Ufologia - No 08 - mar-apr 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA SUPPLEMENTO A CLYPEUS
Issue: Nº61
Date: September-October 1979
Publisher: Clypeus
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This issue of UFOLOGIA SUPPLEMENTO A CLYPEUS Nº61 is a compilation of articles from various international UFO publications, including "OURANOS", "Ovni", "JUFORA", "FLYING SAUCER REVIEW", and "British UFO Research Association". The cover prominently features the title "OCCUPARSI DI UFO" (Dealing with UFOs).

Editorial

The editorial highlights the diverse and sometimes contrasting articles presented in this issue, aiming to stimulate research without promoting any specific ideology. It introduces contributions on the definition of ufology, a new classification system for UFOs, and the intersection of UFOs with esotericism. It also mentions a critical analysis of the French GEPAN group and discussions on contactism and official skepticism.

Articles and Features

"Occuparsi di UFO" by Roberto Farabone

Farabone's article delves into the serious study of ufology, contrasting it with casual interest. He argues for a scientific approach, emphasizing the importance of conceptual economy (Occam's Razor) and the need to use existing theories before proposing new ones. He stresses that ufology faces challenges in data collection due to the unreliability of human witnesses and the complexity of instrumental data. A rigorous researcher must be open-minded, willing to study diverse disciplines, and accept the possibility of unconventional conclusions.

"UFO E MOTIU: UN NUOVO SISTEMA DI CLASSIFICAZIONE" by John Hind

This article, translated from English, proposes a new formal technique for comparing UFO reports. It introduces the concept of 'motif' and suggests a system for classifying UFO reports based on these motifs, suitable for electronic data processing. The author critiques traditional statistical approaches for their inability to handle the complexity of UFO data and their tendency to distance researchers from the original reports.

"Osservatorio: Attenti al contattista!"

This section discusses the phenomenon of 'contactees' in France, noting its relative scarcity in French ufological literature compared to Anglo-Saxon and Italian publications. It critically examines the case of Jean Miguères, a French contactee who authored "J'ai été le cobaye des extra-terrestres". The article outlines three reasons for investigating Miguères' claims: to avoid repeating past mistakes with cases like George Adamski, to verify the witness's account, and to either confirm an exceptional UFO event or expose a fabrication.

"Il ritorno di Valentich?"

This piece revisits the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich in October 1978. It reports on a psychic communication from Valentich's father, who claims his son is in another dimension and has been in contact with extraterrestrials. The report details Valentich's alleged encounter with aliens and UFOs, including a 'V' formation of craft and a telepathic exchange.

"Aimè Michel, addio"

This is an obituary for the renowned French ufologist Aimè Michel, who has decided to retire from the field after a long career. The article notes his extensive contributions, including his work on the 'Cat-Flap' Effect, and his background in philosophy and psychology.

Other Mentions and Sections:

• "Osservatorio" also includes a brief mention of a case involving a UFO sighting in Suzuka City, Japan, and a report of a disc-shaped UFO over Miaoli, Taiwan.
• "UFO News File" and "UFO Sightings Report" are mentioned, indicating a section dedicated to recent reports.
• "Cosmic Archaeology" is mentioned in relation to the Great Pyramid and Stonehenge.
• "The Paradox of Logic" is also listed.
• "Traces à Coln" is a title that appears on the cover, suggesting a related article.
• "Investigator" and "National Press Spotlights UFOs" are other publications referenced.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a stance that encourages serious, critical, and scientific inquiry into UFO phenomena. It aims to provide diverse perspectives, including skeptical viewpoints, and to stimulate research rather than propagate specific beliefs. The editorial emphasizes the importance of rigorous methodology, data verification, and the critical evaluation of claims, particularly in the context of contactee reports and official investigations.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, dated November-December 1977, critically examines the field of ufology, focusing on the challenges of data analysis, classification, and the perceived lack of official transparency. The cover headline, "Ufologia ufficiale? No, grazie!" (Official Ufology? No, thanks!), immediately signals a skeptical and critical stance towards government and official involvement in UFO research.

