SPICA - No 08 - 2006 Aout

Magazine Overview

Title: SPICA NEWS
Issue: N° 8
Date: August 2006
Publisher: association SPICA
Country: France
Price: 1,80€

This issue of SPICA NEWS, presented in full color, continues the association's commitment to providing detailed reports and analyses on unusual phenomena. The cover headline, 'Les preuves sont-elles parmi nous ?' (Are the proofs among us?), sets the tone for an issue that delves into UFO sightings, theoretical physics, and astronomical observations.

Editorial and Association News

The editorial section, penned by the President, Christian Morgenthaler, highlights the association's progress, including the ongoing work on statutes for a new association linked to SPICA, with an official declaration planned during the Téléthon event in Châlons en Champagne. The editor notes the success of the previous issue and the necessity of continuing this format. Upcoming events are listed, including ufological meetings, a barbecue, observation evenings, a sports and leisure festival, and a meeting with the German ufological group Gröefelbach. The issue also announces the marriage of the association's secretary and mentions that Dominique will share insights from the European UFO Encounters in Châlons. Jacky will present an article on an observation made with his family, addressing the question of evidence. The issue also includes results from an investigation into a phenomenon observed in Northern Alsace, alongside astronomy and meteorology courses.

Key Articles and Reports

"Une analyse des Rencontres Européennes de Châlons"

This article, presented by Dominique, offers a retrospective analysis of the European UFO Encounters held in Châlons. It likely provides insights and observations from the event, contributing to the ongoing discourse on UFO phenomena.

"Étrange observation à Betschdorf"

This report details an unusual sighting that occurred in Betschdorf on March 15, 2005. The witness, initially observing an orangish, stationary ball-like object, later described it as having a singular shape with fine geometric details, like an antenna. The phenomenon was luminous but not blinding and appeared to be about 4-5 cm in apparent height. The observation, lasting 40 seconds, was made in clear, cold weather.

"Plusieurs témoins observent un phénomène non identifié à Hegenheim"

This section recounts an observation from the night of December 31, 2005, to January 1, 2006, in Hegenheim. Five adults and two children witnessed two luminous points that moved at airplane speed. The phenomenon, observed for 1 minute and 30 seconds in cold, cloudy weather, was tracked moving from southeast towards Germany before disappearing into the clouds. The witness, Jean-Jacques Goetschy, an experienced UFO investigator, ruled out common explanations like satellites or conventional aircraft due to the object's low altitude and lack of distinguishing features.

"Le monde n'est-il qu'une hallucination ?"

This theoretical article explores a profound question raised by physicists at the University of Constance in August 2005. The hypothesis suggests that the world might be a shared hallucination, a concept that has roots in ancient philosophy. The article links this idea to the challenges in quantum physics, where the behavior of matter at the microscopic level defies classical understanding. It posits that quantum theory describes not reality itself, but our knowledge of it. The author suggests that anomalies in UFO phenomena and paranormal events could be interpreted as 'pre-information' within a larger, possibly orchestrated, system.

"Phénomène à Hegenheim (Haut-Rhin)"

This is a detailed report on the Hegenheim sighting. The observation occurred at 00:30 on New Year's night, lasting 1 minute and 30 seconds. The witnesses, five adults and two children, were initially distracted by fireworks when two luminous points caught their attention. The objects moved together at a speed comparable to an airplane, heading towards Germany. The witness, Jean-Jacques Goetschy, who has over 30 years of experience with UFOs, ruled out conventional explanations, noting the low altitude and lack of typical aircraft lights. He also mentions a photograph from 'Top Secret' magazine showing similar points.

"Phénomène insolite à Betschdorf"

This article provides a more in-depth account of the Betschdorf sighting on March 15, 2005. The witness, while checking his goldfish pond, observed an orangish, luminous object. Initially appearing as a ball, it later revealed a more complex shape with fine, ink-like drawings on its surface, including what looked like antennas. The object's apparent size was estimated at 9mm, with a fuselage of 2.5cm and an overall height of 4-5cm. The witness described its movement as having a slight angle and noted its approach before it disappeared behind pine trees and reappeared at a distance of about 50 meters. The witness reported the observation to the gendarmerie but received no follow-up.

