UFO Rivista di Informazione Ufologica - No 37

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO - Rivista di Informazione Ufologica, number 37, dated September 2009, is published by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) and edited by Edoardo Russo, Giuseppe Stilo, and Paolo Toselli. The cover headline, "Gli UFO davanti all'obiettivo: prove concrete o falsi clamorosi?" (UFOs Before the Lens: Concrete Proof or Sensational Hoaxes?), sets the tone for a deep dive into photographic evidence and its interpretation. The issue also features articles on UFOs over the Channel Islands, updates on case files, reviews, and ongoing projects.

Editorial: The Possible Future of UFO Magazines

In his editorial, Edoardo Russo addresses the critical state of UFO publications worldwide. He notes a significant decline in the number of active UFO magazines, from over 200 fifteen years ago to fewer than 60 in 2009, with nearly 20 ceasing publication in the preceding two years. Russo attributes this trend primarily to the rise of the internet, which offers lower costs and wider reach for online content like websites, newsletters, and blogs, making traditional print publications less competitive. He observes that younger generations are more inclined to consume information online, leaving less of a trace than previous generations who might have produced fanzines. While acknowledging the accessibility of online information, Russo points out the potential for superficiality and the difficulty in verifying its reliability. He argues that this shift negatively impacts ufology itself, potentially losing a generation of serious researchers to sensationalism or passive online consumption. Russo welcomes initiatives that coordinate serious, documented UFO publications to foster new researchers.

New Director for Our Magazine

This issue marks the appointment of Danilo Arona as the new director of UFO - Rivista di Informazione Ufologica, succeeding Gianni Settimo. Settimo, who served as director for twenty years and was a driving force behind CISU, is retiring from the role. The article pays tribute to Settimo's significant contributions to Italian ufology, highlighting his early involvement in UFO groups, his role in founding CISU, his critical approach to ufology, and his extensive work in collecting ufological literature and focusing on 'Fortian' phenomena. Danilo Arona, born in 1950, is described as a philosopher, journalist, writer, musician, and critic with a passion for 'stories on the edge of reality.' His extensive work includes numerous articles in various publications and several books on film and the occult. Arona has a long-standing connection with ufology and CISU, having collaborated with the organization for decades. Gian Paolo Grassino will serve as the liaison between the editorial direction and the editorial staff, ensuring continuity.

Article: Unusual Phenomena Over the Channel Islands

This detailed article, authored by Jean-François Baure, David Clarke, Paul Fuller, and Martin Shough, investigates two luminous objects observed by pilots and passengers of civilian aircraft over the Channel Islands on April 23, 2007. The investigation involved analyzing radio communications, radar data, official documents, and witness interviews. The authors state that while widespread media reports of enormous phenomena detected by radar were often speculative, they could not definitively identify the observed UAPs. They suggest two main possibilities: a rare atmospheric-optical effect or a seismic precursor. The article meticulously reconstructs the sighting by Captain Raymond Anthony Bowyer of an Aurigny Airline Trislander. Bowyer observed a brilliant, cigar-shaped object with a grey-graphite band, which he initially mistook for a reflection from greenhouses. The object, designated UAP #1, was later joined by a second, similar object (UAP #2). The observations were corroborated by air traffic control radar, which detected a faint primary contact. Passengers also witnessed the objects, describing them as brilliant, elongated ovals. The article also includes testimony from Captain Patrick Patterson of Blue Islands Airways, who observed a similar object. The investigation explored various hypotheses, including solar reflections from greenhouses and seismic lights (EQL), but found them to be only 'plausible' rather than certain. The authors highlight the unusual lateral movement of the objects, which challenges conventional atmospheric explanations. They conclude that while conventional explanations are difficult to apply, the evidence, particularly the self-consistency of the observed geometry and the witnesses' descriptions, warrants further consideration.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on "UFOs and the Internet," discussing the challenges and future of UFO publications in the digital age. There's a report on "2008, the Second Quarter," and an article titled "A Hot Reggiana Summer," detailing sightings in that region. "An Ondata in all of Italy. Record of Sightings in Campania" covers a surge in reports. The "CISU News" section provides updates on the organization's activities, including a 30-year retrospective on UFO research in Turin, a new project on UFOs and security guards, and information on the "Crashcat" publication. It also mentions the growth of CISU archives and a new monograph on crop circles. The issue concludes with a piece titled "Ultimatum Reloaded," which revisits the film "Ultimatum alla Terra" and discusses a UFO sighting at the White House, and an article on a 1952 flying disc landing in Italy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UFO evidence, the challenges faced by traditional ufological publications, and the exploration of potential explanations for sightings, ranging from atmospheric phenomena to seismic activity. The editorial stance, as expressed by Edoardo Russo, emphasizes a serious, documented, and critical approach to ufology, advocating for the preservation of rigorous research methods in the face of sensationalism and the digital information overload. The magazine aims to foster a new generation of researchers by providing in-depth analysis and encouraging a thoughtful engagement with the subject matter.

