Declassified UFO / UAP Document
Project 10073 Record Card — Yuma, Arizona, 14 May 1958
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AI-Generated Summary
A civilian in Yuma, Arizona, reported three high-altitude objects in V formation on May 14, 1958. Military investigators concluded the objects were likely aircraft flying in formation.
This document consists of a Project 10073 Record Card and an associated teletype message regarding an unidentified aerial sighting near Yuma, Arizona, on May 14, 1958. A civilian witness reported observing three round, white objects, each the size of a pinhead, flying in a V formation at a very high altitude. The objects were observed for approximately 20 minutes between 2130 and 2145 MST. The witness described the objects as moving from west to east before turning north and eventually fading out. Additionally, the witness reported seeing three ships in trail, which appeared to be following the unidentified objects. The initial assessment on the record card stated that there was insufficient data for a definitive evaluation. However, the teletype and subsequent comments by 1st Lt. E. M. Lewis of the 864th ACWRON provide further analysis. The investigator noted that while the initial description might suggest astronomical phenomena, the presence of three aircraft following the objects provided a more logical explanation. The final conclusion reached by the military personnel was that the objects were likely aircraft flying in formation, which appeared as 'shooting stars' due to the significant distance from the observer, but would have been identifiable as aircraft had they been closer.
Therefore all of the above are typical of aircraft in formation - first seen at a lengthy distance - then later as observable aircraft when closer to the observer.
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Official Assessment
Insufficient data for analysis.
The sighting involved three objects in a V formation observed at night. The objects were described as resembling shooting stars. The observer also reported three ships in trail following the UFO. The evaluating officer noted that while the description of the objects could be interpreted as astronomical, the presence of three aircraft following the objects led to the conclusion that the objects were likely aircraft in formation seen at a distance.
Key Persons
- E. M. LewisSenior Director Delta Crew