Ufologia - No 02 - mar-apr 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA
Issue: SUPPLEMENTO A CLYPEUS N° 55
Date: MARZO-APRILE 1979
Publisher: CLYPEUS
Type: Bimonthly UFO information bulletin, a cura della SEZIONE UFOLOGICA DEL GRUPPO CLYPEUS e del CENTRO TORINESE RICERCHE UFOLOGICHE.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, the second number of the supplement to Clypeus, delves into the growing international interest in UFOs, particularly highlighting the United Nations' involvement. The editorial expresses being 'deeply shaken' by the positive reception of the first issue and notes the resurgence of foreign UFO cases while acknowledging the continued influx of Italian reports from 1978.

Editorial

The editorial board expresses their gratitude for the positive feedback on the first issue and introduces the second. They note the increased coverage of international UFO cases, contrasting it with the ongoing stream of Italian reports from 1978. The issue features an article by Jacques Vallée detailing his declaration to the UN's Special Political Committee, alongside updates on the UFO issue and the UN. Other contributions include a regular 'Osservatorio' section, a foreign case study about an Argentinian station master and a UFO, and reflections on UFO behavior by Luigi Sorgno. The issue also begins a critical article by Edoardo Russo on UFO classification systems. The editorial concludes by wishing readers a good read and promising more in the next issue.

United Nations and the UFO Phenomenon

A significant portion of this issue is dedicated to the United Nations' engagement with the UFO phenomenon. It details the UN Special Political Committee's meetings on November 27 and December 8, 1978, where a presentation on UFOs, sponsored by Grenada, was heard. The committee approved a consensus resolution urging the UN General Assembly to take initiative in this matter.

The issue includes excerpts from UN Press Releases (GA/AH/1478 and GA/AH/1490) and the Report of the Special Political Committee. It highlights the initiative by Grenada, led by Prime Minister Sir Eric Gairy, to propose the creation of a UN agency or department dedicated to undertaking, coordinating, and disseminating research on unidentified flying objects and related phenomena.

Sir Eric Gairy emphasizes his 'profound personal conviction' that the UFO subject is of 'global importance and interest,' meriting serious consideration by the UN. He cites the recent hijacking of a Cessna plane in Australia as a compelling reason for the UN to address the issue, noting that the planet has been 'visibly exposed' to UFOs since 1947. He mentions the UFOCAT database, which lists over 60,000 sighting reports from around the world, suggesting that many more remain unreported due to fear of ridicule.

Grenada had previously raised the UFO issue at the UN General Assembly in 1975, 1976, and 1977, highlighting the growing global interest and the need for coordinated research. The delegation expressed concern about the 'novelty' of the topic within the UN and the cost of establishing an agency.

Jacques Vallée's declaration to the UN Special Political Committee is presented in full. He outlines three aspects of the UFO phenomenon: 1) a physical manifestation requiring scientific study, 2) a psycho-sociological aspect involving witness disorientation and psychological effects, and 3) a belief system of impending contact with extraterrestrial visitors. Vallée argues that this belief system, fueled by a lack of serious scientific attention to authentic UFO sightings, is creating new religious, cultural, and political concepts. He stresses that the UN's role in disseminating scientific information and facilitating exchanges is crucial.

Professor J. Allen Hynek also contributed, noting that the phenomenon is often ridiculed and that a surprising number of scientists privately express interest. He calls for a mechanism to allow these individuals to share their research findings.

Excerpts from the statements of other experts, including physicist Stanton Friedman and Lieutenant Colonel Larry Coyne, are mentioned. The issue also includes a statement from former astronaut Gordon Cooper, who believes extraterrestrial vehicles visit Earth from technologically advanced planets and advocates for a coordinated, high-level program to collect and analyze data worldwide.

The UN resolution, as adopted by the Special Political Committee, recommends that the UN undertake, conduct, and coordinate research on UFOs and related phenomena. It also requests member states, specialized institutions, and non-governmental organizations to provide information and proposals. A group of experts is to be appointed to establish guiding principles for this study.

Case Studies and Features

'Clyppy: gli occhi spaziali': This section features a comic strip by 'Horus' depicting extraterrestrial beings, possibly aliens, discussing their presence and activities, including a mention of a 'command' in Scotland and the continuation of a tradition at Loch Ness.

