PROJECT 10073 RECORD CARD — 28 September 1960

On September 28, 1960, at 0552Z, the crew of a military aircraft (identified as Ethan 30) observed an unidentified aerial object at coordinates 29.32N 125W over the Pacific Ocean. The aircraft was flying at an altitude of 11,000 feet with a ground speed of 215 knots. The crew reported a fast-moving, brilliant white, steady light that traveled from south to north. The object was initially observed on a heading of 090 degrees magnetic and moved to 020 degrees magnetic. The observers noted that the object descended from an initial observation point at 40 degrees above the horizon to 20 degrees above the horizon. The object's brightness was compared to the magnitude of the Echo I satellite. During the 2 to 3-minute sighting, the object suddenly increased in brightness to ten times its original magnitude, maintained this intensity for 10 seconds, shut off, and then reappeared after 20 seconds, retaining its brilliance until it disappeared over the horizon. The crew estimated the object's speed to be as fast or faster than an F-104 aircraft. Weather conditions were reported as clear, with no moon in the area. The official evaluation of the incident concluded that the object was an aircraft and suggested that the light phenomena were likely caused by the activation of a landing light, which created the reported visual effects.