PROJECT 10073 RECORD CARD — 21 April 1956, Richmond, Virginia

On April 21, 1956, a sighting occurred in Richmond, Virginia, involving a single object observed by five civilians and two military personnel associated with the Ground Observer Corps (GOC). The observation lasted approximately one hour, between 1539Z and 1836Z. Witnesses described the object as round on top, tapering to a point at the bottom, and roughly the size of a basketball when held at arm's length. It was noted for its light, translucent, silvery appearance. The object moved slowly toward the northeast at a high altitude before eventually disappearing. The witnesses utilized two telescopes, one of which had 35-power magnification, to observe the object. In response to the sighting, a light aircraft was dispatched from a nearby field to an altitude of 6,000 feet to investigate; however, the pilot reported that the object appeared no closer than it did from the ground. Additionally, an F-94 aircraft conducted a search of the area, which yielded negative results. The Richmond Air Defense Filter Center evaluated the incident and concluded that the sighting was undoubtedly caused by a balloon. This determination was documented in a letter received on April 26, 1956.