Ufologia - No 01 - gen-feb 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA
Issue: SUPPLEMENTO A CLYPEUS N° 54
Date: Gennaio-Febbraio 1979
Publisher: Gruppo Clypeus
Type: Bi-monthly UFOlogical Information Bulletin

This issue of 'UFOLOGIA', a supplement to 'Clypeus' magazine, is presented as a bimestrial bulletin of ufological information, curated by the Ufological Section of the Clypeus Group and the Torinese Center for Ufological Research. It aims to provide specialized information for enthusiasts rather than general public dissemination, emphasizing quality and critical analysis.

Editorial

Gianni V. Settimo, the director and publisher, reflects on the evolution of 'Clypeus' and the state of ufology in Italy. He notes the proliferation of research groups in the 1970s but criticizes their often superficial and commercially driven publications. Settimo contrasts this with 'UFOLOGIA's' commitment to specialized, in-depth research. He acknowledges that the supplement 'UFO and Fortean Phenomena' was sometimes criticized for being too specialized but defends this approach. The editorial announces a new phase for 'Clypeus', aiming to contribute to the 'maturation' of Italian ufology by encouraging critical self-reflection and breaking away from the 'petty gossip and personal rivalries' that have plagued the field. Settimo expresses hope that the new generation of ufologists will learn from the past mistakes of earlier generations.

Contents Overview

The issue features a mix of international and Italian ufological content. The 'estera' (foreign) section includes an article by Fernand Lagarde discussing a reported extraterrestrial specimen collected in Portugal in 1959, and a commentary by Antonio Ribera on the 'Iberian Congress of Ufology.' The 'Osservatorio' section presents several brief reports: 'UFO at High School and University' details the inclusion of UFO studies in curricula in Australia and the Netherlands; 'Dynamite!' recounts a case of alleged UFO hostility and a miner's attempt to trap a UFO; and 'UFO and "star"' discusses UFO sightings related to celebrities like Elvis Presley, Fonzie, Charo, Elke Sommer, and John Travolta.

Key Articles and Reports

"Un extraterrestre» raccolto in Portogallo?" by Fernand Lagarde

Lagarde critically examines a report from Joaquim Fernandes about an alleged extraterrestrial creature collected in Portugal in 1959. Fernandes claims that numerous witnesses saw UFOs emitting cotton-like filaments, and a professor collected these filaments, which were later found to be from a millimeter-sized living being with ten tentacles. Lagarde expresses skepticism, suggesting the phenomenon might be related to the natural transfer of spiderlings via wind, a known occurrence. He questions the scientific rigor of the claims, the lack of verifiable details about the scientists involved, and the high price for the photograph, suspecting a hoax or misinterpretation.

"II congresso iberico" by A. Ribera

Antonio Ribera, representing Spanish ufologists, formally rejects the conclusions of the 'Iberian Congress of Ufology' held in Porto in October 1978, as reported in the Portuguese press. Ribera states that the conclusions were not drafted with the collaboration of Spanish or French participants. He criticizes the lack of scientific guarantees and verifiable details regarding the alleged extraterrestrial discovery presented by Mr. Berenguel, questioning the secrecy surrounding the scientists and the laboratory involved. Ribera suggests the report may hide an equivocation or fraud and that such sensationalism damages the credibility of ufology.

"Osservatorio" Section

• "UFO al liceo e all'Università": This report highlights the integration of UFO studies into academic curricula. The Beaufort High School in Victoria, Australia, has reportedly made UFO study a facultative science subject to teach scientific methodology. Similarly, Professor H. van Praag at the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands has established a UFO study group within the Institute of Parapsychology.
• "Dinamite!": This piece details the case of Clint and Jane Chapin, miners in California, who reported UFO encounters in 1969 and 1976. After the second encounter, they lost consciousness. Analysis of a metallic fragment collected in 1969 revealed it to be a unique alloy.
• "UFO e "star"": This report touches upon the phenomenon of UFO sightings being linked to celebrities. It mentions alleged UFO sightings near Elvis Presley's tomb, and interviews with actors from the TV series 'Happy Days' (Fonzie, Charo, Elke Sommer) and John Travolta, who claimed to have been aboard a UFO.

