UFO in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence 2015

Summary

On July 3, 2015, several people in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence observed a luminous phenomenon in the night sky. A witness described two rows of white, round, parallel, and horizontal lights without a halo, which gradually formed a triangle and disappeared toward the west. Although the observation was brief, the geometric formation and the silence drew attention. The GEIPAN investigated and concluded it was the Patrouille de France conducting an aerial demonstration in the area. The AlphaJet aircraft were equipped with powerful spotlights visible from over 10 km away, explaining the perception of orderly lights. Additionally, the silence was normal if the planes were at a certain distance.

The Patrouille de France had conducted night flights on July 1 and 3, including a public demonstration. When turning, the spotlights changed direction, which explained the sudden disappearance of the lights. The GEIPAN has received similar reports every year since 2008, including one in Villeneuve on July 5, 2013. This case was classified as "A," indicating a confirmed observation of the 8 aircraft in the patrol. The experience shows that aerial phenomena can cause confusion if the context of air activities is not known.