UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 36

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Magazine, number 36, dated August 2008, is published by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) and focuses on "Credible Cases: New Insights for Research." The cover prominently features a futuristic depiction of Turin with flying saucers, highlighting the main articles: "Flying Saucers over Turin: The Afterville Project" and "Forum: The Complex Relationship Between Ufologists and Scientists." It also notes "Current Affairs: France, GEIPAN Opens to Private Researchers."

Editorial: "1978" Thirty Years Later

The editorial, written by Gian Paolo Grassino, reflects on the year 1978 as a pivotal moment in Italian ufology, marking the record year for sightings and media coverage. Grassino contrasts 1978 with the earlier 'annus mirabilis' of 1954, noting the shift in societal context and the increased media influence, including the impact of Steven Spielberg's film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind.' He highlights the vibrant period for ufological organizations, the rise of independent radio and TV, and the growing role of ufologists. The editorial also touches upon the decline of 'groupism' within ufology and the challenges of establishing a national UFO archive and fostering dialogue with science. It concludes by emphasizing the need for a new generation of ufologists.

Special Feature: 1947-2007 - Sixty Years of UFOs

This special section commemorates sixty years of UFO research, featuring several articles:

GEIPAN, the Official French Study Commission

Jacques Patenet, director of GEIPAN (Groupe d'Etude et d'Information des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés), discusses the organization's history and methodology. He explains the terminology used (OVNI, PAN) and the challenges of studying unidentified aerospace phenomena. GEIPAN, part of CNES (Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales), aims to provide objective answers, prevent panic, and contribute to national defense. Patenet details the structure of GEIPAN, including its independent steering committee and the collegium of experts, and outlines its communication strategy, which includes transparency and the publication of its archives online. He also discusses the difficulties in engaging the scientific community due to the topic's sensitive nature and the challenges in data utilization.

The GEIPAN Method: The "Tetrahedron" Schema

Philippe Besse, Alain Esterle, and Manuel Jimenez present the GEIPAN's epistemological model for studying UFO phenomena. They emphasize the need for an interdisciplinary and non-reductionist approach, criticizing superficial opinions and biased studies. The 'tetrahedron' model aims to analyze the witness, the phenomenon, the observation context, and the collected data to understand the complexity of UFO sightings. The article highlights the challenges of integrating scientific research into ufology and the importance of a rigorous methodology.

France Opens to Ufologists

This article details GEIPAN's initiative to create a network of volunteer collaborators across France. This move aims to improve rapid response to sightings and gather initial information from witnesses. The program includes training for volunteers and has already seen significant participation. This opening is seen as a significant shift for GEIPAN, which was previously criticized for its lack of transparency.

One Third of Americans Believe in UFOs

A survey by Associated Press and Ipsos reveals that 34% of Americans believe in UFOs, with 48% believing in the paranormal. While the percentage of UFO believers has decreased since 1978, it remains higher than those who believe President Bush's decision to invade Iraq was correct. The article also notes that 14% of Americans claim to have personally seen a UFO.

2007: How Many News Stories About UFOs?

An analysis of Italian newspaper clippings shows an increase in UFO-related articles in 2007, with 611 reports compared to 516 in the previous year. However, this number aligns with the average of the last five years, remaining significantly lower than the peak years of the 1990s.

A Look at the Newsstands

This section reviews recent ufological publications, including the French magazine 'Science et Inexpliqué' and the British magazine 'Alien Worlds.' It also discusses changes in the Italian ufological magazine market, specifically the editorial shifts at 'Area 51' and 'Notiziario Ufo.'

Spain and Uruguay: 50 Years of Activity

The article commemorates the 50th anniversaries of two historical ufological organizations: the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI) in Spain and the Centro de Investigación de Objetos Voladores Inidentificados (CIOVI) in Uruguay. It highlights their contributions to rational ufology, research, and archival efforts. The article notes the dissolution of CIOVI, with its members forming new groups focused on unusual aerial phenomena.

Forum: Ufologists vs. Scientists: A Complex Confrontation

This section features a discussion on the complex relationship between ufologists and scientists, exploring the challenges of integrating ufological research into mainstream scientific discourse.

