SPICA - No 12 - 2008 Janvier

Magazine Overview

Title: SPICA NEWS
Issue: N° 12
Date: January 2008
Publisher: Association SPICA
Country: France
Price: 2,00€

This issue of SPICA NEWS, published by the Association SPICA, focuses on a blend of astronomy, ufology, and scientific inquiry. The cover prominently features Sputnik, commemorating its 50th anniversary on October 4, 1957, and announces new developments in astronomy and new ideas. The magazine aims to provide information on both celestial phenomena and unexplained aerial phenomena.

Editorial and Association News

The editorial, written by the President, extends New Year wishes to the members and expresses hopes for a more prosperous year for the association, with more frequent observation evenings and increased attendance at ufological meetings. It announces changes in the magazine's production, including the acquisition of a color laser printer, which has led to an increase in the price to 2,00€. Members are encouraged to submit articles. The association is also developing new, lighter exhibition supports that can be placed in the center of a room. A new type of animation, 'The Mysteries of the Sky,' is planned for April 26-27, which will include conferences on astronomy and ufology if the sky is not clear for observation.

The issue also details the association's calendar for 2008, including statutory meetings, sky observation evenings (e.g., Perseids, Draconids), ufological meetings, and public animations. Deadlines for article submissions for SPICA NEWS are listed, with three issues planned for the year, with a possibility of four if more articles are received.

Key Articles and Investigations

A UFO Investigation in l'Yonne

This section details an investigation by Rémy Facherau concerning a sighting by Monsieur P. on February 12, 2006, on route D89 near Bleury, France. The witness observed a red, circular, luminous disk, the size of a plate, with a clear blue tail, moving horizontally at a speed exceeding 90 km/h, a few meters above the ground. The object was visible for about 10 seconds before disappearing near the Bois du Moulin de Marnay. The weather conditions were described, with a sunny afternoon and a temperature of 5 degrees Celsius.

When Observations Do Not Concide with Physical Laws

This article explores the challenges faced by astronomers when their observations contradict established physical laws. It presents two main solutions: either introducing new, invisible components (like dark matter) to explain anomalies, or modifying the laws themselves. The author discusses the widespread adoption of the dark matter hypothesis to explain galactic rotation speeds and the formation of galaxies within the Big Bang timeline. The article also introduces Mordehai Milgrom's MOND theory, which proposes a modification of Newton's laws of gravitation, suggesting that gravity decreases less rapidly at very large scales. This theory is presented as an alternative to dark matter, explaining why stars at the periphery of galaxies rotate faster than expected without invoking exotic substances.

The text references the 19th Rencontres de Blois in May 2007, where astrophysicists discussed dark matter. Milgrom's MOND theory, proposed in 1983, is highlighted as a radical revision that initially faced resistance but is gaining traction. The article notes that simulations of galaxy formation work better with MOND than with dark matter. It also mentions Einstein's work and how MOND initially struggled to fit within the framework of general relativity but found new momentum in 2004.

Discovery of a New Asteroid

An information piece from ANSA reports the discovery of a new asteroid on October 3, 2007, by physicist Albino Carbognani. The asteroid, with a diameter of 3 km, is located between Mars and Jupiter at a distance of 285 million km from Earth and poses no threat. It has been officially recognized as 'valdôtain' and will be named 'ValléedAoste' according to protocol.

A Frenchman in Space: 5 Years We've Been Waiting!

This section celebrates the return of a Frenchman to space after a 5-year absence. Léopold Eyharts was set to travel to the ISS to activate the Columbus module. The launch was scheduled for December 9, 2007, at 22:30 Paris time. Eyharts expressed his eagerness for the mission, having undergone 3 years of training.

