GEIPAN

Background

GEIPAN (Groupe d'Études et d'Informations sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés) is a French government research unit established in 1977 within the CNES (French Space Agency) and based in Toulouse.

• Founded in 1977 as GEPAN, renamed to SEPRA in 1988, and to GEIPAN in 2005
• Operates as a technical department of the French Space Agency
• Maintains indefinite operational status with ongoing investigations

Mission and Methods

GEIPAN collects, analyzes, investigates, and archives reports of unidentified aerospace phenomena (UAP) from the public and authorities. The organization applies rigorous scientific methodology to identify rational explanations for sightings.

• Gathers witness accounts from the public, Gendarmerie, Police, and Air Force
• Uses multidisciplinary scientific methods combining physical sciences and human factors
• Explicitly does not research extraterrestrial life or paranormal phenomena
• Publishes findings publicly while protecting witness anonymity

Key Findings and Notable Cases

GEIPAN's investigations have produced significant results, including cases with physical evidence and unexplained phenomena.

• Classified approximately 23% of cases as unexplained phenomena
• 99 cases remain unresolved
• Notable investigation: the 1981 Trans-en-Provence case involving physical trace evidence and anomalous plant chlorophyll levels

Leadership

Currently headed by Frédéric Courtade since January 2024.