SPICA - No 06 - 2005 Janvier

Magazine Overview

Title: SPICA NEWS
Issue: N°6
Date: January 2005
Publisher: association SPICA
Country: France
Price: 1,60€

This issue of SPICA NEWS, an apériodic review from the association Sciences et Phénomènes Insolites du Ciel et de l'Aéronautique, focuses on a detailed report of a C.D.V. study group's trip to Col de Vence in September 2004. It also includes a witness account of a UFO sighting in Sundgau, a mention of a 50-year-old event in Alsace, and reports on the association's activities.

C.D.V. Study Group at Col de Vence (September 3-5, 2004)

The main article details the experiences of a C.D.V. study group, composed of Jean-Jacques Goetschy, Christian Kiefer, and the author (Dominique), during their visit to Col de Vence. The group aimed to observe and document anomalous phenomena. The author describes the journey, including a stop in Hegenheim to meet Jean-Jacques, and the drive through scenic landscapes in Switzerland. They faced some orientation issues in Italy, eventually taking a route via the Col de Tende. Upon arrival near Col de Vence, they found accommodation at the Auberge de l'Escaou in Coursegoules.

The group spent time exploring the area, noting the unique atmosphere and the artistic rock formations. The author recounts an early morning experience where a perceived orange light in the distance was identified as a highway toll signal, attributing it to an illusion caused by the terrain and the movement of trees. They also encountered a persistent individual who was enthusiastic about the phenomena at Col de Vence, which made the group feel somewhat uncomfortable.

The article lists various types of phenomena reported at Col de Vence, including UFO sightings, luminous orbs and flashes appearing on photographs (but not visible to the naked eye), unexplained stone throws, and unidentified noises. The author emphasizes the importance of respecting the local population and the site itself.

During their stay, the group met with a local contact, described as a reference for phenomena at Col de Vence. This contact shared troubling photographs and discussed the situation. The group was invited to view a film of a triangle in flight, but had to decline due to their return journey. They were also advised on how to handle potential 'physical' manifestations like stone throws.

On their final night, while observing at a location known as 'le plateau', they encountered another group of researchers who were also studying the Col de Vence phenomena. This second group, who knew Christian Kiefer, were looking for the SPICA members, suggesting a 'magic' at play that brought people together. The encounter led to further discussions and a shared experience.

A significant event occurred when Jacky took a photograph of the author and himself, which, upon review, showed a materialized sphere above their heads that was not visible to the naked eye, confirming the presence of anomalous phenomena.

UFO Sighting in Sundgau

A smaller article on the cover reports on a UFO sighting in the Sundgau region. René Ott, a witness, declared, "I felt the breath of the 'saucer' that had just passed me."

Other Mentions

The issue also briefly mentions a 50-year-old event in Alsace and highlights the association's activities.

Association Activities

Chalons-en-Champagne Ufological Day: The association participated in a ufological day at the Chalons fair on September 5th. Alain Blanchard organized the event, which included presenting the association and interacting with visitors. They also announced upcoming European ufologist meetings in Chalons in October 2005.

Day at 'La Fourmilière': On October 27th, the association spent a day with children at 'la fourmilière', a center for children in Scharrachbergheim. The activity involved an astronomy exhibition and an introduction to ufology, where children acted as investigators to solve a photographed phenomenon. Three out of four groups successfully found solutions.

Meetings and Events for 2005

A detailed schedule of SPICA's meetings and sky observation nights for 2005 is provided. This includes various planning meetings, general assemblies, ufological meetings, and evening observation sessions. Notably, the European ufological encounters are scheduled for October 14-16, 2005, in Chalons-en-Champagne. The association is seeking volunteers to help with the design and presentation of new exhibition panels.

Editorial and Administrative Information

The 'Edito' section, written by the President, discusses the exceptional nature of this issue, featuring a report on a long-known phenomenon. It encourages members to share their ideas and knowledge, provided they respect the association's statutes. The President also mentions the distribution of new dates and objectives for 2005. The issue concludes with New Year's wishes from the administration for 2005.

