Stellar light in Doubs 2017

Summary

On June 19, 2017, a witness in the Doubs region observed a bright light in the sky near what they thought was Venus. The light moved in an unusual way and disappeared with a gray halo, sparking curiosity. About half an hour later, the same phenomenon repeated, this time almost directly overhead. GEIPAN investigators analyzed satellite trajectories visible that night and found a match with a U.S. military satellite, USA 234/FIA Radar 2. Though usually dim, this satellite can produce intense flashes called "flares" caused by solar reflections. Although the witness described a brightness similar to Venus, the data suggest it was a satellite phenomenon. The halo at the end of the first sighting could be explained by the end of the flare and the presence of a slight fog.

The second sighting, however, could not be confirmed. Although there was an Iridium flare in that timeframe, it was not in the position described by the witness. Additionally, the description of the second event lacked sufficient detail for confirmation. Investigators concluded the first sighting was likely a satellite, while the second could not be classified due to a lack of reliable information.