CAZERES (31) 13.09.2015

On Sunday 13 September 2015 between 21:05 and 21:15, a witness was intrigued by a pale-yellow spherical luminous phenomenon that appeared and disappeared 3 times in a clear sky. It moved erratically, and no unusual sound was heard. The witness made a 1-minute-34-second video. Another person was present, but only 1 account was collected. The investigation report identifies these supporting features: - Yellow and reddish-yellow colors matching lanterns. - Brightness comparable to a very bright star. - A spherical shape. - Behavior matching objects in still air or light wind: movement with the prevailing wind and ascent caused by hot air. - An observation duration compatible with lantern burn time. - A Sunday evening, a favorable time for lantern releases during celebrations. - A number of objects consistent with multiple lanterns launched in succession. - Disappearance as the lanterns went out. - No sound. - Nearby sites suitable for lantern releases in the witnesses' viewing direction. GEIPAN classifies the case B: probable observation of sky lanterns. When informed, the witness rejected this explanation because he had launched lanterns before and knew their appearance. GEIPAN notes that a lantern viewed from afar looks very different from one being launched nearby. GEIPAN did not conduct a local investigation to identify those responsible for the release. It undertakes such searches only for large releases at major events, which are relatively easy to trace. Small releases may occur at minor private events, such as birthdays or tests, and are very difficult to locate in an urban area.