William Atkins
Wednesday, 10 December 2008 21:38
Science -
Space
Page 2 of 3
Reneke added,
"We are not saying this was definitely the Christmas
star. But it is the strongest explanation for it of any I have seen so
far. There's no other explanation that so closely matches the facts we
have from the time." [New Scientist: “
Dreaming of a hot Christmas”]
He also stated, "
This could well have been what the three wise men
interpreted as a sign. They could easily have mistaken it for one
bright star.” [Telegraph.co.uk]
Reneke added,
"Astronomy is such a precise science, we can plot exactly where the
planets were, and it certainly seems this is the fabled Christmas
star." [Telegraph.co.uk]
Of course, other scientists have other explanations for the Christmas
Star, such as being a double eclipse of the planet Jupiter, a supernova, bright
meteor, or a comet. Other general theories include space aliens (UFOs),
beliefs in astrology at the time, or an unidentified star.
For additional information on explanations for the Christmas Star,
please read the Dr. Danial Harris article “
Naturalism, or Faith in God:
Your Choice!”
The BBC also talks about several theories behind the event at “
The Christmas Star.”
Mr Reneke, formerly the chief lecturer at the Port Macquarie
Observatory in New South Wales, added:
"December is an arbitrary date
we have accepted but it doesn't really mean that is when it happened." [Telegraph]
"This is not an attempt to decry religion. It's really backing it up as
it shows there really was a bright object appearing in the East at the
right time." [Telegraph]
Page three concludes with the religion and science of the Christmas Star.