"Cours d'astronomie: Mercure, première planète à partir du Soleil"

This educational piece, extracted from 'L'astronomie pour les Nuls' by Stephen Maran and Pascal Bordé, provides basic information about the planet Mercury. It describes Mercury as a terrestrial planet observable with a telescope, noting its cratered surface similar to the Moon, its lack of natural satellites, and its high density, suggesting a large iron core. The article mentions traces of atmospheric gases but concludes that Mercury is essentially without atmosphere, experiencing extreme temperature variations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SPICA NEWS strongly emphasizes the ongoing search for evidence of phenomena beyond conventional explanation, particularly UFOs. The magazine actively encourages reader participation, soliciting reports and investigations. The theoretical articles, such as the one questioning the nature of reality through the lens of quantum physics and collective unconsciousness, reflect a willingness to explore complex and even philosophical aspects of these subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to connect disparate observations and theories into a broader understanding of unexplained phenomena. The inclusion of astronomical information suggests an interest in contextualizing potential extraterrestrial phenomena within a scientific framework.

This issue of "Ciel & Espace" (Sky & Space) from August-September 2006 covers a range of topics including astronomy, meteorology, and ufology. It provides celestial ephemerides for August to December 2006, sky maps for August-September and October-November, and detailed information on planetary movements and astronomical events. The magazine also features an article on meteorology, explaining weather phenomena and the role of satellites, and a critical review of the Châlons 2005 ufology conference.

Astronomy and Celestial Events

The issue includes detailed "Éphémérides" (Ephemerides) for astronomical events. For August, it lists conjunctions of the Moon with Jupiter and Venus, the Perseid meteor shower (maximum around 0h00 on August 12), and lunar phases. It also notes the appearance of Mercury in the morning sky and a ufological meeting. September events include Venus disappearing, a partially eclipsed Full Moon on September 7, a Moon-Jupiter conjunction, the Autumnal Equinox on September 23, and a German ufological gathering in Groefelbach.

"Éphémérides Planétaires" provide precise times for the rising and setting of the Sun, Moon, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn for various dates between August 1 and December 1, 2006. This section also details civil, aeronautical, and astronomical twilight times.

Two "Carte du Ciel" (Sky Maps) are presented: one for August-September 2006, valid for Châlons en Champ (latitude 48°57'27", longitude 4°21'54"), and another for October-November 2006, valid for Odratzheim (latitude 48°36'10"N, longitude 7°29'20"E). The sky maps illustrate constellations and celestial objects visible during these periods. The text accompanying the August-September map notes that planets like Jupiter will disappear from view for a few weeks, and Venus might be visible early in the morning in August. It encourages readers to review constellations and observe nebulae and galaxies.

The October-November sky map highlights that major planets will be absent from evening skies, but the Leonid meteor shower is expected to be interesting, with potentially a hundred stars per hour. This period is also suitable for observing winter constellations, nebulae, and galaxies.

Meteorology

The article "La météorologie" (Meteorology) explains weather phenomena, moving from ground-level observations to a more scientific perspective, drawing from an ESA document for college students. It discusses the complexity of meteorological laws and the challenges in precise long-term forecasting. Despite these difficulties, meteorologists can achieve 24-hour forecasts with 86% reliability and 3-7 day forecasts with 80% reliability (for 3 days). Beyond this, certainty decreases significantly.

Satellites are highlighted for their crucial role in monitoring global weather, studying cloud formations, fronts, their temperatures, and composition. They also provide data on trace gases like ozone and aerosols, which are vital for weather conditions. The article explains that meteorological phenomena are driven by solar radiation energy. The Earth's surface absorbs this energy unevenly, with the tropics receiving more than the poles, creating atmospheric and oceanic movements. The article notes that the "weather" refers to phenomena in the lower atmosphere and that the unequal distribution of solar energy is the primary driver of global air circulation.