Title: UFO-AEREI
Issue: N. 37
Date: September 2009
Publisher: UPIAR
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
ISSN: 1120-6105
Cover Headline: Foto dalla Sicilia (Photos from Sicily)

This issue of UFO-AEREI, specifically issue number 37 from September 2009, focuses heavily on the critical analysis of photographic evidence related to UFO sightings, with a particular emphasis on cases from Sicily. The magazine aims to dissect purported UFO photos, scrutinizing their authenticity and proposing rational explanations, often highlighting how seemingly extraordinary images can be attributed to natural phenomena, photographic errors, or even hoaxes.

Article: Foto dalla Sicilia (Photos from Sicily)

This extensive article, authored by Pietro Torre and Paolo Bertotti, re-examines several photographic cases that have been presented as evidence of UFOs. The authors' primary goal is to demonstrate how rigorous scientific analysis can often demystify these images, revealing them to be the result of errors or misinterpretations rather than genuine extraterrestrial encounters.

The "Beautiful Disco" Case (Messina, 1950)

The article begins with a case from Messina in 1950, where a photographer, Giulio D'Anna, captured an image of what appeared to be a "flying disc" above the head of a distinguished literary critic. The editor was initially thrilled, believing he had found extraordinary proof. However, the photo remained hidden for years until a group of ufologists rediscovered it. The analysis suggests that the "disc" was likely a reflection of the sun within the camera lens, a phenomenon that can occur under specific lighting conditions, especially when the sun is high in the sky. The authors conclude that while the photo itself is genuine, its interpretation as a UFO is highly improbable.

An Alien Among the Bushes (Acireale, 1972)

Another case analyzed is a photograph from Acireale, Sicily, dating back to March 1972. The image, discovered in a family album, allegedly depicts an "alien" figure. The analysis, conducted by photographic expert Paolo Bertotti, suggests that the "alien" is a result of a double exposure. The photographer likely took a second picture without advancing the film, accidentally capturing a passerby in the background. The strange "ears" and "claws" are explained as a play of light and shadow from the foliage, combined with the superimposed image of the second exposure.

The Elusive Mirage (Messina, 1999)

This section discusses a photograph taken in Messina in January 1999, which appeared to show a "double moon" during a "blue moon" event. The photographer, an amateur, captured the image using a tripod and anti-reflection system. The article explains that the "double moon" is a result of atmospheric mirages, specifically the "Fata Morgana" phenomenon, which is known to occur in the Strait of Messina. The mirage can create distorted and duplicated images of celestial bodies. The expert analysis confirms that the phenomenon is optical and not indicative of an actual second celestial object.

Presumed Apparitions and Mariphanic Clouds (Linguaglossa, CT, 2000)

Photographs taken in the woods of Linguaglossa, Sicily, in April 2000, are presented as potential UFO sightings. These images, taken during a gathering for a stigmatized visionary, Salvatore Marchese, allegedly show "mariphanic clouds" that some interpreted as religious figures or a "cigar"-shaped object. The photographer, a professional, dismisses these interpretations, suggesting that the luminous effects are merely lens flares or reflections, and the "cigar" is likely a small insect caught in flight.

Photos, Risky Evidence

This concluding section of the "UFO E FOTO" series summarizes the common errors and misinterpretations found in UFO photography. The authors list several recurring issues: reflections of the sun and moon, accidental double exposures, misinterpretations of natural phenomena due to suggestion, and the identification of insects or birds as UFOs. While acknowledging that not all UFO photos can be explained away, the article emphasizes the need for critical analysis and warns against abandoning rational inquiry in favor of sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. The authors stress that despite the allure of photographic evidence, no UFO photograph has yet withstood rigorous scientific scrutiny.

Article: UFO, chickens, and surprises

This article, by Paolo Toselli, focuses on the case of a photograph taken at Punta Raisi, near Palermo, Sicily, in September 2006. Initially presented as a "clear proof" of a UFO by the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN), the image quickly became a subject of intense debate.