'L'UFO É IL CAPOSTAZIONE' (The UFO and the Station Master): This foreign case study, attributed to Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni, details the experience of an Argentinian station master who claimed to be 'besieged' by a UFO. The article discusses the investigation into this event.

'UFO: esibizionismo e metamorfosi' (UFO: Exhibitionism and Metamorphosis): Written by Luigi Sorgno, this article offers reflections on the intentionality of certain UFO behaviors and the apparent logic of their occupants.

'I sistemi di classificazione: appunti per un'analisi critica' (Classification Systems: Notes for a Critical Analysis): This is the first part of an article by Edoardo Russo, which critically examines UFO classification systems.

'Casistica italiana' (Italian Cases): This section reports on UFO sightings in Italy during 1978, specifically highlighting the period from November 1st to December 7th.

'Osservatorio' (Observatory): This regular section includes a necrology for Gavin Gibbons and Ted Holiday, a 'Miscellanea' section, and brief notes on 'UFO = holograms' and 'UFO in Bulgaria'.

'Inserto: INTCAT: catalogo internazionale di atterraggi UFO' (Insert: INTCAT: International Catalog of UFO Landings): This insert provides a catalog of international UFO landing incidents.

'Gli altri dicono' (Others Say): This section, curated by Paolo Gastaldi, presents various opinions and reports related to UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the growing international recognition of the UFO phenomenon, the potential role of the United Nations in its study, and the presentation of both foreign and domestic UFO case studies. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry and a desire to bring scientific rigor to the subject, while acknowledging the public's fascination and the need for open discussion. The magazine positions itself as a platform for disseminating information and fostering a critical analysis of UFO-related events and theories.

This issue of the magazine, titled "I SISTEMI DI CLASSIFICAZIONE" (Classification Systems), is the first part of a critical analysis of UFO classification methods. Published in March 1979, it is authored by Edoardo Russo and focuses on the attempts to categorize the complex phenomenon of UFO sightings.

Introduction to UFO Classification

The article begins by highlighting the significance of categorizing UFO phenomena, noting that it serves both to create a framework for systematic analysis and to fulfill a human need for rationalization. The author suggests that studying existing classification systems can lead to understanding their errors and insufficiencies, potentially leading to improvements or new systems. Furthermore, it allows for an analysis of the underlying research context and the ideology of the time that shaped these systems.

The study is divided into two parts: the first deals with the classification of sightings (events), and the second with the classification and evaluation of reports (testimonies).

The Vallée Classification

The article then delves into the "Vallée Classification," attributing the first significant and widely disseminated system to French-American astronomer Jacques Vallée in 1963. This system, detailed in his two volumes published between 1965 and 1966, marked the emergence of "scientific ufology." The author notes that the interval between the initial UFO studies (1947/48 governmentally, 1950/51 privately) and Vallée's systematic analysis coincides with the period preceding the rise of "scientific ufology," leading to the conclusion that systematic ufology was born with scientific ufology.

Vallée's approach aimed to exclude conventional explanations and focus on truly anomalous phenomena. He proposed a classification based on five main categories, designed to be simple and mutually exclusive:

1. Objects on or near the ground: Seen at tree-top height.
2. Aerial forms resembling large, cylindrical "cloud-like" objects: Often vertical, sometimes with secondary objects emerging.
3. Aerial forms hovering or moving with intermittent stops: Allowing for precise ground point identification.
4. Objects moving across the sky without interruption or discontinuity: Continuous trajectory.
5. Distant objects seen as lights.

Vallée further subdivided these into classes (A, B, C, D, E), each with specific characteristics. For instance, Type I (ground objects) included cases with physical traces (thermal, luminous, mechanical) or those involving vehicles with occupants showing interest.

However, the author points out significant flaws in Vallée's system. The criteria used are inconsistent, mixing altitude (Type I), appearance (Type 2 and 5), and movement (Type 3 and 4). This inconsistency leads to overlaps and ambiguities, contradicting Vallée's goal of creating mutually exclusive categories. For example, it's unclear whether a "cigar-shaped" object descending to the ground should be Type I or Type 2, or if a "light" seen on the ground is Type 5 or Type 1.