Synthesis of Ufological Meetings in Colmar

This part summarizes a video-conference intervention by Guy Tarade on September 4, 2007. Tarade, a pioneer of French ufology, discussed his experiences, including his critical view of the 1969 TV show 'Les dossiers de l'écran,' which he described as disastrous for ufology due to its lack of courtesy and tolerance towards ufologists. He recalled the show's presenter, Alain Jérôme, and its popularity in the 1970s. Tarade also spoke about the 'memory in stone' left by past civilizations, referencing the Palenque engraving. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among ufological groups but advised against mixing with scientists, expressing lingering bitterness towards them. He stressed the need for tolerance within ufology and advocated for 'research equals tolerance.' He mentioned that the 'invisibles du col de Vence' group is experimenting with a scientific detection method and commented on the Cométa report, noting its readership by François Mitterand and Jacques Chirac.

Intervention by Mr Pierre Lagrange

Pierre Lagrange, a sociologist of sciences, provided a historical overview of UFO phenomena since 1947, referencing French official groups like Gepan, Sepra, and Geipan. He discussed the scientific community's stance, viewing scientists as 'masters of truth' who tend to dismiss UFOs due to a lack of exploitable data and untrained witnesses, citing the Condon report's conclusion that the phenomenon was not scientifically interesting. Lagrange suggested that the lack of potential Nobel Prizes deters scientific study. He questioned why ancient beliefs are studied while current ones are not, and proposed that ufologists should read more science fiction to refresh their ideas. He also highlighted the subjective nature of witness testimony, comparing it to meteorite sightings, where subjectivity is accepted.

Personal Reactions of the Editor

The editor reacts to the interventions of Guy Tarade and Pierre Lagrange. Regarding Tarade's suggestion to avoid scientists, the editor argues that ufology has stagnated for decades by remaining marginal and not engaging intelligently with the scientific community, given that few ufologists possess the necessary scientific background. The editor calls for a unique channel to share rigorous UFO investigation reports with scientists. Concerning Lagrange, the editor notes his consistent discourse and expresses skepticism about his openness, referencing a previous statement where Lagrange asserted that military and scientists had hidden the truth about UFOs. The editor criticizes journalists for focusing on debunking cases like Roswell without understanding the evidence and suggests that Lagrange, despite his sociological insights, remains confined within a standard scientific framework.

The 4th of October 1957: Launch of the First Artificial Satellite

This article by Dominique Schall commemorates the 50th anniversary of the launch of Sputnik 1 by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957. The 'bip-bip' signal was heard globally, marking a significant achievement in space exploration. The article details Sputnik 1's specifications (58 cm diameter, 83.6 kg) and its limited onboard instruments. It then looks towards Russia's future ambitions in space, including the Glonass navigation system, new spacecraft, an orbital station, and a lunar base by 2040. The author quotes Karach, who believes Russia needs a 'new Sputnik' and that a manned mission to Mars, costing over 1 billion dollars annually, could significantly elevate Russia's technological potential and international standing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SPICA NEWS demonstrates a consistent interest in both the scientific exploration of space and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to advocate for a more open and collaborative approach between ufologists and the scientific community, while also acknowledging the historical significance of UFO research. There is a clear emphasis on critical thinking, the examination of evidence, and the exploration of new ideas in both astronomy and ufology. The editorial stance seems to encourage members to engage actively with the association's activities and contribute to the ongoing discourse on these subjects. The magazine also highlights the importance of historical events, such as the Sputnik launch, as milestones in human scientific endeavor.

This issue of SPICA magazine, dated January/February 2008, delves into various scientific topics, with a strong focus on astronomy and meteorology. The cover story highlights the discovery of a planet in formation within the Pleiades star cluster. The magazine also explores the Taurus constellation, weather systems, and a new type of flying saucer.

Astronomy Articles

Planet Formation in the Pleiades

The lead article, "Encore une planète en formation dans l'amas des Pléiades" (Another planet forming in the Pleiades cluster), reports on a discovery by an astronomy team led by Joseph Rhee from the University of California. They found a disk of hot dust around the star HD 23514, located in the Pleiades cluster, approximately 400 light-years away. This star, slightly more massive and luminous than our Sun, shows hundreds of thousands of times more dust than our Sun. Analysis by the Gemini Observatory suggests this dust cloud is likely the result of collisions between planets or planetary embryos. The article contrasts the young age of the Pleiades stars (100 to 400 million years) with our Sun's age (4.5 billion years), suggesting that solar-type stars can replicate the process that formed our own solar system.

