The initial analysis will begin with an attempt to determine approximate altitudes associated with each of the points. To do this, we need to obtain a reference angle that can be scaled to each of the points. Thankfully such a reference angle is easily obtained by using the westernmost summit of the Kvanangstinder mountains identified at point A in the following image.

Using Google Earth, we obtain an elevation of 718 metres and a distance of 13,800 kms from the Skjervoy observer to this summit. Some simple trigonometry yields an observation angle of 2.96 degrees - this will become our reference elevation angle that we can subsequently scale to obtain elevation angles for points B through F.

Originally posted by Gordi The Drummer
I have a quick question for the more technically minded ATSers...

Given that a "perfect" spiral was observed from many different angles, and that a missile, tumbling or otherwise, cannot realistically reproduce this effect, from all of those angles of observation,
Is there a 3-dimensional phenomenon, possibly in the form of a spherical "field" of energy, which could replicate a visible spiral, from any angle of observation? I'm thinking of some kind of oscillating wave or particle stream which actually follows a 3-D trajectory, forming a sphere, but which when observed directly, in this case from various locations on the ground, looks like a circular spiral pattern?

Thanks,
G

[edit for spelling!]

[edit on 1-2-2010 by Gordi The Drummer]