SPICA - No 01 - 2002 Janvier

Magazine Overview

Title: SPICA NEWS
Issue Date: January 2002 (Apériodique N° 1)
Publisher: SPICA (Association Sciences et Phénomènes Insolites du Ciel et de l'Aéronautique)
Country: France
Language: French

This is the inaugural issue of "SPICA NEWS," a review published by the newly formed French association SPICA. The magazine is described as 'apériodique' (non-periodical) for now, with the potential to become quarterly or bi-monthly depending on member engagement. The cover prominently features an image of the International Space Station and announces the creation of the association, alongside a headline about an OVNI sighting on August 14, 2001.

Editorial (Edito)

The editorial, titled "Edito," emphasizes that "SPICA NEWS" is the members' revue, intended as a space for them to express themselves. The president highlights that this first issue is a starting point, and the future of the revue depends on member contributions. The association aims to cover activities, events, ufological research reports, and educational information. It encourages members to share their thoughts on books, films, and ideas circulating in the media, and also welcomes contributions from external individuals and other associations, provided they adhere to ethical standards.

How I Lived the Creation of the Association

This section, written by Céline Hansen, details her personal experience in the creation of the SPICA association. She describes the process, which involved establishing statutes, internal regulations, insurance, and finance contracts, culminating in the association's official registration on May 11, 2001, in Molsheim. The name 'SPICA' was chosen for its astronomical significance (the star in the constellation Virgo) and its acronym, which stands for "Sciences et Phénomènes Insolites du Ciel et de l'Aéronautique."

Latest News from Alsace

This segment provides the official registration details for the SPICA association, including its name, headquarters at 3, rue des Pierres, 67520 Odratzheim, the date of its statutes (March 24, 2001), and the elected president and legal representative, Christian Morgenthaler. The clerk ad hoc is noted as D. Weber.

SPICA News Publication Details

This section details the publication information for "Spica news," stating it is edited by the association SPICA at 3, rue des Pierres, 67520 Odratzheim. It lists Christian Morgenthaler as Director of Publication, Thierry Meckes as Editor-in-Chief, and Céline Hansen as Secretary of Redaction. A reading committee is also mentioned, comprising Christophe Bissieux, Christian Morgenthaler, Marc Dobler, Frédéric Morgenthaler, and Thierry Meckes. The publication clarifies that the redaction is not responsible for submitted texts and illustrations, and reproduction requires written consent. The review is free for members, with a participation fee of €1.60 for non-members.

Ufology - Ufologue - Private Research

This article, likely written by Jean-Jacques Goetschy, defines ufology and the role of ufologues. It aims to demystify the field, stating that ufologists are not part of a sect or ideology but rather individuals who scientifically investigate unexplained aerial phenomena. The author likens their approach to that of astronomers or archaeologists, emphasizing observation, analysis, and the search for evidence. The article explains that ufologists collect testimonies, analyze them to determine if a phenomenon is natural or artificial, and sometimes collaborate with authorities. It also touches upon the challenges of dealing with hoaxers.

The Ufologist and Their Work

This section elaborates on the practical aspects of ufological research. It highlights the importance of collecting testimonies, conducting interviews, and analyzing data. The work is described as demanding, requiring an open mind and collaboration with various scientific fields such as astronomy, meteorology, biology, and physics. The article notes that while many ufologists have a second hobby like astronomy, the focus of SPICA is to integrate these diverse interests within one association.

The First Important Groups in France

This part of the magazine provides a historical overview of significant ufological organizations in France:

• OURANOS: Founded on June 24, 1951, by French jurist Marc THIROUIN, it was the first private study commission in France. It is now defunct.
• L.D.L.N. (Lumières dans la nuit - Lights in the night): Established in the late 1950s by Raymond VEILLITH. By 1978, it had approximately 2500 investigators nationwide. Currently, L.D.L.N. exists only as a review.
• G.E.P.A. (Groupement d'études des phénomènes aériens - Study group for aerial phenomena): Founded in 1962 on the initiative of General Lionel CHASSIN, it gained significant influence, particularly within military and scientific circles.