Contact information for SPICA is provided, including their address, phone number, and email. The publication details state that SPICA NEWS is edited by the association SPICA, with Christian Morgenthaler as Director of Production and Editor-in-Chief. The editorial team is not responsible for submitted texts, illustrations, and photos. Reproduction of articles is prohibited without written consent. The magazine is free for members and available for a fee to non-members.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ufological investigations, personal accounts of sightings, and the activities of the SPICA association. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into anomalous phenomena, encouraging member participation and sharing of experiences, while maintaining a structured approach through meetings and documented reports. There is a clear emphasis on field investigation and direct observation, as exemplified by the Col de Vence report. The association also shows a commitment to public outreach and education, particularly with younger audiences.

This issue of 'LES OVNIS EN ALSACE' (UFOs in Alsace) focuses heavily on the historical UFO wave that occurred in Alsace, France, during 1954. It also includes sections on astronomy and meteorology.

The 1954 UFO Wave in Alsace

The magazine dedicates significant space to the events of 1954, describing it as a year where Alsace was 'literally submerged' by UFO sightings. Dozens of unidentified flying objects, including saucers, luminous disks, and cigar-shaped craft, were reported. The article questions whether these were hallucinations, collective psychosis, natural phenomena, or genuine mysteries. It notes that over two months, there were dozens of observations and hundreds of witnesses, with 330 witnesses recorded for the 'Saisons d'Alsace' dossier in 2004, which is considered a large number for that year.

Key incidents from 1954 are detailed:

• August 25, 1954: The first reported sighting in Mulhouse, where four young people observed a very bright disk.
• September 1954: Multiple sightings, including a luminous sphere in Colmar, an object like a neon tube above Rixheim, and a cigar-shaped object east of Mulhouse.
• October 1, 1954: A disk was observed stationary above the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle.
• October 8, 1954: A close encounter occurred in Jettingen at 5:30 AM. A witness saw a mushroom-shaped craft with an open door. The witness fled on a moped but was pursued by the craft, reporting, 'I felt the breath of the saucer as it passed me.'
• October 10 onwards: Multiple incredible observations occurred throughout the department.
• October 16, 1954: A 'crazy day' with 10 observations and about 50 witnesses.
• October 21, 1954: A luminous globe caused terror for several hours between Morschwiller and Didenheim, observed by multiple witnesses, including a police brigadier.
• Late October: Numerous cases were observed, including one on Sunday, October 31st, around 4 AM, where a silent saucer followed a train at the same speed. This phenomenon was witnessed by hundreds of people, mainly railway employees.

The article concludes that the wave of sightings ended in early November 1954. It also mentions that landing incidents were reported, with 17 witnesses, but no sightings of 'ufonautes' (aliens) were confirmed.

Several reference books are cited, including 'Mystérieux Objets Célestes' by Aimé Michel and 'Le Premier Dossier Complet des Rencontres Rapprochées en France' by Michel Figuet. A note mentions that only one official report (procès verbal) from the Gendarmerie National exists for the 1954 wave, established by the Strasbourg brigade on October 18th, despite the presence of intelligence services and gendarmes at some cases.

A 'Dernière Nouvelle' (Latest News) section references an August 2004 article from V.S.D. Hors Série Paranormal, which discussed a spectacular 1954 UFO sighting near Colmar. Edmond Campagnac reported that a saucer allegedly landed on a road, was witnessed by dozens, and investigated by the Gendarmerie, who debriefed witnesses and confiscated photos. The dossier was never made public.

Col de Vence Encounters

Another section details experiences at the Col de Vence, a location known for unusual phenomena. The authors describe arriving at the site and hearing about various personal accounts from friends. They note that the mountain flank radiates heat and that the characteristic sound of stones clashing can be heard, initially softly and then more intensely. While initially attributing it to an 'éboulis' (rockfall), the context of the location makes the natural phenomenon surprising. The Col de Vence is described as always being 'a step ahead of the vigilance of individuals who come to study it.'

