Declassified UFO / UAP Document
Project 10073 Record Card and Incident Report — Chicago, Illinois, 9 September 1960
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AI-Generated Summary
A civilian pilot reported an unidentified object over Chicago on September 9, 1960, which exhibited color changes and maneuvering. The official investigation concluded there was insufficient data to confirm the object's identity, though it may have been the Echo I satellite.
On September 9, 1960, at approximately 0303Z, a civilian pilot and Air Force Reserve Lieutenant observed an unidentified aerial object in Chicago, Illinois. The witness, who was in a dark room at the time, reported that the object appeared similar in size and shape to the Echo I satellite. During the two-minute observation, the object reportedly grew in size and changed color to orange before disappearing. The witness provided a detailed flight path, noting headings of 235, 275, 230, and 255 degrees, and an initial elevation of 5 degrees above the horizon. The report was filed by Major Kalessa, the Senior Director at Chicago ADS, and forwarded to HEDUSAF for immediate attention. The official evaluation concluded that there was insufficient data to definitively identify the object. While the report suggests the possibility that the object was the Echo I satellite, it notes that confirming data was unavailable at the time of the report. The document includes meteorological data for the area, indicating scattered clouds and a ceiling of 1 BKN, and confirms that no radar contact was made and no physical evidence was recovered.
Object grew bigger and changed to orange. Object just disappeared.
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Official Assessment
This sighting categorized as insufficient data. Possible Echo I, however confirming data not available at this time. During this period Echo was going into darkness, so that it is possible for a portion of its passage to be visible for a short time.
The object was observed by a civilian pilot who noted it grew in size and changed color to orange before disappearing. The official analysis suggests it may have been the Echo I satellite, though this could not be confirmed.
Witnesses
- [illegible]Civilian Pilot, Air Force Reserve Lt.Air Force Reserve