Project 10073 Record Card — Hachijo-Jima Island, 21 August 1960

On August 21, 1960, at 1214Z, a sighting of an unidentified aerial object was reported near Hachijo-Jima Island, Japan, at coordinates 32-52N 139-21E. The observation was made by a reliable crew, including LTJG C. M. Hale, LT F. M. Curtis, and CPO C. Tyler. The object was described as a white, oblong shape, approximately the size of a matchhead, which followed a smooth, curved trajectory toward the northeast before disappearing into clouds. The observation lasted for five minutes. The report notes that the object was not detected on radar, and weather conditions were clear at the surface. Following an investigation by the Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC), the sighting was officially attributed to the Echo I satellite, as the flight path, description, and duration of the observed object were consistent with that satellite's characteristics. The report includes a copy directed to Dr. Hynek and notes that no unusual visual or radar observations were reported by the Aircraft Control and Warning (AC&W) units of the 5th Air Force in the area at the time.