The Challenge of Cataloging UFO Reports

The lead article addresses the difficulty in classifying the vast number of UFO reports. It notes the development of groups like the UFO Investigators Network and the Center for UFO Studies, which archive detailed reports. However, the sheer volume and the need for objective comparison present a significant hurdle. The article draws a parallel to the study of folklore in the 19th century, where folklorists faced a similar challenge in classifying a large body of similar, yet varied, popular tales (favole).

Folklore as a Methodological Inspiration

Inspired by the methods used in folklore studies, the article proposes a new approach to cataloging UFO reports. It discusses two primary methods used for classifying folktales: classification by type and classification by keywords. The more advanced method, classification by motifs, is highlighted as particularly relevant. A 'motif' is defined as the smallest structural unit within a story – an element of the plot or a characteristic.

Motif Classification System

The article explains the concept of motif classification using examples from both folklore (Cinderella) and UFO reports. It details two fundamental types of motifs: 'action motifs' (e.g., 'UFO follows witness car') and 'descriptive motifs' (e.g., 'UFOs have underwater bases'). These motifs can be categorized based on subjects, objects, and specifications, as outlined in Table 3.

The TEXT-CAT Project

To address the limitations of manual cataloging, the article introduces the concept of TEXT-CAT, a computer-assisted system for UFO report analysis. This system aims to process and categorize motifs efficiently, reducing the labor-intensive nature of manual work. The article outlines the potential benefits of computerization, including the ability to handle large datasets and perform sophisticated analyses. It describes the system's functions, such as data input, motif classification, and reordering, and suggests that it could lead to a more objective and comprehensive understanding of UFO phenomena.

Applications and Potential

The TEXT-CAT system is envisioned to be a valuable tool for ufologists, enabling them to analyze UFO reports based on their content of motifs. By developing subsidiary catalogs of motifs, researchers could investigate variations in motifs over time and location, compare different types of encounters, and potentially uncover new patterns and insights. The article suggests that such a system could also contribute to the field of computer science.

Official UFO Investigations: A Critical View

The section titled "Ufologia ufficiale? No, grazie!" directly addresses the perceived lack of transparency and scientific rigor in official UFO investigations. It recounts a controversy surrounding the Italian Ministry of Defense's alleged involvement with UFOs, stemming from a leaked document in 1978. The article criticizes the sensationalist media coverage and suggests that the official approach has become more political than scientific, with a focus on managing information rather than conducting genuine research. The author expresses disappointment with the way the issue has been handled by both the media and ufological organizations.

Historical UFO Sightings (INTCAT)

The latter part of the magazine features a detailed catalog of historical UFO sightings, presented under the heading "INTCAT" (likely referring to a database or catalog of incidents). This section, spanning pages 9 to 10, lists numerous cases from as early as 1904 up to 1908. Each entry includes the date, location, a brief description of the sighting, and references to sources. These historical accounts range from luminous objects and strange figures to more complex aerial phenomena, providing a chronological record of early UFO reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOLOGIA consistently promotes a critical and analytical approach to ufology. It emphasizes the need for objective methods, drawing parallels with established academic disciplines like folklore studies. The magazine advocates for the use of technology, such as computer-assisted analysis (TEXT-CAT), to overcome the inherent challenges of dealing with a large and complex dataset. Furthermore, it expresses a strong skepticism towards official UFO investigations, suggesting they are often driven by political motives or a desire for sensationalism rather than genuine scientific inquiry. The inclusion of historical cases serves to underscore the long-standing nature of the UFO phenomenon and the ongoing efforts to understand it.

This issue of INTCAT, identified as Volume IV, Number 16, dated March 1980, is a specialized publication focusing on ufology and related topics. The cover headline is "GLI ALTRI DICONO" (The Others Say), indicating a section of critical reviews of publications. The magazine is published by the Centro Ufologi oo Nazionale in Italy.

