UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 29

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica, number 29, dated July 2004, is published by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) and edited by Giovanni Settimo. It features a cover story on the Elmas 1977 helicopter and UFO incident, alongside articles on UFOs in Iran, Hessdalen missions, and official UFO investigations in Italy.

Key Articles and Content

UFO al Parlamento Europeo

This section reports on an Italian parliamentary inquiry in January 2004 regarding the creation of a European body for the study of unexplained atmospheric phenomena. Italian MEP Sebastiano Musumeci submitted a written question to the European Parliament, suggesting that organizations like SEPRA or the European Space Agency could be responsible for coordinating research. The response from the European Commission, via Commissioner Philippe Busquin, was cautious, indicating that research into atmospheric phenomena was already part of the EU's space policy framework.

The article also references a critical article in the 'European Voice' magazine, which suggested skepticism would hinder any European-led UFO research. It recalls previous parliamentary initiatives on UFOs, including one in 1991 by Belgian MEP Elio Di Rupo and a 1993 proposal by Italian physicist Tullio Regge.

Ondata UFO in Iran

This article details a significant wave of UFO sightings reported in Iran starting around April 28, 2004. The national television broadcast a film of a 'shining white disc' over Tehran. Other reports mentioned green, red, blue, and violet aerial objects in various cities. Local newspapers noted public gatherings to observe lights in the sky. The Iranian Astronomical Society director suggested Venus as a possible explanation, citing atmospheric diffraction. Despite this, dozens of sightings were reported, with media featuring UFO-related imagery. The article notes that Iran has experienced UFO waves before, notably in 1978 and 1954.

SEPRA sì, SEPRA no...

This piece discusses the fate of SEPRA, the French Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes Rares Aérospatiaux, which had studied UFOs for 27 years within the CNES. It was reported that SEPRA ceased to exist as a distinct organism in spring 2004, though its head, Jean-Jacques Vélasco, continued some work. Vélasco published a book, 'OVNIS - l'evidence,' asserting the extraterrestrial origin of UFOs, which garnered media attention but was criticized for lacking new evidence. The article touches upon the potential loss of SEPRA's extensive archives.

Psicosi UFO in Argentina

This section describes an incident on January 20, 2004, where a family reported seeing a metallic, flame-covered object fall in a field in Argentina. The object was later identified by NASA and CONAE as a Delta II rocket booster that had re-entered the atmosphere. The article notes that similar objects had fallen in Saudi Arabia in 2001.

Morto l'Inquirente Capo di Condon

This is an obituary for Roy F. Craig, who passed away on March 18, 2004, at the age of 79. Craig was the chief investigator for the University of Colorado's Project on UFOs (the Condon Committee) from 1966 to 1969. Despite being a skeptic, he published a book about his experiences.

Continuano gli Studi di Gross

This article reports that ufologist Loren E. Gross, known for his extensive series 'UFOs: A History,' has decided to extend his research from 1946-1959 to cover the years 1960-1963. This decision was met with satisfaction by UFO researchers.

Le "Luci di Yara"

This brief mention refers to an article about the 'Yara Lights' phenomenon, possibly related to phantom lights in Cuba, as indicated by the cover headline.

Notizie CISU

This section provides updates from the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici, including information on their 2003 divulgation activities and received materials.

"files fascisti" sotto esame

This is a brief mention of an article examining 'fascist files.'

Leggende di guerra

This is a brief mention of an article on 'war legends.'

Speciale Ufficialità: Luci sulla Sardegna

This is the main feature article, detailing the events of October 27, 1977, in Cagliari-Elmas, Sardinia. It describes the sighting of an orange, luminous object by two Italian Army helicopter crews and air traffic control personnel. The object was reported to be moving at high speed and exhibiting unusual behavior. The article analyzes official reports, media coverage, and witness testimonies, including those of Major Francesco Zoppi and Sergeant Corrado Giannella. It also touches upon subsequent official requests for information from the Ministry of Defense by organizations like CUN and CNIFAA.

Le stagioni di Hessdalen

This section likely discusses the Hessdalen phenomenon, with a mention of a winter mission in 2004.

Recensioni

This section includes a review of a book titled 'Quali prove, Vélasco?'