"UFO E SCIENZA" by Gian Paolo Grassino

Grassino analyzes the public debate surrounding UFOs, particularly a television broadcast featuring Professor Antonino Zichichi, Dr. Roberto Pinotti, and Professor Giuseppe Tagliaferri. Grassino criticizes Zichichi, a prominent physicist, for his rigid adherence to conventional scientific paradigms, which he sees as representative of 'official' science's negative stance towards ufology. Grassino quotes Zichichi stating that science, born from intellectual humility, should not ignore phenomena that interest millions. However, he points out the contradiction in Zichichi's subsequent dismissal of UFOs as 'nothing,' arguing that this reflects a lack of information within academic circles and a logical fallacy. Grassino suggests that Zichichi's position is based on the premise that if a phenomenon doesn't fit current scientific models, it cannot exist, thereby dismissing UFOs as inexplicable.

"Casistica italiana" by Paolo Mercuri & Edoardo Russo

This section begins a review of Italian UFO sightings from 1978, covering January to October. It is presented as the first part of an annual summary, continuing a tradition from the 'Notiziario C.T.R.U.' The report notes that even when limited to cases reported in non-specialized press, the number of sightings required splitting the review into two parts, with the second half to appear in the next issue.

Other Sections

• "Gli altri dicono": A new section featuring critical reviews of specialized ufological publications.
• "UFO in Piemonte": An initiative to catalog UFO sightings in the Piedmont region.
• "Elementi di socio-ufologia - Psicosi da UFO": An article exploring the socio-psychological aspects of UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for a more rigorous, critical, and specialized approach to ufology in Italy. It criticizes the superficiality and sensationalism prevalent in some ufological circles and calls for a break from personal rivalries. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious research, aiming to elevate the quality of ufological discourse. There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation, even when dealing with phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, as highlighted in the critique of Professor Zichichi's stance. The publication also seeks to document and analyze UFO cases thoroughly, both domestic and international, encouraging a more mature and informed approach to the subject.

This issue of 'UFO' magazine, dated January-February 1979, is published by the Centro Ricerche Altre Scienze of Reggio Emilia. It features a cover story on 'Michelin-Type Giants' and reports on a significant debate about UFOs held in the British House of Lords. The magazine also includes a section reviewing various other ufological publications.

Scientific Humility and the UFO Problem

The lead article, "LA SCIENZA COME ATTO DI UMILTA' INTELLETTUALE, MA SOLO QUANDO SI VUOLE !" (Science as an Act of Intellectual Humility, But Only When Desired!), argues that the scientific community's arrogance and tendency towards rigid analytical thinking hinder the investigation of phenomena like UFOs. The author posits that scientists, by adhering strictly to established paradigms and dismissing the irrational, create an environment of skepticism that prevents progress. The article calls for scientists to acknowledge their limitations and descend from their 'pedestals' to engage with phenomena like ufology more openly. It references Einstein as an example of scientific humility that revolutionized understanding.

The article "GALILEO 1979 OVVERO L'UFOLOGIA COME SCIENZA" (Galileo 1979 or Ufology as Science) critiques physicist Zichichi's dismissal of ufology. It emphasizes the importance of Galileo's scientific method, which involves observation, hypothesis formation, and experimental verification. The author argues that ufology, when approached scientifically, deserves serious study and that Zichichi and others are unfairly dismissive based on ignorance and prejudice.

Case Files: Giants like «Michelin»

The section "Giganti tipo «Michelin»" (Giants like «Michelin») details two cases involving tall, humanoid entities. The first mentions the well-known case of Fortunato Zanfretta in Marzano di Torriglia, Italy, describing the entity's greenish suit with horizontal bands and an estimated height of 2.50-3.00 meters. The second case, from January 6, 1978, near S. Antonio de Caparica, Portugal, describes two residents encountering a figure about 2.30 meters tall, wearing a white suit and helmet. This encounter reportedly caused a pressure in the head, stopped a watch, and left a trampled circle in the grass. The article notes that this event occurred near a military base.

UK Parliament Debate on UFOs

"«Milords, ci sono tanti scioperi ma questa sera parliamo di ufo»" (My Lords, there are so many strikes but tonight we are talking about UFOs) reports on a debate held in the British House of Lords. Lord Clancarty opened the discussion, expressing his personal interest in UFOs and advocating for an intra-governmental study. He highlighted historical testimonies and characteristics of UFOs, including their intense light, ability to cause electromagnetic interference, and the need for public information. He urged the government to inform the public about what is known regarding UFOs, suggesting that a lack of transparency could lead to panic if extraterrestrial contact were to occur.

