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Declassified UFO / UAP Document

Project 10073 Record — Augusta, Kentucky, 26 July 1949

📅 26 July 49 📍 Augusta, Kentucky 🏛 Intelligence Department, USAF 📄 Correspondence and Sighting Report
AugustaKentuckyProject 10073searchlightUSAF1949

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AI-Generated Summary

TL;DR

A civilian reported a recurring shaft of light in the sky over Augusta, Kentucky, in July 1949. The USAF Intelligence Department concluded the phenomenon was likely a ground-based searchlight.

This document consists of a Project 10073 record and associated correspondence regarding a civilian sighting in Augusta, Kentucky, on July 26, 1949. The witness reported observing a shaft of light in the sky at regular intervals between the hours of 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM. In a letter dated July 26, 1949, the witness inquired if the light could be related to experiments conducted at Wright Field, noting their location as being 45 miles up the Ohio River from Cincinnati. The official response, issued on July 29, 1949, by Colonel W. R. Clingerman of the USAF Intelligence Department, acknowledged the communication. The Air Force concluded that although the report lacked sufficient detail for a definitive identification, the description was highly consistent with the appearance of searchlight beams commonly utilized at carnivals, fairs, and other public gatherings. The case was subsequently categorized under 'Other (GROUND/SEARCH LIGHTS)' within the project records.

While the information submitted does not contain sufficient detail to enable a positive identification, a marked similarity exists between the appearance of a searchlight beam and the phenomenon reported.

Official Assessment

Other (GROUND/SEARCH LIGHTS)

The observer reported a shaft of light appearing at regular intervals over a one-hour period. The Air Force concluded that while the information provided was insufficient for positive identification, the phenomenon bore a marked similarity to searchlight beams often used at public gatherings like fairs or carnivals.

Witnesses

Organizations

Military Units