Later, the group changes location to a place called Saint Barnabé. They experience what they perceive as flashes of light, which Christian notes are different from normal lightning. The phenomenon is close to the ground and occurs in a valley out of sight. The authors are surprised, as their friends have never seen anything similar at the Col. They rush towards the location as the flashes intensify. However, the explanation turns out to be mundane: a photography team was using professional flashes to illuminate a female model posing against a backdrop of decorated stones. The authors' arrival startles the group, and they quickly move on, conscious of having disturbed the scene.

The experience at the Col de Vence concludes with the authors regretting having to leave.

Astronomy

This section includes astronomical information, starting with a radio source report from SWR 3 on October 12, 2004, concerning the Moon appearing darker than usual. The explanation provided is 'lumière cendrée' (earthshine), which is the faint illumination of the Moon's dark side by sunlight reflected off the Earth. This phenomenon is most visible a few days before or after the new moon.

Several pages are dedicated to celestial calendars and star charts:

• January-February 2005 Star Chart: This chart displays constellations and celestial bodies visible during these months, with a note that Mars is invisible, Jupiter rises in the middle of the night, and Saturn can be observed for the next four months. It also highlights the Quadrantids meteor shower in early January.
• January & February Ephemerides: Detailed tables list planetary conjunctions, moon phases (new moon, first quarter, full moon, last quarter), and the positions of planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Venus, and Mars.
• March-April 2005 Star Chart: This chart covers the constellations and celestial bodies visible during March and April, noting that Saturn's rings will be at their most inclined on March 24th, and Jupiter will become observable earlier in the night.
• March & April Ephemerides: Further tables detail celestial events for these months, including the Grande Tache rouge (Great Red Spot) on Jupiter, the approach of Saturn and the Moon, and the Lyrid meteor shower.

Meteorology

A section titled 'METEOROLOGIE RECONNAÎTRE LES NUAGES' (Meteorology: Recognizing Clouds) provides a guide to identifying different cloud types. Each cloud type is described with its appearance, composition (ice crystals, water droplets, or supercooled water), associated precipitation, and altitude range:

• Cirrus: High-altitude, wispy clouds made of ice crystals.
• Cirrocumulus: High-altitude, patchy clouds with a rippled or 'mackerel sky' appearance, composed of ice crystals and sometimes supercooled water.
• Cirrostratus: High-altitude, transparent, whitish veil clouds that can produce halos.
• Altocumulus: Mid-level, patchy clouds with regular elements, composed of water droplets and sometimes ice crystals.
• Altostratus: Mid-level, gray or bluish sheet clouds that can obscure the sun, composed of water droplets, ice crystals, or snow.
• Nimbostratus: Low-to-mid-level, dark gray, rain-producing clouds.
• Stratus: Low-level, uniform gray layer clouds that can form fog when their base reaches the ground.

Travelogue: The City of Sciences and Industry in Paris

This section is a critical review of a visit to the Géode at the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie in Paris. The author found the 'space station' show unimpressive, considering the price, duration, and spectacle not worth the visit. The review criticizes the American tendency to 'show off,' their use of heroic staging, action-movie music, and the prominent display of the American flag and the word 'God.' The author found many details, such as images of an astronaut on a beach and photos of a puppy, to be pointless and accompanied by irrelevant commentary. The piece laments the loss of respect for personal privacy in modern society, with constant exposure through media and personal devices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on UFO sightings and historical cases, particularly the 1954 Alsace wave. There is an interest in unusual atmospheric events and locations like the Col de Vence, which are presented as sites of mystery and potential anomalous activity. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, presenting witness accounts and historical data, while also grounding some reports in more mundane explanations (like professional photography). The inclusion of detailed astronomical and meteorological information suggests a broader interest in the sky and natural phenomena, perhaps as a contrast or context for the UFO reports. The critical review of the Cité des Sciences show highlights a skepticism towards overly sensationalized or nationalistic presentations.

This issue of "L'Ufologie et les Ufologues" (Ufology and Ufologists) focuses on the annual work and exchange weekend of German ufologists, held on October 2nd and 3rd, 2004. The magazine also includes a section on weather phenomena (clouds) and a compilation of recent UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings reported in France.