Lord Trelgarne responded with skepticism, stating he did not believe in UFOs despite having flown extensively. He questioned the need for a government study and the expenditure of public funds on such an investigation. While agreeing that information about unidentified flying objects should be disseminated, he dismissed photographic evidence as unclear and suggested that radar errors could be a factor. He also touched upon historical attributions of unexplained phenomena to supernatural powers.

Reviews of Ufological Publications

The "GLI ALTRI DICONO" (Others Say) section provides reviews of several ufological magazines and bulletins:

• SOLARIS: Described as the bulletin of the Centro Napoletano di Ricerche, it is criticized for reprinting articles, including a 'retrospective' on UFOs and a critique of the press. It also features a piece on three IR3 (Interrupted Remote Reconnaissance) cases in the USA.
• IL SENZATITOLO: The official organ of the Centro Ricerche Altre Scienze, it is a small, cyclostyled publication. The review notes an editorial criticizing 'flogi' (amateur ufologists) and 'ufologies' for lacking originality and contributing little to research. It also mentions a conference report and a list of UFO sightings in the Parma and Reggio provinces.
• NOTIZIARIO CRUP: An internal bulletin from the Centro Ricerche Ufologiche Parapsicologiche Rieti, it includes an investigation into a UFO sighting near Rieti, which the CRUP suggested might be a satellite. The review notes an article on 'UFO and public opinion' and an interview with the 'president' of CRUP.
• LA TORRE... DI BABELE: A review of the unusual, this publication includes announcements for ufological centers and a brief mention of UFOs within its content.
• ORIONE: A national bulletin for research groups, it features a commentary on Professor Zichichi's appearance on a TV show, criticizing the notion of 'censorship' and 'unfulfilled promises' in ufology. It also highlights a Venus sighting photo and mentions atmospheric prismatic effects.
• GLI ARCANI: This magazine is noted for featuring extensive contributions from Gianni Sani, who discusses themes like 'the weapon of discredit' and 'astronomers and UFOs.' Settimo's column covers 'unusual chronicles,' linking UFOs to topics like 'angel hair' and 'self-moving vehicles.' The review points out the continued presence of Roberto Pinotti's work, even after his departure from the 'Notiziario UFO.'
• IL GIORNALE DEI MISTERI: This publication opens with a strong editorial response to accusations of 'moral complicity' in a crime. The review criticizes the magazine's broad mix of topics, including archaeology, ghosts, and esotericism, suggesting it caters to a public predisposed to 'believe' anything 'against the system.' It notes three articles on Spanish ufology and two on Italian cases, one of which is an investigation into a low-altitude sighting. The review also questions the inclusion of 'boring' political-military analyses by Coppetti in ufology pages.
• NOTIZIARIO UFO: This publication is described as having an 'unbelievable quantity of printing errors and inattentions.' The review highlights an interview with Jesuit Father Domenico Grassi, who is referred to as 'Theologian' with a capital 'T.' It also mentions an investigation into the Torrita di Siena case and an interview with Commander Gallerano. The review finds the hypothesis of 'mother ships' for past UFOs excessive and criticizes the graphic design of the advertising section.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently advocates for a more scientific and open approach to ufology, criticizing the skepticism and perceived arrogance within the mainstream scientific community. It champions intellectual humility, drawing parallels with figures like Galileo and Einstein. There is a strong emphasis on the need for government transparency and organized research into UFO phenomena. The reviews of other publications reveal a critical stance towards those perceived as lacking rigor, sensationalist, or overly focused on amateur speculation. The overall editorial stance appears to be one of promoting a serious, evidence-based investigation of UFOs, free from prejudice and obstruction.

This issue of 'UFO in Piemonte' is a catalog of UFO sightings in the Piedmont and Valle d'Aosta regions of Italy, published by 'Il Secolo XIX' on January 20, 1979. The cover prominently features the title 'U. F. O. IN PIEMONTE' with illustrations of UFOs superimposed on a map of the region and the Mole Antonelliana tower.

