Ufologia - No 03 - mag-giu 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA
Issue: SUPPLEMENTO A CLYPEUS N° 56
Volume: 3
Date: Maggio-Giugno 1979

This issue of UFOLOGIA, a supplement to Clypeus N° 56, is a bi-monthly publication focused on ufology, produced by the Sezione Ufologica del Gruppo Clypeus and the Centro Torinese Ricerche Ufologiche. The cover features a stylized illustration of a car with the headline "UFO: COGITO, ERGO SUM" and "UFO RALLY."

Editorial

The editorial section, titled "EDITORIALE," notes the completion of the third issue, marking the first year of UFOLOGIA. Despite challenges, the issue maintains its page count and offers a variety of interesting articles. The editorial highlights the temporary absence of the electric typewriter and the need to postpone the second part of an article on classification systems and a UFO catalog for Piedmont. To compensate, the issue includes several articles deemed "truly interesting."

Articles and Content

• "ONDATE UFO E ATTIVITA' SOLARE" by Wido Hoville: This preliminary study investigates the possible correlation between periods of intense UFO activity and solar cycles. The author, not a professional astronomer, gathered data on sunspot numbers over 30 years and cross-referenced it with UFO sighting data from David Saunders' "UFO Catalogue." The study suggests a relationship where UFO activity is low during peak solar activity and increases before and after solar maximums. The article includes several graphs (Grafico A, B, B1, C, D) illustrating these correlations with solar activity, French UFO statistics, and even tidal variations.
• "Casistica estera: UFO DA CORSA" by Guillermo C. Roncorozi: This article presents the results of an investigation into a South American rally case, noted as being a first-hand account, even though it had been previously reported in Italian specialized magazines.
• "GLI ALTRI DICONO" (What Others Say): This section, curated by Paolo Gastaldi, likely presents commentary or summaries of other ufological discussions or findings.
• "UFO: COGITO, ERGO SUM" by P. Fiorino and G. Metta: This article, part of a series on "borderline" ufology topics by Italian authors, is presented with an introduction by Paolo Fiorino.
• "STRANI RISVEGLI" (Strange Awakenings) by Keith Basterfield: This section features an original and suggestive hypothesis by the Australian researcher Keith Basterfield, proposing explanations for a large number of "close encounter" cases without resorting to extraterrestrial explanations. The article suggests that 85% of unidentified UFOs might be explained by natural phenomena related to strong magnetic storms and solar eruptions.
• "OSSERVATORIO" (Observatory) by Keith Basterfield: This section includes several sub-topics:
• "UFO distrugge e ricrea città" (UFO destroys and recreates cities)
• "Creazione di una 'zona neutrale' per atterraggi UFO" (Creation of a 'neutral zone' for UFO landings)
• "L'atteggiamento del 'gentleman' inglese verso gli UFO" (The attitude of the English 'gentleman' towards UFOs)
• "Casistica italiana" (Italian Cases): This section reports on 1978 sightings, specifically detailing events from December 8th to 15th.
• "Recensioni" (Reviews): This section includes a review of the book "UFO, Triangolo delle Bermuda, Atlantide. Che cosa c'è di vero" (UFO, Bermuda Triangle, Atlantis. What is true about it).

Detailed Analysis of "Ondate UFO e Attività Solare"

Wido Hoville's article delves into the potential link between solar cycles and UFO waves. He references a French magazine "Science et Vie" (n°679, April 1974) for a graph of UFO activity. The author notes that the solar cycle is approximately 11 years long, and identifies peak years for UFO activity around 1947, 1957-58, and 1970, with a predicted peak around 1981-1982. The article suggests that UFOs might avoid Earth during periods of high solar activity and appear more frequently during periods of low solar activity, possibly seeking refuge from solar wind near Earth's magnetic field.

Grafico A shows the relationship between solar activity (sunspots) from 1800-1977 and UFO waves. Grafico B compares solar activity from 1947-1977 with UFO activity based on Saunders' UFO-CAT data, indicating that UFO activity increases significantly during periods of low solar activity and decreases sharply after solar maximums. Grafico B1 focuses on "Non-Meteorite" sightings from 1964-1977 in Canada, showing a similar pattern with a slight delay. Grafico C presents UFO statistics from France (Claude Poher) from 1940-1977, reinforcing the correlation between French UFO activity and global patterns, as well as solar activity. Grafico D examines tidal variations in relation to sunspot numbers and UFO cycles, suggesting that UFO cycles are opposite to solar and tidal cycles, with high UFO activity during low solar activity.

