UFO sighting in canaries may 1980

Summary

In May 1980, over the Canary Islands, a UFO sighting caught the attention of the Spanish Air Force. The approach radar in Canarias detected an echo moving at high speed, approximately 600 knots, heading south along radial 210. The object disappeared 50 nautical miles from the radar. A NAYSA aircraft confirmed observing a bright object plunging into the sea. Despite efforts, neither the surveillance radar nor air control could confirm contact with the object. The report concluded that the phenomenon had no clear explanation and was classified as an UFO of unknown origin.

The case was investigated by an appointed judge, who took testimonies and reviewed communications between air control and the pilot. Hypotheses such as missiles or natural phenomena were ruled out. The cloud cover and lack of other witnesses complicated confirmation. The report highlighted the need for a specialized agency to study such phenomena, as UFO sightings had become more frequent and required a more structured approach.