PAUILLAC (33) 29.12.2014

Summary

On December 29, 2014, a witness in Pauillac, France, observed a white disk descending in the sky. Intrigued, he took a photo and contacted the GEIPAN for an explanation. After a detailed analysis of the image, investigators determined that the supposed object was nothing more than a faulty pixel on the witness's camera sensor. This pixel, located at a fixed position, displayed an abnormal glow that the witness interpreted as an aerial phenomenon. Additionally, the bright spot near the horizon he pointed out turned out to be the planet Venus, the only visible celestial body at that time. The case was classified as "A," meaning it was explained through conventional means.

The GEIPAN concluded there were no signs of an unexplained phenomenon in this case. The confusion arose from a misinterpretation of technical and astronomical elements. This example illustrates how UFO sightings can be resolved with careful analysis and a basic understanding of astronomy and photographic technology. Despite the initial air of mystery, the explanation turned out to be entirely natural.