Il CISU su Internet

This section provides links to the CISU's official website (www.cisu.org), the comprehensive UFO information site www.ufo.it, the data cataloging project www.ufodatanet.org, the UFOITALIA mailing list, and the UPIAR online bookstore.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, presenting both official reports and witness accounts. There is a clear emphasis on investigating and documenting sightings, with a particular interest in cases that involve official military or governmental involvement. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into anomalous aerial phenomena, aiming to provide detailed information and analysis to its readership. The inclusion of international cases alongside Italian ones suggests a broad scope for UFO research. The magazine also highlights the efforts of organizations like CISU in disseminating information and fostering research.

This issue of "UFO" (Rivista di Informazione Ufologica), dated July 2004, features a special report titled "SPECIALE UFFICIALITÀ" (Official Special) focusing on the official involvement and documentation of UFO phenomena in Italy, primarily from 1947 through the 1970s. The magazine explores the early stages of military interest, investigations, and official statements concerning unidentified flying objects.

The Elmas Sighting: An Official Explanation and its Critiques

The lead article revisits the controversial Elmas UFO sighting of October 27, 1977, near Cagliari. It details how the Ministry of Defense, through a communication to CNIFAA and a press release via ANSA, officially declared the phenomenon to be a 'normal military operation' and not an 'unidentified flying object.' The explanation suggested that the sighting was an exercise misinterpreted by personnel due to imperfect visibility. However, the article critically examines this official statement, raising several objections. It questions how trained air traffic control personnel and experienced military pilots could have made such a significant error, even under poor visibility. The author points out the lack of any indication that an exercise was underway, which would have required informing the control tower. Furthermore, the attempt to scramble a jet to intercept the object suggests it was initially perceived as an intruder, contradicting the 'normal exercise' explanation. The article speculates that the object might have been a Soviet reconnaissance aircraft, and the official explanation was a way to avoid admitting a security lapse.

Witness Testimony and Contradictions

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to a 1999 interview with one of the four helicopter pilots who witnessed the event. This testimony, given 21 years later, offered some new details and contradictions. The pilot recalled only two aircraft involved in the exercise, not three, and described the helicopters flying in a circuit pattern rather than a formation. He also reported hearing a 'ticking' sound on the cockpit glass before seeing the object, which he described as white and 'cigar-shaped.' This description contrasts with the orange or red-orange color reported by other witnesses at the time. The pilot firmly excluded the possibility of the object being a jet's afterburner, citing its behavior and appearance as distinct from such phenomena.

Historical Context: Italian Military and UFOs (1947-1970s)

The magazine then delves into the historical context of Italian military interest in UFOs, tracing it back to the post-World War II era. It highlights the difficulty in accessing official documents due to strict classification rules. The article relies on journalistic sources and interviews to piece together the timeline:

• Early Interest (1947-1954): The initial interest in UFOs among Italian military personnel is believed to have been sporadic, possibly triggered by the 1950 and 1954 waves of sightings. The SIOS Aeronautica (Information Service for Operations and Situation) and SIFAR (Armed Forces Information Service) are mentioned as relevant bodies.
• Institutionalization (1950s-1960s): The article suggests that by the 1950s, military interest became more specific, with personnel like Captain Igino Gatti investigating cases. The Ministry of Defense issued a UFO reporting form around 1962-1963, partly in response to public and media attention.
• Intelligence Services and Secrecy: The role of intelligence services like the SID (Servizio Informazioni Difesa), established in 1965, is discussed. The SID's mandate included protecting military secrets and national security, which naturally extended to UFO-related information. The article notes that official investigations were often shrouded in secrecy, ostensibly to avoid public alarm.
• Specific Cases and Investigations: Several historical cases are mentioned, including sightings in Rome (1954), Udine (1958), Livorno (1959), and a radar-visual case in Torino-Caselle (1973). The article details how military personnel, including pilots and radar operators, were sometimes witnesses or involved in investigations.
• The 'Invisible College' and Official Procedures: The concept of an 'Invisible College' of ufologists is introduced, with Igino Gatti being identified as an Italian member. The article describes how the Aeronautica, through its SIOS units, collected and analyzed UFO reports, often using standardized questionnaires. Colonel Luigi Tescione of SIOS Padova is cited as having interviewed witnesses and collected data, though he reportedly considered UFOs to be of low strategic interest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout the issue are the official secrecy surrounding UFO phenomena in Italy, the skepticism and critical analysis of official explanations, and the persistent efforts by ufologists to uncover the truth. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, highlighting the discrepancies between official statements and witness testimonies, and suggesting that military interest was often driven by national security concerns rather than a belief in extraterrestrial visitors. The article implies that many cases, while officially explained away, remain unresolved and warrant further investigation, particularly in the context of Cold War espionage and military operations. The author concludes that while definitive explanations for many events remain elusive, the historical record indicates a consistent, albeit often covert, military interest in UFOs.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated July 2004, focuses on the official and unofficial investigations into UFO phenomena in Italy, spanning from the post-World War II era to the early 2000s. The content is primarily in Italian, with a strong emphasis on documented cases, military involvement, and the historical context of UFO research in the country.

