Saint-Menges, luminous phenomenon attributed to an aircraft

Summary

In March 1980, a motorist and his son in the Ardennes noticed a luminous phenomenon that seemed to approach and grow in size, causing them to panic. The car stalled unexpectedly and only restarted after several attempts. Authorities found no physical evidence or additional witnesses. Years later, GEIPAN reviewed the case and concluded it was most likely an aircraft with its landing lights on. The lack of noise was attributed to the car's sound insulation, while fog and the visibility of Mars at the end of the episode contributed to the optical illusion.