When you see the video of the event, it's pretty strange.
I've seen flares, and they don't look like any flares i've ever seen, and I spent time in the army.
i usually watch those shows on discovery and such, but thats the extent of my research.
just found this:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=OGoHuipecYE
http://youtube.com/watch?v=HTW3VXlH3BM
you would think these guys if they skywaych for years on end would have their camera techniques down.