Summary
Between 26 and 28 December 1980, several U.S. Air Force personnel stationed at RAF Woodbridge and RAF Bentwaters reported unusual lights in Rendlesham Forest, Suffolk, England. Witnesses described a glowing object among the trees, while investigators later reported ground indentations and damage to nearby branches. Deputy Base Commander Lt. Col. Charles Halt documented the events in an official memorandum and made an audio recording during a later investigation. The incident remains one of the best-known and most debated military UFO cases.
Additional Notes
The incident occurred over several nights and involved multiple military witnesses. Various explanations have been proposed, including the nearby Orford Ness lighthouse, astronomical objects, and misidentifications, while others argue that parts of the event remain unexplained.
The Location Today
Rendlesham Forest remains an actively managed woodland open to visitors. Forestry England maintains a marked UFO Trail through areas associated with the December 1980 reports. The forest has walking routes, visitor facilities and parking; forestry work may occasionally require diversions or temporary closures.
- Environment
- Forest, Military Area
- Time of Day
- Night (initial reports around 3:00 a.m.)
- Evidence Level
- Investigated Case
- Visiting the Location
- Free Access, Limited
- Ownership of the Location
- Public