UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 24

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica
Issue: N. 24
Date: December 2001
Publisher: Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU)
Price: € 4,00

This issue of UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica presents a diverse range of articles, from the cultural impact of Steven Spielberg's "E.T." to in-depth scientific investigations of anomalous phenomena.

Editorial: Scuola di formazione per ufologi (School of Training for Ufologists)

Giuseppe Stilo reflects on the challenges of forming new ufologists within the CISU. He discusses the difficulties in maintaining long-term commitment, the contrast between the CISU's rigorous approach and the more sensationalist methods of other groups, and the need for a clear understanding of ufology as an active research interest rather than a pursuit of definitive answers or 'revelations'. Stilo emphasizes that the CISU's approach, while sometimes perceived as 'cynical' or overly rational, is crucial for serious, long-term study, aiming to foster a genuine passion for research and clarity.

Key Articles and Features

E.T. l'extraterrestre dopo 20 anni ritorna... nei cinema! (E.T. the Extraterrestrial Returns... to the Cinema After 20 Years!)

Gian Paolo Grassino analyzes the re-release of Steven Spielberg's "E.T." The article notes that while the film is categorized as science fiction triggered by a UFO event, its core message is about family relationships, childhood struggles, and the need for emotional connection, as confirmed by Spielberg himself. The author distinguishes this from a purely 'ufological' interpretation, highlighting the film's themes of loneliness and the search for understanding, contrasting it with the more 'serious' and profound themes of "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

La triste fine dell'uomo d'alluminio (The Sad End of the Aluminum Man)

Giuseppe Stilo reconstructs the history and origin of the famous 'marzianino' photograph. He details how the image, first appearing in a 1950 California magazine, was likely a hoax originating from Germany. The article traces the photo's connection to the 'flying saucer crash' narratives and the involvement of figures like Meade Layne, debunking the idea of a captured alien.

Iridium volanti non identificati (Unidentified Iridium Flights)

Francesco D'Agostino explains how the Iridium satellite network can cause sightings often mistaken for UFOs. He details the characteristics of 'Iridium flares' – bright flashes caused by sunlight reflecting off the satellites' antennas – and how their appearance, speed, and trajectory can be misinterpreted. The article also touches upon the commercial history and technical aspects of the Iridium satellite constellation.

Ondata UFO in Italia nel 2001 (UFO Wave in Italy in 2001)

Gian Paolo Grassino reports on a significant wave of UFO sightings in Italy during 2001. The article details the increase in reports starting from June, the monitoring efforts by the CISU, and the geographical distribution of sightings. It notes that the September 11th attacks in the US shifted media and public attention, leading to a decrease in UFO-related news and sightings.

Nel 1951 gli Inglesi studiavano gli UFO (segretamente...) (In 1951 the English Studied UFOs (Secretly...))

This section discusses the declassification of a secret 1951 British government report on UFOs. The report, compiled by a group of scientists and officials led by Henry Tizard, concluded that most sightings were explainable by known phenomena. The article highlights the initial denial of the report's existence by the Ministry of Defence and its eventual release, which debunked conspiracy theories about a government cover-up.

I fenomeni di Hessdalen: un'ufologia per il XXI secolo? (The Hessdalen Phenomena: A Ufology for the 21st Century?)

Renzo Cabassi explores the ongoing scientific research into the luminous phenomena observed in Hessdalen, Norway. The article traces the history of ufological interest in Hessdalen, starting from the 1970s, and details the scientific missions conducted by the Italian Committee for the Hessdalen Project (CIPH). It highlights the use of advanced technology to study these unexplained lights, emphasizing a scientific and methodological approach.

Luci e precursori sismici per comprendere gli UFO? (Seismic Lights and Precursors for Understanding UFOs?)

Massimo Silvestri investigates the connection between seismic activity and anomalous aerial phenomena, often referred to as 'Earthquake Lights' (EQL). The article discusses how geophysical changes preceding earthquakes can generate luminous events. It draws on historical accounts and scientific research, including the work of Helmut Tributsch, and explores the possibility that some UFO sightings might be related to these natural geophysical phenomena.

La Luna/UFO e Trans: dalla Francia con polemica (The Moon/UFO and Trans: From France with Controversy)

This section includes a discussion about UFOs and the Moon, featuring a rebuttal to a previous article by Maillot and a detailed explanation of the 'Trans' investigation.

Notizie CISU (CISU News)

This section provides updates on the activities of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici, including details about a national conference, the election of a new board, the 20th anniversary of UPIAR online, adherence to the UFOIN ethical code, the awarding of the 'Alberto Lazzaro' prize, and the relocation of the CISU headquarters.

