Project 10073 Record Card and Associated Incoming Messages — Louisiana, May 1962

This document compiles reports and follow-up investigations regarding a series of Unidentified Flying Object sightings that occurred in Louisiana on May 20, 1962. The initial reports, which originated from members of the Sheriff's office and State Police, described a bright, cigar-shaped or ball-like object moving in a northwesterly direction. Multiple observers, including law enforcement personnel, provided varying descriptions of the object's size, shape, and color. One observer, initially reporting a sighting, later retracted his statement, attributing his observation to the moon seen through trees and the excitement generated by police radio broadcasts. The Air Force investigation, led by Captain Paul G. Witherew of the 401st Tactical Fighter Wing, analyzed these reports and concluded that the sightings were likely the result of misidentified aircraft or atmospheric phenomena. Specifically, investigators noted an unusual haze in the atmosphere that could distort the size of lights, and suggested that a jet aircraft with its afterburner engaged might account for some of the observations. The document includes detailed location data for the witnesses and meteorological data, including radiosonde observations, to support the conclusion that the phenomena were not anomalous.