The Punta Raisi Case: From "Proof" to Sensational Falsehood?

The photograph, taken by civilian pilot Vincenzo Garofalo, depicts a peculiar object with a distinctive shape. The article highlights the striking resemblance of this object to a toy spaceship from the animated movie "Chicken Little," produced by Walt Disney Pictures and released in late 2005. This similarity sparked a heated debate online, with some defending the photo's authenticity and others denouncing it as a deliberate hoax.

The author notes that the case gained traction through various media outlets, including the newspaper "La Repubblica" and the magazine "Corriere della Sera Magazine." However, the initial reports lacked crucial details, such as the witness's identity and the exact circumstances of the sighting. The CUN initially claimed that "experts" had certified the photo's authenticity, but failed to provide details about the experts or their methodology.

The "Chicken Little" Connection

Paolo Toselli's investigation reveals that the object in the Punta Raisi photo is virtually identical to a toy spaceship included as a surprise in Kinder eggs, a promotional tie-in with the "Chicken Little" movie. This discovery led to widespread skepticism about the photo's authenticity.

Television Appearance and Further Analysis

In March 2009, Vincenzo Garofalo appeared on the Italian television program "Insieme sul Due" to discuss the case. He presented additional photos and reiterated his belief in the object's unusual nature. However, the article points out inconsistencies in his account and the photographic data, such as the time gaps between shots and the object's position in the frame.

The article also references the analysis conducted by Marco Peruzzi of the Sassalbo Project, who also concluded that the object was likely a toy. The author contrasts this with the CUN's stance, which maintained the "unidentified object" hypothesis, and notes that the CUN had allegedly been aware of the toy connection early on but chose not to publicize it.

The "English Photo" and Other Comparisons

The article briefly touches upon other cases cited as similar to the Punta Raisi photo, including a drawing from China and a photograph from England. However, the author finds these comparisons unconvincing, arguing that the alleged similarities are superficial or based on inaccurate information. The English photo, in particular, is described as having a different shape and lacking the characteristic "pagoda" profile seen in the Punta Raisi image.

Conclusion on Punta Raisi

The article concludes that the Punta Raisi photograph, despite initial claims of authenticity, is most likely a misidentification of a toy. The author criticizes the sensationalism surrounding the case and emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific investigation in ufology, warning against the proliferation of unsubstantiated claims and the abandonment of critical thinking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the critical examination of UFO evidence, particularly photographic evidence. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet open-minded stance, encouraging readers to approach UFO claims with a discerning eye. It highlights the prevalence of misidentifications, natural phenomena, and photographic errors in purported UFO sightings. The editorial stance clearly favors rational explanations and scientific methodology over sensationalism and unsubstantiated beliefs. The articles consistently advocate for thorough investigation, data sharing, and a critical approach to interpreting visual evidence, cautioning against jumping to extraordinary conclusions without sufficient proof. The magazine also implicitly criticizes the tendency of some ufologists to accept evidence uncritically and to promote unsubstantiated theories.

This issue of "Rivista di Informazione Ufologica" (UFO Magazine), number 37, dated September 2009, features a prominent cover story titled "UFO o giocattolo?" (UFO or Toy?), presenting a technical analysis by Paolo Bertotti. The magazine delves into various UFO-related topics, including detailed case studies, statistical analyses of sightings, and updates on the research projects conducted by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU).

UFO or Toy? Technical Analysis

The main article by Paolo Bertotti addresses a curious case where a photograph of a purported UFO, taken by a civilian pilot at Punta Raisi on September 3, 2006, was submitted for analysis. The witness, Paolo Toselli, had previously expressed doubts about the photo's authenticity, noting a resemblance between the object and a Kinder Surprise toy (code "S-510 Astronave"). Bertotti's detailed technical examination, which involved comparing the original photo with a photograph of the toy taken by Toselli, revealed a perfect correspondence in shape, colors, and the positioning of various components. The analysis focused on comparing the object's features, such as the assembly line, fins, hexagonal patterns, central structure, and "doors," with those of the toy. Bertotti concludes that the object in the witness's photograph is unequivocally a copy of the Kinder Surprise toy, suggesting the photo is not of a genuine UFO. He emphasizes that the witness's photo was not altered by him, while the toy's photo was processed to match the original's lighting and quality conditions for comparison. The article also touches upon the importance of original files with EXIF data for proper analysis and notes the absence of such data for the witness's photograph.