Introduction

The introduction critiques the fragmented state of UFO research in Italy, noting the lack of a comprehensive national catalog and the limited number of regional efforts. It highlights past attempts, such as the 'Rapporto UFO in Lombardia' and a Calabrian catalog, while criticizing the commercialization of UFO data by groups like SUF and 'Giornale dei misteri'. The authors express a belief that all UFO reports, regardless of their perceived quality, should be published to avoid data hoarding and to allow for proper analysis. They cite the independent studies of the 1954 UFO cases by CUN and SUF as an example of the lack of collaboration, resulting in discrepancies in the reported data. The 'UFO in Italia' publication is mentioned as a significant step, but its data was kept secret until publication. The initiative for this catalog was inherited from the now-defunct Federazione Ufologica Regionale Piemonte Valle d'Aosta and executed by the Turin section of the Centro Ufologico Nazionale, utilizing the Clypeus Archive to gather over 650 sightings.

The catalog's structural criteria, developed jointly by the editorial team and CUN, are presented. Each case is summarized completely, detailing the date, time, location, classification, and evaluation. The descriptions use the witnesses' own words to preserve authenticity. Information on witnesses, when known, is included to aid in cross-checking. The classification system is based on a modified Hynek system, with categories like LN (nocturnal light), DD (daytime sighting), and IR (low altitude with effects), further subdivided based on the nature of the effects (physical, physiological, mechanical, electromagnetic). Cases with temporary or durable effects, or involving animated entities, are noted with specific codes. Explanations for sightings, such as astronomical phenomena (ASTR), aircraft (AER), meteors (MET), and satellites (SAT), are provided with a probability assessment (PROB.FOSS or POSS.UFO).

Catalog Entries

The catalog then presents several specific UFO sightings:

• 32 TO 01 (1932-04-09): A luminous 'bolide' observed over Val S. Martino Inf. di Torino, changing color and leaving a trail of incandescent fragments. The Astronomical Observatory of Pino Torinese also detected 'vivid flashes' at the same time.
• 42 TO 01 (1942): An 'enormous fireball, reddish and greenish', observed moving horizontally towards the mountains near Torino.
• 46 TO 01 (1946-09-23): Reports of one or more rocket-like objects with luminous trails passing over Torino.
• 50 VC 01 (1950-03-17): A nocturnal sighting near Crescentino with no further details.
• EC AT 02 (1950-03-23): Students and passersby in Asti observed an object spinning 'vorticosamente' and leaving a 'milky' trail.

UFO in Piemonte - Geographical Criteria and Sources

The issue clarifies the geographical criteria for defining a case, considering a single sighting as an event with a common date, approximate time, and location, even if reported by multiple witnesses. Different sightings are distinguished even within the same municipality if they occur at different times or locations. The sources for each report are categorized into journalistic/librarian non-specialized, specialized publications, and private archives.

The Bishop's Fears and Government Silence

This section features a debate among Lords. The Bishop of Norwich expresses concern about the growing enthusiasm for UFOs, warning against it becoming a 'new pseudoreligion' and advocating for a scientific approach. Lord Clancarty raises the question of other races and peoples existing outside Earth. Lord Gladwyn notes that UFOs are apolitical and offer an escape from daily life. Lord Rankeillour questions the nature of UFOs and suggests the government might know more than it reveals, proposing an international study group. Lord Carmuggi agrees that UFO phenomena are strange and open to interpretation, but suggests that most sightings are likely man-made objects (satellites) or meteor debris, rather than extraterrestrial craft.

Lord Clancarty then makes a replica, suggesting that while the government may not be forthcoming, humanity's technological progress (like the Concorde) indicates potential for future interstellar travel. He posits the existence of a vast communication system between Earth and distant stars, which humans are not yet equipped to understand.

Psicosi da UFO (UFO Psychosis)

This article by Paolo Mercuri and Edoardo Russo explores the phenomenon of 'UFO psychosis,' defined as a collective, almost morbid, emotional state leading to an increase in UFO reports. The authors trace the term 'flap' (originally meaning panic or alarm) to its ufological use for sudden intensifications of UFO activity. They identify two major periods of UFO psychosis in Italy: autumn 1954 and winter 1973, with a significant resurgence in late 1978.

