LAMBESC (13) 22.07.2021

On Thursday night, 22 July 2021, between 22:00 and 22:30 in Lambesc (13), a witness with a female friend saw a strange luminous phenomenon consisting of “6 white balls” along a bar. The witness first considered a satellite constellation, then reconsidered because it seemed far too large. Initially appearing nearby, it disappeared and returned twice, farther away. The witness took unusable photographs with a Samsung phone. After the third appearance, to the east like the others, it did not return. GEIPAN received only 1 account. Salon-de-Provence air base, home of the Patrouille de France (PAF), and the CNOA air-force radar-track map confirmed a flight on 22 July around 22:00–22:30. This occasional night flight can surprise anyone unfamiliar with it. The source states that it occurs only once a year and that its unusual appearance prompted the report (see the investigation report). The case is well documented. The precise account and supporting information leave no doubt. Flightradar and CNOA maps, the Patrouille de France's response and other media reports confirm that this was the team's night flight. GEIPAN classifies the case A: misidentification of a Patrouille de France night flight.