The GEIPAN: Missions, history, methodology and classification

This paper describes GEIPAN as a department of the French space agency CNES established in 1977 (evolving from GEPAN and SEPRA) tasked with collecting, analysing, investigating and publicly archiving UAP reports using a multidisciplinary scientific approach involving experts in physics, meteorology, aviation, psychology and other fields. It details a standardized seven-step investigation process from receipt of testimony through on-site investigation, data analysis, and final classification. Cases are rated on consistency (A-D) and strangeness (1-3), with statistics showing the large majority explained as conventional phenomena (aircraft, balloons, satellites, etc.), a significant portion lacking sufficient data, and only a small percentage (around 3%) remaining unexplained after thorough review. The document emphasises that GEIPAN does not research extraterrestrial life or paranormal phenomena but applies recognised scientific methods, publishing all investigations anonymously to inform the public while finding no extraordinary evidence in the bulk of cases.