UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 17

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO
Issue: 17
Volume: VII
Date: February 1996
Publisher: Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU)
Country: Italy
Price: £. 6.500

This issue of "UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica" provides a comprehensive look at various UFO phenomena and investigations. It features an editorial reflecting on the CISU's ten-year history, detailed case studies from Italy and abroad, and critical analyses of controversial UFO-related media.

Editorial: Ten Years Later

The editorial by Edoardo Russo reflects on the tenth anniversary of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU). He recounts the reasons for the split from the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN) in 1985, emphasizing the CISU's goals of field research, information dissemination, and professionalizing ufology in Italy. Russo highlights the CISU's achievements, including the creation of a national UFO sighting database, numerous study projects, national conferences, and the publication of a professional ufological magazine. He contrasts the CISU's success in achieving its objectives with the perceived failures of the CUN. Russo asserts that the CISU remains a reference point for serious, objective UFO research, independent of sensationalism or pseudo-religious beliefs, and reiterates their commitment to continuing their work with dedication and voluntary effort.

Cover Story: Landing in Cuneese

The cover story, "Atterraggio nel cuneese" (Landing in Cuneese), focuses on a UFO sighting in Monesiglio, Italy. The article details an encounter on July 10, 1995, where witnesses observed a round, cupola-shaped object with a green light that lifted off silently and moved in an undulating manner. The investigation by CISU members is described, including interviews with witnesses Giuseppe N., Mariangela C., and Luigi G. The report notes the object's size, estimated to be similar to a Fiat 500, and its silent ascent. The article also touches upon the media's handling of the case, with some local newspapers sensationalizing the event. The investigation found no physical trace evidence at the landing site. The article contrasts this with the Varzi case from 1983, noting similarities in witness descriptions and the object's behavior.

Current Affairs (Attualità)

Roswell Under Investigation

This section reports on the General Accounting Office (GAO) report released in July 1995 concerning the 1947 Roswell crash. The investigation, lasting sixteen months, yielded minimal new information. The GAO found no unpublished documents related to the incident. The only relevant documents found were a known FBI telex and a brief note in the history of the 509th Bomb Group. Major federal agencies, including the National Security Council, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and the Department of Energy, reported having no relevant documents. The FBI stated that all information had already been released via FOIA. The Department of Defense (DOD) referred to its previous Air Force report, which attributed the incident to a Project Mogul balloon train. The CIA also found no relevant documents. A significant finding was the GAO's discovery that some government documents related to the Roswell Army Air Field (RAAF) had been destroyed, while others were not, raising questions about potential cover-ups. The article notes that the Air Force's explanation of a weather balloon project is not strengthened by the GAO's findings, as no documents related to Project Mogul seem to be held by federal agencies.

Scotland: Hundreds of Recurring Sightings

This article discusses a wave of UFO sightings in Scotland, particularly around Bonnybridge, which has been dubbed the 'UFO capital of Europe'. It mentions various sightings, including unusual aerial phenomena and alleged encounters. The report touches upon the phenomenon of 'alien abductions' and provides details of specific cases, such as an encounter near Edinburgh involving a strange vehicle over a canal and a case studied by Malcolm Robinson involving a large black object and alleged alien creatures. The article also recounts the famous encounter of Bob Taylor near Livingston in 1979 with a circular 'craft' and two 'creatures'. The 'window' of Bonnybridge is highlighted, with Billy Buchanan reporting over 150 calls related to UFO sightings after appealing to the public.

The Multifaceted Ibiza Film

This report analyzes a UFO film recorded by a tourist in Ibiza on August 19, 1995, which was broadcast as an exclusive by TG1. The footage shows a luminous, spherical object that appears disk-shaped when zoomed. The article notes that the sighting actually occurred on July 28, nearly a month before the broadcast. It discusses various witness testimonies, some of which suggest the object was a weather balloon. The report criticizes the media's handling of the case, accusing RAI of sensationalism and the newspapers of misrepresenting and sensationalizing the event. The article concludes that while the object might have been an aerostatic balloon, the media coverage was superficial and contributed to misinformation.

Close Encounter in the Langhe

This section details a close encounter reported on July 10, 1995, in Monesiglio, Italy. The investigation by CISU members involved interviews with witnesses Giuseppe N. and Mariangela C. The object was described as round, cupola-shaped, with a green flashing light, and it lifted off silently. The article contrasts the media's sensationalized reporting with the witnesses' more reserved accounts. It also discusses the lack of physical evidence at the site and the potential for misinterpretation of witness testimonies.

