while some cases might be explained by conventional phenomena like balloons or drones, others, particularly Lirio and Siracusa, present significant challenges to identification. The author emphasizes the need for humility in research and acknowledges that some cases remain unexplained.

UFO: Military Data

This section presents a summary of a report from the Italian Air Force's State Major, titled "Oggetti Volanti Non Identificati (O.V.N.I.) - Rilevazioni statistiche (1979-1990)". This report, compiled in 1991, is the first comprehensive summary of UFO sightings collected by the Italian military. The Air Force's role is limited to investigating phenomena related to territorial security.

The report details the methodology for collecting and classifying UFO sightings, including the use of specific forms and distribution to various military branches. It notes that between 1979 and 1990, the Air Force received 111 UFO reports, with a peak in 1980 (32 cases) and a low in 1982 and 1987 (2 cases each). The majority of sightings occurred in Central Italy, particularly along the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coasts.

Interestingly, the report states that none of the investigated cases were confirmed by the Inspectorate of Telecommunications and Air Traffic Control (ITAV) or Regional Operations Centers (ROC). The data also indicates that 46% of the reports came from law enforcement agencies, 22% from private citizens, and the rest from military and civil aviation personnel.

The article includes a critical commentary on the military report, authored by e.r./p.t. This commentary points out the significantly lower number of reports collected by the military compared to civilian organizations like CISU, questioning the completeness of the official data. It also critiques the report's statistical analysis, particularly its comparison to the US "Blue Book" project and its claims about sighting cycles and coastal concentrations, suggesting these correlations are not well-supported.

The commentary highlights that the Air Force's mandate is limited to security aspects, not scientific investigation, which explains the lack of in-depth analysis or identification of cases in their report. It also questions the validity of some cited correlations, such as the frequency of sightings and the comparison to the "Blue Book" data.

UFO at the European Parliament

Authored by Edoardo Russo, this section details the proposal by physicist Tullio Regge for the creation of a European Center for the study of UFOs. The initiative arose from a resolution presented by Belgian MEP Elio Di Rupo following a large-scale sighting in November 1990. Regge was tasked with preparing a report for the European Parliament on the advisability of establishing such a center.

The article clarifies that Regge's role was not to direct a center but to provide a report. It emphasizes that Regge, a renowned physicist and critic of paranormal claims, was initially skeptical of UFO phenomena but became involved due to the parliamentary initiative. The report aims to address the public's disorientation caused by numerous sightings and the spread of misinformation, suggesting that many sightings have rational explanations that are often not communicated to the public.

Regge's report, discussed over several meetings of the European Parliament's Committee on Energy, Research, and Technology, acknowledges the widespread public interest and the need for accurate information. It also notes the existence of organizations like France's SEPRA (Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes des Rentrées Atmosphériques) and Belgium's SOBEPS that conduct investigations.

The proposal suggests that SEPRA, with its established expertise, could serve as a central point of contact for UFO-related matters within the European Community, coordinating investigations and disseminating information. The article includes the full text of the proposed resolution, which calls for SEPRA to be considered a reliable interlocutor for UFO matters within the CE and for the establishment of a framework for its expanded role.

Flashes in the Dark

This section, by Edoardo Russo, discusses the Italian release of the film "Flashes in the Dark," which is based on the abduction case of Travis Walton. The article notes that the film has stimulated significant public interest and curiosity regarding this well-known case, which is presented as an example where reality is considered even more engaging than cinematic fiction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained phenomena of UFO sightings, particularly the emergence of "flying humanoid" reports in Italy during 1993. The magazine adopts a stance of rigorous investigation, seeking factual evidence and rational explanations while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the importance of credible witness testimony. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between scientifically verifiable data and sensationalism, particularly from the media. The issue also highlights the growing international interest in UFOs, as evidenced by the European Parliament's consideration of the topic and the proposal for a dedicated study center. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, aiming to inform the public accurately and combat misinformation surrounding the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of "UFO" magazine, dated December 1989, focuses heavily on the Travis Walton case, presenting it from multiple angles: the original incident, its media coverage, and the film adaptation "Fire in the Sky." The magazine also includes an article critically examining a proposal for the SEPRA (a UFO research organization) to be recognized by the European Community (CE) and a review of the "Manual of ufological investigation methodology" published by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU).

REGGE E GLI UFO, UN IMPORTANTE RICONOSCIMENTO

This section discusses physicist Tullio Regge's acknowledgment of the UFO phenomenon as worthy of serious research. The article praises Regge's stance, noting that while he fears a return to irrationalism, he accepts the complexity of the phenomenon. The proposal for SEPRA to be an official interlocutor within the CE is seen as a difficult but not entirely negative solution. The article points out some inaccuracies in Regge's report, such as confusing the Condon Report with Project Blue Book, and refutes the idea that UFO sightings are largely due to hoaxes, citing Regge's own finding that only 1% are deliberate hoaxes. It also dismisses correlations between the "War of the Worlds" broadcast and the start of UFO sightings, and between Spielberg's film and Belgian UFO wave descriptions. Minor factual errors in Regge's report regarding specific UFO case dates (like the Voronezh landing and the Torino-Caselle radar/visual sighting) are noted but deemed insignificant. The article concludes by highlighting Regge's acceptance of the "4%" of unresolved UFO cases and his refusal to categorically deny the existence of 'little green men,' aligning with the magazine's own philosophy.

