UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 22

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO
Issue: N. 22
Date: December 1999
Publisher: Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU)
Type: Semestral Magazine of Ufological Information

This issue of UFO Magazine, number 22, dated December 1999, is dedicated to exploring the concept of the "Non-Identified" phenomenon and its significance in ufological research. The cover boldly states "L'importanza del 'Non Identificato'" (The Importance of the 'Non-Identified'), setting the tone for the issue's deep dive into what truly constitutes an unidentified aerial phenomenon.

Editorial: The Importance of the "Non-Identified"

In an era where "revealed truths" and uncritical acceptance of sensational claims seem prevalent, the editorial by Paolo Toselli critiques the trend of "alienology" or "alienophilia" that has overshadowed genuine ufological inquiry. Toselli argues that the focus has shifted from the unknown ("non-identified") to a certainty about extraterrestrial presence, alien intentions, and their interference with human history. He laments that the true nature of the UFO phenomenon has been lost amidst pseudoscientific narratives and the oversimplification offered by both extreme believers and skeptics. The editorial calls for a return to the core concept of "non-identified" as the basis for rigorous study, emphasizing that the object of study is not necessarily an alien craft but rather an unexplained observation.

Toselli distinguishes between "UFO" (Unidentified Flying Object) and "IFO" (Identified Flying Object), stressing that the classification of a case as "non-identified" is not absolute but depends on the available data and the analytical framework at a given time. He highlights the challenges of identifying cases due to insufficient data and the need for thorough field investigations. The editorial also touches upon the role of the ufologist, citing sociologist Pierre Lagrange, who advocates for ufologists to act as intermediaries between the public's fascination with the marvelous and the scientific community's need for rigorous, evidence-based study.

Articles and Features

"8 gennaio '81: visto atterrare verso ore 17 disco volante" - An Investigative Retrospective at Trans-en-Provence

This in-depth report by Paolo Fiorino and Matteo Leone revisits the famous Trans-en-Provence case from January 8, 1981. The article details the witness testimony of Renato N., an Italian immigrant in France, who reported seeing a disc-shaped object land and take off, leaving a circular trace on the ground. The investigation highlights the meticulous analysis conducted by the French GEPAN (Groupement d'Etudes des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés) and other ufologists. The authors discuss the significance of the ground trace analysis, the witness's background, and the various interpretations and criticisms of the case, including theories of a hoax or misidentification. The article also touches upon the potential influence of medication and the witness's own ironic statements about the event.

"Phantom Rockets of 1946: Unpublished Italian Documents"

Giuseppe Stilo presents newly discovered, unpublished Italian documents from 1946 concerning the widespread sightings of "phantom rockets." These documents, originating from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reveal the diplomatic and military concerns of the era regarding these mysterious aerial phenomena. The reports suggest that these sightings were viewed not just as curiosities but as potential indicators of Soviet military experiments and psychological pressure on neutral countries like Sweden. The article analyzes the diplomatic correspondence, highlighting the evolving interpretation of the phenomena from mere curiosities to potential instruments of intimidation.

"Ball Lightning and UFOs: An Italian Project to Involve Ufologists and Scientists"

This article by Mark Stenhoff and Paolo Toselli discusses the phenomenon of ball lightning (BL) and its potential connection to UFO sightings. It introduces the BLITA project, an Italian initiative by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) in collaboration with physicists, to catalog and study Italian ball lightning observations. The project aims to collect and analyze data to better understand this atmospheric phenomenon, which has long been a subject of mystery and debate. The article notes the challenges in studying BL due to its elusive nature and the scarcity of reliable witness accounts, while also highlighting the growing scientific interest in the subject.

"Fondazione Anomalia: An Example for Ufologists Worldwide"

This piece introduces the Fundacion Anomalia, a non-profit organization in Spain dedicated to the scientific study of UFO phenomena. It details the foundation's objectives, including promoting research, preserving archives, and disseminating findings. The article highlights the foundation's publications, such as the "Dizionario Tematico di Ufologia" (Thematic Dictionary of Ufology), and its awards for ufological research. It also mentions the foundation's role in re-examining significant UFO cases, such as those from the Canary Islands, which were later identified as ballistic missile launches.