Two Cases in Comparison: Similarities, Curious Differences, and Food for Thought

Paolo Toselli compares the Monesiglio sighting with a similar case that occurred in Varzi, Lombardy, on June 5, 1983. In the Varzi case, witnesses Mario and Velia observed an object described as 'tin foil' or a 'cupola' that rotated and had different colored sections. The object took off silently and disappeared. The article highlights the similarities in witness descriptions, object behavior, and the lack of physical evidence. It also discusses the media's role in shaping public perception of UFO phenomena and the potential for misinterpretation of witness accounts, particularly in relation to the 'alien humanoid' phenomenon.

Autopsy: The Virtual Alien

This extensive section critically examines the controversial "Santilli Affair," concerning alleged UFO crash footage from Roswell and a film purportedly showing an alien autopsy. The article questions the authenticity of the film, highlighting inconsistencies in Ray Santilli's accounts, the dubious claims about the cameraman 'Jack Barnett,' and the lack of verifiable evidence. It discusses the various versions of the story, the involvement of different media outlets and ufologists, and the financial aspects of the film's promotion. The article also analyzes the physical evidence, such as alleged film fragments, and the conflicting statements from experts and witnesses. It concludes that the Santilli affair is likely a commercial exploitation of the Roswell legend rather than genuine evidence of extraterrestrial life.

UFO Filmed in the Canaries

This report describes a UFO sighting on the island of El Hierro, Canary Islands, on August 12, 1995. During a local festival, approximately two thousand people witnessed a triangular object with a red central light and intermittent white lights. The object ascended silently and disappeared. The article notes that the sighting occurred during a UFO watch event organized by local radio stations. It also mentions the involvement of police officers who attempted to pursue the object. The report discusses the lack of official confirmation from the local airport and air traffic control, suggesting the object might have been a commercial flight.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical investigation of UFO phenomena, the importance of direct witness testimony, and the analysis of media coverage. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensationalism and a commitment to rigorous, evidence-based research. The CISU positions itself as a serious academic organization dedicated to understanding the UFO phenomenon objectively, distinguishing itself from more speculative or commercially driven approaches to ufology. The issue emphasizes the need for critical thinking and the careful examination of evidence, particularly in cases involving alleged alien encounters and controversial media productions like the Santilli film.

This issue of "UFO" magazine, number 17 from February 1996, titled "AUTOPSIA," focuses on the commercialization of ufology and presents detailed investigations into UFO phenomena. The cover story, "QUANDO L'UFOLOGIA DIVENTA BUSINESS" by Gian Paolo Grassino, criticizes ufologists Maurizio Baiata and Roberto Pinotti for turning their activities into a business, prioritizing marketing and profit over objective research, particularly in relation to the controversial Roswell autopsy film.

The Roswell Autopsy Film Controversy

Grassino highlights the lack of concrete evidence and analyses for the Roswell autopsy film, suggesting that Santilli and his associates are primarily motivated by financial gain. He points out the contradictions and evasiveness surrounding the film's origins and the supposed existence of the cameraman. The article criticizes the Italian ufological community, represented by Baiata and Pinotti, for uncritically promoting the film, contrasting it with the skepticism expressed by international ufological organizations.

The Giancarlo Cecconi Case: UFO or Balloon?

Marco Orlandi's article, "Visto, intercettato, fotografato," re-examines the famous case of pilot Giancarlo Cecconi, who photographed a UFO in 1979. The article details Cecconi's encounter, the object's characteristics, and the subsequent investigation. It discusses the official explanation that the object was a balloon, but presents arguments against this theory, including discrepancies in size, behavior, and the lack of radar observability for a simple balloon. The article also touches upon the controversial release of some of Cecconi's photographs and the difficulties in obtaining official documentation.

UFOs and Military Operations

Several articles explore the intersection of UFO sightings and military activities. Sergey Chernouss discusses the use of instrumental observations in studying atmospheric phenomena and how some UFO sightings can be explained by rocket launches and atmospheric experiments. Yulii Platov presents findings on UFO cases in Russia, noting that many are identified as rocket exhaust or atmospheric phenomena, but acknowledges a percentage remain unexplained. The article on the Rendlesham Forest incident by Peter Robbins and Michael Hesemann highlights military involvement and secrecy surrounding a mysterious event in England.

