Urepel 1985, two sightings explained in the Pyrenees

Summary

Two observations in the Atlantic Pyrenees in early February 1985 were initially classified as unexplained. After re-analysis, GEIPAN attributed the first, on 2 February, to the star Arcturus. Seen low on the horizon, its appearance was distorted by atmospheric refraction and scintillation, effects that can make stars seem to move or change colour. The azimuthal match and witness descriptions supported this conclusion. The second observation, on 4 February, was attributed to an aircraft whose engine noise was masked by northwesterly winds. Media coverage of the first sighting may also have primed the witnesses to interpret an ordinary sight as anomalous.