Case Studies: April-June 2008

The "CASISTICA" section provides a detailed breakdown of UFO sightings reported in Italy during the second quarter of 2008 (April-June). This period is characterized by a significant decrease in crop circle reports, which had previously inflated the numbers in earlier years. Giorgio Abraini's analysis shows that while the total number of sightings for the second quarter (101) might seem low compared to previous years, it is closer to the average when adjusted for the time elapsed since the sightings. The distribution of crop circles also shifted, with a notable increase in the South of Italy and a decrease in the North and Center.

Several specific cases are highlighted:

• Longarone (BL), April 5, 2008: Two witnesses reported a white, trapezoidal, almost transparent light moving.
• Vicenza (VI), April 9, 2008: Police officers observed a dark, elongated object with a front light, which was later identified as an airplane.
• Milazzo (ME), May 4, 2008: Three witnesses saw a circular, orange object resembling an inverted funnel, which moved upwards and disappeared.
• Genova (GE), June 6, 2008: A grandmother and grandchild observed a dark object with lateral protuberances, likened to a spider, which then closed into a ball and vanished.
• Bari (BA), June 23, 2008: A couple witnessed a group of white objects in formation, one of which was significantly larger.
• Latina (LT), June 28, 2008: A witness reported seeing two yellow lights that moved and performed complex maneuvers, later suggested to be sky lanterns.

The article also notes a general decline in reports of meteors and bolides during this quarter.

CISU Research Projects Update

Matteo Leone provides an extensive overview of the ongoing research projects conducted by the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU). The center manages 26 projects, categorized into four main areas: Testimony-centered, Physical Environment-centered, Psycho-Social Environment-centered, and Phenomena Luminous in Atmosphere (FLA).

• Testimony-Centered Projects: These include regional case catalogs, studies on polygonal UFOs, close encounters, Italian UFO cases with associated entities, historical UFO reports (1946-1954), Italian Air Force cases, and cases involving water phenomena. Key results include the creation of approximately 20 thematic catalogs covering around 20,000 sightings, over 130 field investigations, and the declassification of documents by the Italian Air Force.
• Witness-Centered Projects: These focus on cases where witnesses have specific professional backgrounds, such as pilots (Aircat), astronomers (Clear Skies), and night security guards (UFO - Guardie Giurate). These projects have cataloged around 900 Italian and 3000 international sightings.
• Physical Environment-Centered Projects: These investigate phenomena like "angel hair" (filamentous substances), falling "bodies," photographic evidence of UFOs, ground traces, and physical effects associated with UFO sightings (blackouts, car malfunctions, radio interference).
• Psycho-Social Environment-Centered Projects: These projects focus on UFO-related sources rather than direct sightings, including books (Bibliocat), philately (Philcat), scientific articles (Sciencecat), films (UFO e Cinema), music (UFO e Musica), and advertising (UFO e Pubblicità).
• FLA Projects: These cover phenomena like ball lightning (Blita), Earth Lights, seismic-related luminous phenomena (EQL), and meteors (Meteorcat).

The magazine highlights the significant volume of data collected by CISU, including thousands of cataloged sightings, numerous monographs, and extensive bibliographies. The article also mentions the ongoing restyling of the CISU website, www.ufodatanet.org, which aims to provide a more accessible and comprehensive platform for their research.

Conclusion

The article concludes by acknowledging the impressive results achieved by CISU projects, largely driven by volunteer passion. It identifies areas for improvement, such as covering radar cases and photographic analysis more thoroughly, enhancing synergy between related projects, and increasing the output of scientifically peer-reviewed publications. The goal is to complete the project descriptions on the website, including English translations, by the end of 2009.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. The lead article exemplifies this by debunking a purported UFO sighting through rigorous technical analysis. The statistical sections provide data-driven insights into sighting trends, distinguishing between genuine anomalies and potential misidentifications or hoaxes. The extensive coverage of CISU's research projects underscores a commitment to systematic investigation and cataloging, aiming to bring scientific rigor to the study of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based conclusions and encourages further research while maintaining a skeptical outlook towards unsubstantiated claims.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated September 2009 (Issue 37), focuses on updates within the ufological community, research projects, and extensive book reviews. The cover highlights the relaunch of the UFODATANET website and introduces the Sciencecat project.

