Unidentified Flying Objects - Manhattan Night Photograph Investigation

This document details an investigation by the United States Air Force into a photograph submitted by Underhill Studio in New York. The studio had inquired about an unidentified object captured in a night photograph of Manhattan, taken on March 20, 1950. The photograph, which was originally intended to be a postcard view of the city, showed an unusual, elongated shape in the sky. Following an investigation by Special Agent John H. Smith of the 2d District Office of Special Investigations, it was determined that the photograph was taken between 1730 and 1800 hours. Photographic analysts at the command, in consultation with an astronomer, concluded that the object was the moon. The unusual shape was attributed to the movement of the moon during a long time exposure, estimated at five to ten minutes. Variations in the object's brilliance were explained as the result of clouds partially obscuring the moon during the exposure. Additionally, a streak of light visible in the lower right corner of the photograph was identified as being typical of a moving ground vehicle captured during a time-exposed shot. The studio owner stated that he had not noticed any object in the air when taking the photograph and did not believe the mark was a film or lens defect. The Air Force concluded that no further action was necessary regarding the incident.