The 'Adriatic flap' in November 1978 is described, where sightings of lights and water columns caused fear among fishermen, leading to a 30% decrease in catches near Ancona and Pescara. This was followed by a larger 'flap' in Southern Italy from December 8, 1978, to January 3, 1979, involving luminous spheres observed and photographed extensively. The authors attribute many of these sightings, particularly those involving bright lights, to the planet Venus, often appearing in conjunction with Jupiter, and suggest that photographic artifacts (like lens flare) contributed to the misinterpretations.

The article also discusses 'induced psychosis,' citing an example from the satirical magazine 'Il Male' which published a fake front page of 'Corriere della Sera' announcing an alien landing in Mexico. This hoax, with its realistic graphic imitation, reportedly fooled many people, highlighting a pre-existing psychological readiness to believe. Another instance involved the radio station Onda Ligure 101 reporting a UFO landing, which later turned out to be a prank.

Venice: Panic over a Military Maneuver

This section recounts an incident near Venice where a military exercise ('Albatro 78') involving amphibious vehicles and troops was mistaken for an alien landing. Reports of strange lights and figures emerging from the sea caused panic, with residents calling journalists and authorities. Despite reassurances, the event was widely interpreted as an alien invasion, illustrating how easily fear and misinterpretation can occur.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the need for scientific rigor and open data sharing in UFO research, contrasting it with sensationalism and commercial interests. There's a critical view of how media can distort public perception and create mass hysteria around UFO phenomena. The underlying theme is the exploration of UFO sightings within the Italian context, highlighting both the reported events and the psychological and societal factors influencing their interpretation. The editorial stance favors a rational, evidence-based approach while acknowledging the persistent public fascination with the unknown.

This issue of "Casistica Italiana" is dedicated to a comprehensive year-end review of UFO sightings in Italy, focusing on the events of 1978. Titled "1978: un anno di avvistamenti," it serves as a detailed catalog of reported phenomena, aiming to provide a structured resource for ufological study. The publication acknowledges the challenges of separating factual reports from sensationalism and public hysteria, a recurring theme throughout the issue.

Public Reaction and Media Sensationalism

The article "Molto più spesso però l'UFO è considerabile, non temuto, e la gente accorre per vederlo" highlights the public's eagerness to witness UFOs, often leading to crowds and disruptions, as seen in the case of Rinaldo Paolin at the Brindisi prison. The report also details an incident in San Michele where a sighting in a cornfield led to the partial destruction of the field by curious onlookers seeking souvenirs. This eagerness to see and report UFOs is contrasted with the difficulty researchers face in obtaining reliable data amidst the "noise" of public interest and media hype.

The text criticizes the sensationalist approach of some media outlets, which can inflate the importance of sightings or misrepresent facts. It points out how the public's perception can be easily influenced, leading to a "mass hysteria" around the topic. The article also touches upon the phenomenon of individuals or groups creating artificial excitement, such as the staged event in Jesolo organized by Professor Franco Cagnetta, intended to study the birth of a UFO psychosis. This event, involving fake manifests and a 'UFO sighting tower,' was part of a larger 'Festival of Fools,' underscoring the sometimes bizarre intersection of UFO interest and public performance.

Furthermore, the issue notes how the UFO phenomenon can be co-opted by unrelated events, such as the murder of Desiré Patané, daughter of members of the 'Cosmic Brotherhood' sect led by Eugenio Siragusa. The media's conflation of 'cosmic brothers' and ufologists, even serious researchers, is seen as contributing to public confusion. The article also mentions a sensationalist headline linking a crime to an 'ufologist,' further muddying the waters.

The "UFO-Phobia" and Research Challenges

The article "Questo atteggiamento di vera e propria psicosi da UFO" delves into the negative consequences of this widespread "UFO-phobia" for serious researchers. It explains that while such public interest might bring to light previously hidden cases, it also attracts individuals with psychological issues or those seeking attention, leading to a flood of unsubstantiated reports. These include sightings of planets, balloons, and aircraft, which consume valuable research time for identification. The article argues that this mass hysteria ultimately discredits the entire UFO phenomenon, causing media outlets to eventually retract their coverage and favor rational explanations, thereby dampening public concern.

The authors emphasize that their goal is not to fuel this public enthusiasm but to convince the academic community of the phenomenon's significance. They believe that the negative impact of UFO-related psychosis far outweighs any potential positive outcome from increased publicity. The authors suggest that a deeper sociological study of UFO phenomena, examining its causes, modalities, and effects, is necessary to understand the component of mass psychology involved.