Conclusions from Solar Activity Study

The study concludes that the apparent relationship between UFO cycles and solar activity is likely not accidental. It suggests that the UFO phenomenon is directly dependent on our planetary or solar environment, indicating a physical rather than psychological origin. The author emphasizes the need for further study to clarify whether UFO activity is solely dependent on the solar cycle or also influenced by planetary tidal forces, noting the interconnectedness of solar and planetary cycles.

"Strange Awakenings" and Alternative Explanations

Keith Basterfield's hypothesis, based on the work of Michael Persinger and Gyslaine F. Lafrenière, proposes that 85% of unidentified UFOs could be explained by natural phenomena. During strong magnetic storms and intense solar eruptions, large amounts of electrically charged particles are released into space. When these particles collide with Earth's magnetic field, they cause oscillations that can ionize the air, potentially creating luminous globes that observers might mistake for UFOs. The article mentions sightings of "multicolored fireballs" and "metallic objects with wings" in the US and Canada following solar events in August 1972. It also notes that large UFO flaps in the US in August 1972 coincided with periods of low solar activity. The author, however, expresses skepticism about the 85% figure and believes this theory does not explain all UFO phenomena, particularly the "humanoid plasma forms" reported in some encounters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOLOGIA strongly emphasizes the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly through statistical analysis and correlation studies. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations and the exploration of natural causes for UFO sightings, moving away from purely extraterrestrial hypotheses. There is a clear interest in interdisciplinary approaches, combining astronomy, geophysics, and psychology to understand the UFO phenomenon. The magazine aims to provide cultural and informational content to its members, suggesting a serious and research-oriented approach to ufology.

This issue of "UFOLOGIA" (identified as issue 15, volume VIII, May 1979) focuses heavily on a significant UFO incident that occurred in Argentina during the latter part of 1978, titled "UFO DA CORSA" by Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni. The magazine also reviews several other UFO-related publications.

UFO Activity in Argentina (August-October 1978)

The issue begins by noting an unusual increase in UFO activity across Argentina during August, September, and October of 1978. Initially concentrated in the western regions (pre-Cordillera) of San Juan, Mendoza, and Neuquén, with isolated reports from Chile, the activity shifted south to the Buenos Aires province (zones of Pedro Luro, Médanos, Bahia Blanca, Coronel Dorrego, and Necochea). This period saw the emergence of 'Type I' cases, such as the one in La Dulce. By late September, the focus moved to Tucuman and the Rosario area in Santa Fé. While many of these sightings were attributed to natural phenomena or misidentification, a significant core of observations with a high index of strangeness warranted special attention.

The Acevedo-Moya Incident: A Detailed Account

The most prominent case highlighted is the "Acevedo-Moya incident," described as the most important UFO observation of the August-October period, not just for its media diffusion but for its unusual characteristics.

The Rally Context

On August 17, 1978, Carlos Acevedo and Hugo Prambs began the first leg of the South American Rally in a Citroën GS 1220, organized by the Automobil Club Argentino. The rally was a demanding month-long event, aiming to connect Buenos Aires with Caracas, Venezuela, along the Pacific coast. The crew of car number 102 faced numerous problems, leading them to consider withdrawing. However, due to determination and assistance from other competitors, they rejoined the race.

The Encounter

On September 16, Hugo Prambs withdrew from the rally in Bariloche due to personal reasons and was replaced by Miguel Angel Moya. On the morning of September 23, Acevedo and Moya were nearing the end of the rally, approximately 1000 kilometers from the finish. Around 02:00, they stopped at an ACA station in Viedma (Rio Negro province) for fuel. After a brief conversation with other competitors, they resumed their journey towards Bahia Blanca at 02:30.