A warning is included about unscrupulous individuals using ufological research for personal gain and cult-like activities.

ET FIAT LUX ... OPTICA SIMPLEX

This article delves into the nature of light and optics from a scientific perspective. It begins by referencing the Big Bang theory as a possible origin of the universe from light. The author discusses the historical theories surrounding light, its properties like color and heat, and its perception through vision. The article aims to present various aspects of light, focusing on its materialist and abstract foundations in physics. It clarifies that science describes phenomena through empirical laws and equations, rather than explaining the 'why' or 'how' behind them. The author intends to explore the properties of light, including its wave-like nature, and its connection to electromagnetism and fundamental particles.

A Strange Phenomenon Above Chalons en Champagne

This section reports on a UFO sighting that occurred on August 15, 2001. A witness contacted the SPICA association to report observing an unusual phenomenon around 11:00 PM during a sky observation session with seven other people. The sighting involved a luminous point resembling a foggy mass with a blurred end, moving at the same altitude as satellites in a straight line towards the southeast. The luminous formation was described as hook-shaped, following a luminous point. The witnesses were left questioning what they had seen.

Why a New Association?

This article discusses the rationale behind forming a new ufological association like SPICA. It notes the multidisciplinary nature of studying unexplained aerial phenomena, requiring knowledge in fields like aeronautics, meteorology, astronomy, biology, chemistry, and physics. The author points out that many ufologists also have interests in astronomy or space exploration, often leading them to join multiple associations. The article suggests that recent phenomena have become rarer in France, causing difficulties for existing ufological associations. It outlines several potential solutions for a group that had been studying phenomena since 1983, including continuing with existing structures, splitting the group, or creating a new association that could combine diverse passions related to unexplained aerial phenomena. The decision was made to form SPICA to integrate these varied interests.

Founding Members

This section introduces some of the founding members of SPICA, including their roles: Christian Morgenthaler (co-founder, member), a Secretary (name not fully legible), Resp. Aéronautique (name not fully legible), and Resp. Ufologique (name not fully legible). It reiterates that the association's primary activity is ufology, involving investigations, research, and analysis, but also aims to educate the public about the sky, its mysteries, and the technology involved in space exploration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the establishment and purpose of the SPICA association, the definition and practice of ufology, historical context of ufological research in France, and the scientific exploration of light and optics. The editorial stance is one of inclusivity, encouraging member participation and open discussion on unexplained phenomena while maintaining ethical boundaries. The magazine aims to be a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering enthusiasm, and making complex subjects accessible to a broad audience.

This issue of "Dernières Nouvelles d'Alsace" from October 26, 2001, focuses on science popularization and astronomical events, particularly highlighting the activities of the association SPICA (Sciences et phénomènes insolites du ciel et de l'aéronautique).

Article: "Alors cette devinette ?" (So, this riddle?)

This short piece on page 1 presents a riddle related to an unusual observation. The solution provided is that the phenomenon was a "Moonlight" outdoor lighting lamp, which could potentially deceive observers. This is linked to an observation of the International Space Station (ISS) on August 14, 2001, over Chalon. Initial information shared with Dominique led to internet research on heavens-above.com, revealing the ISS passage between 23:02 and 23:05. A table details the ISS's trajectory, including time, altitude, and azimuth. The article explains that the observed "hook-shaped tail" was caused by the release of excess water from the station, which transformed into ice crystals in space, illuminated by the sun. This phenomenon was visible from Earth for a few hours, with information sourced from "Astronomie" magazine. The piece is attributed to Dominique Schall and Christian Morgenthaler.

Article: "Plus près des étoiles" (Closer to the stars)

This section on page 2 discusses the "Fête de la science" (Science Festival) held at the Odratzheim cultural center on the previous Saturday and Sunday. The SPICA association participated, showcasing their activities related to astronomy, meteorology, aeronautics, space exploration, and ufology. The association, founded in May 2001 and based in Odratzheim, aims to bring together enthusiasts of these fields. Visitors were reportedly impressed by the photo exhibition, animations, and explanations provided by the organizers, who answered numerous questions. A video space was also set up.