International Ufology and CISU Activities

The magazine features reports from an international ufology congress in Sheffield, including presentations on Scottish UFO sightings by Malcolm Robinson, the Scandinavian "second moon" phenomenon by Per Andersen, and the 'Face on Mars' by Helmut Lammer. The Italian organization CISU (Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici) is presented as a proactive entity involved in research, publications, and information dissemination. Maurizio Verga showcases Italy's advancements in ufological data management using computer technology and the internet. Leo Sprinkle discusses the psychological aspects of UFO abduction experiences, suggesting they can be interpreted as profound personal experiences with potential spiritual significance.

Regional UFO Activity

Dario Bortolin's article, "Friuli, terra di UFO," investigates a series of recurring UFO sightings and strange phenomena reported in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy, particularly around Pordenone. The article details various sightings, including luminous objects, strange lights, and alleged encounters with small beings, exploring possible explanations ranging from military exercises and experimental aircraft to more conventional phenomena, while acknowledging some cases remain unexplained.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the need for rigorous, scientific investigation in ufology, contrasting it with sensationalism and commercial exploitation. The editorial stance is critical of those who prioritize profit over truth, advocating for transparency and a mature, responsible approach to research. The magazine highlights the importance of international cooperation and the use of modern technology in studying the UFO phenomenon. There's a clear distinction drawn between genuine research and what is perceived as a 'business' in ufology, particularly in light of the Roswell autopsy film controversy.

Title: UFO
Issue: N. 17
Date: February 1996

This issue of UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica delves into two primary areas of ufological interest: the alleged presence of advanced military aircraft mistaken for UFOs and a significant UFO event linked to a celestial phenomenon.

Un'Area 51 anche in Italia?

The lead article, "Un'Area 51 anche in Italia? Aerei Invisibili, Boati Misteriosi: Cosa si Nascondeva ad Aviano l'Estate Scorsa?" by Edoardo Russo, investigates claims surrounding the Aviano NATO air base in Italy during the summer of 1995. It begins by detailing the US request in September 1995 to deploy F117 stealth fighters at Aviano for missions over Bosnia. This request caused a diplomatic stir, with the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Susanna Agnelli, initially denying authorization. However, the situation de-escalated when the US assured Italy that the reasons for the request had diminished.

Despite official denials, an article in the Catholic newspaper Avvenire by Francesco Dal Mas, titled "Gli aerei invisibili? Erano già ad Aviano," claimed that the F117 stealth aircraft, nicknamed 'black bats,' had indeed been present at Aviano for several days. The article suggested these aircraft were used for reconnaissance over Bosnia rather than bombing. Sources indicated that three F117s, with around 70-100 personnel, operated from the base, with heightened security measures, including Marines, to keep them hidden. Their takeoffs were reportedly at mid-runway to avoid detection by binoculars or cameras. The article further suggested that these stealth aircraft had been operating in the area for some time, conducting night training flights at low altitudes (even 100 meters) over the Friuli countryside, leading locals to mistake them for UFOs.

The piece highlights a perceived lack of transparency from US commands at Aviano, citing a statement that "this is an American base, even if on Italian territory, and therefore the US commands do not consider themselves obliged to provide information to some. Treaties? Pure theory."

It posits that UFO sightings might have served as a convenient cover for the undeclared presence of these invisible aircraft. The article also touches upon the historical use of the UFO phenomenon as a diversion for military intelligence operations, citing examples such as the Iran-Contra affair and alleged cover-ups related to the 'Star Wars' program and Area 51.

Mysterious Booms and UFO Correlations

In conjunction with the alleged stealth aircraft activity, the article discusses the phenomenon of 'air booms' (sonic booms) reported in the Pordenone area. British journalist Robert Irving reported on this in Fortean Times. On May 10, 1995, a significant 'superbang' was heard in Pordenone, causing widespread panic, broken windows, and alarms, yet it was not heard in surrounding towns. Official explanations were scarce, with the US and Italian air forces denying responsibility, as exceeding the speed of sound is generally prohibited. Geosismological data from Pordenone indicated a seismic shock equivalent to a quarter-degree Mercalli scale, but the rapid decline in the seismogram suggested it was not a natural earthquake or a bomb explosion.