"The Launch of a New European Scientific Journal: The Arrival of Euro-Ufology"

This section announces the launch of the "European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies" (EJUFOS), a new publication aiming to foster a scientific and interdisciplinary approach to ufology in Europe. The journal, initiated by Craig Roberts, features contributions from various European ufologists and scholars, covering a range of topics from atmospheric physics to psychological aspects of sightings. The article emphasizes the journal's commitment to rigorous peer review and its goal of providing a platform for serious ufological research.

"The CISU: Many Reasons to Join"

This section outlines the benefits of becoming a member of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU). It details the association's activities, including investigation of sightings, scientific study, information dissemination, and archival work. Members receive publications like "UFO - Rivista di informazione ufologica" and "UFO Forum," and have access to various services such as a video archive, a book service, and the CISU Ufological Database.

"UFOs to Wear: New T-shirts Illustrated by Giorgio Giorgi"

This brief item promotes merchandise featuring UFO designs by artist Giorgio Giorgi, presented as a fun way to promote and support ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical and scientific investigation of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rigorous, evidence-based research, distinguishing between genuine unexplained events and sensationalized or pseudoscientific claims. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of the "non-identified" aspect of sightings, advocating for a cautious and analytical approach rather than jumping to conclusions about extraterrestrial origins. The issue champions the role of scientific methodology and interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing the field of ufology, while also acknowledging the historical context and the public's fascination with the unknown. The CISU's commitment to serious, non-commercial ufological research is evident throughout the publication.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated December 1999 (N. 22), published by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici, focuses on the phenomenon of 'flying humanoids' and delves into the controversial Ustica incident. The magazine features articles by Paolo Fiorino, Matteo Leone, Renzo Cabassi, Giancarlo D'Alessandro, and an analysis of the Ustica case by Pier Luigi Sani, alongside a tribute to Sani himself.

Flying Humanoids: A Continuing Anomaly

The article "Gli umanoidi volano ancora" (Humanoids Still Fly) by Paolo Fiorino and Matteo Leone discusses the ongoing reports of 'flying humanoids,' characterized by vaguely humanoid shapes observed hovering or moving slowly, often accelerating when approached. The authors highlight that these characteristics make explanations like balloons difficult, though they acknowledge that some similar cases have been explained. They ponder whether they are connecting unrelated sightings or uncovering a genuine aspect of UFO phenomena.

Two specific cases are detailed:

• S. Martino Spino (MO), March 5, 1997: A retired man, Oreste P., observed a white, dome-shaped object with black stripes and large brown portholes in a field. After an hour and a half, he approached it with binoculars and saw it had black striations like panels and two large brown portholes. When he got within thirty meters, a powerful gust of wind accompanied the object's rapid, silent ascent and departure towards the west.
• Rho (MI), March 8, 1998: Investigated by Giancarlo D'Alessandro, Paolo Fiorino, and Matteo Leone, this case involves Signora Giuseppina observing a 'strange thing' in a field. It was suspended about 60-70 cm above the ground, moving as if 'getting up and lying down,' and rotating. Described as doll-sized with a metallic, shiny surface, it appeared to have four red 'pupils' (two front, two back) and a wide 'belt' at the bottom. The neighbor, Giuseppe, initially dismissed it as a plastic bag or balloon. The object then ascended vertically and disappeared. The witness described it as having a round head, like a pear upside down, with a silver color.

The Ustica Case: Radar Deception and UFOs

Pier Luigi Sani's extensive analysis of the Ustica incident, titled "CASO USTICA," explores the possibility of UFO involvement. He begins by emphasizing the tragedy and the need for respect, criticizing the pseudo-ufological interpretations that have surrounded the event, such as Eugenio Siragusa's theory of 'magnetic tracers' left by UFOs causing the crash.

Sani focuses on radar data, particularly the track designated AJ450. He argues that the data, when analyzed graphically, reveals inconsistencies with standard aircraft flight characteristics, especially regarding altitude (68,000 feet) and speed (120 km/h). He dismisses the explanation of a weather balloon due to the altitude and speed discrepancies and the object's apparent maneuverability.

