Francois Louange, PhD
Analysis Summary
Summary
Dr. Francois Luan is a scientist who became interested in UFOs in 1975. He worked with the European Space Agency and later with the French space agency, CNES. In 1977, he helped create a group called JAPON to study UFOs in France. This group collected data from official sources like the police and military. Over the years, the group faced downsizing and challenges but continued to analyze UFO sightings. In 2005, JAPON was restructured to focus on public information and data collection. They classify sightings into categories based on the evidence available. Dr. Luan believes there is a need for serious research into UFOs due to the many unexplained sightings reported by witnesses.
Program Intelligence Analysis
Dr. Francois Luan discusses the history and evolution of UFO research in France, detailing the establishment of the JAPON group and its methodologies. He emphasizes the importance of public demand and scientific inquiry in the ongoing study of unidentified aerospace phenomena.
The JAPON group developed a methodology for analyzing UFO sightings that included witness testimony, environmental conditions, and psychosocial factors.
Dr Francois Luan
“The public is asking things about UFOs; there is a demand.”
Managed by: French Space Agency (CNES)
To collect, analyze, and archive UFO sightings in France
Dr. Francois Luan attempted to create an official Department within the European Space Agency (ESA) to study UFOs in 1975.
The French government established the JAPON group in 1977 to study unidentified aerospace phenomena.
The JAPON group developed a methodology for analyzing UFO sightings that included witness testimony, environmental conditions, and psychosocial factors.
There was a significant downsizing of the UFO study department in France from 1983 to 2005, leading to reduced output and visibility.
An audit in 2000 recommended that the French space agency resume serious activity on UFO research due to public demand and scientific interest.
The JAPON group classifies UFO sightings into four categories: A (fully explained), B (probably explained), C (insufficient information), and D (unexplained).