When a second boom occurred in Sacile six days later, local deputy Edouard Ballaman filed a parliamentary inquiry. The public, however, largely attributed these events to the military activity at Aviano related to the Bosnian mission. Ufologists noted that similar sonic booms have often accompanied sightings of triangular UFOs in the US and Scotland, sometimes linked to the experimental hypersonic Aurora aircraft.

Robert Irving's investigation included testimonies suggesting a vast underground structure beneath Aviano, potentially housing disc-shaped craft derived from reverse-engineered alien technology, drawing parallels to Area 51 in Nevada.

The Aviano 'Flying Saucer' Photo

Irving's work for Fortean Times included an enlarged photograph that appeared to show a flying saucer emerging from an Aviano hangar. This image, resembling models described by Bob Lazar, generated considerable discussion. However, Robert Irving later clarified that the image was a computer-generated composite, created for a photographic exhibition and not intended to deceive. The caption's mention of 'computer enhanced' was considered an understatement, and the magazine notes that while sensationalism can be engaging, it's important to distinguish it from factual reporting.

L'incredibile UFO dell'eclisse (Mexico, 1991)

The second major section, "L'incredibile UFO dell'eclisse" by Héctor Escobar, focuses on a series of UFO sightings and photographic evidence that emerged in Mexico during 1991-1992, particularly around a total solar eclipse on July 11, 1991.

Resurgence of UFO Interest in Mexico

Escobar details a revival of UFO interest in Mexico in the early 1990s, comparable to previous waves in 1950, 1965, and the late 1970s. This resurgence was fueled by media attention, including television programs and the proliferation of UFO-themed magazines. The article traces the history of Mexican ufology, mentioning earlier events like the 1976 pilot sighting and the 1977 UFO crash in Puebla, and the subsequent rise of magazines like Contactos extraterrestres.

The Role of Television

A pivotal moment was the introduction of Nino Canun's opinion program on Cablevision in mid-1991, which began discussing UFOs. The show's popularity led to broader coverage on the Televisa network, bringing the topic to a mass audience. Jaime Maussan, a journalist and coordinator for the program "60 Minutos," played a significant role in this media phenomenon. He produced a special video cassette titled "El sexto Sol" (The Sixth Sun) dedicated to the eclipse.

The Eclipse UFO Phenomenon

Following the July 11, 1991 solar eclipse, Maussan and others claimed that UFOs had been photographed during the event, noting that the objects were invisible to the naked eye but captured on film. Hundreds of similar photos emerged, showing a luminous object near the sun, which proponents argued was evidence of extraterrestrial technology. Video footage also surfaced, showing a small luminous point near the sun.

Scientific Analysis and Alternative Explanations

Escobar presents a critical analysis of these claims. He questions why professional camera crews from major networks did not capture any UFOs if they were present. He also points out that Maussan, who often interviewed scientists on other topics, did not consult professional astronomers regarding the eclipse UFOs.

Escobar suggests a more rational explanation: the 'UFO' was likely the planet Venus, which was exceptionally bright during the eclipse. He explains that photographing a bright light source like the sun during an eclipse can cause lens flares and reflections within the camera, creating the appearance of an object. He notes that many people who photographed the eclipse captured similar 'UFOs' due to these optical effects.

Astronomical data for July 11, 1991, confirms that Venus was visible and exceptionally bright (-4.46 magnitude) during the eclipse, appearing at an altitude of approximately 45 degrees. Escobar argues that the 'UFO's' characteristics, including its apparent stillness and gradual disappearance, align with Venus's visibility during the eclipse.

He criticizes the commercialization of UFO phenomena in Mexico, where media figures like Maussan profited from sensational claims, selling videos and promoting contactees. The article also touches upon other UFO-related phenomena in Mexico, including alleged landings and the emergence of new contactees like Carlos Diaz, who claimed to communicate with plasma-based extraterrestrial beings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting sensational claims alongside scientific analysis and skepticism. The articles highlight the potential for misidentification of advanced military technology as UFOs and the role of media in shaping public perception of unexplained phenomena. There's a clear emphasis on debunking or providing rational explanations for alleged UFO events, particularly when they involve photographic or video evidence. The magazine also touches upon the commercial aspects of ufology and the tendency for some individuals and media outlets to exploit public fascination with the unknown for profit. The editorial tone encourages readers to approach UFO reports with a discerning eye, separating factual evidence from speculation and sensationalism.