Project 10073 Record Card — Balboa Basin, Canal Zone, 4 Feb 59

On February 4, 1959, at approximately 1020Z, a civilian Panama Canal pilot observed an unidentified aerial object in the vicinity of the Balboa Basin in the Canal Zone. The witness, described as a very reliable source, reported seeing a large, cone-shaped object moving from east to west. The object exhibited a brilliant combination of white, yellow, and blue colors, which were well-blended, giving it an iridescent and fluorescent appearance. It possessed a blue tail that the witness noted was similar to aircraft exhaust but was more fan-shaped. The object traveled in almost level flight, though a slight decline in altitude was noted as it passed a position estimated to be 08 58 45N by 79 35W, located between the Diablo and Miraflores locks. The object then resumed level flight and altered its course slightly to the right. The entire observation lasted approximately twelve seconds, and the witness reported that the object made absolutely no sound. Weather conditions at the time were clear with minimal winds. The report was submitted by the 5700th Air Base Group in accordance with Air Force Regulation 200-2. Following an evaluation by the Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC), the official conclusion reached was that the object was likely a meteor.