Soirées d'observation du ciel (Sky observation evenings)

This subsection details the "Ciel du Kockersberg" public sky observation evenings held on July 27 and 28, 2001. These events were organized in collaboration with the Association Sportive et Culturelle de Wintzenheim and the Club Astro Junior M67 of Hoenheim. The public had the opportunity to learn about astronomy and ufology through exhibitions and video screenings. While telescopes were used on Friday evening, clouds obscured the view on Saturday. Despite the weather, attendees enjoyed the evenings, with refreshments like "tartes flambées" available. The event saw more visitors than the previous year, indicating growing public interest in sky observation.

Article: "La rencontre du CNEGU" (The CNEGU meeting)

On page 3, this article reports on the CNEGU (Comité Nord Est des Groupements Ufologiques) meeting held on October 27-28, 2001, in Xonrupt-Longemer (Vosges). Christian Kiefer and Christian Morgenthaler represented the SPICA association. The meeting allowed SPICA to present itself and its astronomy video. An agreement was made for exchanging magazines and publishing SPICA's brochure on the CNEGU website. Various ufological topics were discussed, and future collaboration between SPICA and CNEGU will be decided by SPICA members.

Article: "La première réunion de l'association" (The first association meeting)

This article details the first meeting of the SPICA association, held on October 6. The primary goal was to plan future meetings, focusing on information and training. Members chose the name for their review. The next meeting, scheduled for early December, will include training sessions on the association's various themes.

Article: "La fête de la science" (The Science Festival)

This section reiterates SPICA's participation in the "Fête de la science" on October 20-21, 2001, in Odratzheim. Approximately 200-250 people attended to see SPICA's exhibitions and astronomy video. Four classes from the Scharrachbergheim regroupment participated, learning about science. This event was a first for Odratzheim and was well-received.

Article: "Odratzheim - Fêter la science avec l'association SPICA"

This article, dated October 16, 2001, previews the upcoming "Fête de la science" in Odratzheim, marking its tenth anniversary. SPICA will present two themes: astronomy and ufology. The exhibition will cover the solar system, constellations, and meteorites, along with a video on sky observation from naked eye to telescope. The second exhibition will focus on unusual sky phenomena, addressing questions about UFOs, research methods, and common misidentifications. The exhibition is open on Saturday, October 20 (2 PM-7 PM), and Sunday, October 21 (9:30 AM-12 PM and 2 PM-6 PM). Weather permitting, a telescope will be available for solar observation on Saturday and sky viewing on Saturday evening until 11 PM. Entry is free. Further information can be obtained from Christian Morgenthaler at 0388506426. The morning of Saturday, October 20, is dedicated to students from the Scharrach inter-communal pedagogical regroupment.

Celestial Data (Page 4 & 5)

Page 4 presents a star chart for the Molsheim latitude, showing constellations like Ursa Major, Cassiopeia, and Pisces. It also includes a table of planet observations for January 1st to April 1st, detailing sunrise and sunset times for the Sun, Moon, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. Venus is noted as becoming a "planet of the evening" starting in February.

Page 5 provides a detailed calendar of astronomical events for January, February, and March 2001. This includes lunar phases (New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon, Last Quarter), meteor showers (Cancrides in January, Normides in March), conjunctions of planets with the Moon (Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Venus), and the spring equinox on March 20th.

Back Cover (Page 6)

The back cover is an advertisement for the SPICA association, inviting individuals passionate about astronomy, meteorology, aeronautics, space, and ufology to join. It emphasizes the opportunity to share knowledge, contribute ideas, and conduct research objectively and scientifically, avoiding dogmatism and sensationalism. It also appeals to witnesses of unusual phenomena, promising anonymity and collaborative research. Contact information for SPICA is provided, including address, phone number, and email. A form is included for interested individuals to indicate their preferred themes and desired involvement with the association.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are science popularization, astronomical observation, and ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting scientific inquiry, objective research, and public engagement with these subjects. The association SPICA is presented as a key facilitator of these activities within the Alsace region, encouraging participation and knowledge sharing.