Official Involvement and Early Cases

The issue begins by detailing the efforts of the Italian UFO study group CISU to gather information, particularly from official sources. Giuseppe Stilo's work is highlighted, focusing on the involvement of Italian Armed Forces and other officially organized bodies in the 'Operation Origins' (1946-1954) and legal aspects of military secrecy regarding unidentified flying objects. It's noted that initial information regarding Italian military involvement in UFO phenomena from 1946-1954 is scarce, though CISU identified documents showing the Ministry of War's concern about 'phantom rockets' in the late summer of 1946. The article also touches upon journalistic reports from 1980, suggesting a significant collection of UFO dossiers by the Ministry of Defense since 1952.

Several historical cases are revisited, including reports from the 1950s. The article mentions journalistic accounts from 'La Nazione Italiana' and 'Corriere della Sera' in March 1950 concerning UFO sightings. An inquiry by 'Scienza e Vita' in May 1951 with the Air Force yielded reserved responses, with some officials expressing skepticism about secret projects. The issue references a supposed 'Gabinetto RS/33' from the Fascist era, which Stilo disputes. A 1950 report from 'Il Mattino dell'Italia Centrale' suggested that most sightings were due to illusions, with a small proportion possibly linked to V-2 rockets. The article also cites official letters from the Italian Air Force's III Rep. – Uff. Operazioni from 1996.

Significant cases from the 1950s include a sighting reported in 'La Nazione Italiana' and 'Il Mattino dell'Italia Centrale' in November 1952, involving a witness interviewed by Carabinieri. Reports from November 1954 in various newspapers detail sightings and investigations, including a case near Castello di Brolio, Siena, where local Carabinieri denied filing a report. Other cases from 1950 and 1952 in Abbiate Guazzone (Varese) and San Pietro a Vico (Lucca) are mentioned, with the former involving an on-site inspection by authorities.

Military and Intelligence Perspectives

The role of the Carabinieri in collecting UFO data is discussed, referencing an unpublished confidential report. The issue also touches upon the US Air Force's Project Blue Book and its director, Edward J. Ruppelt. The article mentions the involvement of the Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC) and quotes from a letter by Jacques Vallee referencing an Italian Air Force captain named 'Luciano' (later identified as Igino Gatti) who was analyzing UFO cases for the Italian military.

Further insights into military perspectives come from articles in aviation publications. Colonel Mario Salvadori, writing in 'Il Corriere dell'Aviatore' in 1957, noted the military's general lack of official involvement and resources for UFO investigations, with the Air Force deferring to scientists and scientists waiting for a UFO prototype to study. The article also references a 1953 Air Force Technical Information Sheet and the ATIC's role.

Later Cases and Contemporary Research

The magazine then shifts to more recent cases and ongoing research. A 1956 sighting in Rome involving a public official and a subsequent encounter with a green entity is detailed, including a blackout and electrical disturbances. A 1959 sighting in Turin is also mentioned. The issue highlights a 1958 case in Udine, with journalistic reports and anecdotal accounts of UFO experiences within NATO.