1978 Case Files: A Chronological Catalog

The bulk of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed, chronological listing of UFO sightings reported in Italy throughout 1978. Each entry, numbered sequentially, provides:

• Date and Time: Specific date and approximate time of the sighting.
• Location: The town, province, and sometimes specific area where the sighting occurred.
• Witnesses: Names and sometimes professions or ages of the individuals who observed the phenomenon.
• Description of the Object: Details about its shape (e.g., spherical, disc, triangular, V-shaped), size, color (e.g., red, yellow, orange, white, blue, green, metallic), luminosity, and any specific features like trails, beams, or pulsating lights.
• Observed Behavior: How the object moved (e.g., hovering, fast, slow, zig-zagging, evolving, ascending, descending, disappearing, reappearing).
• Source: The publication or source where the report was initially found (e.g., local newspapers, specialized magazines).

Some notable cases include:

• January 1978: Sightings in Sorso (SS) involving luminous objects and a possible UFO following an aircraft; a violent violet light observed in Melano (MI).
• February 1978: A luminous object leaving a white-milk trail over Lake Maggiore near Verbania (NO); a vivid fireball observed on Mount Etna (CT).
• March 1978: A large triangular object observed over La Spezia; multiple luminous objects changing color near Cuneo (CN); a flying object emitting a strong white light near Castel San Giorgio (SA).
• April 1978: A luminous object observed near Castel San Giorgio (SA); a fast-moving object with intermittent yellow-orange light between San Vito al Tagliamento and Codroipo (PN); a luminous ball observed in Milan.
• May 1978: A luminous object observed in Torano Castello (CS) emitting red-orange light; a star-like light observed in Milan.
• June 1978: A "fiery" object observed in Clavarezze (GE); a large orange luminous object in Macomer (NU) with four large luminous rays; two dark spherical objects observed in Bologna.
• July 1978: A red object shaped like a "glass" in Trofeto (CT); two spheres observed near Impruneta (FI).
• August 1978: A mysterious disc-shaped object photographed near Rapallo (GE); a luminous object described as a "disc" with intense yellow glow, interacting with beings near Mount Etna (CT); a luminous object emitting green light over Catania.
• September 1978: A luminous object observed in Bergamo (BG); a "fiery" object in Torre Baldone (BG); a "V" shaped object in Quarto (GE); two mysterious objects, one trapezoidal and one circular, observed in Quarto (GE).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the sheer volume and variety of UFO sightings reported in Italy during 1978, the public's often uncritical fascination with the phenomenon, and the challenges faced by serious researchers in navigating sensationalism, hoaxes, and mass hysteria. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious documentation, aiming to present factual data from various sources while implicitly encouraging a more rational and academic approach to ufology, distinct from public fascination or sensationalist reporting. The emphasis is on cataloging cases for potential future study and analysis, acknowledging the need to filter out noise and focus on credible evidence.

This issue of "Ufologia" from December 1978 (Volume 1978) presents a collection of reported UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings from various locations in Italy. The magazine focuses on cataloging these events, providing dates, locations, witness accounts, and sometimes source references. The cover features a comic strip titled "CLYPPY" which includes references to the Viking mission to Mars and a segment titled "GLI OCCHI SPAZIALI".

Key Sightings and Cases

The issue details numerous cases, numbered sequentially:

