On September 22, 1979, an unusual phenomenon was detected near the Prince Edward Islands in the southern Indian Ocean, approximately halfway between South Africa and Antarctica. The event involved a bright flash observed by US intelligence satellites, leading many to speculate that it could be a sign of a nuclear weapon detonation. The flash was too powerful to be ignored, causing a flurry of concern among military and intelligence agencies, as the possibility of clandestine nuclear tests could indicate significant geopolitical implications during the Cold War era. Reports suggested the flash lasted for a few seconds, prompting immediate analysis from scientific and military experts.

Various investigations into the event concluded that it did not match the characteristics of conventional nuclear tests, thus creating further intrigue. Some speculated that the flash could have resulted from a meteorological phenomenon or a natural event, although these theories have not been substantiated. The United States, South Africa, and other nations were involved in the searches to uncover the truth behind the incident, yet all efforts failed to yield a conclusive explanation.

The mystery surrounding this incident persisted, leading to numerous conspiracy theories and discussions about the potential implications of undetected nuclear activities in the region. The Prince Edward Islands are largely uninhabited, but the surrounding waters are patrolled as part of the South African territorial claims. The event has since been a point of interest in discussions about nuclear proliferation and secrecy in military operations.