CISU News

Updates from the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) include the launch of WIKIUFO, a regional catalog for Calabria, the acquisition of 'Crashcat' by Bianchini, and the release of two new books. The section also mentions the adherence to CISU's ethical code.

When "Flying Saucers" Invaded Turin

This article likely details specific UFO sightings or events related to Turin, possibly referencing the 'Afterville Project' mentioned on the cover.

CISU on the Internet

This section provides links to various CISU online resources, including their main website (cisu.org), a comprehensive UFO information portal (ufo.it), a site for study projects (ufodatanet.org), and a forum (wikiufo.org).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rational and scientific approach to ufology, emphasizing the importance of credible cases, rigorous research methodology, and interdisciplinary collaboration. It aims to inform the public and engage with the scientific community, while also documenting the history and evolution of UFO research. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking evidence-based understanding of the UFO phenomenon.

This special issue of "Rivista di Informazione Ufologica" (Ufological Information Magazine), dated August 2008, is dedicated to "SPECIALE 1947-2007 SESSANT'ANNI DI UFO" (Special 1947-2007 Sixty Years of UFOs). It features a prominent article titled "Fotocat, il catalogo mondiale delle foto di UFO" (Fotocat, the world catalog of UFO photos) by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, a renowned Spanish ufologist.

The Tetrahedon Model of UFO Research

The issue begins by exploring the scientific approach to studying UFOs, proposing a "tetrahedron" model. This model suggests that research should consider four interconnected observable elements: the witness, the testimony, the physical environment, and the socio-psychological environment. The UFO stimulus itself is considered the unobservable core, accessible only through the reflections of these four elements. The article emphasizes that a rigorous scientific approach requires integrating all these aspects, warning against simplistic or reductionist theories.

It highlights the difficulties in UFO research, including the risk of semi-causal correlations and the need to avoid isolating individual elements. The author, Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, advocates for a holistic approach, where partial studies are valuable only if they contribute to a broader synthetic reflection of the entire phenomenon.

Fotocat: A Global Catalog of UFO Photographs

The main focus of the issue is the "Fotocat" project, initiated by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos. Fotocat is a comprehensive database of UFO photographs and videos, aiming to collect and preserve photographic evidence of unidentified flying objects from around the world. Olmos explains that his interest in UFOs began in 1965, initially drawn to the aesthetic of UFO imagery rather than a belief in extraterrestrial craft. His involvement in the declassification of Spanish Air Force UFO archives led him to create Fotocat in 2000.

The project's objectives include gathering all photographic evidence, ensuring its preservation, and making it available to researchers for statistical analysis. The database currently contains over 8,500 cases and continues to grow. The article details the structure of the Fotocat database, which includes information on the date, location, description of the sighting, type of photographic format, and references.

Analysis of Famous UFO Photographs

The issue presents and analyzes several well-known UFO photographs, including:

• The Kenneth Arnold Sighting (1947): The article discusses Arnold's description of the objects and how it led to the term "flying saucer." It also mentions photographs taken shortly after in Pontiac, Michigan.
• The McMinville Disc (1950): Photographs taken by Paul Trent in Oregon are examined, with discussion of their authenticity and scientific analysis.
• The Sant'Anna Incident (1965): Three photographs taken by Rhett Afflin are presented, along with the debate surrounding their interpretation.
• The Cocoyoc Photos (1973): Images from Mexico showing a pear-shaped object are discussed.
• The Minnesota UFO (1965): A photograph taken in Minnesota is shown, with speculation about its nature.
• The Vancouver UFO (1981): A famous photograph from Canada, analyzed by researchers like Richard Haines and Jacques Vallee.