More recent events are covered, including a 1980 conference with General Francesco Cavalera, former Chief of Staff of the Defense, discussing UFOs. A 2004 case from Rome on January 1st describes an elongated object emitting orange light beams. Another sighting from February 17th, 2004, near Rome, involved three young women observing a bright, disc-shaped object with dark windows.

Crop Circles and Specific Encounters

The phenomenon of crop circles is addressed, noting a 'mini-mini-ondata' in 2004 with 24 reported formations, primarily in June. Cases from Rho (Milan) are detailed, where crop circles were found following reports of a bright light and subsequent sightings of luminous sources. The article also mentions crop circles found in various regions of Northern Italy, including Piedmont, Lombardy, and Emilia-Romagna.

A significant case study from May 25th, 2004, in S. Michele al Tagliamento (Venice), describes an agricultural worker finding flattened areas in his barley fields, which he associated with UFO phenomena. Another detailed case from May 21st, 2004, in Sesto San Giovanni (Milan), involves two fiancés observing a large, round, luminous disc with multiple windows.

Unique Case Studies

The magazine presents a unique case from May 3rd or 10th, 1997, near Cantalupo di Alessandria (AL), where three women observed a low-altitude, triangular object described as a 'flying city' with numerous colored lights. The object reportedly emitted a low hum and moved linearly before disappearing.

Another intriguing case, classified as DD/1 (UFO-aircraft encounter), occurred on June 14th, 2003, over Siena. An Alitalia MD-80 pilot and co-pilot reported a close encounter with a small, white, flat, and round object that passed beneath their aircraft, causing a noticeable vibration described as a 'caress' on the plane. The object was not detected by the TCAS system, and air traffic control reported no other aircraft in the vicinity.

A case from October 1983 in Nasidi di Librizzi (Messina) describes a 'UFO invasion' with multiple sightings over several days. Witnesses reported seeing a light streak, a dark spherical object descending, and later, a humanoid figure described as 'black' or 'dark,' with large eyes and a small body, possibly carrying an object. The incident also involved reports of flattened grass forming a circle and an alleged encounter with the humanoid entity, resulting in one witness reportedly fainting.

Statistical Data and Analysis

The issue includes statistical data on UFO sightings in Italy for the first semester of 2004. Lombardy is reported as the region with the highest number of sightings, followed by Lazio, Emilia-Romagna, and Piedmont. The data also categorizes sightings by time of day and type, noting an increase in 'para-ufological' cases (photographed but not seen) and 'night lights.' The magazine also presents data on the sources of UFO reports, indicating that most testimonies are given directly to ufologists rather than through the press or internet.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently highlights the official nature of UFO investigations, particularly by the Italian military and intelligence services, while also presenting detailed accounts of civilian sightings and encounters. There's a clear effort to document cases rigorously, referencing official documents, witness interviews, and journalistic reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging its complexity and the challenges in obtaining definitive explanations. The recurring theme is the persistent presence of unexplained aerial phenomena and related events in Italy, often involving official or semi-official investigations, and the ongoing efforts by researchers like CISU to compile and analyze this data.

This issue of UFO - Rivista di Informazione ufologica, issue number 29 from July 2004, is titled 'HESSDALEN' and focuses on the 'Seasons of Hessdalen', presenting the results and analyses of missions conducted in Norway from 2000 to the first winter mission of 2004. The main cover headline highlights these findings.

The Hessdalen Phenomena (HP)

The article by Renzo Cabassi introduces the luminous phenomena observed in the Hessdalen valley, Norway, known as Hessdalen Phenomena (HP). These phenomena, reported since 1981, are characterized by their varied dimensions, shapes, durations, and intensities, with seemingly random movements. The term 'Hessdalen-like' is used to describe similar phenomena globally. While some characteristics of HP resemble ball lightning (BL), no definitive phenomenological model exists for either. The article notes that anomalous 'UFO-like' events, such as unidentified flying objects with defined structures, have also been reported in Hessdalen. The author expresses hope that HP will eventually be recognized as a distinct category of natural physical phenomena, moving beyond their association with UFO mysteries. The technical-scientific approach adopted by the research aims to strip away the mythical aspects surrounding HP and contribute to understanding the nature of UFO phenomena.