Sani introduces the concept of 'electronic warfare' and 'deception techniques' used by military forces to mislead radar systems. He suggests that AJ450 might have been a military aircraft employing such techniques to conceal its presence and actions. By analyzing the radar data and comparing it with the flight path of the Itavia DC9 that crashed, Sani's team performed a graphical expansion of the AJ450 track. This analysis suggests that AJ450 intercepted and potentially caused the downing of the DC9, then executed an 'electronic deception' maneuver to evade detection from Marsala radar.

He concludes that the coincidences are too numerous to be accidental, implying that AJ450 was a real, advanced aircraft involved in the incident, possibly a fighter jet capable of speeds around 400 m/s.

Ufology and Pseudoufology: A Critical Perspective

In a tribute to the late Pier Luigi Sani, the magazine reflects on his contributions to ufology. Sani is remembered as a proponent of the rational extraterrestrial hypothesis, who critically engaged with newer theories like socio-psychology and para-physics. He emphasized the importance of studying classic UFO cases and the initial wave of sightings.

The article "UNA TRAGEDIA CHE MERITA IL NOSTRO RISPETTO" (A Tragedy That Deserves Our Respect) by Pier Luigi Sani, discusses the Ustica case and criticizes the tendency to link it to UFOs without sufficient evidence. He debunks theories involving 'magnetic tracers' and highlights the lack of proof for alien involvement in the crash, attributing the persistent theories to a desire to distract from the real culprits. Sani calls for a return to serious, evidence-based ufological research, away from sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims.

Another piece, "L'ULTIMO CONTRIBUTO DI SANI ALL'ANALISI DEI PROBLEMI DELL'UFOLOGIA CONTEMPORANEA" (Sani's Last Contribution to the Analysis of Contemporary Ufology Problems), further elaborates on Sani's critical stance. It notes his opposition to the 'new wave' of ufology that questioned the extraterrestrial hypothesis, and his belief in the importance of classic UFO cases. The article highlights Sani's call for a clear distinction between serious ufological investigation and 'pseudo-ufology' based on conspiracy theories, alleged alien implants, and secret government documents.

The 'Alien Frenzy' and the Shift in Ufology

An article titled "LA FRENESIA 'ALIENA'" (The 'Alien Frenzy') by Pier Luigi Sani, laments the shift in ufology from studying unidentified flying objects to focusing on 'occupants' and extraterrestrial entities. Sani argues that theories like para-physics and socio-psychology, which emerged as alternatives to the extraterrestrial hypothesis, ultimately failed and paradoxically reinforced the ET theory. He criticizes the current focus on Roswell, Area 51, abductions, and crop circles, stating that these topics presuppose alien presence without providing concrete proof. Sani expresses concern that many ufologists, including prominent figures, have accepted the 'alien reality' as fact, moving away from rigorous investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for a rational, evidence-based approach to ufology, emphasizing the study of UFOs as flying objects rather than solely focusing on alleged alien occupants. It critiques sensationalist theories and conspiracy narratives, urging researchers to maintain a critical perspective and avoid unsubstantiated claims. The magazine highlights the importance of detailed case analysis, radar data interpretation, and distinguishing between genuine phenomena and potential hoaxes or misidentifications. The editorial stance clearly favors scientific rigor and a return to the core principles of ufological investigation, as exemplified by the work of Pier Luigi Sani and the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici.

This issue of UFO SECRETS, dated December 1999, is titled "Documenti segreti USA: indietro tutta!" and focuses on the controversial "Majestic-12" documents, labeling them as "UFOLOGIA-SPAZZATURA DI FINE MILLENNIO" (Ufology-Garbage of the Millennium). The main article by Remo Ponti critically examines the history and authenticity of these documents, suggesting they are part of a disinformation campaign.

The "Dirty Dozen" and the Majestic-12 Documents

The article begins by detailing how Jaime Shande-ra received anonymous film rolls in late 1984 containing photographs of documents related to the Majestic-12 (MJ-12) group, allegedly established by President Truman to study the Roswell crash and its alien occupants. These documents were released in 1987, dividing ufologists into proponents and skeptics. Stanton Friedman is cited as a firm believer in their authenticity, while others, like William Moore, are accused of potentially fabricating documents to encourage whistleblowers.