The article suggests that Vallée's underlying motivation might have been influenced by Aimé Michel's "ortotenia" theory, which posited that UFO sightings were often aligned in straight lines. Vallée's classification, particularly the distinction between Type 3 (interrupted trajectory) and Type 4 (continuous trajectory), seems to stem from the problem of identifying precise "points" for ortotenic analysis. Cases of Type 1 were seen as Type 3 with absolute precision, while Type 5 offered no ground projection. Type 2 was considered significant as these phenomena often represented vertices where ortotenic lines converged, potentially indicating "mother ships."

The Spanish Variant

Researchers Josep Serra and Joan Crexells, in their 1971 article, criticized Vallée's classification as incomplete. They proposed an expanded system, arguing that Vallée's classification gave too little importance to UFO occupants and neglected sightings over large bodies of water. They also highlighted the need for a specific category for UFO observations made by astronauts in orbit, given their exceptional quality despite lower frequency.

Serra and Crexells' proposed system included nine types:

• Type I: Solid objects, metallic or luminous, of various shapes, without occupants (e.g., "flying saucer").
• Type II: Carrier "astronaves" (spaceships) with giant dimensions, cigar-shaped, emitting smaller objects, and not landing.
• Type III: Occupants, including sightings of beings resembling humans or humanoids.
• Type IV: Derived phenomena (emanating from UFOs), luminous-immaterial or metallic-solid, small, apparently not piloted, possibly probes or observation instruments.

They further detailed classifications based on specific characteristics:

• Type I: UFO landed or stationary near the ground (tree-top height).
• Type II: Similar to Type I but over sea or water.
• Type III: UFO observed in the atmosphere, performing maneuvers or hovering.
• Type IV: UFO observed at high altitude, appearing as a luminous point.
• Type V: UFO observed by astronauts in orbit.
• Type VI: "Disc-carrier ship" or "cigar" associated with cloud formations, possibly emitting smaller craft.
• Type VII: Observation of a UFO occupant on the ground, near a UFO, or at sea.
• Type VIII: Derived phenomena, metallic-solid, various shapes, landed on ground, sea, etc.
• Type IX: Derived phenomena, luminous-immaterial, various shapes, landed on ground, sea, etc.

The authors noted that while their intention was to eliminate overlaps and expand the classification, the number of types increased, potentially leading to more confusion. They also pointed out that the criteria remained plural (altitude, movement, location, witness, shape, appearance), and cases that Vallée classified under Type 4 were not easily accommodated. Ultimately, they concluded that the proposed corrections had not improved the situation but rather complicated it.

American Systems

The article then discusses systems similar to the Spanish proposal, including the one used by Dr. David Saunders for his UFOCAT computerized catalog. Saunders' system also features nine types, partly coinciding with Vallée's, and uses a "strangeness coefficient" to assess cases:

• Type I: Stationary lights or objects with apparent inertia similar to celestial bodies.
• Type II: Lights and objects with continuous movement and very brief observation duration.
• Type III: Lights and objects that stop and then move, or change direction despite continuous inertia.
• Type IV: Lights or objects that repeatedly stop and restart or change direction.
• Type V: Close encounters (witness-UFO distance < 150 meters).
• Type VI: Landings (objects on the ground).
• Type VII: Occupants seen outside the object or, in some cases, beings without a visible UFO.
• Type VIII: Physical contact, intelligent dialogue with occupants.
• Type IX: Physical effects on living beings (animals, physiological effects on witnesses), memory gaps, temporal distortions, abductions.

Saunders' system is praised for not discriminating between "immaterial lights" and solid objects. It aims to provide possible identifications for each type, with Types I-III potentially referring to celestial bodies, aircraft, optical illusions, or combinations thereof. Types IV, V, and VI are considered "medium" strangeness, while Types VII, VIII, and IX are "high" strangeness. However, the article notes that Saunders himself is aware of potential overlaps due to the unitary, unstated criterion, and suggests that the highest coefficient among contemporary types should be applied to resolve ambiguity.

Another classification, similar to Vallée's, was used by the US magazine Data-Net Report. This system, though limited in use, is noted for its unified criterion based on UFO behavior, distinguishing four types:

• Type I: Landing or low-altitude (max 30 meters).
• Type II: Erratic maneuvers (turns, zigzags, stops, accelerations, departures).
• Type III: Object hovering motionless for the entire duration of the sighting.
• Type IV: Continuous flight in a straight line.