Il CISU su Internet (CISU on the Internet)

This section lists the various online resources provided by the CISU, including their main website (cisu.org), a rich information portal (ufo.it), a project and cataloging site (ufodatanet.org), the UFOITALIA mailing list, and the UPIAR online bookstore.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the historical context of ufology, and the debunking of hoaxes and misinterpretations. The editorial stance of UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica, as articulated by Giuseppe Stilo, is firmly rooted in a rational, evidence-based, and methodologically rigorous approach to ufology. The magazine prioritizes critical analysis, scientific inquiry, and the pursuit of clarity over sensationalism or unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between conventional explanations and genuinely anomalous phenomena, and on educating readers about the complexities and challenges of UFO research.

This issue of "UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica" from December 2001, issue number 24, is dedicated to exploring various facets of UFO phenomena through case studies, research projects, and investigative methodologies. The magazine features articles on prominent figures in ufology, such as Michel Figuet and Marco Orlandi, and delves into specific incidents and the challenges of analyzing witness testimony.

Michel Figuet: An Obituary and Tribute

The issue includes a tribute to Michel Figuet, a dedicated French investigator who passed away in October 2000. Figuet was known for his extensive work cataloging UFO sightings, particularly close encounters, through his FRANCAT project. The article highlights his passion for ufology, sparked by a personal sighting in 1965, and his meticulous approach to collecting and analyzing data. His FRANCAT catalog, initiated in 1972, aimed to improve upon existing classification systems, eventually containing over 1400 French cases. Figuet's research focused on close encounters, distinguishing between sightings with physical traces and those involving humanoids. He emphasized the importance of witness credibility and the detailed observation of phenomena within a limited range. The article also touches upon his collaboration with other researchers and his contributions to the field.

AIRCAT: An Update on Pilot Sightings

Marco Orlandi presents an update on the AIRCAT project, which focuses on cataloging UFO sightings by pilots. Since its inception, the project has significantly expanded its database, now including 333 Italian cases and 1,582 foreign cases. Orlandi discusses the methodology used for classifying sightings, including categories for identified phenomena (IFO) and cases with insufficient information. He stresses the importance of analyzing IFO cases to understand potential perceptual errors and background noise in witness reports. The article also acknowledges the contributions of international collaborators and the challenges of obtaining information from military sources due to confidentiality.

EFCAT: Cataloging Physical Effects

Stefano Innocenti introduces the EFCAT project, which aims to catalog physical effects associated with UFO phenomena, particularly electromagnetic ones. The project seeks to organize data on effects observed on humans, animals, and vegetation, moving beyond purely extraterrestrial hypotheses to explore potential physical mechanisms. Innocenti discusses the difficulties in classifying such phenomena and the need for a rigorous methodology. He highlights the importance of cross-referencing data, considering potential environmental factors like 'electrosmog,' and the role of witness testimony in understanding these complex events. The article also touches upon the historical context of UFO research in Italy and abroad, noting the greater emphasis on technical and scientific approaches in English-speaking countries.

Case Studies and Methodological Debates

The magazine features several case studies, including a detailed account of a close encounter in the Tuscan Apennines in 1931, where a young girl reported seeing a metallic humanoid figure. Another case from Central Italy describes recurring visits from entities to a child's bedroom, which the investigator suggests might be related to hypnagogic or hypnopompic phenomena. The issue also includes a discussion on the reliability of witness testimony, with contributions from both proponents and skeptics. The debate centers on how to evaluate the accuracy of eyewitness accounts, particularly in the context of UFO sightings, and the challenges of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misperceptions or psychological factors.

The Moon and UFOs: A Polemic

Eric Maillot responds to criticisms from Giorgio Abraini regarding his research on the Moon's potential role in misidentifying UFOs. Maillot defends his statistical analysis, acknowledging minor errors in data coding but asserting the overall validity of his findings. He argues that many UFO sightings, particularly those involving lights, can be explained by misperceptions of the Moon due to its phases, position, and atmospheric conditions. Maillot also criticizes the methodology of some UFO investigations, including those conducted by the CISU on the Trans-en-Provence case, suggesting that they may not be sufficiently rigorous. The article highlights the ongoing debate within ufology regarding the interpretation of evidence and the potential for natural explanations for reported phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Rivista strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous methodology, data analysis, and critical evaluation in UFO research. There is a clear focus on distinguishing between credible evidence and misperceptions or unsubstantiated claims. The magazine promotes a scientific approach, encouraging researchers to refine their methods and to be open to both conventional and unconventional explanations for UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a balanced perspective, acknowledging the complexity of the subject and the need for continued investigation while remaining grounded in empirical evidence. The recurring themes include the challenges of witness testimony, the potential for physical and electromagnetic effects, the cataloging of sightings, and the ongoing debate about the nature of UFOs.