Moore's involvement is further scrutinized, including his collaboration with writer Robert Pratt on a novel titled "MAJIK-12" and his alleged creation of fake documents to test the waters for disinformation. The discovery of a 1947 document with Truman's signature matching that of an MJ-12 document raised further doubts, leading many to believe it was an elaborate hoax by military intelligence services.

The article mentions that some documents claimed the existence of MJ-12 and two aliens hosted at secret bases, with one alien named Ebe-1 having a fondness for strawberry ice cream and Tibetan music. Agents involved in these operations reportedly used codenames like Condor and Falcon, identified as USAF intelligence agents Richard Doty and Robert Collins, who were allegedly involved in a disinformation operation against ufologist Paul Bennewitz.

Bennewitz suffered a nervous breakdown and was hospitalized due to this alleged deception. Moore reportedly admitted to this at a 1989 MUFON conference, justifying it as a way to observe a debunking operation from the inside, though he couldn't explain the USAF's intense focus on Bennewitz.

A new development in late 1999 saw ufologists Robert and Ryan Wood present new documents related to the MJ-12 group, funded by John Firmage. The article references a comprehensive list of MJ-12 documents available elsewhere.

Nineteen-Eighty-Four: Moore and Shandera

• Eisenhower Briefing: An eight-page document from November 18, 1952, titled "Briefing document: Operation Majestic-12; prepared for President-elect Dwight D. Eisenhower (Eyes Only)." It described the Roswell crash, studies of the recovered craft, and secret projects aimed at contacting aliens while discrediting the UFO phenomenon. The article concludes this is a likely mid-1980s forgery, with errors in serial numbers and knowledge of Roswell reflecting later research rather than contemporary information.
• Truman-Forrestal Memo: This is presented as the only attachment to the Eisenhower briefing. It's described as a "Special Classified Executive Order" from September 24, 1947, by Truman. However, the order number is nonsensical, and the content is deemed inadequate for a presidential order. Truman's signature, matching another document, further fuels skepticism.
• CIA MJ-5 Memo: A single page with the CIA logo mentioning MJ-5, the fifth member of Majestic. This was exposed as a fake in 1987 due to inconsistencies. Curiously, it's no longer cited in pro-MJ-12 literature, suggesting it's too embarrassing.

1980-1995: The Other Documents

• Cutler-Twining Memo: A 1954 memo from Robert Cutler to General Nathan, referencing MJ-12. Found in the National Archives by Shandera, it was initially seen as proof. However, the article suggests it might be a deliberate forgery planted to be discovered and authenticated by officials.
• Aquarius Telex: A three-page excerpt from a larger document distributed by Moore in 1982. The first page was proven to be a manipulation of a genuine cover page used for official correspondence. Moore admitted in 1983 to manipulating the text and retyping it before sending it to Bennewitz.
• Special Operation Manual 1-01: Pages from a supposed operational manual for recovering crashed UFOs, sent to ufologist Donald Berliner in 1994. A joint statement by several prominent American ufologists in 1999 declared it a deliberate forgery intended to deceive the public and spread disinformation.

UFO-crash in Russia? Niet!

This section, by Remo Ponti, debunks a Russian TV documentary titled "The Secret KGB UFO Files" aired by TNT in September 1998. The documentary claimed to present new footage from KGB archives, including UFO sightings by aircraft, a UFO crash recovery, and an alien autopsy.