Ufology and the Châlons 2005 Conference

The article "Châlons 2005 : vitrine de l'ufologie ou ufologie en vitrine ?" (Châlons 2005: Showcase of Ufology or Ufology in a Shop Window?) reviews the European ufological encounters held on October 14-16, 2005. The author describes the event as a "half-success," noting that while the organization was nearly perfect, the approach by some participants was more akin to a fair than a rigorous scientific event. The article criticizes the presentation of extreme aspects of ufology to an uninformed public as irresponsible.

It mentions the stand of Roland Gehardt from the German association CENAP, who presented objects and gadgets related to UFOs and extraterrestrials, which some visitors mistook for items for sale. The author argues that Gehardt intended to show the broad ramifications of the subject, but many perceived ufology as merely a commercial venture.

The article laments the predominantly negative press coverage, which it attributes to a lack of understanding and an eagerness to sensationalize. It notes the absence of national television channels, but points out that the event was broadcast in Germany by paranews.net, featuring a professional astrophysicist as host. The author expresses disappointment that French viewers were not offered similar objective coverage.

The review criticizes the perceived intellectual deficiencies of some attendees, who, it claims, hold basic misconceptions about the solar system. It calls for a more objective and less passionate approach to ufology, urging those involved to question their own methods and hypotheses, and to address internal disputes and commercialization within the community. The author concludes that while the Châlons 2005 event was a "small evolution," it was not a "great revolution" for ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes astronomical observation and understanding, providing practical guides and data for enthusiasts. The meteorology section emphasizes scientific understanding and the role of technology like satellites. The ufology coverage adopts a critical yet engaged stance, aiming for objectivity and questioning the methods and public perception of the field. There is a recurring theme of demystifying complex subjects for a general audience, while also encouraging deeper scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and objective reporting, particularly in the controversial field of ufology.

This issue of 'Sciences et Phénomènes Insolites' features a prominent article on the Constellation du Cygne (The Swan), detailing its astronomical significance and mythological associations. The magazine also dedicates a significant portion to recent UFO sightings and investigations, primarily from France, with a focus on the work of the association SPICA.

Constellation du Cygne

The article introduces Cygnus as a constellation in the Northern Hemisphere, often depicted as a large cross, and notes its beauty within the Milky Way. It mentions that many civilizations have seen a bird in this constellation, referencing the Greek myth of Orpheus, who was transformed into a swan and placed in the sky.

• Key celestial objects within Cygnus are highlighted:
• Deneb: One of the stars of the Summer Triangle, 25 times more massive than the Sun and located 3000 light-years away.
• Albireo: A double star at the 'foot' of the cross, situated 400 light-years away.
• 61 Cygni: A double star known as the 'Flying Star' due to its significant proper motion.
• North America Nebula (NGC7000): Described as a brilliant nebula illuminated by Deneb, best observed with the naked eye.
• M39: An open cluster with fuzzy boundaries, visible under clear, dark skies.
• Veil Nebula (NGC6960, 6992, 6995): A beautiful, lace-like nebula formed from an ancient supernova, requiring a telescope of at least 150 mm for observation.

Les Preuves Sont-Elles Parmi Nous ? (Are the Proofs Among Us?)

This section delves into the question of evidence for UFO reality. The author discusses the vast number of testimonies collected worldwide, often from credible observers like pilots, air traffic controllers, and gendarmes. It notes that since 1947, about one in ten cases results in a serious report, with many testimonies submitted to civilian research groups (like GEIPAN, formerly SEPRA), official services, and the gendarmerie. Fear of ridicule causes many reports to be lost.

The article mentions the declassification of tens of thousands of official documents related to UFOs and the military in the United States, with over 40,000 documents released since 1980. The Roswell incident is also referenced, with the note that most of its documents were destroyed or altered.

Radar observations confirming UFOs stopping or accelerating rapidly are mentioned, as are visual contacts and radar confirmations during fighter jet interceptions. While acknowledging that photos and films are often of poor quality, the author points to thousands of press articles, audio recordings, and books on the subject. The accumulation of evidence over more than half a century suggests the possibility of an unknown presence in the airspace and on the ground.