The Constellation of Taurus

"La constellation du Taureau" (The Constellation of Taurus) provides a detailed look at this prominent constellation. It notes its location northwest of Orion and its association with two major star clusters visible to the naked eye: the Hyades and the Pleiades. The article touches upon the historical significance of the bull symbol in various cultures, including the Chaldeans, Egyptians (Apis), and Greek mythology (Zeus's transformation). It describes the Pleiades (M45) as the most famous open cluster, forming the shoulder of the bull, and mentions its mythological daughters of Atlas and Pleione. Indigenous American interpretations of the Pleiades as seven young men are also noted. The Hyades cluster is described as closer (150 light-years) and forming the bull's head. Aldebaran (Alpha Tauri), the brightest star, is identified as the bull's eye.

The Crab Nebula (M1)

Page 3 features a map of the sky and a section on "Nébuleuse du Crabe (M1)" (Crab Nebula M1). It states that the nebula, located at the site of a supernova observed in 1054, is clearly visible with a 100mm telescope. Its complex structure is best observed in highly magnified photographs. The accompanying image shows an observatory.

Orion Nebula Distance Measurement

"La nébuleuse d'Orion bien plus proche qu'on ne le croyait" (The Orion Nebula, much closer than we thought) discusses new observations using a radio telescope network that have provided an unprecedentedly precise measurement of the Orion Nebula's distance, reducing the error from previous estimates to 20%. The article explains that precise distance determination is a fundamental challenge in astronomy. The Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) confirmed that the Orion Nebula is located at 1,270 light-years, not 1,565 light-years as previously estimated. The article also details the parallax method, first conceived by Copernicus and successfully applied by Bessel in 1838 for 61 Cygni. It explains how measuring the apparent shift in a star's position from two points on Earth's orbit allows for distance calculation. The use of radio interferometry, specifically the VLBA with 10 radio telescopes, provided a resolution equivalent to a telescope thousands of kilometers in diameter, yielding much finer and more precise radio images than optical telescopes like Hubble. This revised distance suggests the stars in the Orion Nebula are less luminous and potentially twice as old as previously believed, impacting theories on star formation and evolution.

Meteorology Articles

Summer Depression System

"Système dépressionnaire d'été" (Summer Depression System) uses satellite imagery to illustrate a depression system that crossed Europe in August 1992. The article explains that summer depressions are typically less violent than winter ones and occur further north due to more even solar energy distribution. It describes a cold front extending from Sweden to France and a warm front from Ireland to Iceland, with a cold front over the Atlantic. It also notes that high temperatures in Spain can lead to a depression zone that may cause violent storms.

Winter Depression System

"Système dépressionnaire d'hiver" (Winter Depression System) analyzes a typical European winter depression system over the Atlantic. It shows a well-developed system with visible fronts, including a warm air mass between the British Isles and Iceland, associated with a depression (960 mbar) southeast of Greenland. The article notes a strong north-south pressure gradient due to high pressure (1040 mbar) southwest of Europe, causing rapid air movement. Cold air following the front leads to dispersed clouds from convection, visible in black and white satellite images, while a colorized image shows surface temperatures.

Meteorological Data

Both meteorology articles mention that meteorological data, updated every 30 minutes by Meteosat satellites, provides information on wind, cloud structures, humidity, and surface temperatures.

Technology and Other Topics

The "Flying Saucer" OVI

"Une compagnie britannique a conçu une Soucoupe Volante !" (A British company has designed a Flying Saucer!) reports on a small British company in Peterborough that claims to have built the first terrestrial flying saucer, the OVI. This 60 cm diameter vehicle made its maiden flight at an event in Cambridge. It is described as capable of vertical takeoff, hovering, and landing remotely, utilizing the Coanda effect, discovered by Henri Coanda in 1910, for lift. Prototypes currently use batteries, with larger versions planned to have internal combustion engines. Inventor Geoff Hatton states the vehicle can fly near buildings without exposed rotating parts. The non-piloted aerial saucer has potential applications in military missions, visual and thermal imaging, and as a cost-effective alternative to helicopters for difficult missions. Director David Steel suggests the possibility of larger, 10-meter diameter vehicles capable of carrying people for medical emergencies in inaccessible areas. The Coanda effect is explained as the principle where air flowing over a curved surface reduces pressure, creating lift, with the challenge being to produce sufficient airflow for stable lift.