UFODATANET: A New Look for the Website

Andrea Bovo details the significant overhaul of the UFODATANET website, which was initially launched in 1998. The update, completed in 2008, involved restructuring the site, improving its content management system (CMS) with a personalized software, and enhancing data storage with a standard relational database (MySQL). The site now offers restricted access for project coordinators to manage and publish content in real-time. The main sections of the site—workgroups/reports, short communications/resources/links—remain, with research projects categorized into five areas: 'The Testimony,' 'The Witness,' 'The Physical Environment,' 'The Psychosocial Environment,' and 'The FLA Commission.' A translation into English is also in preparation.

Sciencecat: The Project Involves Three Parts

The Sciencecat project, established in 1985 to create a commented bibliography of UFO-related literature, has been restructured into three distinct but methodologically related sub-projects:

UFO Sub-project

Coordinated by Matteo Leone, this sub-project aims to create a catalog of UFO phenomena within scientific literature. It seeks to produce knowledge that can be published in scientific or academic journals, drawing from periodicals already recognized by the scientific community where UFOs are a primary or significant topic. Sources include articles, letters, and reviews from scientific and academic journals, as well as high-quality popular science magazines, books from academic publishers, and contributions to scientific conferences.

Alien Abduction Experiences Sub-project (AAE)

Coordinated by Roberto Labanti, this sub-project focuses on cataloging published sources in scientific or academic literature concerning 'alien abduction experiences.' These experiences have garnered significant attention in recent years, making this phenomenon a major area of ufological and para-ufological study. The database for AAE originates from the proceedings of the Abduction Study Conference held at MIT in 1992. The data is currently in RTF format and will be converted to a spreadsheet format, with future plans for conversion into a widely distributed bibliographic format compatible with emerging industry standards and bibliographic software.

Sciencecat.pro Sub-project

Coordinated by Paolo Toselli, this sub-project aims to fulfill the original objective of Sciencecat: creating a catalog for the study of UFO phenomena from scientific literature, even if the sources do not explicitly reference UFOs. Sciencecat.pro intends to include a curated selection of useful references for UFO study, focusing on two key research areas: 1) methodology for testimonial investigation (forensic sciences, psychology of testimony, etc.), and 2) methodology for instrumental analysis (physical analysis conducted on unpredictable phenomena like meteors and ball lightning).

Book Reviews: A Year of Reading

This section, authored by Edoardo Russo, provides a comprehensive review of ufological books published in Italy and abroad in 2007, the year marking the 60th anniversary of the 'flying saucers' phenomenon.

Italian Books of 2007

Several new Italian books on ufology were published, covering various aspects of the field:

• Solas Boncompagni and Mauro Panzera released the fifth volume of their series, "1977-1980: The Great Wave," focusing on the period and dedicating significant pages to 1978.
• Stefano Breccia authored "Contattismi di massa" (Mass Contactism), a book based on the experiences of Bruno Sammaciccia, detailing a contactee case involving numerous individuals starting in the late 1950s.
• Rino Di Stefano published the third edition of his book "Il caso Zanfretta" (The Zanfretta Case), updating the original 1984 version.
• Joseph Farrell's "Hitler, Flying Saucers, and the Superweapons of the Third Reich" explores controversial theories.
• The Gruppo Accademico Ufologico Scandicci (GAUS) published "Phoenix's Lights," summarizing a collective sighting event in Arizona in 1997.
• Corrado Malanga's "Alieni o demoni" (Aliens or Demons) discusses abductions, with the author's concept of ufologist approaching that of an exorcist.
• Giovanni Pellegrino's "UFO: The Contact Factor" offers reflections on the mystery of UFOs from a sociological perspective.
• Roberto Pinotti's "UFO: The Contact Factor" is presented as a collection of UFO cases, intelligence, and exopolitics.
• Alessandro Sacripanti's "UFO: The Phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects" is a collection of UFO cases from the Lazio region.

All these Italian books are available through the online bookstore Upiar Store.

