33 evaluated by experts; 10 observed so far this year
Incidents of UFO sightings have increased in recent years in Portugal – the district of Setúbal topping the list of most occurrences.
Say reports today, “Portugal has been the scene of a growing number of sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs), arousing both curiosity and in-depth investigations.
“The Aerospace Phenomena Research Center (CIFA) reported a total of 33 occurrences last year, marking an increase compared to previous years, where 31 cases were recorded in 2022 and 19 in 2021.
“One of the most emblematic cases occurred on July 10, 2023, in Viana do Alentejo, when a motorist was surprised by a red reflection on the horizon, which persisted even after the vehicle had stopped.
“This incident, like the others, has been meticulously analysed by CIFA, but is still without a definitive explanation, and has been categorised as a probable “unknown aerospace phenomenon“.
CIFA president, Vítor Moreira, has mentioned the possibility that some of these sightings could be attributed to Portuguese Air Force drones, although absolute certainty is still out of reach. Investigation remains open, reflecting the complexity and challenge posed by the unidentified nature of these phenomena, explains Correio da Manhã.
In addition to the growing number of sightings, CIFA has also expressed interest in investigating second-degree encounters – such as the incident of burnt vegetation in Pedrógão Grande, which no one has been able to explain this far.
The district of Setúbal, with a total of seven cases last year, leads the number of sightings in Portugal, indicating possible geographical patterns and/ or specific conditions that favor such occurrences.
Most sightings have been attributed to drones, balloons and satellites, with one notable incident involving the sighting of a French M51.3 missile in November.
Source material: Correio da Manhã/ ZAP notícias