Identified Flying Objects (IFO) and Misidentifications

The article also dedicates a significant section to "Identified Flying Objects" (IFO) and common misidentifications. It explains how natural phenomena and human-made objects are frequently mistaken for UFOs:

• Balloons: Various types of balloons, including weather balloons, research balloons, and even toy balloons, are cited as common sources of misidentification.
• Meteors and Bolides: Luminous trails in the atmosphere from meteors and artificial satellites re-entering the atmosphere are often reported as UFOs.
• Rockets and Missiles: Launches of scientific rockets and military missiles can also create sightings that are initially unexplained.
• Atmospheric and Astronomical Phenomena: The planet Venus, known for its brightness, is frequently mistaken for a UFO.
• Photographic Artifacts: The article highlights how camera lenses, zoom effects, reflections, and digital camera artifacts (like insects or birds) can create misleading images.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Sightings

Giorgio Abraini contributes an analysis of UFO sightings in Italy from 1947 to 2007. The data for 2007 shows a normal number of sightings but a lower number of "flap" events (multiple sightings in a short period). The geographical distribution indicates that Northern Italy continues to have the highest number of reports, although Lombardy's numbers have decreased. The summer months (June-September) show an increase in sightings, with May being particularly significant.

The analysis also notes a decrease in para-ufological cases (events that can be explained by known phenomena) compared to previous years. The article touches upon the early appearance of crop circles in 2007, with a trend towards earlier formations, and a general decrease in the number of crop circle reports over the years.

Conclusion: UFOs as Contemporary Myths?

Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos concludes by reflecting on the nature of UFOs. He acknowledges the vast number of documented sightings throughout history. However, he proposes that many UFO sightings might be a form of "contemporary myth" – a reflection of our collective consciousness, fears, and knowledge. He suggests that while the existence of unexplained phenomena (UFOs) is undeniable, the specific phenomenon of "flying saucers" as commonly depicted might be a product of cultural interpretation and the human tendency to seek explanations within existing frameworks. He emphasizes the importance of studying the mechanisms by which people interpret extraordinary aerial phenomena, regardless of their ultimate cause.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a rigorous, scientific, and analytical approach to the UFO phenomenon. It promotes the integration of multiple disciplines and methodologies for research. The editorial stance is critical and evidence-based, aiming to distinguish between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes. The issue champions the importance of cataloging and preserving evidence, as exemplified by the "Fotocat" project, and encourages further research into the psychological and sociological aspects of UFO sightings.

This issue of "Casistica" (August 2008, issue 36) is a publication focused on ufology, presenting a detailed analysis of UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings and related research. The magazine features statistical data, case studies, and theoretical discussions on the phenomenon.

Statistical Analysis of 2007 Sightings

The issue begins with a statistical overview of UAP sightings in 2007, noting that the distribution of sightings was largely as expected. A significant trend observed is the increase in cases involving photos and videos, with photos representing over 18% and videos over 9% of the total. This trend has been ongoing for several years. The proportion of 'para-ufological' photos and videos has decreased, returning to about one-third of the total compared to half in previous years. Ufological centers remain the primary collectors of reports, with CISU and CUN accounting for half of all collected data. Press and internet reports have seen a slight decrease but remain at similar levels to previous years. The use of questionnaires with reports has increased, aiding data collection. Regarding the identification of events, meteoritic bodies appear to be decreasing, while other celestial bodies (planets, stars) are increasing. For the first time, data based on Jacques Vallée's classification system is presented, showing that 40% of sightings are 'fly-bys,' nearly 30% are 'anomalies,' and 14% are 'complex maneuvers.' UFO movement is reported in about half of the sightings, predominantly continuous movement, with a minority of stationary lights or discontinuous movement. Weather conditions are noted in about 25% of cases, usually described as clear, with occasional cloudiness.

Interesting Sightings of 2007

The magazine then details several notable UAP sightings from 2007:

• Rossano (CS) - February 5: A witness in a car with her children observed two lights that alternated between white and red. The lights approached rapidly, appearing as a metallic, dark 'half-egg' shape. The object then ascended and moved away.
• Zero Branco (TV) - March 4: A witness observed flashing red and blue lights while driving. The object was elliptical and moved erratically without noise.
• Turin (TO) - March 30: Two people in a park heard a noise and saw a luminous point descend rapidly. They then observed a small entity, about a meter tall, with a large head and slender body, emitting a high-pitched sound.
• Carrara (MS)/Sarzana (SP) - July 19: Two witnesses observed a red point of light that moved horizontally, split into two, and descended rapidly near the highway. Lights then appeared on the underside of the object, projecting beams downwards.
• Vigolzone (PC) - August 11: A witness observed a grayish, circular object with petal-like protuberances moving vertically and oscillating, accompanied by a slight rustling sound.
• Piacenza and Gossolengo (PC) - November 6: A witness observed an orange light that turned out to be an object. The car and mobile phone of the witness, as well as another approaching car, lost power. The object then ascended rapidly towards Genoa.
• Piacenza (PC) - November 14: A witness observed a luminous sphere that moved upwards with acceleration, then descended and returned to its original position. The object appeared disc-shaped with yellow luminous 'casements' that intermittently lit up.
• Petacciato (CB)/Termoli (CB) - November 25: Two witnesses observed an orange, inverted-dish-shaped object that silently passed them, followed by three or four similar objects arranged in a triangle.

The First Quarter of 2008

The beginning of 2008 was characterized by a high number of sightings in January (43), the highest since 2005, though a quarter were para-ufological. February saw a decrease to 24 sightings, despite a flap caused by a bolide. March showed an increase to 36 sightings, the highest since 2002, partly due to two bolides observed in Northern Italy.

In-depth Article: Building on Solid Foundations - The Challenge of UAP

Giuseppe Stilo's article discusses the challenges in UAP research, arguing against viewing UAP as isolated events. He critiques the 'event' approach and advocates for a more instrumental approach, though notes its limited practice. Stilo suggests that the public's interest in UFOs has become part of a broader neo-gnostic belief system, making it difficult to engage with the phenomenon scientifically. He dismisses the idea of a qualitative decline in UAP reports, attributing the perceived lack of scientific utility to the lack of rigorous analysis by enthusiasts. Stilo calls for a shift towards qualitative analysis and a more serious engagement with the phenomena themselves, rather than just the testimonies. He criticizes the current state of 'serious ufology' for its lack of structured investigations and the scientific community's disinterest.

Case Study: The O'Hare Airport Incident

This section details the O'Hare International Airport incident of November 7, 2006, based on a report by NARCAP. Multiple witnesses, primarily airport personnel, described an oval, metallic object, about two to three meters in diameter, hovering over airport buildings before accelerating upwards and disappearing into the clouds, leaving a visible 'hole.' The report analyzes witness testimonies, object characteristics (shape, color, size, behavior), and potential explanations, ruling out conventional aircraft, balloons, or atmospheric phenomena. The study highlights the inadequacy of radar detection and the potential energy output of the object, suggesting it might have involved electromagnetic radiation or plasma. The analysis concludes that the object was an unidentified aerial phenomenon and that the FAA's response was inadequate.

Case Study: The Osaka Video Footage

This section analyzes a video recorded on October 23, 2004, near Osaka, Japan, by Kiyoshi Amamiya. The footage shows a small, silent, luminous object (yellow-orange-white) near a commercial airplane. The analysis, also conducted by NARCAP, examines the object's dimensions, angular size, distance, intensity, and spectral characteristics. It notes the presence of dark areas above and below the central luminous part of the object and suggests the object might have emitted infrared radiation, making it invisible to the naked eye. The report concludes that the UAP was likely in front of the airplane from the camera's perspective and that its disappearance was due to a reduction in energy emission rather than distance.

The 'Hole in the Clouds' Phenomenon

This section delves into the 'hole in the clouds' phenomenon observed during the O'Hare incident. It discusses the physical implications of an object passing through clouds, causing a clear, delineated hole. The analysis explores potential explanations, including the Bergeron-Findeisen process (ice crystal formation) and evaporative processes, concluding that neither fully explains the observed effect. The energy required for such an effect is calculated, suggesting a significant energy output from the UAP, possibly through electromagnetic radiation or subatomic particles.

Possible Radar Detections

The O'Hare case study includes an examination of whether the UAP could have been detected by the airport's radar systems. While some radar data was analyzed, limitations in resolution and data processing made definitive conclusions difficult. The report suggests that the UAP's characteristics, such as its potential plasma sheath, might have reduced its radar reflectivity.