Each of these types could be accompanied by one or more non-mutually exclusive classes and subclasses related to observation conditions and specific phenomena. Despite not being optimal, this system offered advantages over others and has been applied by some.

Miscellaneous News and Notes

The issue also includes brief news items and notes:

• Necrology: Obituaries for Gavin Gibbons, a British writer and ufologist known for his books and investigation into a 1954 UK close encounter case, and F. W. (Ted) Holiday, a writer who lived in Canada and Great Britain, and authored a book on the Loch Ness Monster.
• Miscellanea:
• In February 1978, Colombian secret police arrested three Dominicans in Armenia for defrauding peasants by claiming to communicate with UFOs and sell tickets for space travel.
• On April 11, 1978, a man interrupted a UFO conference in Seville, Spain, claiming to be an extraterrestrial and presenting a paper with the number "2040."
• On April 16, 1978, in Cambrai, France, a "cannonball" reportedly scored a goal in a football match, later identified as a meteorite.
• UFO = Holograms: A 1954 suggestion from a Swedish newspaper proposed that UFOs might be television images projected in the air. A letter in a British newspaper in March 1978 suggested that UFOs' incredible accelerations could be explained if they were three-dimensional images (holograms) projected into the sky, referencing psychological warfare techniques used in Vietnam. This is further supported by a report of UFOs landing in San Donà del Piave, Venice, on December 22, 1978, causing alarm with fantastic cone-shaped figures appearing in the clouds.

Conference Report

A report details the participation of two magazine editors, Paolo Mercuri and Edoardo Russo, as speakers at a UFO conference organized by "Radio Club Conegliano" in Conegliano Veneto on April 21st. Seven speakers presented a general overview of the UFO phenomenon, discussing research aspects and the Alessandria case of September 2, 1978, as a representative example. The event was well-attended, with journalists and private radio/TV presence, and received positive coverage in local media.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the challenge and importance of systematically classifying UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears critical and analytical, dissecting existing systems, highlighting their flaws, and proposing alternative approaches. The authors emphasize the need for clear, consistent criteria in ufological research and express skepticism towards systems that introduce ambiguity or fail to adequately address the complexity of reported events. The issue also touches upon the historical development of ufology, from early sightings to the emergence of "scientific ufology" and the influence of theories like "ortotenia." The inclusion of miscellaneous news and a conference report suggests a broad engagement with the UFO topic, aiming to inform and critically evaluate the field.

Title: CATALOGO INTERNAZIONALE DI ATTERRAGGI UFO (International UFO Landing Catalog)
Publisher: CLYPEUS
Issue Date: 1979
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of INTCAT, published by Clypeus in 1979, serves as an international catalog of UFO landings. The cover features a striking black and white illustration of a UFO landing with figures in spacesuits observing it.

Introduction and Historical Context

The introduction discusses the historical prejudice against UFO research, particularly concerning sightings of 'little men' associated with UFOs. It highlights Captain Ruppelt's role in the Project Blue Book and his revelation that the U.S. Air Force did not investigate such reports. The text also mentions the 'wave' of UFO sightings in autumn 1954, which brought attention to low-altitude flights and landings with entities, and was extensively covered by researchers like Aimé Michel and the Lorenzen couple from APRO.

Jacques Vallée and UFO Classification

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the work of scientist Jacques Vallée. It details his transition from astrophysics to ufology and his early interest in UFO phenomena, influenced by Professor Hynek. Vallée's 1963 study, published in the Flying Saucer Review, analyzed eighty cases of UFO landings involving humanoid entities. This led to the publication of his seminal works in 1965 and 1966, which marked a shift towards a more scientific approach in ufology. Vallée proposed a classification system for UFO sightings into five categories, with 'Type 1' focusing on ground sightings or close proximity. This classification was divided into four sub-categories (A, B, C, D) based on specific characteristics of the sighting.

