During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Belgium became a hotspot for UFO sightings, with reports of triangular-shaped crafts dominating headlines.

Among the most iconic images from this period is a photograph taken in 1990 by mechanic Patrick Marechal, reportedly capturing a triangular UFO with three red lights.

Widely circulated and analyzed, it was considered one of the most compelling UFO images of its time—until controversy unraveled its authenticity.

…

In 2011, Marechal admitted he fabricated the photograph using a Styrofoam model and flashlights. Demonstrating how he created the image, Marechal emphasized the ease with which convincing evidence could be staged.

Yet, the story took another twist in 2024. Roger Stankovic, MUFON’s national director for Australia and New Zealand, shared screenshots of a conversation with Marechal.

According to Stankovic, Marechal claimed he was paid to declare the photo a hoax to coincide with the release of journalist Leslie Kean’s book, which featured the image. Stankovic further alleged Marechal confirmed the photograph’s legitimacy.