German Ufologists' Weekend

The event, organized by SPICA, brought together ufologists, an amateur astronomer, an astrophysicist, and representatives of paranormal magazines. Roland Gehardt, the organizer, ensured the smooth running of the event.

Key presentations included:

• Ulrich Magin presented on "The UFOs of Mr. Fort," discussing the work of Charles Fort, who researched anomalous events for over 25 years, concluding that extraterrestrials visit Earth and influencing modern ufology.
• Silvia Kowollik from the Stuttgart Observatory shared her experiences answering public queries about celestial lights, presenting video clips of potentially troubling celestial objects.
• Rudolf Henke recounted the story of writer Johannes von Buttlar, investigating his life and family history.
• Monika Maintz discussed UFOs and astrophysics, exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial life and the biological requirements for life on other planets.
• SPICA presented French ufology, focusing on European encounters organized by Alain Blanchard of OVNI Marne.
• Werner Walter, president of CENAP, spoke about circular aircraft from the Third Reich, noting that while theoretically capable of flight, they were unstable and prone to accidents.
• Peter Ripota, editor of PM Magazin, along with Jörg Böhme and Ulrich Magin, discussed the publishing industry, emphasizing that books are commodities that must be profitable.

The weekend was described as instructive and facilitated new connections.

Ufology and Ufologists: A Debate on Methodology

Christian Kiefer's article reflects on debates observed on various forums and discussion lists, particularly those originating from Mexico. He expresses frustration with the tendency for discussions to devolve into personal attacks rather than focusing on content. Kiefer criticizes the "Franco-French" tendency of some ufologists to reject criticism and attack opponents, leading to disputes, exclusions, and even legal action. He laments the sterile nature of these debates, which he believes do not advance knowledge but rather serve to promote certain individuals. Kiefer advocates for courteous, polite debates with reasoned arguments, acknowledging the possibility of error and the willingness to change one's mind. He believes that ufology can progress if participants engage constructively.

A New Member's Perspective

Jamila Krimi, a new member, shares her growing passion for ufology, sparked by a visit to a planetarium. She finds the study of the universe marvelous and believes that scientific progress encourages an open mind towards the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Krimi highlights the interdisciplinary nature of ufology, involving aeronautics and meteorology. She emphasizes the need for an open mind and wisdom when undertaking research that often lacks clear explanations. She values rational conclusions and has discussed with Jean-Jacques, who possesses a vast library on the subject. Krimi recounts her participation in a radio broadcast and a stargazing event in Alsace, mentioning an ongoing investigation near Obernai. She expresses satisfaction with her membership in SPICA, allowing her to share her interest without sensationalism and looks forward to upcoming ufological events.

The article also includes a welcome message to Jamila from the association's president.

Notice for Witnesses of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena

This section provides guidance for individuals who witness unidentified aerial phenomena. It advises witnesses to:

• Call friends to observe with them for corroboration.
• Use photographic and video equipment, avoiding flash and autofocus, and preferring manual focus.
• Note the phenomenon's position relative to the environment to estimate distance, size, speed, and altitude.
• Avoid approaching unknown phenomena closely, as they can be dangerous.
• Preserve any physical traces and notify investigators.
• Speak cautiously to preserve the site and contact private investigators who follow scientific protocols.
• Record all details immediately, including precise location, date, time, duration, visibility, cloud type, atmospheric conditions, trajectory, lights, colors, and any associated phenomena.

Questions and Answers for Witnesses

• What happens after providing a testimony? Anonymity is preserved, the phenomenon is checked against known objects, photos/films are duplicated and shared with specialists, physical traces are collected, and the witness is kept informed.
• Difference between misidentification and hoax: Misidentification is mistaking a known phenomenon for something else, while a hoax is a deliberate deception.
• Best specialists: Those with an objective and rigorous scientific approach. Witnesses are warned against paying for investigations and against dangerous groups or sects.
• Where to find investigators: The article suggests checking the SPICA website (www.spica.org) or ufoweb-france.com for a list of investigators. It notes that SPICA's coverage is limited due to its volunteer nature.

