Flashes in the sky of Loire-Atlantique

Summary

On July 21, 2015, at 2 a.m., a witness was stargazing when he noticed a flash that intensified and then faded. Two minutes later, he observed a similar phenomenon. No other witnesses or photographic evidence were available, making the case weak and inconclusive. The GEIPAN concluded that it was likely a misidentification of two satellite flashes, as the event matched typical characteristics of such phenomena: increasing and decreasing brightness, a slow flash, and a stationary position in the sky. Moreover, several out-of-control satellites known to emit powerful flashes passed near the observation area. However, the lack of precision in the testimony prevents the formal identification of the responsible satellite or satellites. The case was classified as B, meaning a likely misidentification involving satellite flashes.