The Scientific Approach to Hessdalen Phenomena

One of the primary challenges in researching Hessdalen Phenomena (HP) is the complexity of their etiology and nature, which has led them to be categorized within the realm of mystery rather than scientifically approachable phenomena. The article discusses the difficulties faced by science in this field, including funding issues and the tendency for these phenomena to be associated with irrationality or the 'believer' community. This cultural divide often clashes with the scientific world's methods for understanding and knowledge acquisition. The author emphasizes that a scientific approach is the only way for these events to enter the concrete world of knowledge, moving away from myth. This approach has been central to the work of the Italian Committee for the Hessdalen Project (CIPH), established in July 2000 to support and promote technical-scientific research on luminous atmospheric phenomena, particularly in Hessdalen.

Five Years of CIPH Activity

The CIPH, whose English acronym is ICPH, was founded in July 2000. Its mission is to support and promote technical-scientific research on luminous atmospheric phenomena observed globally, with a focus on Hessdalen, Norway. The article details CIPH's activities from 2000 to early 2004:

• August 2000: CIPH supported and partially funded a scientific mission to Hessdalen by engineers and technicians from CNR, led by Stelio Montebugnoli. This collaboration involved the Østfold College (Electrical Engineering Department) and EMBLA 2000. Massimo Teodorani, an astrophysicist, participated as an external consultant for CNR/IRA and scientific coordinator for CIPH. Teodorani is noted as the first Italian researcher to study Hessdalen luminous phenomena.
• Focus: While the primary interest was the optical aspect of HP, data collection and analysis of radio components, especially in the Very Low Frequency (VLF) range, were also deemed important for developing phenomenological models.
• August 2001 (EMBLA 2001): CIPH supported another mission, involving seven Italian researchers. This mission included data collection, photography, and television recordings of suspected HP. A significant amount of radio material (VLF) was collected, leading to numerous articles and contributions. The mission also saw the participation of RAI International's Giorgio Pacifici, who produced a documentary for the program 'Voyager'. Scientific journalists Gianluca Ranzini and Luigi Bignami also attended.
• April 2002: A meeting in Medicina focused on the geophysical aspects of Hessdalen research. Lorenzo Gionfra and Sabrina Mugnos presented a report on a 'Master plan for geomagnetic prospecting in the Hessdalen area'.
• August 2002: A research expedition to Hessdalen was organized to support Project Hessdalen, led by Erling Strand. The CNR team included Stelio Montebugnoli, Simona Righini, Marco Poloni, and Andrea Orlati. A specific research program in the valley was conducted by Matteo Leone (CIPH scientific head) and Flavio Gori.
• 2003: Preparations began for the first winter mission in 2004. Jader Monari and Gian Luca Andreoli conducted preparatory work in the valley, identifying sites and testing equipment.
• August 2003: During a preparatory mission, Monari and Andreoli observed and recorded a luminous event on August 29th at 22:50.
• September 2003: CIPH collaborated with the Gruppo Astrofili Columbia of Ferrara and the astronomy magazine 'Coelum' for an expedition to Hessdalen. This involved logistical support for 19 people, including physicist and astronomer Romano Serra.

The 2004 Mission

The Winter Mission 2004 (WM2004) took place from February 20th to 29th, involving Jader Monari, Gian Luca Andreoli, and Franco Fiocchi. The mission successfully achieved its objectives, including field testing the Mini Portable Station (a portable system for VLF radio data and luminous event recording), collecting data with a UHF radar, and using the EFM detector for terrestrial electricity measurements. The instruments performed well in sub-arctic conditions. Bjørn Gitle Hauge of Project Hessdalen contributed significantly to the mission's success.

Italians and Norwegians Convene

A conference titled 'Italian Research in the Hessdalen Valley' was held in Cecina, Livorno, on March 27-28, 2004. Organized by the online magazine 'Lo Scrittoio-Edizioni in rete' and 'Associazione Punto d'Incontro', it was supported by local authorities. The event showcased five years of Italian research in Hessdalen and the Norwegian academic context. Representatives from Østfold College (Bjørn Gitle Hauge, Leif Lervik) and the municipality of Ålen (Mayor Ivar Volden, Councilor Thor Stuedal) attended. Erling Strand, director of Project Hessdalen, sent a message expressing gratitude for the Italian researchers' contributions and the growing international scientific involvement.