The notice is free and was inspired by a witness's suggestion on the OVNI-SCIENCES list.

Latest Observations

This section compiles recent UAP sightings reported from various sources, including the internet and SPICA's headquarters. The observations are presented for informational purposes, and SPICA is not responsible for their content.

• Strasbourg (67): Regular observations of triangular formations, sometimes with luminous rays, and a larger light in the early morning.
• Unknown Location (Early July): A white light, twice the size of Venus, observed in the East at dawn.
• Rueil-Malmaison (92): Three dim orange/red luminous points observed, seemingly following an airplane before ascending and disappearing.
• Valence-d'Albi (81): A strange, round, luminous shape with filaments.
• Arthès (81): A luminous object surrounded by a bluish glow, emitting hot air.
• Annecy (74): A satellite-like light appeared during fireworks, stopped, and disappeared. Later, a fast-moving object was seen, followed by another light that ascended and disappeared.
• Bartenheim (68): Lights resembling an airplane but with unusual movement and colors, at an altitude of 500m to 1500m.
• Wietersheim (68): A mass of 20-30 luminous points in 3D, observed to be translucent and reflecting light, which moved rapidly and disappeared, leaving a luminous trail.
• Clermont-Ferrand (63): A round, yellow luminous object moving too fast for an airplane but too slow for a shooting star.
• St Nazaire (44): A large white light observed moving rapidly. A colleague reported a blue round object hovering over his garden.
• Grenoble (38): Three objects in a rectangular triangle formation, brighter than Venus, disappeared instantly, followed by another single object.
• Cannes (06): A green electric ball with a rectilinear trajectory, parallel to the sea, followed by a smoke trail.
• Mont Saint Aignan (76): A round, luminous object, described as cookie-shaped, moved rapidly and silently, causing the witness to feel unwell before disappearing.
• Lens (62): An object shaped like a water drop, metallic, moving rectilinearly at 90 km/h.
• Nancy (54): A T-shaped phenomenon observed, followed by two light flashes that seemed to target the witnesses.
• Vitrolles (13): Circular, V-shaped, and diamond-shaped luminous points observed moving rapidly and silently.
• Rixheim (68): 7 to 8 luminous points moving under high cloud cover in a large triangle formation.
• Montferrier-sur-Lez (34): A bright point, initially stationary, then moving rapidly, increasing in size, and then dimming and disappearing without sound.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the importance of scientific methodology in ufology, the detailed reporting of UAP sightings, and the organization of ufological events and exchanges. The editorial stance, as expressed by Christian Kiefer and the guidance provided to witnesses, strongly favors objective, evidence-based investigation and discourages sensationalism and personal attacks. The magazine promotes a rigorous, scientific approach to understanding unidentified aerial phenomena.

This issue of OVNI magazine, identified as issue 27 and dated October 2004, focuses on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) and related scientific principles. The magazine is published by SPICA and appears to be based in France. The cover prominently features the question "Que faire en cas d'observation ?" (What to do in case of an observation?), suggesting a practical guide for witnesses.

UAP Sightings Reports

The magazine presents a series of UAP sighting reports from various locations in France, primarily from October and November 2004. These reports are sourced from different entities, including RIO, SPICA, Forum JDU, Base OVNI France, La Centrale Ufologique, and GEIPIS.

Paris (October 13, 2004): A witness reported seeing two grey, non-luminous spheres passing low overhead near the Gare de l'Est. The objects were estimated to be the height of a 20-story building. The wind was light, and clouds were moving slowly at high altitudes.

Sartrouville (November 6, 2004): A witness observed two yellow/orange balls moving rapidly in the Northwest direction. The objects, estimated to be 30-40 cm at arm's length, appeared for less than 3 seconds. One had a sinuous trajectory, while the other moved straight. They passed behind a cloud and their trajectory was descending at approximately 20°.

Autoroute A20 (November 7, 2004): A witness driving at 100 km/h observed a luminous beam originating from the car's hood and following the vehicle for about 10 km towards the sun.

Selommes (November 7, 2004): An object described as a meteor moving from Northwest to Southeast was seen with a large white trail. It was followed by two smaller luminous balls and resembled images of the Columbia shuttle crash.