Around 03:00, while on the provincial road connecting to Cardenal Cagliero, approximately 30 kilometers north of Carmén de Patagones, Acevedo, who was driving, noticed a powerful, yellowish light reflecting in his rearview mirror. The light, initially a point, rapidly grew larger. As they were traveling at about 100 km/h, Acevedo slowed down, assuming it was another rally car with powerful headlights. The light intensified, illuminating the car's interior with a dense, brilliant yellow light, tinged with violet hues.

Loss of Control and Anomalies

Suddenly, the car lost control. Acevedo observed they were about 2 meters above the asphalt, initially thinking they had hit a speed bump ('lomo de burro'). However, instead of descending, the car continued to rise uncontrollably. Acevedo described the interior being filled with light, making it impossible to see anything, including their own hands or the instrument panel. Moya was paralyzed by fear.

Both witnesses lost track of time. They suddenly felt a jolt and found the car back on the ground. Acevedo estimated only a minute or two had passed, but the experience felt longer. They found themselves on the shoulder of the road, on the wrong side. The light then dissipated, revealing a cone-shaped object of yellow light hovering nearby, approximately 4-5 meters at the base and 6-7 meters high. This object then ascended rapidly westward as a bright white-yellow light, disappearing into the distance.

Post-Incident Observations

After the event, both men were disoriented and shaken. Acevedo exited the car to check its condition. Upon resuming their journey, they reached Pedro Luro, 123 kilometers north of Carmén de Patagones, at 05:10. They noted several anomalies:

1. Distance Discrepancy: The car's odometer indicated they had traveled only 52 kilometers from Viedma to Pedro Luro, whereas the actual distance is 127 kilometers.
2. Time Discrepancy: They arrived at 05:10, having left Carmén de Patagones around 02:50. If they had maintained an average speed of 100 km/h without issues, the journey should have taken about 75 minutes. Instead, it took them 2 hours and 20 minutes, indicating a 'lost time' of approximately 60 minutes.
3. Fuel Anomaly: The auxiliary fuel tank, which had been filled with 40 liters in Viedma, was found to be completely empty.

Reporting to Authorities

Confused and frightened, Acevedo and Moya reported the incident to the police in Pedro Luro. Inspector Daniel Osimi listened to their account and, noting their distress, arranged for them to be escorted to Bahia Blanca.

Witness Testimonies and Analysis

The Witnesses

Carlos Acevedo, 38, son of a Chilean father but born in Argentina, lived in Santiago, Chile, where he owned two elegant shops and a bar. He was described as extroverted and affable, with significant economic standing evident from his participation in the rally.

Miguel Angel Moya, 20, was from Santiago, Chile, and worked as a mechanic. He was described as shy and reserved, appearing deeply affected by the incident.

Inspector Daniel Osimi found both witnesses to be coherent and credible, noting their mental faculties were intact despite their nervousness. He confirmed the absence of any damage to the fuel tank, making the fuel loss inexplicable.

Other Testimonies

Police Chief Jesús Garcia corroborated that the witnesses were very nervous. He observed Acevedo flinch when a car behind them used its high beams.

Héctor Forchesatto, the service station manager, was the first to interact with the witnesses after the incident. He found them very nervous, especially Moya, and recalled their discussion about the mileage and fuel issues. Forchesatto believed the witnesses were sincere and their state of confusion and astonishment was genuine. He also mentioned that some inhabitants of Ascasubi reportedly observed a strange, powerful yellow light moving westward around 04:30-04:45, though this could not be independently confirmed.

Commentary

The author emphasizes that, as with many UFO cases, the investigation relies solely on witness testimony due to the lack of physical evidence. However, all interviewers agreed that Acevedo and Moya were credible, sincere, and provided consistent accounts without contradictions. The author highlights the temporal reduction and the odometer discrepancy as the most striking and inexplicable aspects of the incident.

The temporal anomaly is analyzed in detail: the 15 minutes between the sighting and the car being found on the shoulder, followed by another 15 minutes to reach Pedro Luro, resulting in a total of approximately 30 minutes for a journey that should have taken much less. This leaves a 'blank' period of about 110 minutes. The witnesses reported the luminous phenomenon itself lasted only one to two minutes, but during that time, they completely lost their sense of time and space.

Furthermore, the 71-kilometer deficit recorded by the car's odometer is deemed highly significant and inexplicable, especially as it was confirmed by both the normal odometer and the precision instrument used in the rally.