Content Highlights

Reviews Section ("GLI ALTRI DICONO")

The main section of this issue is dedicated to critical reviews of various ufological and esoteric publications. These include:

• "Misteri" (March 1980, No. 108): This review criticizes the content, noting that the publication receives and publishes articles from FSR but selects only the worst ones. It also points out the perceived naivety of Coppetti in not understanding the Ministry's lack of response and the censorship of certain US and Italian articles. The review also notes the publication's apparent bias against SUF and its preference for Venus-related phenomena.
• "UFO" (February 1980, No. 93): Described as a good issue that redeems the previous one, it features a convoluted editorial, a somewhat personalized UFO interview, and a critique of Russo for copying articles from 'Ufologia'. It also mentions Russo's harsh critique of Coppetti and Toselli being the best.
• "Arcani" (March 1980, No. 3): This review covers a report on parapsychological research in the USSR, interviews with researcher Felix Zigel, an article titled "Gli UFO come fantasmi" (UFOs as Ghosts) by Pier Luigi Seni, and a discussion on why ufology is not considered a science. It also includes a biographical profile of John Keel and notes the growing 'copy-paste' phenomenon in Italian ufology.
• "Contact International Italia" (1979, Year IV, Sixth Year): This is a circular informative document from the Italian branch of Contact International. It includes a letter from the new president, the new constitution of the organization, and information about an upcoming conference in London. The review notes the document's limited content and the translation issues.
• "Sky Watch" (October 1979, Year I, No. 2): This is an internal newsletter on ufology and related matters from the Genova section of the Centro Ufologi oo Nazionale. It includes a chronicle of strange appearances in Genova in 1608, a report on a Venus sighting, and practical guidance on skywatching and photographing the invisible. The review questions whether this falls under ufological research.
• "Documenti U.F.O." (Vol. 1, No. 2, 1980): This is a scientific, aperiodic report on the UFO problem worldwide. Although pages 2-10 are missing, the remaining seven pages suggest a monograph on the case of Sturno, based on a meticulous comparison of sources. The review notes the intent is not malicious but perhaps too ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) focused.
• "Nuraghex" (December 29, 1980, Year IV, No. 31): This issue focuses on updates to existing cases like Valentich and the Bolivian UFO-meteor, as well as animal mutilations possibly related to UFOs. It also includes articles on UFOs from a middle school perspective, a letter criticizing a "scientist of the day," and a discussion about a supposed "conspiracy" to suppress information about the 1978 flap. The review expresses a desire for more original content from this publication.

Historical Sightings

The issue also presents a catalog of historical UFO sightings:

• May 20, 1909 (Maindee, Monmouth, G.B.): A girl observed an object resembling a large bird, later identified by telescope as a 12-meter craft with three occupants.
• May 21, 1909 (Norwich, G.B.): A woman witnessed a flash of light and heard a noise, followed by a large star and beam flying very low.
• May 22, 1909 (Maesteg, G.B.): Lights were seen above Commercial Street, and a man with a telescope reported a flying craft with occupants.
• June 16, 1909 (Donghoi, Vietnam): An oblong object emitting a strong light flew from west to east and was seen to dive into the sea.
• July 23, 1909 (Kelso, New Zealand): Children and others saw a boat-shaped machine with a human figure inside.
• July 24, 1909 (Clinton, New Zealand): Voices were reportedly heard from a flying object.
• July 29, 1909 (Greymouth, New Zealand): Train passengers observed a light approaching.

"Proposta per un UFO-Esoterismo" by Roberto D'Amico

This article proposes a new approach to ufology, suggesting that the phenomenon itself is a secondary interest, leading researchers into ancient texts, philosophies, alchemy, secret societies, religions, and esotericism. The author argues that the extraterrestrial hypothesis is no longer convincing due to inconsistencies, and that time travel and parallel dimensions lack solid evidence. The article suggests that ufology might be a pretext to reawaken spiritual awareness in a world that has lost it. It calls for integrating esoteric knowledge and analyzing UFO testimonies and related symbolism from an esoteric perspective. The author proposes a research project involving ufologists gaining knowledge of hermetic symbolism and magic, and analyzing future testimonies and historical cases from an esoteric viewpoint.