The International Scene

The review then shifts to international publications, offering a perspective on global ufology in 2007:

• United States: The proceedings of the 38th annual congress of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) are highlighted, titled "An Estimate Of The Situation: The Extraterrestrial Hypothesis." The review notes that a significant portion of the congress focused on historical cases, with three reports dedicated to the Roswell incident.
• Timothy Good's "Need to Know: UFOs, the Military and Intelligence" is mentioned for its extensive documentation on the cover-up surrounding UFO phenomena.
• Brad Sparks and Barry Greenwood provide a demonstration that the alleged Majestic 12 (MJ-12) documents were a hoax.
• Noe Torres and Ruben Uriarte's "Mexico's Roswell - The Chihuahua UFO Crash" revisits a 1974 air incident in Mexico.
• Frank Feschino Jr.'s "Shoot Them Down - The Flying Saucer Air Wars of 1952" explores the summer of 1952 sightings, suggesting a potential aerial war with flying saucers.
• Keith Chester's "Strange Company: Military Encounters with UFOs in World War II" compiles documents on "foo fighters" encountered by Allied pilots.
• David Clarke and Andy Roberts' "Flying Saucerers - A Social History of Ufology" is noted as a previous review.
• Kevin Goodman's "UFO Warminster - Cradle of Contact" examines the history of UFO sightings in Warminster, UK.
• Philip Mantle's "Alien Autopsy Inquest" is discussed, with the author's past involvement in the controversial alien autopsy film.
• Timothy Good's "Need to Know: UFOs, the Military and Intelligence" is praised for its detailed account of the UFO phenomenon and military involvement.
• Karl Pflock and Peter Brooksmith (Eds.) compiled "Encounters At Indian Head - The Betty and Barney Hill Ufo Abduction Revisited," a collection of essays analyzing the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case.
• Kathleen Marden and Stanton T. Friedman authored "Captured! The Betty and Barney Hill UFO Experience," offering a personal perspective on the case.
• Diana Tumminia edited "Alien Worlds - Social and Religious Dimensions of Extraterrestrial Contact," an anthology of essays viewing UFO phenomena through the lens of sociology and religion.
• Jean Sider's "Les extra-terrestres avant les soucoupes volantes" presents a catalog of pre-1947 humanoid encounters.
• Bertrand Méheust's "Science-fiction et soucoupes volantes" explores the connection between science fiction and UFO phenomena.
• Pierre Lagrange's "OVNIS: ce qu'ILS ne veulent pas que vous sachiez" (UFOs: What THEY Don't Want You to Know) analyzes the phenomenon and government secrecy.
• David Rossoni, Eric Maillot, and Eric Déguillaume authored "Les OVNI du CNES - 30 ans d'études officielles 1977-2007," a skeptical look at the French space agency's UFO studies.
• Juan José Benitez's "El hombre que susurraba a los ummitas" revisits the Ummo letters case.
• Toke Haunstrup authored "50 år med ufoer" (50 Years with UFOs), summarizing Danish ufology's findings.

"Bibliocat": The State of the Art of Cataloging Library Sources

Marcello Pupilli discusses the Bibliocat project, initiated in the mid-1980s to classify UFO-related literature. The project has evolved from manual index cards to a sophisticated database, utilizing relational databases and advanced classification criteria. The project aims to provide a comprehensive and organized catalog of UFO literature, distinguishing between books and periodicals, and categorizing them by subject matter and reference class. The latest edition, "Bibliocat 2004 - General Catalog of Italian and Paraufological Bibliography 1948-2002 - Update 2003," contains over 5,200 entries. The project continues to be updated annually, with ongoing efforts to incorporate new findings and refine the cataloging methodology.

CISU News: 30 Years of UFO in Turin

This section celebrates the 30th anniversary of the CISU's Turin branch, marking three decades of activity in ufology. The branch originated from earlier UFO groups in Turin, including the "Gruppo Clypeus." The Turin section of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) was established in 1977 and officially became part of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) in 1985. The article highlights the branch's role in research, cataloging, and disseminating information, as well as its function as an open space for ufologists. The section also mentions the book "Alessandria 1978 - Allarme UFO" by Paolo Toselli, which includes a DVD.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, accurate cataloging, and the critical analysis of UFO phenomena. There's a clear distinction made between scientific approaches and more speculative or sensationalist claims. The reviews highlight the ongoing debate within ufology regarding evidence, interpretation, and the potential for hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to favor a methodical and evidence-based approach to understanding UFOs, while acknowledging the vastness and complexity of the subject. The recurring theme is the continuous effort to organize, document, and analyze the growing body of UFO-related literature and cases.

Title: NOTIZIE CISU
Issue: N. 37
Date: September 2009
Publisher: CISU (Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici)
Focus: Ufology, UFO research, conferences, archives, and related cultural phenomena.

