Renato Nicolaï

Renato Nicolaï was a 55-year-old farmer living in Trans-en-Provence, southeastern France, who reported one of the most scientifically documented UAP sightings on January 8, 1981. While working on his property, Nicolaï witnessed a metallic, saucer-shaped object approximately 2.5 meters in diameter land near his garden for 30-40 seconds before departing rapidly. The incident left physical traces including scorched earth and ground impressions that were investigated by French authorities and GEPAN (Groupe d'Étude des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés). Despite a two-year joint investigation by GEPAN and the gendarmerie involving soil sampling, plant analysis, and extensive interviews, no conventional explanation was found for the event. The Trans-en-Provence case remains one of the most cited examples in UAP research literature due to its physical evidence and rigorous scientific investigation.