• Aircraft Hunting UFOs: The documentary showed footage of MiG-29 and MiG-23 aircraft. One sequence, filmed from a cockpit, showed two black points merging into one. The article argues this was likely a reflection on the cockpit canopy, not UFOs, and that the footage was edited together from various sources, including material described as "Declassified Soviet Government Material" which was likely fabricated.
• Other Footage: The documentary also included scenes of glowing orbs destroying aircraft, which the author suggests are training or propaganda films, not genuine UFO encounters. One sequence of an F-15 Eagle accompanied by a sombrero-shaped object is also questioned, with the F-15 appearing too static and computer-generated.
• Alleged KGB Agent Testimony: An alleged former US military intelligence agent claimed that US and Russian aircraft flying together was normal, a claim the author dismisses as ridiculous.
• Cylinder Footage: A MiG-21 camera captured a strange cylinder flying alongside it, which then accelerated away. The author notes the cylinder's movement seemed too synchronized with the fighter jet, suggesting it might be a double exposure or CGI.
• Russian Ufologist Vereshagin: The documentary featured Veniamin Grego-rievich Vereshagin, author of "UFO in URSS," who discussed a 1969 UFO crash in Siberia. However, Russian ufologists do not recognize this name or book. The footage of the crash recovery is described as a clumsy staging, with anachronistic military uniforms and vehicles.
• Alien Autopsy: The final part of the documentary showed a puppet-like alien being autopsied, similar to the infamous Santilli footage.
• Document Forgery: The article concludes that the Siberian UFO crash case, including documents related to the doctors who allegedly performed the autopsy in 1969, are likely forgeries of poor quality.

Majestic-12: A New Wave of Garbage Documents

This section continues the critique of MJ-12 documents. It notes that John Firmage's website, which hosted analysis of the Woods' findings, disappeared, and the Woods moved to a new site: http://www.majesticdocuments.com/. Tim Cooper announced receiving hundreds of pages of MJ-12 related documents in late 1999, allegedly from a liaison with the Foreign Technology Division of USAF.

The new documents reportedly include alien autopsies, phone intercepts of Kennedy discussing UFOs, the 1942 "Battle of Los Angeles" UFO crash, and a report of an alien aircraft test flight that crashed at Roswell in 1947. Both Timothy Good and Stanton Friedman expressed skepticism about these new documents due to a lack of objective verification.

The author reiterates that while it's easy for ufologists to spot hoaxes, the public and less experienced enthusiasts can be easily deceived, causing significant damage to the study of UFO phenomena.

Ufology and Pseudourology

The author clarifies that they do not deny the possibility of the Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) for phenomena like the Roswell crash or abductions. They consider the ETH a valid hypothesis, perhaps the only one that adequately explains observed facts, echoing Aimé Michel. However, they distinguish between a hypothesis and a certainty. The author criticizes the current trend in ufology, particularly in the USA, which presents phenomena like Roswell, abductions, Area 51, and crop circles as definitive proof of alien presence. This approach is labeled "pseudourology," contrasting it with traditional ufology (Keyhoe, Michel, Ruppelt, Hynek) which continues to investigate the nature and origin of unidentified flying objects without jumping to conclusions.

The author notes a return to more traditional research methods, focusing on declassified US government documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act. Researchers are examining the origins of ufology and the reactions of authorities. Examples include Aldrich in the US, Lagrange in France, Stilo in Italy, and others like Haines (USA) and Orlandi (Italy) who are studying reliable sighting cases from military and civilian pilots. The author believes that only through such rigorous research can genuine certainty about the UFO phenomenon be achieved.

CISU-ON-LINE: Ufology on the Internet

This section highlights the Italian Center for UFO Studies (CISU) and its significant online presence. It details their websites: CISU-ON-LINE (http://www.cisu.org), UFO-ON-LINE (http://www.ufo.it), and UFODATANET (http://www.ufodatanet.org), which offer extensive resources, articles, news, and links for UFO enthusiasts and researchers. It also mentions their email services, newsgroups (tin.it.hobby.ufologia, it.discussioni.ufo), and mailing lists (UFOITALIA).

Book Offers

The magazine includes a special offer for CISU members to purchase several UFO-related books directly, including works by Giuseppe Stilo, Paolo Toselli, John Fuller, James McDonald, AA.VV., Rino Di Stefano, and M. Bianchini/R. Cappelli. The offer includes discounted prices for subscribers and a special package deal for purchasing five volumes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes skepticism towards sensationalist UFO claims, particularly those involving "secret documents" and alleged alien encounters. The editorial stance is critical of what it terms "pseudourology," which it contrasts with rigorous, evidence-based ufological research. There's a clear focus on debunking purported hoaxes and disinformation, especially concerning the Majestic-12 documents and alleged UFO crash footage from Russia. The magazine promotes a return to traditional investigative methods and highlights the importance of critical analysis in understanding the UFO phenomenon. The online presence of CISU is presented as a valuable resource for serious research.