23rd National Ufology Conference in Florence

The issue opens with a report on the 23rd National Ufology Conference held in Florence on October 25, 2008. The conference, attended by about twenty researchers and scholars, focused on 'The current state of ufological research in Italy and worldwide.' Matteo Leone presented an overview of CISU's research and cataloging projects. Andrea Bovo introduced the new website www.ufodatanet.org, dedicated to these projects. Edoardo Russo compared Italian research with international efforts. Stefano Innocenti detailed a catalog of Italian cases with physical effects, and Gian Paolo Grassino discussed the 'Progetto Cinema' aimed at expanding ufological contacts.

Paolo Toselli explained how his book on the 1978 Alessandria UFO sightings, released with an accompanying DVD, generated significant media interest. The audio recordings and presentations from the conference are available to members.

New Projects and Archive Updates

A new thematic cataloging project, 'UFO and Security Guards,' was approved by the CISU board on January 17, 2008. This project aims to catalog sightings reported by security guards, night watchmen, and private security agents, with Reggio Emilia member Camillo Michieletto as its promoter. The project draws parallels with similar cataloging efforts for other law enforcement personnel.

The CISU archives continue to grow, systematically collecting and cataloging documentation related to UFOs in Italy. In 2008, the UFO database was expanded with thousands of pages of case files, press clippings, and thematic dossiers. The library received hundreds of books and periodicals, along with audio-visual and IT materials. Members and collaborators are thanked for their contributions, including investigation reports, press clippings, photos, and audio/video recordings.

The CISU press archive, considered the largest in Italy on the subject, contains approximately 40,000 clippings. Members who consistently contribute are offered a CD-ROM with the previous year's collected news.

CrashCat Project Update

The CrashCat project, focused on archiving Italian reports of objects seen falling from the sky, has a new curator. After Marco Bianchini took over from Giuseppe Stilo in October 2007, personal commitments led to a handover. Salvo Foresta of Catania has now been entrusted with the project by the directive council as of February 27, 2009. The catalog currently contains around 220 cases, categorized into objects identified or recovered, not identified, or seen falling into water.

Press Archive Growth

In 2008, the number of UFO-related articles in the Italian press increased significantly, with 738 clippings collected by L'Eco della Stampa, a 20% rise from the previous year. This figure is well above the five-year average of 600 clippings. The summer and autumn months were the richest in news. Annual and monthly statistics since 1946 are available on the CISU website. The magazine appeals to enthusiasts to send in original clippings to supplement the photocopies received from the press agency.

'UFO Alarm' in Alessandria

The release of the book and DVD 'Alessandria 1978 - Allarme UFO' created a local event, with author Paolo Toselli conducting a six-month promotional campaign. The book launch coincided with the 30th anniversary of a famous landing case in San Michele. Local newspapers dedicated significant coverage to the event and the book's presentation. The book's themes, particularly the UFO landing and traces, were widely discussed.

Film Analysis: 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' and its Remake

Several articles are dedicated to the classic 1951 science fiction film 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' (titled 'Ultimatum alla Terra' in Italy) and its 2008 remake. The original film, directed by Robert Wise, starring Michael Rennie as the alien Klaatu, is hailed as a landmark in science fiction and a significant influence on ufology. It introduced the concept of the benevolent alien and the flying saucer as a spacecraft, moving away from 'secret weapon' narratives.

The film's themes of peace, nuclear disarmament, and the potential for humanity's self-destruction are explored. Its impact on popular culture and the rise of the contactee movement in the 1950s are discussed. The article notes how the film's themes, such as the plea for peace and the warning against atomic warfare, predate and influence later ufological narratives.

The analysis highlights specific 'ufological' elements in the film, including the flying saucer's appearance, the alien's suit, and the blocking of electrical systems. These elements became recurring motifs in subsequent UFO encounters.

The remake, directed by Scott Derrickson and starring Keanu Reeves, is also examined. The article discusses how the remake updates the themes for a contemporary audience, focusing on environmentalism, the critique of militarism, and the role of faith and science. The director's intention to create an optimistic film that encourages hope and critical thinking is noted. The article compares the remake's narrative and visual elements to the original, discussing its faithfulness and deviations, particularly regarding Klaatu's character and the robot Gort.

'Cum Grano Salis': A New Monograph on Crop Circles

An article introduces the monograph 'Cum Grano Salis' by Margherita Campaniolo, which analyzes crop circles. The author distinguishes crop circles from UFO phenomena, noting their separate development and characteristics. While acknowledging the historical overlap between ufology and crop circle research, the article emphasizes that crop circles are often complex geometric formations rather than evidence of landings. The monograph aims to bring a rational and competent approach to the study of crop circles, separating them from unsubstantiated claims and superstitions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rational and scientific approach to ufology, emphasizing research, documentation, and critical analysis. It highlights the importance of archives and systematic data collection. The articles on films like 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' demonstrate an interest in how popular culture reflects and shapes perceptions of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, seeking to understand UFO sightings and related phenomena through evidence-based investigation, while also acknowledging their cultural and societal impact.