Ephemerides and Sky Maps

January/February 2008 Celestial Events

"ÉPHÉMÉRIDES & CALENDRIER SPICA" provides a detailed calendar of celestial events for January and February 2008. Key events include the visibility of Comet BP/Tuttle, the maximum of the Quadrantids meteor shower, conjunctions of the Moon with Venus and Mars, New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon, and Last Quarter. A total lunar eclipse is scheduled for February 21st, starting at 0h30 and lasting until 6h17, with totality from 3h00 to 3h50 (50 minutes). Planetary ephemerides list the rising and setting times for the Sun, Moon, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn for January 1st, January 15th, February 1st, February 15th, and March 1st. Astronomical twilight times are also provided.

Sky Map

The "CARTE DU CIEL" (Sky Map) for January/February 2008 shows the celestial sphere for Châlons en Champagne, with specific times adjusted for local observation. It highlights constellations like Orion, Venus (visible in the morning), Mars, and Saturn. It also points out the location of Comet BP Tuttle in the Pisces and Cetus constellations and advises looking for Mercury during its greatest eastern elongation, cautioning to wait for sunset.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific approach to understanding phenomena, whether astronomical, meteorological, or technological. The editorial stance appears to be one of informed curiosity, presenting complex subjects in an accessible manner for a general audience. There is a clear emphasis on empirical observation, scientific measurement, and the application of physical principles (like the Coanda effect and parallax). The inclusion of historical context, mythological references, and practical sky-watching information suggests an aim to engage readers with the wonder and accessibility of science.

This issue of "CARTE DU CIEL" for March/April 2008 provides a celestial map and astronomical information, alongside articles on ufology and related events.

Celestial Map and Astronomical Information

The cover features a detailed star chart for the latitude of Odratzheim (48°36'10"N, 7°29'20"E) for March and April 2008. The accompanying text encourages readers to enjoy the remaining winter sky before the summer sky takes over. It notes that Mars will be visible every evening, and Saturn will rise earlier. Jupiter will also appear later in the night or early morning. The article also highlights the zodiacal light on March 29th, advising observation in a zone free from light pollution.

Page 2 provides "ÉPHÉMÉRIDES & CALENDRIER SPICA" (Ephemerides & Calendar SPICA), detailing celestial events for March and April. Key events include conjunctions with the Moon, new and full moons, and planetary positions. For March, notable events are the crescent Moon with Mercury and Venus, Mars close to the open cluster M35, and the Moon dominating the Pleiades. April includes the Moon's conjunction with the Pleiades and its passage before the Beehive Cluster (M44) and Saturn.

"ÉPHÉMÉRIDES PLANÉTAIRES" (Planetary Ephemerides) on page 2 offers detailed times for the rising and setting of the Sun, Moon, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn for March 1st, March 15th, April 1st, and April 15th, along with twilight times (Civil, Aeronautical, Astronomical).

Saturn, the Planet with Rings

Pages 4 and 5 delve into "Cours d'astronomie" (Astronomy Course) focusing on Saturn. Extracted from the book "L'astronomie pour les nuls" (Astronomy for Dummies), the article describes Saturn as a gas giant primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, 95 times larger than Earth. It discusses the immense gravitational force and increasing temperature within the planet. The famous rings are detailed, noting that while previously thought unique to Saturn, all four giant planets possess rings, though Saturn's are the most prominent and easily observable due to their composition of ice particles and rock fragments. The Cassini Division, discovered by Jean Dominique Cassini in 1675, is mentioned as separating the rings into two parts, with other divisions now known. A recent American study suggests Saturn's rings might be as old as the solar system (4.5 billion years), contradicting earlier theories of them being only a hundred million years old, possibly formed from a collision between a meteorite and a moon. The article also mentions Titan, Saturn's largest moon, which is larger than Mercury and has a thick, dusty atmosphere. Technical specifications for Saturn, including its equatorial/polar diameter, mass, density, orbital inclinations, temperature, atmosphere, number of satellites (47), and distance from the Sun, are provided.