• Case N° 65 (September 19, 1978, Tuesday, 22:15, PORDENONE): Roberto Pecoraro (19 years old) and his sister-in-law heard a very acute buzzing sound, followed by the sighting of a luminous cigar-shaped object approximately 12 meters long, hovering at low altitude. The object then transformed the buzzing into a strong, acute sound and appeared to be below the cloud cover.
• Case N° 66 (September 21, 1978, Thursday, 5:40, CORNALBA (BG)): Artisan Egidio Bianchi observed a dark object with two divergent luminous bands after his dog barked unusually. The object was apparently at low altitude.
• Case N° 67 (September 23, 1978, Saturday, 21:00, Algiero, loc. CAPO CACCIA (SS)): A luminous object was sighted at an altitude of approximately 1500 meters, hovering for 10 minutes before moving away towards the west, emitting a strong orange light.
• Case N° 68 (September 27, 1978, Wednesday, 19:45, FANO (PS)): A fast-moving orange light was observed in the sky, zigzagging along a straight path.
• Case N° 69 (September 27, 1978, Wednesday, 20:00, SESTO CREMONESE E LUIGNANO (CH)): Two children independently observed a very luminous, multicolored object rotating on itself, moving at high speed.
• Case N° 70 (September 28, 1978, Thursday, PORTO DI ANCONA): Photographers Americo Accattoli and Werther Zambianchi observed and photographed a cigar-shaped object moving from North to South in a zigzag pattern.
• Case N° 71 (October 7, 1978, Saturday, 18:00, TRONE STE): A red, cigar-shaped luminous object was observed hovering over the city before heading towards the coast and then towards Grado.
• Case N° 72 (October 11, 1978, Wednesday, 23:00, AVIANO (PD)): Several people observed three rotating round objects, forming a 'V' formation, near a KATO base. The central object was greenish-ultraviolet, the right one red, and the left one blue. They intermittently flashed lights before rapidly accelerating and disappearing.
• Case N° 73 (October 12, 1978, Thursday, 5:30, AVIANO (PD)): Mario Della and Corrado Bottam independently observed a luminous, bluish circular object with a white border, moving at high speed and descending towards Maniago.
• Case N° 74 (October 12, 1978, Thursday, evening, TRIESTE): Several flaming objects were reported to be transiting over the city.
• Case N° 75 (October 22, 1978, Sunday, 16:30, POSILLIPO (NA)): Professor Antonino Palumbo (Director of the Meteorological Observatory of the Institute of Terrestrial Physics in Naples) and Ciro Fasano observed an object moving from East to West. It was fusiform and strongly luminous, without any type of trail, and at an estimated altitude of 15,000 meters. The day was clear, and the airport confirmed no aircraft were present.
• Case N° 76 (October 24, 1978, Tuesday, 18:50, BAGNOLO PIEMONTE (CN)): Livio Genovesio (25 years old) and Mario Valle (30 years old) observed a luminous point moving in a zigzag pattern and disappearing suddenly. Shortly after, another luminous point appeared, performing the same evolutions as the first.
• Case N° 77 (October 27, 1978, Friday, 18:45, PIOMBINO (L)): Two university students fishing in the Falcone locality observed an object shaped like a hemisphere, emitting a yellow light from its interior. It emerged from the water, moved just above the surface from East to West, then turned towards the shore. The object had a squat cylinder on top and a dark band at the base, along with a rectangular panel. While advancing, it emitted a strange buzzing sound and was observed by the two students and others flying towards Elba shortly after.
• Case N° 78 (October 28, 1978, Saturday, evening, BARLETTA (BA)): A luminous phosphorescent object was reported to Telebarletta. Upon inspection by operators sent to the site, it was revealed to be the green light illumination system of some tennis courts.
• Case N° 79 (October 28, 1978, Saturday, 19:00, BOLOGNA): A luminous body, slightly elongated in shape, with a white color and a greenish-blue light above, was sighted and photographed. The object moved low on the horizon towards Ferrara.
• Case N° 80 (October 29, 1978, Sunday, late evening, THANI (HA)): A phosphorescent luminous cigar-shaped object transited, also observed by the Carabinieri who described it as a "hot air balloon".
• Case N° 81 (October 29 or 30, 1978, Sunday or Monday, BARI): Three mysterious lights were sighted moving in formation, with their reddish luminosity varying intermittently.

Comic Strip: Clyppy

The comic strip "Clyppy" features a character named Clyppy who is interested in Mars, referencing the Viking mission that allowed humans to see its surface for the first time. Another segment, "TISTO DISBAND di Horus", shows characters discussing a sculpture and then rushing off, with Clyppy being encouraged to choose a costume as it's the latest fashion.

Future Content

The magazine announces that the next issue will feature "PART TWO" of a 1978 review and an investigation into a presumed abduction case in Piedmont.

Advertising

Page 4 contains an advertisement for "libreria galassia" in Turin, a bookstore offering a wide selection of narrative and unusual non-fiction, a well-stocked children's section, and three floors of displays.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the documentation and reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena and sightings in Italy. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and reporting of such events, presenting them as factual accounts from witnesses, with references to sources for verification. The inclusion of a comic strip suggests an attempt to engage a broader audience or perhaps to lighten the serious nature of the subject matter.