Attempts at Explanation

Various explanations for the O'Hare incident are discussed and largely dismissed, including anomalous weather conditions, weather balloons, and conventional aircraft. The article emphasizes the object's prolonged hovering and rapid ascent as inconsistent with these explanations.

NARCAP's Conclusions

NARCAP concluded that the O'Hare incident involved an unknown physical object of several meters in diameter that hovered for at least ten minutes. They found that the object was likely not clearly detected by radar due to limitations. The potential energy output of the UAP suggested a possible threat to air traffic safety. NARCAP hopes the report will encourage independent investigations into UAP detection capabilities.

The Case of the Osaka Video

This section details the analysis of the Osaka video, focusing on the UAP's characteristics. The object appeared to be about 1.5 meters in size and maintained a constant angular velocity. The analysis suggests the UAP might have emitted infrared radiation, making it invisible to the naked eye. The report concludes that the UAP was an unidentified aerial phenomenon and its presence posed a potential risk to air traffic.

The Case of the 'Red-Eye' Exercise in Spain

This section briefly mentions a third UAP observation related to the 'Red-Eye' exercise in Spain, referencing an article from "Más Allá de la Ciencia."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the statistical analysis of UAP sightings, in-depth case studies of significant events (O'Hare, Osaka), and the challenges of scientific investigation in ufology. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a more rigorous, data-driven, and scientific approach to understanding UAP, moving beyond anecdotal evidence and embracing instrumental analysis. There is a clear emphasis on the need for scientific institutions to take the phenomenon more seriously and for researchers to adopt more sophisticated methodologies.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated August 2008 (Issue 36), focuses on the complex relationship between ufology and science, featuring an in-depth account of a significant UFO sighting by Spanish Air Force pilots in 1970. The magazine also includes reviews of recent books on the subject and discussions on research methodologies.

The 1970 Spanish Air Force Encounter

The lead article details a remarkable incident that occurred on November 4, 1970, during a Spanish Air Force air defense exercise named "Red-Eye." Two F-86F Sabre pilots, Captain Alfonso Saez-Benito Toledo and Lieutenant Luis Carbayo Olivares, were on patrol when radar detected an unknown track moving at unusual speeds and altitudes. Despite multiple attempts to intercept, the object evaded them. The pilots described it as a metallic object exhibiting rapid, erratic maneuvers, including vertical ascents and descents at high speeds. The radar data corroborated the pilots' observations, indicating rapid altitude changes between 3,050 and 12,200 meters. The object was also described as having a diameter of approximately 25 meters and a metallic, oval, or egg-like shape with a crest.

The encounter lasted for about 55 kilometers, with the object maintaining a distance of 4,000 to 6,000 meters from the Sabre jets. The pilots reported no interference with their aircraft's systems. The case was later reported to the CEI (Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios) by Lieutenant Carbayo, who provided a drawing of the object. The article notes that while Carbayo's initial account was detailed, later retellings by Saez-Benito, 19 years later, showed some embellishments.

Ufology vs. Science: A Complex Confrontation

Another significant section of the magazine addresses the often-contentious relationship between ufologists and the scientific community. It acknowledges that while some scientists have engaged constructively with UFO research, many remain skeptical, often relying on preconceived notions and superficial analyses. The article criticizes ufologists for sometimes adopting an adversarial stance towards science, presenting sensationalist information, and lacking rigorous methodology. However, it also warns against dismissing the entirety of UFO research, which includes thousands of cases, numerous testimonies, and extensive studies, as mere "nonsense."

The text highlights historical attempts to bridge the gap, such as J. Allen Hynek's "Invisible College" in the 1960s and the ongoing GEIPAN project in France, which employs a multidisciplinary approach and field investigations. The article emphasizes the importance of a serious, open-minded approach to UFO phenomena, free from preconceptions and prejudices, and calls for mutual appreciation between ufologists and scientists.

