Montcheutin 2013, The mysterious orange semicircle in the sky

Summary

On October 3, 2013, a witness in the Ardennes observed an unusual bright orange semicircle in the sky for five minutes. The shape and color caught his attention, especially because it was at low altitude. Although there was no immediate explanation, the case was filed by the GEIPAN, the French organization responsible for investigating unexplained phenomena. More than a year later, after a thorough analysis of all possibilities, the witness himself concluded it was a distant streetlight. The GEIPAN classified the case as "A", meaning the observation had a clear explanation.

Although this case has nothing to do with unidentified flying objects, its record shows how even simple phenomena can generate curiosity and lead to detailed investigation. By studying such cases, the GEIPAN helps rule out conventional explanations and better understand witness perceptions. In this case, patience and reflection led to a simple, yet no less interesting, resolution.