Effects on Vehicle and Witnesses

Externally, the car showed no signs of damage, magnetic effects, or radioactivity. The engine was intact. Acevedo recalled having to restart the engine after the car was back on the shoulder.

Both witnesses experienced fear and disorientation. Moya reported feeling a 'suffocating heat' when the light filled the cabin, intense chest pressure, and uncontrollable hand tremors. Acevedo felt numbness in his feet and a dorsal pain. Both had trouble sleeping the following night and experienced sudden awakenings.

Conclusions

The investigation's conclusions are necessarily based on the witnesses' credibility, given the absence of material proof. The author reiterates that Acevedo and Moya are trustworthy and that other testimonies corroborate their account. The case is considered to have a high degree of veracity. However, the investigation is deemed incomplete, and the author strongly suggests using hypnotic trance to interrogate the witnesses, believing this technique could yield surprising results, similar to its application in other cases involving temporal reduction or memory loss.

Collaborators and Future Content

The issue lists the following individuals who collaborated in its production: Roberto Balbi, Keith Basterfield, Francesco Cressano, Maria Carolina Grassino, Edward Harris, Bryan Hartley, Giorgio Metta, Laura Mundo, Norman Oliver, John Rimjor, Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni, John Saville, Ronald Smotek, and Antonio Zambolin.

Upcoming topics for "UFOLOGIA" include the second part of E. Russo's classification systems, a discussion on the relationship between UFO phenomena and demonic manifestations, an article questioning the utility of UFO statistics, and a piece on Italian UFO cases.

Other Opinions

This section reviews other UFO-related publications:

• SKY WATCH (June 1979): A new, regionally focused publication from the CUN's Genoa section, featuring investigations into recent Ligurian UFO sightings. It is noted as a continuation of the "SHADO ITALY NEWS" newsletter.
• IL PIANETA DIMENTICATO (January-February 1979): A bimonthly publication from the Centro Ricerche Uomo Natura Cosmo, Rome. It includes an editorial on Italian research groups and a local investigation, though it is described as modest and potentially produced by young enthusiasts lacking resources.
• IL GIORNALE DEI MISTERI (May 1979): Features an article on UFOs and philately, a review of September '78 sightings, an investigation into a 1957 case, and news about parliamentary interpellations related to UFOs. It also includes a critique of a CUN UFO propulsion conference.
• idem (June 1979): Continues with UFO analysis, including reports of potential meteors and a review of US UFO news. It also begins an updated list of UFO research groups, noting several omissions.
• GLI ARCANI (May 1979): Includes a letter on UFO phenomena, a piece on psychic contact, and an article on the Palenque pyramid.
• GLI ARCANI (June 1979): Features an article on UFO 'mimicry' and a response to questions about the state of ufology, along with a non-ufological piece on fairies.
• NOTIZIARIO UFO (April 1979): Focuses on Russian UFO cases, including landings in Estonia and Petrozavodsk, and an article on UFOs in the USSR. It also covers a second encounter with a humanoid, hypnosis related to the case, and an article on ufology in comic strips.
• NOTIZIARIO UFO (May 1979): Mentions an editorial by an honorable member and announces the upcoming publication of a book by Coppetti on "UFO: Secret Weapon."

UFO: Cogito, Ergo Sum

Paolo Fiorino's article, "UFOLOGIA AL GIRO DI BOA," discusses the current state of ufology in Italy. He notes that while 'frontier ufology' is not new, it can be astonishing for newcomers to the field. Fiorino argues that despite 30 years of studies and investigations, the understanding of UFOs has not significantly advanced, and the darkness surrounding the phenomenon seems to deepen as more cases accumulate. He criticizes the lack of progress in Italy, where research is often ignored. Fiorino suggests that many researchers have become mere 'collectors of clippings' rather than conducting direct, experimental research to explain the UFO phenomenon beyond the 'ETH hypothesis' (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis). He acknowledges the efforts of newer ufologists and mentions Roberto Pinotti's book "UFO: progetto uomo" as an attempt to give Italian ufology a new direction, though he feels it relies too heavily on Vallée's theories and focuses too much on case studies rather than speculation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed analysis of specific UFO incidents, particularly the Acevedo-Moya case, and the review of contemporary UFO literature. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation, emphasizing witness credibility when physical evidence is lacking, and advocating for more rigorous research methods, including the potential use of hypnosis. There is a clear interest in exploring unexplained phenomena and challenging conventional explanations, while also acknowledging the limitations and challenges within the field of ufology.

