Project 10073 Record Card — Ripley, West Virginia, September 1959

This document is a Project 10073 record card detailing a civilian sighting of an unidentified aerial phenomenon near Ripley, West Virginia, between September 13 and September 27, 1959. The witness reported observing a single, oblong object that changed color from red to blue and appeared to revolve or tumble. The object was described as being larger than a star and moving generally from east to west over the course of approximately one hour each night. The witness, who was accompanied by 8 to 10 family members and friends, requested to be contacted regarding the report. The Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC) evaluated the report and noted that while the object's motion and description were consistent with balloon observations, the prevailing wind conditions at altitude were inconsistent with the reported trajectory. Ultimately, the investigators concluded that there was insufficient data for a formal evaluation, noting that the case was not pursued further due to the perceived unreliability of the witness.