Ufology and UFO News

Page 3 features an article titled "Japon : Le ministre de la Défense veut un plan anti-Ovni" (Japan: The Minister of Defense wants an anti-UFO plan). Shigeru Ishiba, Japan's Minister of Defense, stated that the existence of UFOs is plausible and that Japanese troops should be able to react to their appearance. This follows remarks by government spokesperson Nobutaka Machimura, who expressed being "absolutely convinced" of UFO existence. The minister intends to study how the Self-Defense Forces could respond, considering Japan's pacifist constitution. The article also notes a contradiction with a government resolution that did not confirm the existence of UFOs.

Page 3 also announces that "En 2009, l'Astronomie sera à l'honneur" (In 2009, Astronomy will be honored). The UN has declared 2009 the International Year of Astronomy (AMA09), initiated by Italy and the International Astronomical Union, to celebrate astronomy and foster international cooperation. This year marks the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first use of a telescope. The AMA's central theme is "The Universe and its Mysteries," with a focus on engaging the younger generation.

Pages 6 and 7 discuss the state of ufology in France under the title "DU BONHEUR A LA SOUPE AUX GRIMACES" (Happiness in the Face of Grimaces). The author expresses optimism about a new wave in ufology, citing new books and the online release of CNES UFO archives. The article emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration among French ufology associations, mentioning events like those in Châlons and at the Col de Vence. It highlights the growing professionalism and quality of French ufology, suggesting it should be an example for research and data compilation globally. The text mentions Giulliano Marintovic of UFO ZAGREB and Bruno Mancusi of SWISS UFO, as well as Jean-Claude Bourret. A notable quote from J.J. Goetschy is included: "Selon le côté de la barrière où l'on se place, la notion du temps n'a pas la même valeur."

Page 10 presents "Une lointaine cousine de la Terre" (A distant cousin of Earth), reporting on an AFP article from October 4, 2007, about the Spitzer Space Telescope capturing an image of a planet possibly forming about 424 light-years away. Researcher Carey Lisse estimates its age between 10 and 16 million years, noting it's in a "young adolescence" phase perfect for planet formation. The system has a dust belt in the habitable zone, suggesting the potential for water and life. The planet is cataloged as HD113766.

Also on page 10, "Un OVNI télécommandé!" (A remote-controlled UFO!) introduces a gadget available for $199.95 USD from Hammacher Schlemmer. This device, about fifty centimeters in diameter, features four motors and a gyroscope for aerial acrobatics and hovering, with a remote control range of about 100 meters.

Association News and Photos

Pages 8 and 9 list various ufology associations and their contact information, including Ufomania magazine, OVNI-LANGUEDOC, CENAP, GEP, Fédération Française d'Ufologie, Site Officiel du Col de Vence, CISU, COMITE NORD-EST DES GROUPES UFOLOGIQUES, and Le GERU. Page 8 includes photos from associative events in 2007: a general assembly, a ufological meal in Colmar, a trip to the Euro Space Center in Belgium, and a "Fête de la Science" (Science Festival) in Wintzenheim.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes astronomical observation and education, particularly highlighting upcoming celestial events and the significance of the International Year of Astronomy. Simultaneously, it actively engages with the ufology community, reporting on government stances on UFOs, research efforts, and association activities. There's an emphasis on unity and serious investigation within ufology, while also acknowledging the lighter side with features like the remote-controlled UFO gadget. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards both scientific astronomy and the UFO phenomenon, encouraging public participation and informed discussion.

This issue of 'Les Dernières Observations' is a collection of UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings reported to the SPICA association throughout 2007. The magazine's stated purpose is to inform readers by presenting these observations, which are explicitly stated as unverified, with SPICA disclaiming responsibility for their content. The issue features numerous witness accounts from various locations in France, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.