This issue of the magazine, titled "STRANI RISVEGLI" (Strange Awakenings), features a prominent article by Giorgio Metta exploring a controversial theory about the nature of UFO phenomena. The issue is dated 1979, with the cover featuring a whimsical illustration and the main headline.

"E SE GLI UFO FOSSERO... ALLA RICERCA DI UNA RISPOSTA (QUALORA VE NE SIA UNA)" by Giorgio Metta

Giorgio Metta presents his firm opinion that the UFO enigma will likely remain unsolved, comparing it to the difficulty of self-analysis. He posits that UFOs are fundamentally a human phenomenon, believing that if humanity ceased to exist, UFOs would too. Metta argues that UFOs are the material manifestation of an immaterial 'quid' (something) that does not belong to the physics of solids. He rejects the idea that UFOs are mere projections of the collective unconscious, as suggested by figures like Carl Jung, because such projections cannot be photographed or leave physical evidence.

Instead, Metta proposes that UFOs are a form of energy that 'condenses' as a result of the incessant emission of thought from millions, or billions, of humans – essentially a byproduct of the collective human mind. He notes that UFOs exhibit characteristics of electromagnetism but are not exclusively defined by it, likening them to thought itself, which can interact with electromagnetic equipment.

Metta describes UFOs as having a short lifespan: they are born, mature, and then exhaust their energy and die. He views the 'entities' or 'humanoids' associated with UFOs as 'UFO-satellites' of the main object, not as independent living or biological entities. He argues that their behavior is not intelligent but rather puerile, stupid, and contradictory, lacking any discernible purpose, which he believes explains the difficulty researchers have in identifying their goals.

The primary characteristic of a UFO, according to Metta, is a strong instinct for self-preservation, a reflection of the instinct found in all living things. He elaborates that a UFO's psychic aspect is almost absent when it is far from humans but intensifies as it approaches, 'sucking' psychic energy from individuals. He draws a parallel to what is sometimes termed 'demonic possession,' suggesting it is an externalization of the unconscious, much like a UFO externalizes the unconscious it has absorbed from witnesses.

Metta asserts that capturing a UFO or its entities is impossible, akin to catching a ghost. He believes classical science, which requires tangible elements and repeatability, will never solve the UFO enigma. However, he claims his hypothesis, despite its potential to be seen as 'crazy and improbable,' fits the vast range of UFO manifestations and their inherent strangeness and incoherence.

He acknowledges that his hypothesis leaves open the possibility of actual visits from extraterrestrial astronauts, but considers such events to be rare and possibly coincidental, not what is currently observed.

Metta further discusses the concept of 'parafisica' (paraphysics), suggesting that while some researchers have explored this, they have strayed. He contrasts this with his view that a 'paraphysical' element, existing beyond the laws of classical physics, is common and human-produced. This 'paraphysical' entity, he explains, possesses characteristics that allow it to perceive the future, move objects, alter physical states, and even influence individuals without their awareness. It can travel at virtually infinite speeds and imagine limitless situations and forms, unhindered by material barriers. Metta identifies this entity as 'THOUGHT' itself, capable of violating all laws of physics.

He posits that UFOs are 'thinking agglomerates' rather than 'minds,' lacking souls and not being biological entities. He reiterates that his hypothesis is speculative but believes it is the most plausible explanation for UFO phenomena.

Finally, Metta touches upon the possibility of genuine extraterrestrial visits but suggests they are rare. He concludes that what is often perceived as alien encounters are more likely the product of 'wandering and aberrant human thoughts,' highlighting humanity's genius in creative fantasy but its 'near-nullity' in good sentiments.

"STRANI RISVEGLI" by Keith Bastefield

This section, authored by Keith Bastefield, explores the phenomenon of 'strange awakenings' and their potential connection to UFO encounters. Bastefield begins by recounting his involvement in an investigation of a close encounter case that initially seemed promising but ultimately led him to doubt its extraterrestrial origin.