"Gli altri dicono" - Other Mentions

• A mention of a news report from May 1978 about the Italian Ministry of Defense's involvement with UFOs.
• A report from January 10, 1980, about an Italian military fighter jet sighting a UFO.
• A mention of a "skywatch" activity by the C.U.N. Genova section.
• A reference to the "Documenti U.F.O." publication, which is a study on the Sturno case.
• A review of "Nuraghex," which includes updates on the Valentich case and animal mutilations.

Necrology

The issue includes a brief obituary for Fabrizio Z6 of Ferrara, a collaborator and friend who passed away on April 6, 1980.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical review of ufological publications, the exploration of the connection between ufology and esotericism, and the cataloging of historical UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical analysis, questioning the methodologies and conclusions presented in various ufological sources. There is a clear skepticism towards sensationalism and a call for a more rigorous and integrated approach to the study of UFO phenomena, as exemplified by the "UFO-Esoterismo" proposal. The magazine also touches upon the potential for government secrecy and the need for objective information, as seen in the discussion of the Ministry of Defense's involvement.

This issue of the magazine, titled "G.E.P.A.N. DUNQUE ESISTONO!" (G.E.P.A.N. THEREFORE THEY EXIST!), with the cover headline "UFO: MANIFESTAZIONI DIABOLICHE?" (UFO: DIABOLICAL MANIFESTATIONS?), published in Pompei, Italy, in November 1979, delves into the world of ufology with a critical and somewhat skeptical lens. The issue features articles by Rocco Manzi, Gian Paolo Grassino, and Paolo Fiorino, among others, exploring the activities of the French UFO investigation agency G.E.P.A.N. and various theories surrounding UFO phenomena.

G.E.P.A.N.: Official Investigation or Scientific Illusion?

The lead article, "G.E.P.A.N. DUNQUE ESISTONO!" by Gian Paolo Grassino, examines the French G.E.P.A.N. (Groupement d'étude des phénomènes Aérospatiaux non identifiés), established by C.N.E.S. in 1977. The article begins by presenting a seemingly reassuring image of an official body taking UFOs seriously, complete with a scientific council. However, it quickly shifts to a critical analysis, highlighting a simulated television program that depicted a swift and efficient G.E.P.A.N. investigation. The author questions the reality behind such portrayals, suggesting that the agency's work might be more about creating an impression of scientific rigor than actual objective investigation.

A specific case from Lagon (Vendes) on February 9, 1976, is detailed. Witnesses reported a disc-shaped object, prompting an investigation by local gendarmes who found nothing. The case was later transferred to other authorities, and eventually reached G.E.P.A.N. The article points out the significant delay in G.E.P.A.N.'s involvement (15 months after the event) and questions the agency's claim to focus on recent cases. The investigation report, a 43-page document, is described as long but lacking in concrete evidence or a clear methodology. The author notes that G.E.P.A.N. classifies the Lagon object as "close encounter" and estimates its size and shape without providing the triangulation calculations to support these claims. Furthermore, the article highlights inconsistencies in the G.E.P.A.N. report regarding weather conditions, contrasting it with a counter-investigation by Dominique Caudron that suggested the sighting was likely an illusion caused by moonlight on clouds.

The article criticizes G.E.P.A.N. for readily accepting witness testimonies without sufficient verification and for focusing on proving the existence of UFOs rather than objectively studying the phenomenon. It suggests that G.E.P.A.N. was created due to the personal interest of C.N.E.S. engineer Claude Poher, whose earlier reports on UFOs were deemed convincing enough to warrant the establishment of the agency.

Theological Interpretations: UFOs as Diabolical Manifestations?