Book Reviews

The issue features several book reviews:

• "Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés, Un Défi à la Science" (Aerospace Unidentified Phenomena, A Challenge to Science), edited by Yves Sillard. This book, a collection of contributions, is presented as a significant effort to address UFOs within a scientific framework, particularly in France. It covers various aspects, including pilot testimonies, the social impact of the phenomenon, and potential technological advancements derived from UFO research.

• "The Flying Saucers. A Social History of UFOlogy" by David Clarke and Andy Roberts. This book is reviewed as a well-documented social history of British ufology from the 1940s to the 1970s. It examines the cultural and mythological dimensions of the UFO phenomenon, focusing on the eccentric figures and extreme opinions that characterized early ufology. The review suggests that while the book provides a good overview of the social aspects, it may not fully capture the scientific core of the phenomenon.

• "Storia ufologica della Toscana" (Ufological History of Tuscany) by Marco Bianchini. This work is presented as a history of ufology in the Tuscany region of Italy, focusing on the ufologists, researchers, and groups who have contributed to the field. It details the rise and fall of "gruppismo" (groupism) in the 1970s, a movement that involved the formation of numerous small UFO research groups, often coordinated by ufological magazines.

• "USOCAT" by Marco Bianchini. This is a review of an updated catalog of submerged unidentified objects, detailing over 250 Italian cases with summaries, sources, and evaluations.

Other Sections

The magazine also includes a section titled "TECNOLOGI ED INGEGNERI: UN SONDAGGIO MISCONOSCIUTO" (Technologists and Engineers: A Misunderstood Survey), which discusses a survey conducted in the US in the late 1970s and early 1980s to gauge the perceptions of engineers and scientists regarding unexplained aerial phenomena. It also introduces a questionnaire designed for astronomers and astrophysicists to gather systematic data on UAP sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the challenges of integrating ufology with scientific inquiry, and the historical evolution of UFO research. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach to studying UFOs, encouraging collaboration between ufologists and scientists while acknowledging the complexity and mystery of the subject. There is a clear emphasis on the need for accurate data collection, methodological soundness, and a balanced perspective that avoids both excessive skepticism and unsubstantiated claims.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated August 2008 (Issue 36), focuses heavily on the "Afterville" project in Turin, Italy. The project explores the concept of UFOs as symbols and icons within architecture, urbanism, and science fiction. The magazine also features discussions on the scientific and cultural interpretations of UFO phenomena, updates from the Italian Center for Ufological Studies (CISU), and reviews of new books and resources.

Forum: Debates and Perspectives

The "Forum" section opens with a critical review by Luigi Prestinenzo of the book "Marte: Tra Storia e Leggenda," which he argues dismisses UFOs by focusing solely on 'contactees' and sensationalist accounts. Prestinenzo contends that a rigorous scientific approach is necessary to analyze UFO sightings, rather than dismissing them outright. He criticizes the tendency to focus on the more outlandish aspects of ufology, such as alien encounters and government conspiracies.

Giuseppe Stilo responds to Prestinenzo's critique, emphasizing that the conviction of those who study UFOs is that there are approaches and methods to understand unidentified aerial phenomena. Stilo highlights the potential for these phenomena to indicate unknown processes and mechanisms in physics, possibly related to extra-atmospheric particles and the Earth's magnetic field. He announces an upcoming conference in Saint Vincent (Aosta) organized by CISU, where he will present his work on collecting and evaluating sightings of unidentified aerial phenomena from around the world since the 17th century, having cataloged approximately 850 cases, 125 of which occurred in Italy.

Prestinenza, in his subsequent response, acknowledges the persistence of ideological barriers but notes the progress in ufology, with researchers now seeking rational explanations for sightings, a shift from earlier sensationalist claims. He points out that while the 'paranormal' aspect has decreased, the underlying phenomenon still warrants investigation.

Raffaele Morelli, a psychiatrist and media personality, is featured with an article titled "UFOs are seen when religions no longer provide answers, about man and life." Morelli suggests that UFO sightings in Italy are increasing during times of crisis, reflecting a desire for superiority and a need for cosmic connection. He posits that UFOs are projections and desires, and that the growth of paranormal research parallels the obsolescence of traditional religions. Morelli argues that UFOs are harmful illusions that prevent people from seeing the true wonders of reality, such as flowers blooming and butterflies flying. He believes that true fulfillment lies in appreciating the present world and utilizing inner resources, rather than seeking extraterrestrial salvation.

