Luminous phenomenon in Hautes-Pyrénées linked to missile launches

Summary

In May 1999, nine witnesses in Hautes-Pyrénées observed a luminous phenomenon in the night sky followed by a triangular or conical cloud. Initially classified as unexplained, the case was reviewed decades later by GEIPAN using new tools. Investigators found that the phenomenon coincided with French missile launches carried out on May 4, 1999. Directions, altitudes, and descriptions matched the test firings. A pilot also reported the same phenomenon from an aircraft, reinforcing the hypothesis. Both cases were merged and classified as an event likely associated with an M45 or M4 missile.