Reviews of UFO Publications

The issue includes reviews of various UFO newsletters and magazines, providing insights into the ufological landscape of the time:

• Nuraghex: A newsletter from Cagliari, Italy, featuring articles on UFOs, including a piece on Jader Pereira's study of UFO occupants and a discussion on the 'UFO and astronomers' theme. It also notes critical commentary signed (Nx).
• Panorama UFO: An international magazine that heavily relies on newspaper clippings. It includes a transcription of the Zanfretta hypnosis session and an editorial suggesting that 'They' are intentionally increasing UFO appearances to make humanity aware of their presence.
• Notiziario UFO (Imola): Described as a typical example of how UFO research groups plagiarize from books and magazines. It features articles on the Zanfretta case, the 'Martina Franca' case (noted as a hoax), and the 'Monguzzi' case. The publication attempts to mimic the structure of the CUN's official newsletter.
• Gli Arcani: A magazine that includes articles on 'The threshold of censorship' and the Zanfretta case. It also mentions the formation of a UFO committee within the UN.
• Il giornale dei misteri: Reviews of its March and April 1979 issues, noting a focus on case compilations and a critical stance towards UFO research groups.
• Notiziario UFO (February-March 1979): Features interviews with meteorological observatory directors and discussions on UFO cases in Italy, including the Zanfretta case and the 'Etna landing'. It also includes articles on 'UFO and astronauts' and a bibliography.

UFO in Bulgaria

The issue reports on UFO sightings in Pleven, Bulgaria, in December 1978. The Bulgarian newspaper Rabotnichesko Delo published accounts and photos of luminous objects observed near Pleven, sparking public interest despite official reassurances from cosmologist Prof. Xiril Seraphimov.

UFO: Exhibitionism and Metamorphosis by Luigi Sorgno

This article by Luigi Sorgno explores the concept of 'exhibitionism and metamorphosis' in UFO phenomena. Sorgno argues that many UFO encounters, particularly those involving landings on roads, are staged events designed to simulate breakdowns or technical stops. He identifies three 'constants' in these encounters: landings on roads, the metamorphosis of ufonauts, and their 'false' hostility. Sorgno suggests that the increasing focus on 'monsters' and 'humanoids' in recent cases, such as the Zanfretta case, indicates a shift towards psychological manipulation, where alien encounters affect the percipient's psyche, leading to amnesia and temporal gaps. He posits that aliens are 'camouflaging' themselves, moving from 'little green men' to more complex entities, and that their purported origins are becoming increasingly varied, from solar system planets to distant galaxies. Sorgno concludes by suggesting that aliens might be 'grumpy, self-centered mythomaniacs with a touch of xenophobia' and proposes psychoanalyzing them through their reported 'chatter'. He notes the surprising agreement between Hynek and Vallée on certain points.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the cataloging and classification of UFO landings, the historical development of ufology, the analysis of humanoid encounters, and the critical review of UFO research publications. The editorial stance appears to favor a more rigorous, scientific, and analytical approach to the study of UFO phenomena, as exemplified by the work of Jacques Vallée and the detailed reviews of various UFO publications. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between anecdotal reports and more systematic research, while also acknowledging the psychological and sociological aspects of the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of 'CASISTICA ITALIANA' from November-December 1978, titled '1978: un anno di avvistamenti' (1978: a year of sightings), presents a detailed compilation of UFO sightings and related phenomena, primarily focusing on cases from Italy and a significant incident from Argentina.

"UFO: realtà di un fenomeno" (Review)

The issue begins with a review of a book titled "UFO: realtà di un fenomeno" by an unnamed author (Armenia editore, Milano 1979). The reviewer discusses the need to analyze the UFO phenomenon from metaphysical, occult, and philosophical perspectives. The book proposes a "double manifestation of UFOs": a primary, spiritual manifestation aimed at elevating human consciousness (seen in mystical and religious events) and a secondary, more detrimental manifestation that creates confusion and negative effects. The reviewer connects this to historical accounts of divine encounters and suggests that modern UFO phenomena might be a form of 'replacement phenomenon' or 'negative entities' exploiting humanity's current transitional phase, possibly as a defense shield against negative influences during the shift to the 'Age of Aquarius'. The reviewer also speculates that psychophonic and spiritualistic phenomena might be related to this negative order.