The magazine critiques Morelli's perspective, noting that while physical sciences face challenges in understanding UFOs, human sciences also have much to explore. The article points out that Morelli's views on UFOs as projections are dated, referencing Carl Gustav Jung's work. It also questions the link between UFO sightings and social crises, citing the lack of increased sightings after major global events like 9/11.

CISU Initiatives and Resources

Several sections are dedicated to the activities and resources of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU).

WIKIUFO: A New Online Encyclopedia

CISU has launched "WIKIUFO," an online encyclopedia in Italian based on Wikipedia standards, dedicated to UFOs and ufology. Coordinated by Giuseppe Stilo and Maurizio Verga, it aims to provide systematic, reliable, and documented information on the complex phenomenon of UFOs, using rational approaches grounded in scientific disciplines, common sense, and experience. The project is collaborative, involving Italian ufologists with extensive experience and access to archives. WIKIUFO seeks to distinguish between the scientific challenges posed by UFO phenomena and the mythological aspects that often surround them, making the subject accessible to both the general public and the scientific community. The encyclopedia is continuously evolving and encourages contributions.

Forum and FAQ

Alongside WIKIUFO, CISU has also launched a public forum (www.wikiufo.org/forumita) where users can post and comment on news and information related to UFOs and ufology. A FAQ section is also being developed to provide standard answers to common questions.

Regional Catalog of Sightings

The "Catalogo Regionale della Calabria" (Regional Catalog of Calabria) has been published as part of the "Documenti UFO" series. Curated by Pietro Torre, it details sightings in the Calabria region, which has historically been less active in ufological research. The catalog contains 454 cases and is available for purchase.

New Books on UFO Phenomena

Two new books are announced, commemorating the 30th anniversary of the 1978 UFO wave:

• "Alessandria 1978 - Allarme UFO" by Paolo Toselli, which recounts the wave of sightings, landings, and traces in the Piedmont province.
• "UFO: luci e ombre sul caso Faralli" by Marco Bianchini, a monograph on a close encounter of the third kind in Torrita di Siena.

Ethical Code Adoption

CISU has adopted the Code of Ethics for ufological research, originally developed in Great Britain and previously adopted by BUFORA and UFOIN. This code aims to provide a deontological framework for ufological activities.

CISU Publications

Information is provided on two key CISU publications:

• "BIBLIOCAT": The third complete edition of the catalog of Italian ufological and paraufological bibliography up to 2003, containing approximately 3,000 entries.
• "AIRCAT": An updated catalog of sightings by pilots and UFO-aircraft interactions, now listing 416 cases.

Afterville: When Flying Saucers Invaded Turin

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to "Afterville," a project in Turin that uses UFOs as a symbol and icon to explore architecture, urbanism, and science fiction. The project, curated by the FOAT (Foundation of the Order of Architects of Turin), includes exhibitions, events, and a science fiction film.

Project Concept and Scope

"Afterville" aims to highlight the experimental aspects of architecture and urbanism by drawing inspiration from science fiction. The UFO is used as a background icon and cultural reference, representing the city of tomorrow. The project encompasses various events and exhibitions throughout 2007 and 2008, envisioning a future city that is imaginative, excessive, and sometimes unsettling.

Events and Exhibitions

The "Afterville" project featured a range of events, including:

• A film, which is central to the project's interest.
• Exhibitions, including an original video installation in Turin's subway stations, exploring the relationship between science fiction and architectural design.
• A concert by the avant-rock group "Larsen" at the Mole Antonelliana, accompanied by visuals from science fiction films.
• The "Turin Spaceship Company" exhibition at the International Museum of Applied Arts Today, designed by Enzo Biffi Gentili.