Key presentations included reports on technological aspects of data collection, VLF and ULF radio research in the Hessdalen valley, and observational missions. Leif Lervik discussed the decline in scientific and technological university enrollments and highlighted the 'Campo della Scienza' (Field of Science) project at Østfold University College, which engages students in scientific research related to Hessdalen phenomena.

Flavio Gori presented research on VLF radio bands, noting that radio signals collected in previous missions showed interesting emissions. The article emphasizes the importance of continuous data collection in Hessdalen despite organizational and economic difficulties. Bjørn Gitle Hauge praised the Italian-Norwegian EMBLA team as the leading scientific group in this research area globally, suggesting they have enough experience to initiate a longer scientific campaign.

Looking Ahead

CIPH is planning future engagements, including the development of the ULFO (Ultra Low Frequency Observatory), which will be enhanced by ongoing research into radar and VLF data. Andrea Ghedi will join the team for this project. The development of a more portable radar with enhanced performance for detecting rapid luminosity variations is also underway. The committee has maintained a neutral stance on the explanatory hypotheses for Hessdalen phenomena, publishing research reports on its website and seeking funds from private sources.

Review: 'OVNIS - L'EVIDENCE' by Jean-Jacques Vélasco

This section reviews Jean-Jacques Vélasco's book 'OVNIS - L'EVIDENCE', co-authored by Nicolas Montigiani. The reviewer, Robert Alessandri, is highly critical of Vélasco's work, particularly his statistical analyses and conclusions. Vélasco, head of the French SEPRA, asserts that UFOs exist and that scientific proof is available. However, Alessandri disputes Vélasco's interpretation of data, including statistical analyses of UFO cases and their alleged correlation with nuclear tests. The review highlights several perceived errors in Vélasco's methodology, such as the selective use of data, the omission of 'empty years' in statistical curves, and the misinterpretation of evidence. Alessandri also criticizes Vélasco's handling of specific cases, like the Trans-en-Provence incident, and his dismissal of alternative explanations. The review suggests that Vélasco's conclusions are based on flawed reasoning and selective presentation of evidence, leading to an unconvincing argument for extraterrestrial visitation.

Alessandri also touches upon his long-standing conflict with Vélasco, stemming from Vélasco's accusations of defamation following the 1990 Belgian UFO wave incident. Vélasco had initiated legal action against Alessandri, which was upheld on appeal and in Cassation.

UFOs and the Cuban Context

Nico Conti's article explores the phenomenon of 'ghost lights' ('luci fantasma') in Cuba, linking them to local folklore and the 'Luz de Yara' legend. These luminous phenomena, reported for centuries, are often associated with the death of the indigenous chief Hatuey. The article contrasts the traditional understanding of these lights with modern UFO reports and the cultural context of Cuba, which has historically had restrictions on the free circulation of ideas. Despite the limited official information, UFO interest has persisted, often through clandestine channels.

The article recounts several historical and contemporary sightings in Cuba, including:

• Early sightings: Reports of luminous phenomena in the Hessdalen valley (Norway) and similar 'ghost lights' in various parts of the world.
• Cuban UFO cases: The article details several incidents, including a 1957 event where soldiers fired on a yellow, disc-shaped light, and the 1971 sighting of two large, reddish-yellow fireballs over Havana, identified as meteorological phenomena.
• 'Luz de Yara' Legend: This myth is deeply rooted in Cuban culture, particularly in the eastern provinces. It is often linked to the martyrdom of Chief Hatuey, with the light appearing as a symbol of freedom. Numerous testimonies describe the light's appearance, behavior (dividing, changing color, moving erratically), and its association with specific locations like Yara and Baracoa.
• Modern UFO reports: The article mentions a 1996 case where Cuban authorities 'declassified' a UFO landing report from 1995, involving footprints and burn marks. It also discusses a 1992 incident involving a bus driver who reported being followed by a luminous object.