This issue of FORUM, a UFO information magazine, dated December 2001 (N. 24), features a critical examination of the Trans-en-Provence UFO case and a historical look at the early days of ufology in Italy, particularly the influence of contactees.

Critiques of the Trans-en-Provence Investigation

The magazine presents a detailed critique of an Italian investigation into the Trans-en-Provence UFO case, authored by Paolo Fiorino and Matteo Leone. The critique, written by an unnamed author, challenges the findings of the Italian investigation, particularly concerning the shape of the ground trace and the interpretation of the witness's testimony. The author argues that the trace is not a perfect circle but two arcs, and that the investigation's reliance on the witness's account and the biochemical analysis by Michel Bounias is flawed. The author points out inconsistencies in Bounias's methodology, such as non-standard dilutions of soil samples and questionable data interpretation. The critique also highlights what it perceives as omissions and overly complaisant attitudes from Italian ufologists regarding Bounias's work and the official GEPAN report.

Paolo Fiorino and Matteo Leone respond to these criticisms, defending their investigation's methodology, which they state adheres to standards set by major ufological associations. They address specific points raised by the critic, including the shape of the trace, the witness's statements about 'couillions' (which they attribute to communication ambiguity), and the biochemical analyses. They assert that their report provided a structured approach to the investigation, including the witness's diary, interview, case evaluation, and appendices. They also defend their reliance on Bounias's statistical analysis of the biochemical data, while acknowledging the need for further research into the correlation between soil biochemistry and the landing site.

The Influence of Adamski, Leslie, and Williamson in Italy in the 1950s

Another significant section of the magazine, authored by Giuseppe Stilo, explores the early impact of American contactees George Adamski, Desmond Leslie, and George Hunt Williamson on the nascent Italian ufological scene in the 1950s. The article details how the book 'Flying Saucers Have Landed' by Leslie and Adamski, published in 1953, generated considerable interest in Italy, with media coverage and public discussion.

Desmond Leslie's visit to Italy in October 1954 is described, including his appearance on Italian television and his press conferences where he presented Adamski's photos. The article notes the mixed reactions from the Italian press, with some ridiculing the claims while others, like 'La Nazione Italiana' and 'Corriere d'Informazione', reported on the phenomenon.

George Hunt Williamson's visit to Italy in 1958-1959 is also covered. The article highlights his background, including his association with far-right figures and his involvement in esoteric and pseudo-archaeological pursuits. Williamson's influence is traced through his book 'The Saucers Speak!', which was translated into Italian and contributed to the development of 'radio contact' and 'telepathic contact' with extraterrestrials in Italy. His visits and lectures are noted as having a significant impact on Italian ufological groups and individuals, including the formation of research centers.

The article emphasizes how these early contactee narratives, with their blend of science fiction, esotericism, and conspiracy theories, laid the groundwork for much of the ufological discourse in Italy during that period.

CISU News and Activities

The magazine also includes several news items concerning the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU).

• New Board of Directors: The annual assembly elected a new board for the 2001-2003 term, with Edoardo Russo appointed president.
• CISU Adopts UFOIN Ethical Code: CISU has ratified the adoption of the UFO Investigators Network (UFOIN) ethical code of conduct for its members.
• Headquarters Relocation: CISU's Turin headquarters is being relocated to a larger space to accommodate its archives and library.
• 'Alberto Lazzaro' Award: Daniele Parisi received the 'Alberto Lazzaro' award for his sociology thesis on the UFO phenomenon.
• CISU Awards 'Trash' Cinema Prize: CISU presented an award for the best ufological short film at the 6th Trash Film Festival in Turin.

UPIAR Celebrates 20 Years Online

The cooperative UPIAR, which publishes the 'UFO Phenomena International Annual Review', is celebrating 20 years of online presence with its e-commerce website.

Cover and Merchandise

The back cover features merchandise related to UFOs, including t-shirts designed by Giorgio Giorgi with UFO imagery and a series of 'UFO Sightings' illustrations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine demonstrates a critical approach to ufological claims, evident in the detailed critique of the Trans-en-Provence investigation and the historical analysis of contactee movements. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous methodology and evidence-based research, while also acknowledging the historical significance of early UFO phenomena and their cultural impact. The editorial stance appears to be one of informed skepticism, encouraging critical thinking and detailed investigation within the field of ufology. The inclusion of CISU's organizational news suggests a commitment to the professionalization and ethical conduct of ufological research in Italy.