Orange Ball in Maubourguet

Summary

On August 22, 2009, several people in Maubourguet (France) observed an orange glowing ball moving in a straight line from west to east. The object made no noise and briefly appeared to stop before disappearing quickly toward the south. Two additional witnesses later contacted the GEIPAN by email. Researchers noted that the object's characteristics—color, movement consistent with the wind, and timing with a local event—were compatible with a Thai lantern. The apparent stillness could be due to the object moving directly toward the observers, and its disappearance likely corresponds to the flame going out. The GEIPAN classified the case as "B"—likely observation of a Thai lantern.