The article highlights the difficulty in distinguishing between folklore, natural phenomena, and genuine UFO sightings in the Cuban context, noting that while the 'Luz de Yara' is a well-established legend, modern UFO reports are often treated separately.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly the Hessdalen Phenomena, and the exploration of UFO reports within cultural and historical contexts, such as Cuban folklore. The magazine advocates for a rigorous, scientific approach to understanding these phenomena, distinguishing it from myth and speculation. The critical review of Vélasco's book underscores the importance of sound statistical methodology in UFO research. The inclusion of Cuban cases highlights the global nature of UFO sightings and their integration into local traditions and beliefs. The editorial stance clearly favors empirical evidence and scientific rigor while acknowledging the enduring mystery and cultural significance of these events.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated July 2004, features a cover story titled "Leggende di guerra" (Legends of War) by Giuseppe Stilo, which investigates the true story behind alleged bomber shootdowns by UFOs. The magazine focuses on ufology and related phenomena, with articles examining historical cases, document analysis, and archival research.

"Fascist Files" Under Examination

The article "I 'files fascisti' sotto esame" (The 'Fascist files' Under Examination) by Massimiliano Grandi, with input from archivist Paola Carucci, critically analyzes documents purportedly from the 1930s related to alleged Nazi UFO projects. Grandi questions the authenticity and archival value of these materials, which were popularized by Roberto Pinotti and Alfredo Lissoni. Carucci, a former Superintendent of the State Central Archive, explains that for documents to be considered official, they must have a clear provenance, be accessible, and possess characteristics that prove their origin and integrity. She notes that the "Fascist files" often lack these qualities, appearing as anonymous photocopies rather than genuine state documents. The article highlights the difficulty in verifying claims when evidence is not readily available for independent study.

The Case of the Nazi Bombers

Giuseppe Stilo's main article, "Leggende di guerra," revisits claims of Nazi flying craft, particularly the "Feuerball," allegedly responsible for shooting down Allied bombers during World War II. Stilo traces these stories back to ufologist Renato Vesco, who published accounts in the 1950s and 1960s. Vesco's claims were based on information purportedly from a French diplomat and intelligence reports. Stilo, however, finds that Vesco's original sources might have been newspaper articles rather than classified documents, and that the alleged "secret" nature of these reports contrasts with their apparent circulation. The article also examines a specific telegram that was presented as evidence but, according to Carucci, lacks the characteristics of an official document.

Archival Integrity and UFO Research

Massimiliano Grandi's piece emphasizes the importance of rigorous archival standards in UFO research. He discusses the limitations of relying on photocopies and anonymous sources, and the need for transparency in presenting evidence. The article points out that even technical analyses, like the one conducted on the "Fascist files," are only meaningful if the methodology and findings are fully disclosed. The author stresses that without proper documentation and accessibility, claims remain speculative and cannot be scientifically corroborated.

Document Analysis and Expert Opinions

Paola Carucci's insights are crucial in evaluating the "Fascist files." She explains that while a document might be old, its status as an official record depends on its provenance and administrative context. She contrasts the alleged secrecy surrounding the "Fascist files" with the accessibility of actual government documents related to aerial sightings from the same period, which are found in public archives. The article also touches upon the technical examination of the documents, noting that a "perizia" (expert analysis) on the paper and ink only confirms age, not necessarily authenticity or official status.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and evidence-based approach to ufology. It highlights the importance of archival research, document verification, and expert analysis to distinguish between folklore, misinterpretations, and genuine unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensational claims lacking solid evidence, while remaining open to rigorous investigation of unexplained events. The issue underscores the challenges faced by researchers in obtaining and verifying information, particularly when dealing with potentially sensitive or classified historical material.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated November 1999 (Volume XXIX, Issue N. 177), published by UPIAR, focuses on historical UFO phenomena and related literature. The cover prominently features merchandise, specifically t-shirts illustrated by Giorgio Giorgi, with the headline "GLI UFO DA INDOSSARE LE MAGLIETTE ILLUSTRATE DI GIORGIO GIORGI". The magazine offers a special book promotion for CISU members, featuring titles on Italian and international UFO history.

