Project 10073 Record Card and Observer Questionnaire — Washington, D.C., August 24, 1952

This document contains the official Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC) records regarding a UFO sighting reported on August 24, 1952, in Washington, D.C. The witness, a 49-year-old male mechanical engineer, reported observing a single, white, round object at approximately 15:56 EDT. The witness, who was in the southeast section of Washington, D.C., noted that the object was first sighted at an azimuth of 010 degrees and an elevation of 70 degrees. The object traveled south, passed almost directly overhead, and then veered east with a maneuverability described as more abrupt than that of a conventional jet or aircraft. The witness explicitly noted that the object did not glisten like an aluminum aircraft, produced no exhaust trail, and made no sound. The observation lasted approximately 45 seconds. The witness used a pocket compass to verify the object's position after the sighting. The ATIC investigation included a review of weather data and potential balloon launch sites in the area, including Andrews AFB and U.S. Navy facilities. The final evaluation on the Project 10073 record card lists the conclusion as 'Possibly Balloon,' noting that the source was an experienced aerial observer and that any potential noise from the object might have been masked by other aircraft in the area. The file includes the original record cards, the observer's completed questionnaire, a sketch of the object's path, and correspondence from the Air Adjutant General acknowledging the report.