Saint-Prix (November 7, 2004): Two luminous balls with luminous trails were observed moving in a rectilinear trajectory from West to East. They were described as moving very rapidly at an altitude seemingly lower than aircraft, with no aerodynamic noise.

Epieds en Beauce (November 7, 2004): A phenomenon similar to a shooting star but much brighter and longer-lasting (6-7 seconds) was observed. It had a rectilinear trajectory with apparent discontinuities and brighter points along its path, moving along a Northwest to Southeast axis.

Delle (November 14, 2004): A witness and their spouse observed an intense white light moving in a slight zigzag at low altitude, estimated to be 20 times faster than a plane.

Feillens (November 14, 2004): A luminous ball, the size of a hand-ball, was seen moving rapidly and parallel to a barn roof, disappearing quickly. The object had a brighter center and a faint halo.

St Nazaire (November 23, 2004): An unusually large and brilliant object was observed. It appeared to stop, then executed a flattened curve, interpreted as a U-turn, before diminishing.

Aubergenville (November 25, 2004): A blue-yellow ball with a yellow tail or flagellum was observed falling or descending very rapidly.

Fontaine Etouffefour (November 25, 2004): A very bright, flat, rectangular object with multiple lights (white at the ends, red, yellow, blue in the middle) was observed stationary at low altitude with no noise.

Annecy (December 1, 2004): The region experienced two new observations.

Dijon (December 1, 2004): A bright green point was observed traversing the sky from East to West, descending towards the ground.

St Priest Ligoure (December 1, 2004): A red disc was observed descending.

Limoges (December 1 or 2, 2004): A blue saucer was seen moving at high speed.

Grenoble (December 2, 2004): An object shaped like a frisbee, seen edge-on, was observed for a few seconds in a clear sky.

Practical Guide for Observers

Page 3 provides a detailed guide titled "Que faire en cas d'observation ?" (What to do in case of an observation?). It outlines actions to take during an observation, including noting the time, direction, position, estimating size and angular height, observing color, trajectory, and sound, and noting the direction of disappearance. After the observation, witnesses are advised to record all details, make sketches, and contact a local correspondent or the gendarmerie.

For those with cameras, the guide suggests using a tripod, photographing or filming the phenomenon with landscape elements for context, and noting technical details of the recording. It also advises communicating undeveloped film to a local correspondent to attest to authenticity.

The magazine emphasizes that no financial compensation will be required for studying documents, and their activities are voluntary. It also explains how to use hand measurements (like fist width and arm's length) to estimate angular height and apparent size of objects.

Scientific Article: Color and Behavior of Light

Pages 4 and 5 feature an article titled "COULEUR OU COULEURS ? 1. formes et comportements" (Color or Colors? 1. Forms and Behaviors) by Marc Dobler. This article delves into the principles of geometric optics, explaining how light rays travel. It discusses the behavior of light when passing through lenses, contrasting it with reflection from mirrors. The article explains that white light is composed of different colors, and when light passes through a lens (or prism), these colors can be separated due to different refractive indices, leading to chromatic aberration. The concept of multilayer treatments on lenses to correct this chromatic effect is also introduced. The article poses the fundamental question, "What is light?" and promises further exploration in future issues.

SPICA Association Information

Page 6 provides information about the SPICA association, which is interested in astronomy, meteorology, aeronautics, space conquest, and ufology. The association encourages members to share knowledge, contribute ideas, and participate in activities. It emphasizes scientific and objective approaches, respecting diverse passions and avoiding dogmatism or sensationalism. SPICA offers to research unusual phenomena reported by witnesses, guaranteeing anonymity and collaborating with them. Contact details for the association are provided: address, phone number, email, and website.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reporting and analysis of UAP sightings, providing practical guidance for witnesses, and exploring the scientific principles behind light and optics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded yet scientifically rigorous investigation, encouraging detailed observation and documentation while seeking rational explanations for phenomena. The SPICA association positions itself as a facilitator for such investigations, emphasizing objectivity and collaboration.