Monetay-sur-Allier 1998, a red line on the horizon

Summary

In December 1998, a family in Monetay-sur-Allier observed a strange red luminous line in the sky. The formation appeared to consist of bright spheres and moved forward and backward before disappearing. The case was initially classified as D, but the GEIPAN re-examined it using new methods and experience. By analyzing the exact position of the object, it coincided with the location of the Moon at that time, partially hidden by clouds. This suggested that the observed phenomenon could be an optical illusion caused by the Moon's light filtering through gaps in the cloud cover. The explanation was reinforced by confirming with Stellarium the exact position of the Moon.

The witness confirmed the observation details, including the exact location of his house and the size of the hedges. The GEIPAN concluded that the phenomenon observed was simply the rising of the Moon, with the reddish light caused by atmospheric scattering and cloud cover. This case illustrates how weather conditions and visual perception can lead to misinterpretations, even when witnesses are attentive and detailed observers.