Project 10073 Record Card - Mitchel AFB, New York - 21 January 1952

On 21 January 1952, at approximately 0950 EST, a U.S. Navy pilot flying a TBM aircraft near Mitchel AFB, New York, observed an unidentified aerial object. The pilot initially described the object as circular, light-colored, and resembling a parachute canopy, with a dark under-surface and a length-to-depth ratio of approximately 1:3. The object was estimated to be 20 to 30 feet in diameter, traveling at an initial speed of 300 knots at an altitude of 200-300 feet. During the two-and-a-half-minute observation, the pilot attempted to intercept the object, performing a left turn. The object subsequently accelerated to an estimated 500 knots and climbed before disappearing. The pilot reported that the object appeared to oscillate during level flight. An investigation was conducted, including a field trip to Mitchel AFB to re-interview the pilot and personnel from the weather station. It was determined that a Rawinsonde balloon had been launched from the base at 0950 EST. These balloons are typically six feet in diameter, light gray with white streaks of talcum powder, and carry a tin-foil radar reflector. While the weather station personnel could not confirm radar contact with the TBM or the balloon due to heavy air traffic, the report notes that the object's appearance—specifically the segments resembling parachute panels—could be explained by the talcum powder streaks on the balloon. Despite the pilot's certainty that he saw the object while north of the airfield, investigators concluded that while the object could not be definitively identified as the balloon, there was a strong possibility of such an identification. The report highlights discrepancies in the pilot's sketches, particularly regarding the radius of his turns, and suggests that the pilot's high-speed maneuvers and concentration on the object may have led to errors in his estimation of the object's path and behavior. Ultimately, the investigation remained inconclusive, noting that the object's unusual appearance at such a low altitude over a populated area would typically have resulted in more reports from the ground, which were not forthcoming.