Châteaudun 1980, Observation of a luminous phenomenon

Summary

In February 1980, several witnesses in Châteaudun, France, observed a luminous phenomenon surrounded by a hazy halo. It appeared as a whitish ball near an object resembling a crescent moon. After remaining still for a few minutes, the object began to move erratically for twenty minutes before rapidly heading northwest. No noise was heard, but the event sparked some controversy.

The investigation concluded that the phenomenon could be explained by an astronomical event. The new crescent moon was accompanied by Venus, which was positioned just above it. Additionally, the "Earthshine" phenomenon, which faintly illuminates the unlit portion of the moon, was considered. Witnesses, possibly influenced by proximity to the horizon and optical effects, may have exaggerated the object's movements.