This issue of 'ULTIMATUM ALLA TERRA' (likely a special publication or supplement related to the film and UFO phenomena) focuses on the extensive historical research conducted by Giuseppe Stilo into UFO sightings and related events, primarily in Italy and globally. The cover prominently features stills from both the classic 1951 film 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' (titled 'Ultimatum alla Terra' in Italian) and its 2009 remake, juxtaposing iconic imagery from both cinematic interpretations.

Giuseppe Stilo's Research on UFO Waves

The issue details several of Giuseppe Stilo's published works, all released by Edizioni UPIAR, which systematically document significant periods of UFO activity. These include:

• 'Il quinto cavaliere dell'Apocalisse': The first volume of a three-part series on the 1954 UFO wave. This tome covers the period from January 1st to October 31st, 1954, and includes a contribution from Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos. The 1954 wave is described as a culmination of UFO research, marked by widespread sightings across dozens of countries and the notable appearance of 'entities' associated with the phenomena. The Italian wave specifically peaked in late October, with over 1000 sightings reported that year. Stilo suggests this period marked the definitive arrival of UFO phenomena in public consciousness, akin to a 'Fifth Horseman of the Apocalypse'. This volume is 658 pages with 41 photos and illustrations, priced at €38.00 (€30.40 for CISU members).

• 'Ultimatum alla Terra': A volume dedicated to the 1952 UFO wave, examining 1800 news articles and reports. It reconstructs numerous Italian and international incidents from that year, noting the emergence of close encounters of the third kind and early UFO photographs in Italy. This period saw UFOs increasingly perceived as an extraterrestrial event by the public and enthusiasts. The book is 542 pages with 39 illustrations, priced at €27.89 (€22.31 for CISU members).

• 'Scrutate i cieli!': This book focuses on the 1950 global UFO wave, presenting an organic reconstruction based on extensive CISU archival research. It details nearly 300 Italian sightings and over 1,200 related news articles and publications, defining the scope of this significant wave. The book is 420 pages with 35 photos and illustrations, priced at €21.69 (€17.35 for CISU members).

• 'L'alba di una nuova era': This volume covers the 1946 'phantom rockets' phenomenon. It explores lesser-known cases in Italy and internationally, detailing how sightings spread from Scandinavia across Europe, including Italy, and even to non-European countries. The author posits this phenomenon as a precursor to the 'new era' that began with the Arnold sighting in the US, leading to the widespread reporting of 'flying saucers'. This book is 228 pages with 9 illustrations, priced at €14.00 (€11.20 for CISU members).

Special Offers and Merchandise

The issue includes a special offer for CISU members, allowing them to purchase these books directly at discounted prices via postal transfer to Cooperativa UPIAR in Torino. Additionally, there is a section promoting merchandise: 'GLI UFO DA INDOSSARE' (UFOs to Wear), featuring exclusive T-shirts designed by artist Giorgio Giorgi. These 100% cotton T-shirts are available in various sizes and designs, including 'Gli UFO nella Mente', 'Avvistamenti UFO', 'UFO? YES!', and 'Unidentified Flying Objects'. Pricing is €15 per shirt (€12 for CISU members), with discounts for bulk purchases (3 shirts for €40 / €32, 6 shirts for €75 / €60).

Editorial Stance

The publication strongly advocates for the systematic, historical documentation of UFO phenomena, presenting Giuseppe Stilo's work as a rigorous and comprehensive approach to understanding the subject. The emphasis on detailed research, archival work (particularly by CISU), and the analysis of historical waves suggests an editorial stance that views UFOs as a significant and ongoing phenomenon worthy of serious study. The inclusion of merchandise and film tie-ins indicates an effort to engage a broader audience interested in UFOs and science fiction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are historical UFO waves, the analysis of eyewitness accounts and media reports, and the cultural impact of UFO phenomena, particularly as reflected in cinema. The editorial stance is one of promoting in-depth, evidence-based research into UFOs, positioning Giuseppe Stilo as a leading authority in this field. The publication also leverages the cultural relevance of films like 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' to draw attention to the historical and ongoing study of UFOs.