Witness observes luminous object identified as ISS

Summary

On April 13, 2012, a witness in Lanvéoc (Morbihan) observed a silent, luminous object crossing the sky. Initially unsure of its identity, the description and astronomical calculations confirmed it was the International Space Station (ISS). Despite a minor confusion in the perceived trajectory, the GEIPAN report concluded with certainty that the witness saw the ISS between 21:34 and 21:37. The apparent curved path was due to a misperception of the nearly circular orbit.

The "A" classification from the GEIPAN indicates a verified observation, not an unexplained phenomenon. This case illustrates how even well-known objects can cause surprise when not immediately recognized, especially when moving quickly and silently. The confusion in the trajectory does not invalidate the identification, but rather highlights the complexity of visual perception in the night sky.