Spot Intelligence Report — Unidentified Aerial Phenomena, 7 August 1950

This document is a Spot Intelligence Report dated 7 August 1950, concerning an unidentified aerial phenomenon observed over Santa Fe, New Mexico. The report details a sighting by a 1st Lieutenant from the 3rd Fighter Squadron, Kirtland Air Force Base, who was flying at an altitude of 30,000 feet at approximately 0450 MST. The witness observed a single object that he initially believed to be a C-47 or C-54 transport aircraft. The object was described as dark or black in color, maintaining straight and level flight at a heading of 20 degrees. The witness attempted to descend and follow the object, which was traveling at a speed exceeding 620 miles per hour, but was unable to maintain contact as the object disappeared by fading into the distance. The report notes that there was no sound associated with the object and that the witness's ability to determine the nature of the object was considered 'excellent.' Despite the initial identification as an aircraft, the final conclusion recorded on the Project 10073 record form is simply 'A/C,' indicating the observer's evaluation. The document was processed by the Office of Special Investigations and includes standard declassification markings indicating it was to be downgraded at three-year intervals and declassified after twelve years under DOD Directive 5200.10.