Key Contributors

A list of individuals who collaborated on this issue is provided, including Francesco Cressano, Ignacio Darnaude Rojas Marcos, Pierre Delval, Maria Carolina Grassino, Angelo Iacopino, Alberto Lazzaro, Gerard Lebat, Tom Mc Ardell, Giorgio Metta, Gianfranco Neri, Norman Oliver, Peter Rogerson, Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni, Francis Schaeffer, Ronald Smotek, Luigi Sorgho, Jacques Vallée, Raymond Veillith, Kolman Von Keviczky, and Antonio Zambolin.

The Ramblon Incident (Argentina)

"L'UFO E IL CAPOSTAZIONE" (The UFO and the Stationmaster)

This section, authored by Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni, details an incident that occurred on July 12 and 13, 1978, near Media Agua, San Juan Province, Argentina. The incident involved Felipe Onofre Orozco, the stationmaster at Ramblon, and his assistant Horacio Zocco.

The Location: Ramblon station is a remote exchange point on the San Juan-Mendoza railway line, located about 95 km south of San Juan city, in an area rich in minerals.

The Events:
On July 12, 1978, around 7:30 PM, Horacio Zocco left for Media Agua. Around 8:45 PM, Felipe Orozco began his routine check of the signal lights, accompanied by his dog, Laika. At 9:00 PM, Laika became agitated, with her fur standing on end and trembling. Orozco noticed a bright, intense red light directly overhead, accompanied by a loud, muffled noise and sounds like explosions. He felt paralyzed, unable to move his legs, and experienced intense heart palpitations. He managed to crawl back to the station building, with his dog barking frantically. The entire countryside was illuminated by the light.

Aftermath:
Inside the station, Orozco found the telephone non-functional, emitting only static. Around 9:45 PM, he tried to call for help and finally reached the Retamino station, which alerted the police. A police contingent, including Commissioner Felix Balmaceda and Inspector Alfredo Varas, arrived by 10:40 PM. They observed the UFO, estimated to be 5 km away, described as a red, saucer-shaped object moving slowly. The police confirmed the object's presence and its slow movement. Felipe Orozco was found in a semi-conscious state and remained so for 48 hours, requiring hospitalization. He suffered from nervous crisis, crying, sweating, tremors, a nosebleed, tachycardia, and chest oppression.

Other Testimonies:

• Jocoli, Mendoza: Residents reported a red light moving rapidly from east to west, performing erratic maneuvers.
• San Juan Province: Numerous families experienced pronounced interference with television broadcasts between 9:30 PM and 10:30 PM. José Correa, an agricultural worker, described his TV screen being filled with static and then a mushroom-shaped image, accompanied by intermittent sounds.
• Correa's Observations: The following morning, Correa observed a large, incandescent mass in the sky, moving from right to left and top to bottom. He felt weak but noted the luminous object seemed focused on the station. The object appeared to land briefly before ascending and moving west. His cattle stopped producing milk for three days, and three horses disappeared.
• Correa's TV Interference: Correa detailed TV interference starting around 9:45 PM, with "phantom shapes" appearing on the screen. The screen went black, and a white mushroom shape appeared with intermittent, high-pitched sounds. He eventually unplugged the TV.
• Widespread Interference: The TV and radio disturbances affected a large area south of San Juan and north of Mendoza. Radio Colon in San Juan ceased transmission for 45 minutes, and police radio links were interrupted. A police vehicle and a patrol car sent to Ramblon broke down simultaneously about 2 km away.
• Other Anomalies: A bulldozer near Ramblon was found with completely discharged batteries and damaged electrical systems.
• Laika's Condition: Orozco's dog, Laika, developed a growing red patch on her back, about 20 cm in diameter, which eventually disappeared.

Official Reactions:
Colonel Guillermo Vogel, head of the provincial police, stated that a strange luminous phenomenon was confirmed near Ramblon station, observed by many residents. He acknowledged the interruption of radio and TV transmissions but stated that no evidence of landing was found. Police officers reported observing a red flying object emitting intense white light beams.

• Notes:
• Commissioner Felix Balmaceda reportedly had previously witnessed an unidentified object in 1971.
• Felipe Orozco, traumatized by the event, refused to return to Ramblon and moved with his family to Santa Rosa.
• The sightings, with multiple witnesses, lasted until 4 AM.
• Correa reported fewer wild animals in the area following the incident.

