As you may or may not know Chinese lanterns are one of the main objects that the public commonly confuses with for Ufos . Especially when they see a 'fleet of these objects together'.

The lanterns can be easily purchased by the public for about $30 USD and are elevated by the heat created by the burning of the wick lower down in the frame of the lantern. Launching the lantern at the right time is pivotal as the wind direction can effect the initial take off.

I was surprised after realising how quickly these lanterns take off once they get going. In Asian cultures they are often released over the sea to celebrate good luck , the passing of a person and Chinese new year festivities.

After only 5 minutes my lantern claimed to a very high elevation and could be seen moving erratically as they follow wind currents. (Red lanterns and different colours can be purchased to give different light effects.) We asked some onlookers who had not seen us launching the lanterns initially what they thought the lights were and they were puzzled and could not identify it.

So... to make sure lights at night are not lanterns check:

is 1) are out at sea and 2) do they move erratically with the wind and have numerous lights together? - If they do they are most likely Chinese lanterns.

I strongly feel that yes it is easy to confuse the lanterns with Ufos but it is not possible for lanterns to mimic complex light formations like that of triangle Ufos.

Also note: Chinese lanterns are let off alot during January - especially as we approach new Year and Chinese new year (late jan)- so keep an eye out so as not to confuse with genuine Ufos.