Manuale di metodologia di indagine ufologica

A brief announcement states the publication of the second edition of the "Manual of ufological investigation methodology" by CISU. This 32-page booklet offers guidelines for collecting data on UFO sightings, based on international manuals and the center's field experience. It is available for L. 5,000.

BAGLIORI NEL BUIO: Il caso Travis Walton al cinema e nella realtà

This extensive article, authored by Edoardo Russo, provides a detailed account of the Travis Walton case, focusing on the events of November 5, 1975, and its aftermath. It begins by describing the setting in the White Mountains of northeastern Arizona and introducing the logging crew involved, including Travis Walton, Mike Rogers, Ken Peterson, Allen Dalis, Dwayne Smith, Steve Pierce, and John Goulette.

The Sighting

On November 5, 1975, the logging crew was finishing their work when they noticed a bright, yellowish glow. Initially mistaken for the sunset, it was soon identified as an unidentified object hovering silently over a woodpile. The object was described as disc-shaped, about 5-7 meters in diameter and 3 meters high, with defined contours and a white dome on top. Its surface appeared to be made of golden panels separated by darker dividers, illuminated from within.

The Abduction

Travis Walton, driven by curiosity, approached the object despite his companions' warnings. As he got closer, the object emitted a strange sound and began to oscillate. Suddenly, a powerful beam of blue-green light struck Walton, causing him to lose consciousness. His companions, terrified, fled in their truck, believing the UFO was pursuing them.

The Search and Walton's Reappearance

A massive search was launched for Walton, involving law enforcement, forest rangers, and volunteers. After five days, Walton reappeared on November 10th, found disoriented and weak at a gas station in Heber. He claimed to have been held aboard the UFO for five days, experiencing strange encounters and medical procedures. His reappearance was met with disbelief and suspicion by some, while others, including his companions and ufologists, supported his story.

Investigations and Polygraph Tests

Numerous investigations followed, including polygraph tests administered to Walton and his companions. While initial tests were controversial, later examinations, including those conducted by experts like Cy Gilson and George Pfeifer, reportedly indicated that the witnesses were telling the truth about seeing a UFO. However, skepticism persisted, notably from journalist Philip Klass, who attempted to debunk the case by suggesting it was a hoax orchestrated by Walton and his companions to avoid contractual penalties for unfinished logging work.

Media Frenzy and Film Adaptation

The case attracted significant media attention, with numerous interviews and articles. The story was eventually adapted into the film "Fire in the Sky" (released in Italy as "Bagliori nel buio"), which, despite some deviations from the original account, aimed to capture the emotional and psychological impact of the experience. The film's release reignited public interest in the Walton case.

Aftermath and Ongoing Debate

The article details how the experience profoundly affected the lives of those involved, leading to personal changes, legal troubles, and continued scrutiny. Despite the controversies and skepticism, organizations like APRO continued to support Walton's account. The article concludes by noting that the case remains unresolved, leaving room for various interpretations, from a genuine alien encounter to a complex hoax or psychological phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently advocates for rigorous investigation into UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of credible witness testimony and scientific analysis. It challenges common skepticism and media sensationalism, aiming to present a balanced view of complex cases like Travis Walton's. The editorial stance supports the idea that UFOs represent a genuine mystery that warrants further study, rather than outright dismissal. The magazine also highlights the role of ufological organizations in gathering and disseminating information, while critically evaluating their methods and conclusions.

Title: IL FENOMENO UFO
Publisher: CENTRO ITALIANO STUDI UFOLOGICI
Document Type: Magazine Issue (Fascicolo)
Language: Italian

Content Summary

This issue, titled "IL FENOMENO UFO," is presented as a 48-page booklet produced by the CENTRO ITALIANO STUDI UFOLOGICI (C.I.S.U.). Its primary purpose is to introduce the fundamental characteristics of ufology. The booklet covers a range of topics, including different typologies of UFO sightings, well-known cases, and features images, photographs, and reconstructions related to the phenomenon.

It is described as a synthetic yet effective introduction for individuals seeking to engage with ufological themes, emphasizing an approach that aligns with contemporary study methodologies. The publication is also highlighted as a useful reference tool and a richly illustrated booklet, containing 50 images comprising both photographs and drawings. Its distribution is intended to facilitate a better understanding of the UFO subject and the approaches to studying it.

The booklet is available for order at a price of L. 8.000 and can be obtained from the COOPERATIVA UPIAR.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the introduction and study of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be educational and informative, aiming to provide accessible knowledge about UFO phenomena and their study to a broader audience. The emphasis on current methodologies suggests a commitment to a structured and potentially scientific approach to the subject matter.