Expediente Número 790305: Avistamiento de Fenómenos Extraños (Canarias, 5 de Marzo de 1979)

This document is a comprehensive investigative report (Expediente 790305) compiled by the Spanish Air Force (Ejército del Aire) regarding a massive Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon (UAP) event that occurred over the Canary Islands on March 5, 1979. The report details observations from thousands of witnesses, including military personnel, commercial pilots, and civilians across multiple islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, and Hierro. The phenomenon began around 18:30 local time with the appearance of an 'extraordinary sunset' and an iridescent cloud formation. At approximately 20:08, a luminous, metallic, pyramidal or discoidal object emerged from the horizon, displaying complex, high-speed, and non-ballistic flight maneuvers, including vertical ascents, zig-zagging, and spiral movements. The object left behind a large, conical, luminous trail that was visible from as far away as Africa. The report includes transcripts of communications between Air Traffic Control (ACC) and various aircraft, where pilots expressed confusion and alarm at the object's behavior. Despite the high volume of visual reports and photographic evidence, military radar units reported no corresponding contacts. The investigation, led by a designated 'Juez Informador,' systematically analyzed witness statements, meteorological data, and photographic evidence. Various hypotheses were explored, including nuclear tests, missile launches, and natural atmospheric phenomena, but none were found to be conclusive. The report concludes that the phenomenon was real and of unknown origin, and it recommends the establishment of a permanent body, the 'Centro de Estudios de Fenómenos Aéreos' (C.E.F.A.), to handle future sightings in a more structured and scientific manner. The document includes extensive appendices, including maps, diagrams, and photographic plates of the event.