"Casistica Italiana 1978: un anno di avvistamenti" (Italian Case Files 1978: A Year of Sightings)

This section continues a review of Italian UFO sightings initiated in a previous issue, covering the period from November 1 to December 7, 1978. Cases from the 'last two months of the year' are presented, with statistical analysis to follow.

November 1978 Sightings:

• Case n. 82 (Nov 1, Fontanafredda, PN): A luminous "ball" moved zigzagging west to east for 5 minutes.
• Case n. 83 (Nov 1, Pordenone): A family observed a luminous sphere emitting four distinct light beams, moving west to east.
• Case n. 84 (Nov 6, Prato Nevoso, Frabosa Sottana, CN): A large luminous ball was seen descending and crashing, causing a fire.
• Case n. 85 (Early Nov, Pian Borno di Esine, BS): Mr. Garattini photographed a strange red aircraft moving towards Esine.
• Case n. 86 (Nov 11, Troiano di Trieste): Rodolfo Rosada photographed a luminous orange object hovering over a police barracks.
• Case n. 87 (Nov 11, Salò, BS): A strong light rose from a valley at very high speed.
• Case n. 88 (Nov 11, Fiumicino, RM): A radiosonde operator observed a luminous object from his car.
• Case n. 89 (Nov 11, Chieti): A pulsating luminous globe was observed, reappearing for 10 consecutive nights.
• Case n. 90 (Nov 12, Torrazza di Saluzzo, CN): An 18-year-old saw a luminous yellow and red object with a dome and legs descend and hover near his car.
• Case n. 91 (Nov 12, Fiumicino, RM): Airport control operators observed several luminous spheres and a large, silent, red-orange sphere that stopped briefly before moving away at high speed.
• Case n. 92 (Nov 14, San Donato di Tagliacozzo, AQ): Giuseppe Di Giovanni witnessed a circular object land, from which emerged small, smiling humanoids with green skin and dark suits. The object left behind yellowed grass and displaced stones.
• Case n. 93 (Nov 14, Grumello, BG): Two pensioners saw a discoid object with a strong glow above the hills, which then disappeared behind a hill after igniting.
• Case n. 94 (Nov 14, San Vittore Olona, MI): Matteo Ruggeri and colleagues observed a red and white object that stopped silently overhead and then moved slowly towards Milan, emitting a red light.
• Case n. 95 (Nov 14, Fiumicino, RM): Vittorio and Marinuccio Pellegrino photographed a large luminous object.
• Case n. 96 (Nov 14, Pian Borno di Esine, BS): Mr. Prazzini saw a luminous, round object disappear over the mountains.
• Case n. 97 (Nov 14, Bologna): An oval object with three lights (red, yellow, green) was observed performing aerial evolutions.
• Case n. 98 (Nov 17, Rome): Dozens of people reported seeing "strange flying objects surrounded by a fluorescent halo," possibly aircraft.
• Case n. 99 (Nov 17, Vinodione, MI): Giancarlo De Concilio observed a large luminous ball moving towards Linate, leaving a trail.
• Case n. 100 (Nov 17, Bassano, VI): Three young people observed an object with a central nucleus and a luminous tail.
• Case n. 101 (Nov 18, Bassano, VI): A large, luminous, and fast-moving globe with a trail was seen.
• Case n. 102 (Nov 18, Campobasso): A bus driver observed a hemispherical object that emitted a strong reddish light before suddenly extinguishing.
• Case n. 103 (Nov 21, Caiolo, SO): Three young people saw a luminous trail and a phosphorescent elliptical object land on a meadow, then take off again.
• Case n. 104 (Nov 22, Bordighera, IM): Giulia Verardi observed a large, disc-shaped object with a dome and antenna near the sea, emitting soft light and four colored lights from its side.
• Case n. 105 (Nov 23, Taranto): Angelo Romanazzi saw a red and white object cross the sky, leaving a long trail.
• Case n. 106 (Nov 24, Campobasso): Four cigar-shaped objects performed aerial evolutions, emitting orange light.
• Case n. 107 (Nov 24, Modena): Hundreds of people observed pointed objects with silver light moving quickly.
• Case n. 108 (Nov 24, Marchesante, VI): Four family members observed an object with a red-orange nucleus and white halo that moved in a triangular trajectory.
• Case n. 109 (Nov 24, Gallio, VI): Pensioner Angelo D'Ambros encountered two thin, "ugly" humanoids with greenish skin and large features. One of them touched D'Ambros's hand, delivering an electric shock. The humanoids then fled towards a large, biconvex, blue and red object that took off vertically, leaving "U"-shaped marks on the ground.
• Case n. 110 (Nov 24, S. Eusebio, VI): Giancarlo Cieccon photographed a dark object in the sky.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed documentation of UFO sightings, the investigation of these phenomena, and the exploration of their potential implications for human consciousness and history. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging its complexity and potential connection to deeper metaphysical or esoteric questions, while also meticulously recording empirical observations and witness testimonies. The inclusion of both international (Argentinian) and extensive national (Italian) cases underscores a commitment to a broad and thorough cataloging of UFO events.