He proposes a classification of close encounters into two categories: 'accidental' (where the phenomenon is encountered unexpectedly) and 'deliberate' (where the phenomenon seems to instigate the event). The 'deliberate' category is further divided into cases where the witness was awake and cases where the witness woke up to the event. Bastefield notes a peculiar clustering of the latter type of events between 1:30 AM and 4:30 AM.

Bastefield references research suggesting that hypnosis and brainwave analysis (particularly theta waves, associated with imagination) could reveal if an experience was internally generated. He discusses a study that found a peak in certain close encounters between 1:30 AM and 4:30 AM, with six Australian cases involving witnesses waking up to see an object or entity. He notes that some of these cases, like Ivy Tanks and Gum Creek, present characteristics that are 'dreamlike' or 'oneiric.'

He introduces the concept of 'intruders in the bedroom' cases, where individuals wake up to find entities in their room, sometimes experiencing paralysis. Bastefield suggests that many such cases, along with apparitions, might be explained by 'hypnagogic' and 'hypnopompic' imagery.

Hypnagogic imagery occurs during the transition from wakefulness to sleep, while hypnopompic imagery occurs during the transition from sleep to waking. These are self-generated mental images, which can be visual or auditory, and may include sensations of heat, cold, smells, or tactile feelings. They can be vivid, realistic, and possess unusual clarity and color. Bastefield cites surveys indicating that such imagery is common, affecting between 51% and 77% of the population.

He provides several case examples:

• Palma, Spain (July 1967): A woman reported seeing two small figures at her window after being woken by intense light.
• Boardman, Ohio, USA (July 1967): A reverend reported a loud noise and seeing a luminous figure and a globe of light.
• Logrono, Spain (June 1972): A student witnessed a luminous object enter his room.
• Omro, Wisconsin, USA (October 1973): A witness reported seeing three humanoids who materialized and examined him.
• Pikesville, Maryland, USA (October 1973): A woman saw a transparent red object with a figure on top after hearing an explosion.
• Reno, Nevada, USA (October 1973): A witness saw three disc-shaped objects and a landing party.
• Ivy Tanks, South Australia (September 1973): A case described as potentially related to the woman's desire to see a UFO.
• Gum Creek, Australia (February 1964): A woman saw a figure materialize.
• Hobart, Tasmania, Australia (February 1976): A man witnessed figures pass through a door and then 'explode' through a window.
• Burra, Australia (January 1972): A woman saw a red, mushroom-shaped object.

Bastefield concludes that many of these cases, particularly those involving a single witness waking up to an experience, could be explained by hypnagogic or hypnopompic imagery. He suggests that the desire to see a UFO might be a primary factor in the generation of these experiences. He also notes that cases with multiple witnesses or physical traces are harder to explain solely through this hypothesis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly leans towards a psychological and consciousness-based interpretation of UFO phenomena. Giorgio Metta's article is a direct challenge to conventional ufology, proposing that UFOs are not external craft but rather internal mental constructs. Keith Bastefield's contribution supports this by exploring how sleep-related mental states and imagery can produce experiences that mimic UFO encounters. The editorial stance appears to be one that encourages a deeper, more introspective look at the UFO question, moving beyond purely physical explanations to consider the role of the human mind and consciousness in shaping perceived reality. The recurring theme is the potential for human thought and psychological states to manifest as seemingly external phenomena.

This document appears to be a collection of UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sighting reports from Italy, primarily dated December 14th and 15th, 1979. The content is presented in a case-file format, detailing specific incidents with dates, locations, and witness accounts. Additionally, there is a book review and advertisements for a bookstore.

UFO Sightings Reports

The bulk of the document consists of numbered cases detailing sightings.

