I can't see why you have a problem with such an obvious case of lens flare. Your objection was "... the image dissappears, however, it does not re-brighten afterwards, as light composition returns to the original levels it appeared in."

However, neither does the shadow I mentioned return to its previous intensity. The shadow is an indicator of the intensity of the light source causing the flare ie. the sun. The overall light of the image may vary according to auto-exposure in the camera so it is not relevant. So where is the problem?

Eh, like I said, we disagree. Relax. I don't see it that way, but I respect your views. Even highly trained doctors can disagree on the same case. (Lucky for us, the patient is already dead. And may have been for a long time. )

I have already summarised the very obvious evidence that this is lens flare and dealt with your apparent objection. If you still disagree, you must have some reason. Perhaps you could share it. Please get as technical as you like, I will understand.

I am perfectly relaxed, however, I see no point in perpetuating a mystery which has a clear and obvious solution.