Mars mistaken for a UFO in the Orne region in 1988

Summary

Over several nights in September 1988, multiple witnesses in the Orne region observed a striking luminous phenomenon notable for its brightness and seemingly unusual movements. Photographs were taken and testimonies were consistent. However, after detailed analysis, GEIPAN determined the object was simply the planet Mars, which was exceptionally bright during that period and positioned exactly in the direction indicated by the witnesses. The confusion was compounded by fatigue and tension from nighttime driving. The case was classified as PAN A — fully explained by a known astronomical object.