CENAP Infoline - no 154

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-INFOLINE
Issue Date: March 14, 2002
Issue Number: 154
Publisher: CENAP
Country of Publication: Germany
Original Language: German

This issue of CENAP-INFOLINE, a bi-weekly information bulletin on the UFO scene, focuses on significant space exploration and astronomical events.

Key Articles and Reports

Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission

The main cover story details the successful mission of the US space shuttle Columbia to service the Hubble Space Telescope. Launched on March 2, 2002, from Cape Canaveral, the shuttle carried seven astronauts tasked with upgrading the 12-year-old telescope. Despite initial technical issues with a cooling system, the mission proceeded, with technicians stabilizing the flow of coolant.

Over five spacewalks, astronauts performed crucial tasks. On March 5, John Grunsfeld and Rick Linnehan began the upgrades by installing new solar wings, which would increase Hubble's power by 20 percent, allowing all instruments to be used simultaneously. Another spacewalk on March 6 saw Michael Massimino replace a solar sail. On March 8, astronauts began the "rejuvenation" by replacing one of the two solar wings. The mission aimed to equip Hubble with new electronics and improved lenses, valued at 200 million Euros, significantly enhancing its capabilities.

By March 11, Hubble was reported to be back on course after an extensive overhaul, equipped with a new drive and full of energy. The mission was considered a success, bringing the telescope up to the latest technical standards.

Discovery of Water Ice on Mars

Another major report highlights the findings of NASA's "Mars Odyssey 2001" probe. In its first week of scientific operations, the probe detected significant amounts of water ice on Mars, particularly around the South Pole. Planetary scientist William Boynton expressed excitement, stating, "There is a lot of ice on Mars. The signals we are receiving are clear and distinct." The blue areas detected by the Gamma Ray Spectrometer are a clear indication of hydrogen atoms, and thus water ice. This discovery is crucial for understanding the potential for life on the Red Planet, as it confirms the presence of water, which could exist in liquid form during warmer phases.

European Satellite Envisat

The issue also briefly mentions Europe's "Envisat" environmental satellite, which is on course with its mission as a "climate watcher." Launched by an Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou, French Guiana, the satellite, with a project cost of 2.3 billion Euros, is being controlled from the ESA control center in Darmstadt. After a testing phase, it is expected to deliver its first usable data around June.

Plessezk Spaceport Opens to West

A report details the gradual opening of Russia's northern Plessezk spaceport to Western journalists and scientists. After nearly 40 years of secrecy, the facility, which began as a launch site for intercontinental missiles, is now also used for space launches. While the site is being opened for international cooperation, much of it remains under strict military control, with photography heavily restricted. The article notes the historical significance of the site and mentions past launch failures.

New Comet Discovery

Astronomer Maik Meyer reports on the visual discovery of Comet C/2002 C1 (Ikeya-Zhang) on February 1, 2002, by amateur astronomers Kaoru Ikeya (Japan) and Daqing Zhang (China). The comet was expected to become visible in the morning sky in March and April, potentially reaching a magnitude of 3m by late March. The article includes an ephemeris for observing the comet.

Grace Satellites Prepare for Launch

Preparations for the launch of the German-American Grace satellites from the Russian cosmodrome Plessezk are underway. These satellites are designed for highly accurate measurement and modeling of Earth's gravitational field. The project, a collaboration between NASA and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), has a total value of approximately 100 million dollars.

Future Tourist Spacecraft

Russian engineers are reportedly developing a three-seater spacecraft for tourism, with flights planned for 2004 or 2005.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP-INFOLINE consistently reports on advancements in space exploration, astronomical discoveries, and technological developments. The publication appears to have a strong interest in UFO phenomena, as indicated by its self-description as an "international information sheet of the UFO scene." The editorial stance seems to be one of reporting factual developments in science and technology, with an underlying awareness of the broader context of unexplained phenomena. The emphasis on detailed reporting of missions, discoveries, and technical specifications suggests a commitment to providing in-depth information to its readership.