The Film "Afterville: The Movie"

The film "Afterville: The Movie," a 27-minute medium-length film by Fabio Guaglione and Fabio Resinaro (Fabio&Fabio), is a key component of the project. Set in Turin in 2058, it depicts a future where massive, stone-like alien spacecraft, dubbed "Le Rocce" (The Rocks), have become integrated into the city's landscape and culture. The film explores themes of acceptance, adaptation, and the symbolic meaning of these alien structures.

Cultural and Architectural References

The "Afterville" project draws heavily on cultural and architectural references. The concept of UFOs as architectural elements that can alter urban landscapes and societal perceptions is explored. The film's narrative, which involves a countdown to a mysterious event, is influenced by the symbolic monolith in "2001: A Space Odyssey" and the idea of alien structures as potentially dangerous but also transformative.

Design and Symbolism

The design of the "Rocks" in the film is inspired by clock mechanisms and the idea of time passing. The project emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between Earth's architecture and celestial structures, drawing parallels to myths like Babel. The UFO is presented as a symbol of diversity, a means of escape, a mystical hope, and ultimately, a catalyst for social change through architecture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rational and scientific approach to ufology, while acknowledging the cultural and symbolic significance of UFO phenomena. There's a clear effort to distinguish between sensationalist claims and serious research. The "Afterville" project serves as a prime example of how UFOs can be explored through art, architecture, and film, prompting reflection on society, technology, and the future. The editorial stance favors rigorous investigation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the dissemination of well-documented information, while also recognizing the imaginative and symbolic power of the UFO in popular culture.

This issue of 'AfterVille' magazine primarily serves as a promotional piece for the science fiction film of the same name, alongside reviews and advertisements for books on UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features imagery from the film, set in Turin, Italy, with headlines hinting at alien arrivals and future scenarios.

Film Promotion: AfterVille

The magazine showcases the film 'AfterVille,' which is set in Turin. The cover story highlights the arrival of mysterious alien spaceships in Turin in 2008. Other images depict the city in 2058, where large alien structures, referred to as 'Rocce,' are integrated into the urban landscape alongside futuristic skyscrapers. The narrative suggests a countdown to an event, perceived as either a catastrophe or an optimistic future, culminating in the mysterious departure of the colossal alien ships.

Book Reviews and Promotions

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to promoting books by Giuseppe Stilo, focusing on historical UFO waves. These books, published by Edizioni UPIAR, cover specific years and phenomena:

• 'Il quinto cavaliere dell'Apocalisse': This volume, the first of three parts concerning 1954, details the large wave of UFO sightings and the associated 'entity' phenomena that occurred in Italy and other countries, particularly from mid-September to the end of October 1954. It notes over 1000 sightings in Italy during that year.
• 'Ultimatum alla Terra': This book focuses on the 1952 UFO wave, with Stilo having examined 1800 news articles and reports. It covers Italian and foreign events from that year, noting the appearance of close encounters of the third kind and early UFO photographs.
• 'Scrutate i cieli!': This volume documents the 1950 global wave of UFO sightings, presenting an organized reconstruction of the event based on extensive research, including nearly 300 Italian reports and over 1200 published articles.
• 'L'alba di una nuova era': This book covers the 1946 phenomenon of 'ghost rockets,' which were observed across Europe, including Italy, preceding the more widespread 'flying saucers' reports.

Exclusive offers for CISU members are provided for these books, with discounts available for direct home delivery.

Merchandise

The magazine also features a section titled 'GLI UFO DA INDOSSARE' (UFOs to Wear), showcasing t-shirts designed by Giorgio Giorgi. These exclusive t-shirts feature various UFO-related illustrations and themes, such as 'Gli UFO nella Mente,' 'Avvistamenti UFO,' 'UFO? YES!', and 'Unidentified Flying Objects.' Pricing and bulk purchase discounts are listed, along with payment instructions for Cooperativa UPIAR and Sanpaolo IMI bank.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a fascination with UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena, bridging fictional narratives with historical research. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO sightings, as evidenced by the detailed historical documentation presented in Giuseppe Stilo's books. The promotion of the 'AfterVille' film suggests an interest in exploring these themes through various media. The inclusion of merchandise further indicates a desire to engage a community interested in UFO culture.