Vanves (92) - March 20, 2007

A witness in Vanves reported seeing an octagonal dark shape with six red lights on a rooftop. Initially stationary, it then moved erratically like a deflating balloon or a confused insect before accelerating at extraordinary speed and disappearing. The witness also recalled seeing a large fireball over Plouha, Côtes d'Armor, on August 11, 2007.

Bartenheim La Chaussée (68) - July 19, 2007

A resident of Bartenheim La Chaussée described observing two or three oval lights of low, 'pastel' luminosity moving rapidly in regular elliptical paths. These lights sometimes stopped, met each other, and then moved off again. The witness eventually counted about ten such lights, observing them for about fifteen minutes.

Lausanne (Switzerland) - August 25, 2007

Reports indicate that a similar phenomenon was observed in Lausanne by a mother and her neighbor, and also by a colleague. The phenomenon moved and formed shapes in the sky for approximately 45 minutes.

Explanation SPICA: A Disco Ball

SPICA suggests that some of these observations might be explained by disco balls.

Source GREPI - August 24-25, 2007

During the night of August 24-25, a long band of reddish and orange points was observed. These points began to move slowly and regroup, resembling stars, before being obscured by clouds. The witness was unable to take photos due to the darkness.

Explanation Tribune de Genève

A newspaper article from Tribune de Genève explains a similar event as a wedding celebration that included a release of large, paper balloons, each illuminated by a candle, requiring four people to prepare.

St Trojan Les Bains (17) - September 5, 2007

At 10:15 PM, a witness and friends observed an orange ball moving silently westward. It was followed by three more identical orange balls, spaced equally in a line. None of the witnesses had seen anything like it before.

Vichy (03) - September 6, 2007

A witness sent photos of an object observed over Vichy, near the Puy de Dôme. The witness had taken 95 photos and provided details about the camera settings, seeking an explanation.

Bourcefranc (17) - Early September 2007

In Bourcefranc, near Oléron, three witnesses observed rotating green lights high in the sky. The observation occurred around 2:30-3:00 AM on a very clear night.

Champ du Feu (67) - September 15, 2007

In the early evening, two simultaneous flashes were observed, separated by about 2 degrees. These bright points moved parallel to the horizon. Checks for Iridium satellite passes did not match the observation.

Gunstett (67) - September 25, 2007

A witness in Gunstett reported observing two fixed white flashes, each lasting about half a second, separated by two seconds. The flashes were located near the star Delta Her and were not consistent with aircraft or satellites.

Paris (75) - September 29, 2007

A Parisian witness described seeing what they believed to be the largest meteorite of their life around 11 PM. They asked if anyone else had seen it or could find video evidence.

Saint-Paul 3 Châteaux (26) - October 7, 2007

On October 7, 2007, between 5:45 AM and 6:45 AM, a luminous ball was seen moving from south to northeast at an altitude of 500-1000 meters. The observation lasted between 40 seconds and 1.5 minutes. The witness, a French air traffic controller, asked if anyone else had seen it.

Unknown Location - October 8, 2007

On October 8, 2007, between 11:45 PM and 11:50 PM, a large green glow was seen moving at very high speed without any sound. SPICA suggests this was likely an atmospheric re-entry (bolide).

Rochefort sur Mer (17) - October 10, 2007

A witness in a village near Rochefort/Mer observed a bright sphere moving from west to east at a speed slightly higher than two nearby aircraft. After about a minute, the sphere disappeared rapidly over 10 seconds. The witness believes the aircraft also observed the phenomenon.

Lorient (56) - October 11, 2007

Reports from Lorient indicate that numerous witnesses observed a phenomenon on October 11, 2007, around 8:00 AM. Météo France suggested it could be an aerial phenomenon. Similar events were reported the previous days. One witness described a vertical flame-like shape moving southwest for 5-6 minutes, disappearing like a shooting star. Another reported seeing slow-moving lights in the Quimperlé direction, and a third observed a light moving south with increasing altitude between 6:30 AM and 8:15 AM.