This issue of Galassia (Issue 40) focuses on documenting UFO sightings and related phenomena reported in Italy during November and December 1979. The magazine presents a series of case files, each detailing specific observations made by witnesses, often accompanied by source citations from various Italian newspapers.

Case Files: November - December 1979

The issue meticulously lists numerous sightings:

• November 28, Sanremo: Fishermen observed smoke rising from the sea, forming a vortex from which a luminous object emerged at high speed.
• November 29, Imperia: Fishermen reported a silent, low-flying light over the sea with strong luminosity.
• November 30, Settimo Torinese: A night watchman witnessed seven violet, pulsating luminous objects in an 'M' formation at low altitude.
• November 30, Rivoli: The Guzzi family observed a slow-moving white object with red glows that vanished. Separately, Maria Albri saw a red-violet object disappear.
• November 30, Ventimiglia: Numerous individuals on both sides of the border saw a silent, luminous object crossing the sky.
• November 30, Rome: Dr. Janone and Commendator Onorati observed a luminous, oblong object with a rotating protuberance. Photographs taken were not clear.
• Early December, Lanciano: Giuseppe Bomba (15) and Gianfranco Torella (16) sighted and photographed a disc-shaped object moving rapidly northwest.
• December 5, Trezzano: Guido Menini saw a very fast-moving, bright star and attempted to photograph it.
• December 5, Mogoro: Giuseppe Mura discovered a circular burn mark in a field of artichokes. The plants were uprooted, the soil disturbed, and three 15cm deep holes were found in a triangular pattern.
• December 5, Chieti: A luminous disc landed on the outskirts of town and then departed.
• December 6, Palermo: Several people observed a powerful light beam forming a 5-meter diameter circle on the ground. The beam retracted into a luminous point, accompanied by a rumbling sound. The light moved slowly, stopped, and oscillated.
• December 6, Brescia: Franco Penna's car stopped and restarted on its own, while he observed a luminous object resembling the sun.
• December 6, Propata di Genova: Mrs. Cilluo saw a luminous form moving at high speed in the sky.
• December 7, Loc. Marzano: Fortunato Zanfretta, a night watchman, reported seeing four white lights moving erratically. He then encountered a creature over three meters tall with a dark green head, large yellow eyes, and sharp spines. The creature disappeared, and Zanfretta later saw a strong light at the base of a "Chinese hat" structure. He was later hypnotized by Dr. Mauro Moretti, revealing he had physical contact with the creature, suggesting a form of "clinical examination."
• December 7, Caorle/Jesolo: A simulated military exercise, "Albatros," involving hovercraft and landing craft, caused public alarm, with people mistaking it for a UFO landing.
• December 7, L'Aquila: Street vendors observed a large, luminous disc with a clear trail moving linearly across the sky, visible both in the morning and evening.

Codifica dei Quotidiani (Newspaper Coding)

This section provides a coded list of Italian daily newspapers. The purpose is to offer researchers a standardized way to cite sources, particularly for archival use. The list includes currently published newspapers, political papers, and some foreign-language publications available in Italy, while excluding economic papers. The magazine intends to publish a similar list for defunct newspapers in the future.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the systematic documentation of unexplained aerial phenomena and related events in Italy. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and cataloging, presenting witness accounts and physical evidence without overt skepticism, aiming to provide a comprehensive archive of such occurrences. The inclusion of the newspaper coding system highlights a commitment to rigorous sourcing and archival practices within the field of ufology.