MAS-GRENIER (82) 08.08.2020

On 8 August 2020 at about 22:00, several witnesses saw a silent “jellyfish-shaped” object with blue halos lighting only the object itself. It passed close above a cherry tree, undulating along a straight path. After about 30 seconds it dwindled to a point on the southern horizon and was lost from view. The description and reconstruction suggested LED balloons. The witness described slow north-to-south movement at a height of about 100 m; the drawing showed several round forms. GEIPAN confirmed the following: - On 10 August the witness submitted a complete questionnaire and a photomontage reconstructing the 8 August observation. GEIPAN initially requested questionnaires from the others too. - Flightradar24 showed no aircraft overhead at that time (appendix). - Google Maps, checked but not included in the file, confirmed the house’s south-facing terrace. A UAP from the north would only become visible after crossing the house, then could be followed southward. - Infoclimat showed light north-to-south wind at 22:00, suitable for windborne objects (appendix). - LED-balloon shapes match the description (example photo appended). - The village hall is a few streets north of the viewing position; Saturday 8 August was suitable for festivities. - The town hall confirmed a wedding that evening and that the couple released white balloons tied in bunches, each containing an LED. - GEIPAN received a photograph of release preparations and the LED type. - The release occurred at the beginning of the night, consistent with 22:00 in August. - On 13 August GEIPAN told the witness the other questionnaires were no longer necessary because the phenomenon was identified without doubt. GEIPAN classifies A: certain misidentification of a bunch of LED party balloons.