LARAGNE-MONTEGLIN (05) 12.11.2013

On Tuesday 12 November 2013 from 06:55 to 07:15, a witness in Laragne-Montéglin (05) observed a multicolored light, initially stationary, then moving in a straight line and subsequently curving at a speed comparable to a hot-air balloon. It appeared as a vertical rod. No particular sound was heard, and no other account was collected. The investigation found the area favorable for small powered aircraft, with movement resembling such craft and circumstances that the source describes as compliant with night-flight regulations. However, no matching lighting arrangement was found; the nature and behavior of part of the UAP remained unknown; and no event involving ultralights or helicopters was reported for that day. The case is classified as C because information is insufficient to validate any hypothesis. An ultralight or helicopter remains possible under certain conditions, but another origin is also possible. The account has good evidential strength and is very precise, although unsupported by photographs or video. The sighting is unusual: the movement and location could fit a powered craft, such as a helicopter, ultralight or drone, but the lights and some reported physical characteristics do not match known features of such craft. Atmospheric scintillation might explain the varied colors. Because GEIPAN judged the unusualness only moderate, it did not consider a more detailed investigation necessary. Information subsequently supplied by other witnesses could change the conclusion.