Wissant (62) - October 14, 2007

A witness on the beach at Wissant described an elongated, metallic gray object of indefinite shape. It moved slowly, becoming brighter as if reflecting sunlight, then suddenly dimmed, shrank rapidly, and dematerialized. The witness reported this to the gendarmerie but received no follow-up.

Bourg les Valence (26) - October 16, 2007

A witness saw a white halo in the sky over Bourg les Valence and Valence, which was opaque then luminous, forming endless circles, sometimes above and sometimes below the clouds.

Genève (Switzerland) - October 19, 2007

A witness in Geneva saw a particularly bright ball, larger than Venus, that did not move. Upon closer inspection, the object appeared to change shape from spherical to triangular over several minutes.

Saint Genis de Saintonge (17) - October 23 & 25, 2007

Isabelle reported two strange events: on October 25, a fireball descended rapidly from the clouds without sound, disappearing behind trees. On October 23, a long, white object, like a silent airplane without wings, moved horizontally above the trees before disappearing into the clouds.

Pont-de-Roide (25) - November 1, 2007

On November 1, 2007, three people observed four luminous phenomena between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM. These appeared to be fixed lights that dissolved and reappeared. The first was intense and elongated, the second smaller and slightly to the west. The witness described the second phenomenon as concave with a diffuse yellow-orange glow emanating from below.

Caen (14) - November 4, 2007

At 10:45 PM, a witness observed three luminous objects moving in a rectilinear formation, like the point of an arrow. They accelerated and changed formation geometrically before traversing the sky from east to west in about 7-10 seconds.

Meuse (55) - Almost every evening

A witness in Meuse, near the Belgian border, observes a phenomenon almost every night. It is described as a slow-moving meteorite leaving a violet/blue and sometimes yellow trail. Occasionally, two white balls appear, intensifying to a bright light before disappearing.

Dijon (21) - November 12, 2007

A witness on the Dijon-Dôle highway saw a large fireball moving slower than a typical shooting star, with flames behind it. They believe it crashed in the region but caused no reported damage.

Senningerberg (Luxembourg) - November 28, 2007

On November 28, 2007, between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, a luminous ball was observed moving slowly and erratically in Senningerberg, Luxembourg. Photos taken with zoom showed a 'gribouillis lumineux' (luminous scribble) movement. The object disappeared before 8:00 AM.

Vaucluse (84) - November 29 & 30, 2007

On the nights of November 29 and 30, 2007, a fixed oval with illuminated edges, very large and surrounded by small lights, was observed. The next night, a very bright, fixed point was seen in the same location. Both were silent. The witness wonders if it could be related to the nearby Caritat air base.

Unknown Location - December 5, 2007

On December 5, 2007, at 12:20 PM, a loud engine noise was heard, followed by an object passing at a considerable speed (4000-6000 km/h). The dog accompanying the witnesses became agitated.

Alsace du Nord (67) - December 17, 2007

A witness saw a large, fire-like ball, resembling a rock with a fiery trail, moving diagonally towards the ground for about 10 seconds before extinguishing silently. The event occurred over a forest in Alsace. The witness, an air traffic controller, noted no radar or aircraft disappearance reports.

Nantes (44) - December 18, 2007

At 7:05 PM, a very white object was observed moving constantly from west to east, without blinking lights or a trail like an airplane. It was brighter than the largest visible star and appeared to orbit the moon before changing color to red and disappearing. An airplane was later observed, which was clearly distinct from the initial object.

Buisse - December 18, 2007

A witness observed a light moving constantly from northwest to southeast at high luminosity, stronger than Venus. It was described as spectacular and without blinking lights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the collection and presentation of unexplained aerial phenomena reported by ordinary citizens. SPICA's stance is one of scientific inquiry, aiming to investigate these phenomena objectively and without dogmatism or sensationalism, while respecting witness anonymity. The magazine encourages collaboration and the sharing of knowledge to understand these events, often suggesting potential conventional explanations but leaving room for the unknown. The issue highlights the diversity of reported sightings, from simple lights to complex, moving objects, and emphasizes the ongoing nature of these observations.