Project 10073 Records: Pepperrell AFB Sightings

This document contains a collection of military records and correspondence regarding two separate Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) sightings reported at Pepperrell Air Force Base in Newfoundland during February 1953. The first incident, occurring on February 3, 1953, involved two airmen, A/3C Harlod Richardson and A/1C Leonard, who observed a low-altitude object resembling an aircraft landing light for approximately 25 minutes. The object eventually disappeared below the horizon. Official analysis concluded that the observation was likely a star setting below the horizon, noting the lack of radar contact and the absence of optical aids. The second incident occurred on February 26, 1953, and was witnessed by Major R. E. Fancher, A/2C Sylvester, and a pilot of an incoming aircraft. This object was described as being approximately the size of the moon, green in color, and emitting sparks while traveling downward at a high rate of speed before disappearing behind the White Hills area. Despite the witnesses' reports, radar checks by the 64th Air Division were negative. While the official conclusion for the February 26th event was recorded as a 'flare,' internal notes from Project Blue Book's contract astronomer suggested the object was likely an exceptionally bright meteor, noting that the witnesses had likely overestimated the size of the object due to excitement. Both reports emphasize the lack of physical evidence and the reliance on visual observation, with the military authorities consistently seeking to categorize these events as conventional phenomena.