December 14, 1979 (Thursday):

• Fano: A luminous object was observed flying over the city.
• Sciacca (AG): For two hours, workers at the Isoa paper mill, police officers, and the director observed a lenticular object with violet-blue lights moving slowly towards the East. The object's luminosity was intermittent. At a very high altitude, two other mysterious lights were noted.
• Pescara: Many people reported seeing two objects rotating on themselves, displaying different colored parts.
• Perugia (San Sisto area): A "blinding object" was reported moving towards the East, appearing to rotate on itself and emitting rays of various colors.
• S. Lucia del Mela (ME): A very luminous object was sighted from dawn until 10 AM. It was observed over Fiumedinisi at dawn, S. Lucia del Mela at 9 AM, and then moved towards Castroreale.
• Golfo di Riccò, Valdipino (SP): Carlo Figoli observed two large luminous globes while driving to work. One disappeared, while the other remained visible for several minutes, moving back and forth at sustained speed.
• Genova (S. Martino area): A "most luminous object" was observed between 7 AM and 9 AM, which seemed to shrink until it disappeared.
• Perugia: A "most luminous globe" with a "phosphorescent" halo was sighted moving towards the East.
• Monte Lignano (AR): Representative Giuseppe Chimenti, dealer Renato Coppini, and others in the Salone area sighted a luminous object at high altitude. When viewed with binoculars, it revealed flashes of various colors.
• Albissola Marina (offshore) (SV): Numerous people observed a brilliant object, like a star, emitting "metallic" and greenish flashes.
• Dolcedo (IM): A "shimmering object in the shape of a disc" was sighted approaching the earth. It was identified as a French sounding balloon that landed in the "Gambin" locality.

December 14, 1979 (Thursday) - Morning:

• Porto Maurizio (IM): A school group observed a very fast and luminous spherical object moving along the vertical line of Capo Berta.

December 14, 1979 (?) - 9 PM:

• Ramacca (CT): Rosario Laoognata, vigilante Francesco Nicolosi, teacher Malgioglio, and others sighted a luminous object that moved very fast, stopped for about a minute, and then was seen at a closer distance moving towards the Piana di Catania with undulating movements.

December 14, 1979 - Evening:

• Cattiniara (TS): The editorial office of PIC received a report of a luminous object passing by.

December 14, 1979 - Thursday:

• Caltanissetta - S. Cataldo (CL): Luminous objects were seen crossing the sky at high speed. One was photographed in S. Cataldo by Luigi Calà.
• Between Termoli (CB) and Sulmona (AQ): Two police officers observed flying objects for five hours that were exchanging luminous signals. The objects disappeared when the sun became brighter.

December 15, 1979 (?) - Friday, 0:15 AM:

• L'Aquila, Colle di Monteluco locality: Photojournalist Arimondo Fulgenzi, photographer Domenico Di Marco, observed and photographed a "vaguely triangular" object, about one-third the size of the moon, with a circular hole in the center. It remained stationary over the city for 10 minutes, near the RAI-TV repeater on Monteluco, then moved at a not high speed towards Gran Sasso. The photo revealed an apparently metallic object followed by a violet-blue trail and other luminous spots. A violet zone appeared beyond the trail.
• L'Aquila, fraz. Paganico: A formation of at least 15 UFOs coming from Gran Sasso was reported.

December 15, 1979 - Friday, 5 AM:

• Frosinone: Some commuters at the station observed a luminous disc of yellow color for 20 minutes.

Book Review: "Bermuda Atlantide: Che Cosa C'è di Vero"

The review discusses a book published by Mondadori titled "Bermuda Atlantide: Che Cosa C'è di Vero." The reviewer finds the juxtaposition of UFOs and the Bermuda Triangle with Atlantis to be unusual. The book is divided into three parts, with the first part focusing on UFO cases, including Italian ones. The reviewer notes that the book is well-illustrated with many previously unpublished photos but criticizes its presentation as being almost at a scholastic-didactic level. The author's direct approach, starting immediately with cases, is noted. The review points out several "rather glaring inaccuracies," such as the confusion between the terms "contactee" and "contacted." The reviewer suggests the book was hastily put together to capitalize on the UFO trend of late 1978 and the summer market. The subtitle "What is true about it" is seen as promising great revelations, but the reviewer concludes that no such revelations are present, and the book is merely another superfluous addition to ufology literature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the reporting of numerous UFO and UAP sightings across Italy. The editorial stance, as inferred from the book review, seems critical of sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims within ufology, favoring a more rigorous approach. The review of "Bermuda Atlantide" highlights a skepticism towards books that promise revelations without delivering them, suggesting a preference for factual reporting over speculation.