Declassified UFO / UAP Document
Project 10073 Record Card — Sighting of 31 Jan 62
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AI-Generated Summary
A visual sighting of a satellite reported on January 31, 1962, at 34N 176W was evaluated by ATIC. The object was identified as a satellite, though it was determined not to be the Echo satellite due to trajectory inconsistencies.
This document contains a Project 10073 record card and associated military incoming messages regarding a visual sighting of an unidentified object on January 31, 1962. The sighting occurred at 0638Z at coordinates 34N 176W. The witness described the object as round, the size of a pinhead, and positioned 42 degrees above the horizon, traveling from west to east. The report was processed as a CIRVIS (Communication Instructions for Reporting Vital Intelligence Sightings) report, designated N43213. The military evaluation concluded that the object was a satellite. Analysts noted that while the Echo satellite was in the vicinity at the time (45N 174W), the reported easterly heading was inconsistent with Echo's trajectory. Consequently, the evaluation suggested the object was a satellite with an orbital inclination of approximately 30 degrees. The document package also includes a page from the Science News Letter dated December 23, 1961, which provides general astronomical information regarding the visibility of planets and stars, likely included for reference in evaluating potential astronomical sightings.
Evaluation of object is as a satellite. Echo not ruled out; however, easterly heading is more indicative of satellite with inclination of nearer 30 degrees.
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Official Assessment
Evaluation of object is as a satellite.
The object was initially reported as a possible satellite. While the report mentions Echo, the easterly heading was considered inconsistent with the Echo satellite's trajectory, suggesting a different satellite with an inclination of 30 degrees.
Key Persons
- James StokleyAuthor of astronomy report