• Three recommended books for further information are listed:
• 'OVNIS, L'EVIDENCE' by Jean-Jacques VELASCO
• 'OVNIS: 60 ANS DE DESINFORMATION' by François PARMENTIER
• 'REVELATION TOME 1 & 2' by Stevens M. GREER

Definitions are provided for 'Debunkers' (those who dismiss extraterrestrial hypotheses), 'Armée' (covering defense matters), and 'Phénomènes' (referring to military responses to UFOs, including scrambles and attempts to intercept).

Les Dernières Observations (The Latest Observations)

This section compiles recent UFO sighting reports, prefaced with a disclaimer that these observations are from various sources (Internet, SPICA headquarters) and have not been verified. SPICA is not responsible for their content.

• 01/01/2006, Hegenheim: A SPICA testimony, referred to page 7 of SPICANEWS 8.
• 03/01/2006, Dijon: Two orange lights observed, initially fixed, then moving west and disappearing. Another witness, Nicole, corroborates seeing similar orange lights in Dijon.
• Ajout du 11/01/2006: A comparison of observations from Dijon and Longecourt suggests a potential area of interest around Curley, ruling out the BA 102 of Longvic.
• 07/01/2006, Nord de la France: A bright yellow point of light observed moving south, with a high angular elevation and non-constant speed, lasting 30 seconds.
• 08/01/2006, Moret-sur-Loing: A white luminous ball observed at very low altitude.
• 18/01/2006, Angers: Two red luminous balls observed moving erratically, resembling fighting birds, before disappearing into clouds.
• Undated (likely March 2006), Metz: A circular object observed changing colors (green, blue, red, yellow), later joined by two other identical objects at different altitudes. One object ascended rapidly and returned.
• Nuit du 5 au 6 avril 2006, Nancy: A luminous disc observed moving slowly for over an hour from northwest to north.
• 05/06/2006, Clouange: A luminous phenomenon, estimated at 100m long, observed moving slowly, photographed.
• 07 juin 2006, Obernai: Three objects, one large and two smaller, observed with condensation trails, moving slowly in a triangular formation.
• 21 juin 2006, Yvetot: A large, bright white sphere observed moving west to east, zig-zagging and making soubresauts. Ten minutes later, a blinking sphere was seen, followed by another fast-moving sphere that extinguished like a bulb. The witness suggests the possibility of extraterrestrial presence.
• 02/07/2006, Metz: A metallic grey sphere observed moving silently from east to west at medium speed, identified as neither an airplane, helicopter, nor balloon.
• 21/07/2006, Bruz (near Rennes): A slightly orange luminous point observed moving faster than a normal plane, with a constant, strange noise, heading towards a storm.

Analysis of Nancy Sighting

Eric Maillot and Gilles Munsch of the Comité Nord-Est des Groupements Ufologiques analyze the Nancy sighting from April 5-6, 2006. They conclude, based on video evidence and webcam positioning, that the observed phenomenon was likely the moon in its first quarter, with earlier images appearing brighter due to overexposure. They argue the trajectory is characteristic of a setting celestial body and that the position matches that of the moon at 3:41 AM.

SPICA Association Information

The final page provides information about the SPICA association, inviting individuals interested in astronomy, meteorology, aeronautics, space conquest, and ufology to join. SPICA emphasizes a scientific and objective approach, respecting diverse viewpoints. They offer to investigate reported phenomena and provide explanations, guaranteeing witness anonymity. Contact details for SPICA (address, phone, email, website) are provided, along with ways to support the association, such as submitting articles, donating books or videos, reporting phenomena, connecting them with witnesses, or making financial contributions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a stance that supports the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, acknowledging the vast amount of anecdotal evidence and declassified documents. It promotes a scientific and objective approach, as exemplified by the analysis of the Nancy sighting and the mission statement of the SPICA association. While presenting numerous eyewitness accounts, the magazine also includes critical analysis and encourages further research, positioning itself as a platform for exploring unexplained phenomena from a rational perspective.