Article: The Origin of 'Agente B.21' and the 'Phantom Rockets'

The lead article investigates the sensationalist reports of 'phantom rockets' during and after World War II, particularly those appearing in Italy. It traces the origin of these claims, which suggested German secret weapons like 'grisou' bombs and a 'radioplane,' to a pseudonymous newspaper series titled "Scrive l'agente segreto" published in the Venetian daily Gazzettino Sera under the byline "Agente B.21." The author reveals that this was not based on secret service documents but on a newspaper feuilleton. Through archival research, including a letter from Gastone Ventura to Vesco, it is confirmed that Ventura was the author of these articles. Ventura claimed his information came from Italian prisoners of war who had worked in German factories producing V1 and V2 rockets. He described the 'phantom rockets' as studies and experiments on models and linked them to the later 'flying saucers' phenomenon, starting with Kenneth Arnold's sighting in 1946.

The article highlights that Vesco cited Ventura's article in his own work without fully disclosing the source's nature. It also provides background on Gastone Ventura (1906-1981), describing him as a unique individual involved in esoteric circles and 'martinism' in the post-war period. For further context on these esoteric movements, the article recommends Massimo Introvigne's book "Il cappello del mago."

Book Reviews and Promotions

The magazine features several books by Giuseppe Stilo, published by Edizioni UPIAR, detailing UFO phenomena in specific years:

• L'alba di una nuova era (1946): Il fenomeno dei "razzi fantasma" in Italia e nel mondo (228 pages, 9 photos/illustrations, €14.00 / €11.20 for CISU members): This book covers the 1946 'phantom rocket' wave, presenting it as a precursor to the 'flying saucer' era.
• Scrutate i cieli! (1950): La grande ondata dei dischi volanti e la globalizzazione del fenomeno UFO (420 pages, 35 photos/illustrations, €21.69 / €17.35 for CISU members): This monumental work meticulously documents the 1950 global UFO wave, with a focus on Italy, detailing nearly 300 Italian reports and over 1,200 press articles.
• Ultimatum alla Terra (1952): i dischi volanti in Italia e nel mondo (542 pages, 39 illustrations, €27.89 / €22.31 for CISU members): This volume examines the 1952 UFO wave, including the emergence of close encounters of the third kind and famous photographs, and its role in shaping public perception of UFOs as an extraterrestrial event.

Additionally, the magazine promotes other UFO books:

• INTRUSI by Budd Hopkins (193 pages, €12.91 / €10.33 for CISU members)
• GLI UFO E LA SCIENZA by James McDonald (265 pages, €12.91 / €10.33 for CISU members)
• UFO IN ITALIA (Vol. III, 1955-1972) by AA.VV. (352 pages, €15.49 / €12.39 for CISU members)
• UFO IN ITALIA (1955-1972) by AA.VV. (193 pages, €12.91 / €10.33 for CISU members)
• LUCI NELLA NOTTE UFO: IL CASO ZANFRETTA by Rino Di Stefano (193 pages, €12.91 / €10.33 for CISU members)
• GLI UFO IN VISITA A SIENA by M. Bianchini and R. Cappelli (96 pages, €7.75 / €6.20 for CISU members)

UFO Merchandise

The magazine also advertises exclusive t-shirts designed by Giorgio Giorgi, featuring UFO-related artwork such as "GLI UFO NELLA MENTE," "AVVISATMENTI UFO N. 13," "UFO? YES!," and "UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECT." These t-shirts are available in various sizes and are offered at a discount for bulk purchases and CISU members.

Payment and Subscription Information

Readers are instructed to send payments for books and merchandise via postal money order or bank transfer to Cooperativa UPIAR in Torino. Special discounts are available for CISU members on book purchases. A significant discount is offered for purchasing five volumes from the special offer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on historical UFO research, emphasizing documented cases and providing in-depth analysis of specific periods and phenomena. There is a clear effort to distinguish between sensationalist reporting and factual investigation, as demonstrated by the debunking of the "Agente B.21" story. The editorial stance supports rigorous ufological research, as evidenced by the promotion of books by respected authors like Stilo, Hopkins, and McDonald, and the collaboration with organizations like CISU. The inclusion of UFO-themed art and merchandise suggests an aim to engage a broader audience interested in the UFO phenomenon beyond purely academic research.