COLLE-SUR-LOUP (LA) (06) 17.06.2012

The title dates this La Colle-sur-Loup case to 17 June 2012, whereas the narrative says 17 August 2012. At around 01:00, a couple were driving home when the female passenger noticed several nonflashing orange balls of light at low altitude in a clear sky. One account was collected. The source describes the event as occurring on a weekend night and considers orange balls in those circumstances strongly suggestive of sky lanterns, probably released nearby after a private party. Their disappearance after a few minutes is also considered characteristic of the duration of lantern burners. The witness was surprised, as people observing lanterns can be. Other observers were reported, but none submitted an account to either GEIPAN or the gendarmerie. GEIPAN classifies the case as B: probable sky lanterns.