Another significant piece is Rocco Manzi's "UFO: MANIFESTAZIONI DIABOLICHE?", reviewed by Gian Paolo Grassino. Manzi's book, "UFO e potere delle tenebre" (UFO and the Power of Darkness), published in Pompei in 1979, is described as having a "classic" 1960s ufological approach. Grassino notes that Manzi's work presents a conventional overview of famous UFO cases, updated with recent examples, but lacks a sense of continuity. The review highlights Manzi's examination of various US and international UFO investigation commissions. A key point of contention is Manzi's theological interpretation of UFOs, suggesting they are not extraterrestrial or human-made but rather diabolical in origin, invented by Satan to deceive humanity. This perspective leads Manzi to condemn practices like magic, divorce, and polygamy. Grassino points out that Manzi's bibliography is sparse and his arguments are based on pre-Tridentine ideas.

Paolo Fiorino, a student of theology, also contributes a piece titled "LA FANTATEOLOGIA: OVVERO LA FIERA DELL'INCONTROLLABILE" (Fantateology: Or the Fair of the Uncontrollable). Fiorino reviews Manzi's book, expressing dismay at the author's simplistic approach and reliance on theological categories. Fiorino criticizes Manzi's assertion that UFOs are diabolical, calling it a facile explanation that ignores the complexity of the phenomenon. He argues that Manzi's work is more of a panegyric against perceived societal ills than a serious investigation into UFOs. Fiorino also notes the lack of comprehensive bibliography and the pre-Tridentine underpinnings of Manzi's arguments. He suggests that Manzi's conclusions are biased by his pre-existing beliefs and that he fails to consider real-world facts, instead resorting to a mythological interpretation.

Critiquing Ufological Methodology

The magazine also features a section titled "PROPOSTA PER UN UFO-ESOTERISMO" (Proposal for UFO-Esotericism), which outlines a framework for integrating ufology with occult studies. This proposal includes comparative studies of various symbols, the evolution of esoteric thought, and the potential for psychic creation of material forms. The authors express certainty that this approach will be met with skepticism but believe it is necessary to explore the connections between occultism and ufology.

Another section, "SI DICE..." (It is Said...), addresses criticisms from ufologists regarding the magazine's content. The editors defend their position, stating they have no responsibility for what others write and that their aim is to present a critical analysis. This section also humorously lists various pseudonyms used by certain ufologists, suggesting a lack of transparency within the community.

Common Explanations and Lack of Specificity

The article "UFO: MANIFESTAZIONI DIABOLICHE?" by Rocco Manzi, reviewed by Gian Paolo Grassino, further explores the idea that UFOs are not necessarily extraterrestrial. The review highlights Manzi's argument that many reported UFO characteristics are not unique but can be explained by known phenomena. For instance, the "dead leaf" oscillation is common to balloons, birds, and even falling leaves. Similarly, the arrest of electronic devices or animals during sightings can be attributed to various factors, including meteor sightings or simple observation errors. The article emphasizes that many UFO reports, when analyzed critically, conform to known objects and phenomena, suggesting that the perceived uniqueness of UFOs might stem from a lack of proper identification by witnesses or a bias in the reporting process.

The review of Manzi's book also touches upon the lack of scientific specificity in ufological claims. It points out that despite years of research, ufologists have failed to demonstrate that UFOs possess unique characteristics that distinguish them from known phenomena. The article suggests that many UFO reports are based on unreliable data, often derived from popular magazines and journalists rather than rigorous scientific investigation. The review concludes by stating that Manzi's book, while presenting a theological interpretation, fails to offer a new hypothesis or a clear, documented analysis of the UFO phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of ufological organizations and methodologies, the exploration of theological and occult interpretations of UFOs, and the skepticism towards claims of extraterrestrial visitation. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting a more rigorous and objective approach to studying unexplained aerial phenomena, questioning the sensationalism and lack of verifiable evidence often found in ufological literature. The magazine encourages readers to think critically about the information presented and to consider alternative explanations beyond the popular extraterrestrial hypothesis.